2003 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1961 Jeep CJ5
To start off, 2003 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Jeep CJ5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Jeep CJ5 would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jeep Wrangler (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1961 Jeep CJ5. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1961 Jeep CJ5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 480 kg more than 1961 Jeep CJ5. 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 Jeep Wrangler (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Jeep CJ5. (146 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Jeep CJ5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jeep Wrangler | 1961 Jeep CJ5 | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler | CJ5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1030 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 |
