1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
To start off, 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee (381 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 353 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 Grand Cherokee (548 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler | Grand Cherokee |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 381 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 548 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1828 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
