2003 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1958 Jeep CJ
To start off, 2003 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jeep CJ would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Jeep CJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jeep Wrangler (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1958 Jeep CJ. (135 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1958 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 330 kg more than 1958 Jeep CJ. 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, 1958 Jeep CJ (326 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1958 Jeep CJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jeep Wrangler | 1958 Jeep CJ | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler | CJ |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2060 mm |
