Wanting to purchase an xj soon. 1998 106,000 miles good drivers seat vs. 2001 126,000 miles and drivers seat vinyl is cracked along side? One has less miles on mechanicals. The other being newer has been through less michigan winters. Are there any hints to look for trouble with the cylinder head on the 2001 that can give a person an idea if they are safe or that the xj is already suffering? Whats up with the drivers seats on these? Shopping is fun / frustrating.

 

Go for the 98, better front axle and better cylinder head without the coil on plug junk. 97-99 were the best years for the "new" body style, and 96 seems to be the best selling year.

 

Agreed. While every Jeep could have its problems down the road, the 2001's common issues tend to be more expensive for the owner. Of course, not every '01 will crack their head or develop vibes on a shorter lift, but these problems are nowhere near as common on the 97-99s. Go 98 IMO

 

I have always admired the XJ, but this is the first time I have intentionally looked for a 12yr. old vehicle.

 

Go 98, you'll probably be a lot happier with it, and unless they've both had the tar beat out of them the age difference is negligible compared to any benefits of getting one that's three years newer.

 

One year later. I now own a 1999 Cherokee Classic. Now I get to decide do I use the factory Aluminum wheels that are on it or the Black D's that I have. The Black D's are an 8" wheel and stick out 2"s more than the factory steel that were on my Wrangler. The Wrangler was red and the D's looked good but not sure about on this green XJ. I will try them on for size this weekend.

 

Go with the 98 hands down. HP dana 30, distributor, better cylinder head

But use your own judgement... If one has a lot of rot stay far away. If you can check them out right after a good hard rain check the passenger floor for any signs of water entry.

 

razor, that may be sound advice but I drove a 99 home yesterday. It was just alittle better overall condition than several others that were currently available in my area.

 

didn't realize how old the thread was lol

 

Installed the Black D's today and like the look, but. Not sure of the back space but they do stick out about 2" farther than the factory wheels. These wheels with P235 Wrangler tires will hit the sheet metal screws that hold the front mud flaps on. There is no way I could run an LT 235 B F Goodrich All Terrain, yet.

 

May want to throw a little 2" BB under her