2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1985 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1985 Jeep Cherokee. (114 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1985 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 599 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 1985 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Jeep Cherokee. (278 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Jeep Cherokee. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1985 Jeep Cherokee has manual transmission. 1985 Jeep Cherokee will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1985 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Explorer | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
