Hi everyone,

I'm looking to sell my current car and get my first Jeep (first 4x4 for that matter) and I want to basically own something outright that will be a good DD, can still handle light - medium duty trails (think hiking, camping, fishing, that sort of activity). I may get into more heavy duty off roading in the future, but for now I just want something reliable and enjoyable. I'm figuring after selling my car I'm going to have about a max of $8000 for a budget.

I've always liked the XJ body style, and I've ridden in them before with friends and had fun, though I've never driven one personally yet.

I'm wondering if it would be comfortable for me as a daily driver. I'm 6'3" with a 34" leg inseam and average torso length (I'm a "proportionally tall" person). It is my understanding that there are custom brackets one can install to increase leg room which I would possibly look into if needed. (Or do I need to look at ZJ or WJ Grand Cherokee?)

My second question is what should I be on the lookout for? I've been reading up on the variations between model years and I am pretty sure I want something between '97-01 but I would love to hear some good feedback from XJ drivers.

I know I specifically want the 4.0, and 4x4, transmission could be either one, but I'm leaning towards automatic. Aside from these specs, which years had the best configurations? Any ones to specifically avoid?

I'm hoping to make a move in the next month or so (sooner the better), so I will continue doing my homework.

(As a side note, is there anyone in the Southern California area that would let me test out the driver's seat and maybe take a spin? I'm located in Temecula but I'm also frequently in Orange County. I'll buy you lunch as a thank you! )

Thanks everyone! I am eager to learn from all of you!

- Abram

 

Welcome from Wisconsin, yes I believe there is a bracket to extend it back further. I myself would look for the lowest miles on it. Regardless of year.

 

Here's a few replies in regards to someone near your size in an XJ.>https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f59/wi...se-fit-123244/

Some of the '00-'01 4.0L's w/the 0331 cylinder head were prone to cracks in the head/overheating.

 

Welcome to the site

 

Thanks for the welcomes guys

So would my best bet be to look at '97-99 XJs? I don't want to deal with cracking cylinder heads despite my desire for the latest model.

 

welcome dude, im also in Socal

 

Welcome to the site ! Im 6'8 and 200lbs and fit in my xj quite comfortably beleive it or not lol.

 

welcome to the forum im new as well

 

Why the latest model? Here is my '91 Limited, it is at 70,000 miles right now. Attachment 119377

 

we l co me

 

Hey man, welcome to the forum. If you wanna test drive a Jeep, let me know. I'll let you take a spin in my '89 5 speed 4.0L, if you want.

 

welcome!

 

welcome from east tn