1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2011 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2011 Ford Ranger 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Ranger (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Ford Ranger. 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, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Ranger. (209 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2011 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Jeep | Ford |
| Model | Wrangler | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 5171 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 3193 mm |
