2009 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka 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, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 414 kg more than 2009 Ford Ka. 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 Ford Ka, 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, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Ka | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2463 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
