2003 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2012 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2012 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (285 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 338 kg more than 2003 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, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jeep Wrangler | 2012 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4404 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2946 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 85 L |
