1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 44 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1997 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee 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, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jeep |
| Model | Malibu | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2464 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
