I live in Iceland were the weather is very unpredictable during the winter months, lots of snow, rain, and heavy winds. Recently I compared the body condition of some older Cherokee Xj´s to the newer version 99+. I came to the conclusion that the body in the older Cherokees is probably of higher quality compared to the newer models. I may be wrong but would like to see what your experience has been. Also, I find that the interior in the older Cherokees is of much better quality.

 

better get some popcorn in for this one

 

Hard to say Leon, I had an 87 2 door that rusted in the same places on the body as my 96 2 door. However, the 96 floor pan totally rusted out and I had to replace the entire floor. I also have a 2001 and the only part that is rusting really bad on that is the passenger side rocker. I live in Michigan, I'd have to say that our weather here is probably not as harsh as Iceland, but pretty close. Lots of rain, snow and temperture swings.....the worst part is all the salt they use on the roads to melt the ice, this pretty much just eats most vehicles down to nothing.

 

fwiw, our 96 has needed welding to the rear wheel arches and floor pan. It's the salt that does it here too.

 

I can say the old Paint is better! the panel thickness seem identical. OEM bumpers are the same thickness. really unless your going to cut it, it depends on if you like the wrap around bumpers or not. plus interior. although I prefer the metal hatch on my 99 over the glass on my wifes 95. I like the refined lines of the 97+. when I trimmed the fenders on my 99 the paint chipped off like crazy, the 95 stayed painted except directly at the folds.