A well taken care of 4.0 with 200k might be a better choice than a low mile beater. Mileage is only one indicator- to be looked at with other things like compression, oil use, odd sounds etc. Don't let a good high miles car get away

 

Here's what i did when buying my first cherokee. I, like you wanted a 97-99 xj. I knew i wanted a 4.0, auto, 8.25 rear axle, no rust, straight body with few dents. Then figure out what you can live without....for me, i was willing to overlook interior flaws, some paint issues, and (since im a good driveway mechanic) some general maitenance. As long as it runs ok...drives ok...4wd works...no major leaks(exhaust and fluids). Youre probably ok. If you can...bring an obd2 scanner to look for codes. As far as miles...if well taken care of 180-225k could still leave a lot of life for you to enjoy. As far as the 97-99 xj goes...your basic options are 4 or six cylinder..auto or manual..231 or 242 transfer case...and 8.25 or dana 35 rear axle. Happy hunting

 

Did somebody say rust?!

 

Check around the steering box for cracks in the frame/bad repair jobs. That is something I missed on mine but its holding up fine.