Hey guys so I'm looking to see what everyone thinks the best year for the Cherokee is.

I'm looking into getting another xj (I currently drive a 96) and I wanted to get the best year.

Now when I say best year I mean,

Easiest to work on

Most reliable

Least amount of plastic parts

Best offroad.

Let me know what you think

 

1999, but there is no escaping the plastic no matter what year. They all will be equal in stock form for wheeling, but there are better options on different years that offer a stronger platform. A 99 will have the HP D30 front axle and you can get it with the 8.25 rear axle. The 99 has the more desirable intake manifold, but it still has a distributor type ignition system that is easier to work with.

 

I like all that have the 4.0 motor in them but for best results you will probably find the 96 - 02 Jeep has the best availability of parts new or used and easy to mod and find tech about any mods that you want to do or stick at stock and have a good time with it.

 

98-99 i believe is the best years but if you find a good 00-01 i wouldnt stay away from it either.

 

2000-01 have low pinion front axles, 0331 cylinder heads that are prone to crack, And coil on plug ignition makes those years a little more difficult to work on. Would I say avoid those years? No, they're still a solid choice if you're looking for an XJ.

 

i would have to say 99

-updated interior/ exterior
-hp d30
-newer intake
-distubutor and non 0331 head
-potential less miles than older xjs
-CUPHOLDERS
-29 spline c8.25 (as opposed to 27spline or D35(might still have a d35 tho))

i however like my 96 cause i get OBDII and the older body style (more body/interior parts availible at junk yards)

 

I also like my 96..Probably cuze it's 2 Door and 5 Speed

 

I have no complaints about my 97. I gave $20 for an intake manifold off of an 01 at the junkyard.

 

Every time I read your Quote I hear your Avatar's voice!!!

 

2014. Sorry I had to. I like my 96 but the c8.25 and high pinion diffs are supposed to be lift and tire ready.