2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 12 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 2,463 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 90 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 rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Jeep Cherokee. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (222 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jeep |
| Model | HHR | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2463 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
