2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1988 Jeep Cherokee. (88 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 484 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Jeep Cherokee. (180 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Jeep Cherokee. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1988 Jeep Cherokee has manual transmission. 1988 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 | 1988 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Explorer | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4007 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1450 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
