2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (114 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 118 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 1997 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (283 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jeep |
| Model | Malibu | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 283 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2580 mm |
