2003 Acura MDX vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2003 Acura MDX is newer by 6 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 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura MDX (238 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura MDX weights approximately 495 kg more than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Acura MDX (333 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2003 Acura MDX 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. 2003 Acura MDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura MDX | 1997 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Acura | Jeep |
| Model | MDX | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 3964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 98.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
