2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 702 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 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Cherokee has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Cherokee will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Explorer | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2463 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
