I'm new to this forum. I'm looking to by an XJ soon. Is there a year/years that's best to look for when purchasing a rig that will be built as a daily driver, but also modified to hit the trails? I'm not looking to rock crawl it, but would like to build it to handle it if I change my mind or get into a hairy situation.

So, is there a best year and options of the XJ, or are they all close to the same thing stock???

Thanks in advance for the opinion!

 

i would get a 97 + cause if you dont youll be wanting one eventually

 

If you plan on lifting it i would say pre 97 because they typically handle the change in drive line angles better, which may save you a bit of money in the long run (no sye). But personally i think the 97 and newer ones look nicer, but thats just me.

 

Why would I eventually want one?

 

Do any years of XJ come with stronger axles? Oh, what about EFI on later years? As you all can probably tell, I need an XJ history lesson!

 

cause like jmm said, i think they look nicer, but of course you can always install a 97+ front clip

 

In 97, the Chrysler 8.25" rear was upgraded from 27 spline to 29 spline, which is stronger. Not quite as strong as a D44, but still strong. I think in 00', the D30 front was changed to low pinion which is crappier than the high pinion D30 in earlier years. Fuel injection came on all the 4.0L XJs, so no worries there. In 00' they converted from a distributor to individual coil packs. In 95, airbags were added and the body was strengthened. In 96, the block was strengthened and the power steering bracket was changed. That's all I can think of right now. I love my 96 and the only thing I want is one of the 97' and up 29 spline 8.25" rears which will be swapped in place of my 27 spline. I'm also going to regear to 4.10 and do a disc brake conversion, while everything is ripped apart. Other than that, I wouldn't trade my 96' for anything.

 

I honestly dont like the look of 97+
the only thing they have going for themselves is a little stronger rear axle and cup holders.
In my personal opinion, I would get a 96. They have the upgraded unibody, older style, and take a lift better (less possible vibes)

If anything, stay away from 00-01. They have LP D30, and a head thats known to crack. Not to mention the COP ignition system.

 

Excellent input you guys! It sounds like '96 and up would be a good idea because of block and body strengthening.

Anyone else have an opinion on the "best" year of XJ to start with??? Any insight would be appreciated, I'm probably going to make a purchase in the next 3 to 4 weeks so all the info I can get would be great.

Thanks!

 

Best of luck finding one. Let us know what you end up with.

 

95. old style, pre obII so it is still easy to work on. add the center consoul from a 97+ for the cup holders.

or you could get a 92 and swap EVERYTHING minus drive drain from an 01 because you like the look (dont do it its retarded)

97 pluses also have a full front window and 30% larger mirrors

 

i would recommend a pre 97 cherokee, they are easy to find,cheap to buy and modify and they handle mods a small bit better, however the newer ones have nicer stock parts so it really depends on how many mods you want. good luck finding one! p.s all Cherokees rock! you wont be disappointed

 

Exactly what he said

 

i like the interior of my '99 compared to my buddy's '94. gauges are better and it doesn't look retro. it looks modern.

 

I'm kind of fond of '91. Becomes a collectors in 2011!