2007 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2007 Dodge Nitro is newer by 10 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 3,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Because 2007 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. 2007 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Cherokee has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Cherokee will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Nitro | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Dodge | Jeep |
| Model | Nitro | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3698 cc | 2463 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
