97. 96 is a weird transition year so I avoid 96s even though they were really mass produced that year (remember there was no 96 Wrangler).

 

I guess you mean in the JY, that would be the '96 & down. But the only way to be sure is to go visits a few local yards & look around.

 

Why is the 96s different?

 

Read two posts above.

 

I have a 96 but I think that the 97 would be cheaper and easier to build up because it has cup holders and the 96 dosn't.

 

In this case, just let your personal preference go. As others said, too many factors, both with the Jeep you get, and with regional availability of parts. If resale is at all part of the equation, slight advantage with the 97!

 

I find more of the newer body styles in the JY's around here so... Basically it comes down to which you like more. I have a 98 but I'd rather have a 95 all day

 

I almost forgot. The 97 has a 7 slot grill like a jeep should, 96 and earlier got 8 slots for some dumb reason.