Super Dragpack

I am considering upgrading my 1998 Cherokee (4.0 auto) with a WJ Grand Cherokee.

I have the choice of the 4.0 I6 or the 4.7 V8 - both automatics.

Which one offers better MPG in the real world and which one would you guys recommend?

I have enjoyed owning my Cherokee 4.0, and have no problems with it, but as I tow a lot, I find the 4.0 on the limits of power at times. Would the V8 offer a greater towing combination?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts guys.

Mick

Bustedback

Gas mileage won't be much different between the two depending on how you drive. You won't have to flog the V8 as hard to get up to speed and climbing hills as you would with the 4.0, but you will eat up more fuel the more you mash the gas with the V8.

Thexjfiles

My buddy just had to rebuild a V-8 and replace crank. He said the oil passages on the V-8 were undersized, which led to premature failure.
Id stick with the tried and true I-6 any day. Try getting 300K out of a V8.

Super Dragpack

Thanks for the advice guys. This is what I had expected. You do see and hear of alot of 4.0 doing galactic miles, but all the high mileage 4.7 V8's tend to have problems.

I am also keen on the simplesty of the old XJ 4.0. All the electronic features of the WJ worries me.

muffinman

I only have 109,000 miles on my 02 grand cherokee overland.4.7 V8, It avereges 20 mpg, auto with quadra drive. It totally kills my 95 xj for towing. I have had no mechanical problems what so ever with the 4.7. I don't understand the under size oil passage comment. If it was not getting enough oil I would think it would wipe out bearings right away.I have a xj and tj with the 4.0 and really like the 6 banger but would recommend the 4.7 for towing and hauling ***! Forgot to mention you get the dana 44a with the 4.7 and the dana 35 with the 4.0