1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2009 Kia Forte
To start off, 2009 Kia Forte 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 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (116 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 202 kg more than 2009 Kia Forte.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Forte. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (185 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Jeep | Kia |
| Model | Wrangler | Forte |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 52 L |
