1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2009 Jeep Commander
To start off, 2009 Jeep Commander is newer by 12 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 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Commander (305 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Commander should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Commander weights approximately 568 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, 2009 Jeep Commander (454 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Commander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2009 Jeep Commander 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. 2009 Jeep Commander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Jeep Commander | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler | Commander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 2043 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
