I'm looking for a 4WD XJ for a dedicated toy. I've been told that a 96 and 99 are the preferred years.
Next question... Manual or auto?
I'm not a fan of automatics but are the clutches in an XJ strong enough to take off roading or does the auto hold up better?

 

standard shift all the way and you will never regret it

 

well it all depends on your preference...i like manuals and sure that adds difficulty to things, but you can get a more performance oriented clutch that will help. its whatev...i might buy an xj with auto depending on the deal

 

I don't think I could handle a Manual yet. Clutch brake gas seems like a lot to do especially if you don't have to much experience like me it's just more to worry about.

 

My main concern is durability.

 

I think if your good with it and won't be grinding gears the manual trans is going to be much better.

 

both are durable trannys...manuals are just more fun for me...but plenty argue autos are better for wheeling...but I like being able to lock myself in a gear downhill and control my shift points

 

That isn't an issue.

 

what are you going to do with this vehicle?

 

Coming from someone who daliys/offroads a standard shift;

Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto! Auto!




Plus the AW4 cannot be killed. One of the best transmissions ever. I was a little heart broken when I bought my truck & it was a stick.

 

Word... 4 low in first on declines helps the brakes big time.. nasty things can come of autos and poor brake control downhill.
I prefer five speeds

 

so we got:

vs.


haha im bored

 

Just personal preference. I've had a stick shift Dodge Neon & this is my 2nd stick Jeep, the rest were autos. I have no problems wheeling or daily driving either, I'm just a huge AW4 fanboy.

 

Dedicated off road vehicle. Mud/trail use. Probably max out at 35" tires with the appropriate lift.

 

have not off roaded mine yet but i must say i love having manual (just not in traffic)