1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
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 Subaru Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Jeep | Subaru |
| Model | Wrangler | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2680 mm |
