2002 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2002 Dodge Ram is newer by 5 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 5,212 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Ram (220 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Ram weights approximately 499 kg more than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Cherokee is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Jeep Cherokee. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Ram, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Dodge Ram (408 Nm) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm). This means 2002 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Ram | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Dodge | Jeep |
| Model | Ram | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5212 cc | 2463 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 408 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1879 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3530 mm | 2580 mm |
