not really a tech qustion but im in the process of selling my cherokee and was looking into buying a zj or wj i hada zj for my first car and loved it looking to spend around 2500 and was wondering what is worth going with?

 

Zj

 

I've had both a '97 ZJ V8, and an '04 WJ V8.The WJ has better steering, brakes, ride, and seats. The WJ's 4.7 V8 is better on gas than the ZJ's 5.2, but partly because it has a 5 spd OD auto compared to the ZJ's 4spd OD. The ZJ w/it's 5.2 V8 would tow better, and I've used them both to pull a tow dolly, and loaded down trailers. They're both listed as 5,000 lbs tow weight as equipped.
I like them both, but the ZJ drives more like a truck. The WJ's steering is more precise, brakes bigger-better, stops faster.

 

I think a ZJ is going to be in your price range. But if you can find a WJ in your range, go for it.

 

On a drive lately I noticed a small dealer had a ZJ and a WJ on their back lot so I turned around to check the prices. Th '96 ZJ was kinda' rusty but was a loaded V8 Orvis edition for $1,995. The WJ was a standard '99 Laredo for $2,995. It looked to be in pretty decent shape, but you can't tell with the cladding. That can hide rust underneath it. Those are in SE Mich, but similar prices should be found most everywhere. You can find ZJ's-WJ's anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on condition, mileage, and the common sense of the seller.

 

Also keep in mind the 'mod' factor. Anything done to the Jeep by the previous owner will most likely need to be un-done by you, costing you time and money. Pay very careful attention to anything not stock to make sure it's not hacked together. Otherwise, the newer truck may have lower miles and be in better condition overall, the older trucks are probably cheaper to insure, etc.

Personally I like the ZJ engine lineup, very simple and easy to work on, parts are everywhere, good aftermarket support, and can be had super cheap. The WJs do ride better and drive better stock, but once you start modding it's all a crap shoot from there.