2001 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2001 Jeep Cherokee. (121 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 92 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2001 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Jeep Cherokee. 2001 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Jeep Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Jeep Cherokee | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Cherokee | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 194 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
