1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2008 Lexus RX
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 460 kg more than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Lexus RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2008 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2008 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Jeep | Lexus |
| Model | Wrangler | RX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 3441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2720 mm |
