7newman7

The 1991 is a 2 door "plain jane" with 111k, the 1999 is a 4 door with 109k and all the ammenities.

I am currently test driving the '91 for a few days, and it runs and drives very well, and the '99 just popped up. The plan was for the '91 to be my DD for a couple of years before I start doing major mods to it. (lift, chopped top). The '99 would have to be my DD for a little longer.

I can pretty much pay cash for the '91, but would need to borrow a little for the '99. The '91 is flat black with blacked-out wheels , while the '99 is a purple that I would want to change.

Any major mechanical differences/improvements between these two years that would be worth the extra $2000. Not having power locks/windows does not really bother me, and I can always pull a console (cup holders) from salvage.

Just looking for thoughts and opinions.

hal93

Can u show some pix

Destination XJ

Show some pics, but I love my 91! I wanted a 97+ so bad but I think Im happier with my 91 limited.

Show some pics!

I also dont think you should get the purple one if you are gonna paint it. IMO

7newman7

Sorry, I don't have pics of the flat black 2 door I am currently driving. Could possibly go out in the cold and take a cell phone pic. Here are pics of the purple:

91 limited owner

I also love my '91

Spunkmeyer

The price for the '99 seems a little high, especially if the paint color isn't what you want. I would think it's better to get the '91 (even cheaper than $2400 if you could) and give yourself a cushion to fix problems as you encounter them.

Power locks and windows are just 2 more things to go wrong. If I could've bought my '99 and not have had them, I'd be happier.

7newman7

That is a good point. Had a '98 GMC Envoy that had constant electrical problems. Don't think I want to deal with the electrical add-ons if this is going to be a mudder in a few years.

Price is firm on the '91 from a car dealer buddy of mine. He will stand behind any minor issues, and is already taking car of a few minor things. (window weather stripping, dome light, 12v outlet, lift gate struts)

7newman7

Probably should stick with the '91 now that I have order a FSM for it.

89Laredo

get the 91.
it would be more reliable and they stand up to modifications better.

99 is the beginning of the 0331 head castings.

Spunkmeyer

Qualify that advice: at some point in '99, Jeeps were produced with the 0331 head. Just because it's a '99 doesn't mean it has this condition.

I own a '99 that I know is a factory original 0630 head.

RichieLT

if the 99 doesnt have a lift and huge tires it probably isnt worth 4,500. i payed $2,800 for a '00 that has more attachments that that one.
the 91 has low mileage for its age and fits the price range.

00jeepXJ

and also not all 0331 heads fail. have one in mine and have abused my engine enough to raise concern of it and nothing. Another two of my friends have them and no issues... one just rolled on 201k original miles and it runs better then mine.

I would talk the 99 guy down if you can and see what he says. Cash is king and something tells me if you offer the right amount of it he will sell. kinda like the color of it also... just strange enough to stand out. Would love to see the 91.

7newman7

Best picture I could get of the '91 in the parking lot last night before it got too dark:

Spunkmeyer

Since your plan is to mod it in the future, I'd say go with the '91. It looks to be in good shape (seems that you like the flat black look) and if you have a personal connection to the seller, you're less likely to get shafted.

Have you taken the '91 to a separate mechanic for an inspection? It would probably cost you a nominal amount, and would give you the best piece of mind just in case you're friend is accidentally overlooking a problem you should be aware of.

Rustie

Wow... $2400 for a 91?

I paid $1000 for a 92.


I say go with the 91 though.