1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC is newer by 15 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 7 kg more than 2012 Scion tC.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Scion tC. 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, 2012 Scion tC (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (193 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2012 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2012 Scion tC 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. 2012 Scion tC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Jeep | Scion |
| Model | Wrangler | tC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
