1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2011 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2011 Dodge Ram is newer by 14 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Ram weights approximately 896 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.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Dodge Ram. 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, 2011 Dodge Ram (551 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2011 Dodge Ram 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. 2011 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2011 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Jeep | Dodge |
| Model | Wrangler | Ram |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 3569 mm |
