2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata 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 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 108 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 Hyundai Sonata. 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 Hyundai Sonata (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. 1997 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 2004 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2004 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jeep Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Hyundai | Jeep |
| Model | Sonata | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2464 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
