1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Jeep | Toyota |
| Model | Wrangler | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 73 L |
