I own this Jeep,, ,Bought it for 5000 in 2018 with 120,000 miles on it. I have now put 5000 miles on it myself, and the only thing I can say is, "I frickin" LOVE IT!!! PURE AWESOMENESS!
Bought an '03 a month ago. It topped 100k miles. Paid a bit too much at 7100 USD, put another 4500 USD into bouncy and steery stuff, couldn't be happier. Gonna do a thousand in paint and stuff then 750 in new tires. All in all, I'll prolly have close to 14k in it. Is is worth it? You be the judge. At 40k for a brand new one, I'm still 26k ahead.
I bought one new (August 1, 1996) and still have it. Build date April 1996. When I saw this review back in the day, it was part of what made me want one. I was driving a 1979 J-10 truck at the time.
Graduated in 1997. I wanted one of these ever since. I just got my first jeep - (a 2002 TJ) a few weeks ago from a buddy (he sold it for $1000 bucks) I feel like a little kid. I dream of restoring it and maybe converting the 2.5 4cyl to electric plug in.
@@theknubbles5075 Yeah, that's probably a big factor, that and the Inline 6 nature of its engine probably puts down a boat load of torque in low RPM and runs out of breath at higher speeds, hence the impressive 0-60 but lukewarm 1/4 mile time/speed.
Got a 98 Wrangler exactly like the red one in this review. 212,000 miles and running strong. Nothing on the market today is even close to this reliability.
I absolutely love my '02 Wrangler Islander. 109K miles on the original 4.0L and 32RH, did an extensive body and frame restoration 10 months ago to original factory specs. Incredibly reliable and an all-around great vehicle. I plan on keeping her for the rest of my life!
Yup - I was very impressed with that as well. An I6 Wrangler is actually faster than a V6 Mustang of the same year! (although it does make sense - both weigh about 3200 lbs, but the Wrangler has more torque)
@@michaelramsey82 Also the optional lower gears helped. My 01 had the 3:73 gears I believe it was. My boss was playing around showing off and tried to race me in his V8 full size truck with automatic. The Jeep with the 5 speed and low gears smoked him lol.
@@finecorinthianvideos I’m a big AMC fan. I’ve owned a 73 AMX for over 20 years. I picked the TJ because it was the last wrangler built using AMC parts.
I bought my 97 Sahara in 98 with 8k miles on it. It now has 220,000 miles on it with the original starter, alternator and never been inside the engine. I have replaced the radiator. Other than having the transmission issue years ago, the only other problem I recall having was some plastic piece inside the distributor broke causing it to skip. I've own several vehicles in my 60 plus years and this one has been the most reliable. If my daughter doesn't want it... they'll probably bury me in it. Lol....
My 98 is all original except for the radiator (developed a leak), the wheels (not the ones that came on it from the factory, but they were an option that year. They were on it when I bought it), the radio (also replaced before my ownership) and the alternator. Has 188,000 miles on it.
Man I miss my TJ! It is still on the road, the gent that bought it from me 7 years ago lives a few blocks over and it has 210,000 miles on it last I spoke to him- lol And it still looks good 👍🏼
I’d get a brand new TJ tomorrow if these were still made exactly like this. Bought a 2000 new, and when that rusted out, I got an 08 JK new.....hated it....sold if for a 2006 TJ. Will never sell it.
still have my 99 tj with dana 44 axles and 40 inch tires 4:88 gears 6 inch lift 5 speed had it for 16 years has 365,000 and going wouldn't trade it for nothing
@@mezzano8954 if it gets too many miles you can buy a brand new engine off line rite? A brand new 4.0 in line 6, I've seen them there only a few thousand but I dont know how much it costs for labor. Why do people get engine rebuilds instead of new engines????? I get the money issue but why else?????
My dad just bought a 99' SE with a 5 speed manual. It's a 4 cylinder sadly but still a lot of fun!!! Now I want one myself! A 2002 or older Sahara with a 5 speed manual, cruise control and air conditioning in dark green. Wish me luck!!!
As an (original) owner of a 2.5L, I can tell you that the 4.0 has better fuel economy because the AMC 2.5L struggles to accommodate the increased weight of the TJ (particularly with a hard top and gear). Otherwise the 2.5L has been an amazing Jeep for me all these years. TJs were last of it’s breed and I can probably get close to the base 1999 MSRP today if I wanted it.
I’m so happy with my trusty TJ. I’m here just checking out side decals for the sport so I can get them updated/refreshed and this is a nice video to watch.
Awesome Jeep. The new jeeps are refined but if u mess up the interior especially with all the tech. Good luck 5 year warranty is not enough. Plus the price is sooo high.
that TJ Unlimited was definitely one of a kind. the longer wheel base also made it more pleasant to drive, especially on the roads here in PA. they go for an insane amount of money on craigslist. i can't justify buying one since i already have a TJ and a 2016 JKU, and a Honda Civic. i've run out of driveway space lol
$13,000 in 1997 → $20,338.87 in 2018 for base model Base price for new 2019 model is $28,045 Wow, that's an $8k difference! I'm sure almost half of that is justified, but really surprising
Is there an episode for any of the 1991-1995 Jeep YJ's with the 4.0L? I watched the one with the 1987 4.2L YJ that was extremely slow with a 13.9 second 0-60
I had this exact model TJ, a 1997. 5-speed, 4.0 L and 3.73 gears. This thing was very fast for what it was. If it weren't for the excessive mechanical issues and total rusting of the body panels I would still have it. I do regret selling it...sometimes.
$14-21k price would be nice today. Honestly one of these with a hitch would be a fun "work truck" for an in-town mowing route. Lil Wrangler would be nice for plowing snow in-town also.
Their towing capacity is pretty low and using it to plow is also not a great idea. They don’t weigh much (disadvantage when plowing) and that will rot it out faster then almost anything else. There is no such thing as a rust free plow vehicle.
I just purchased one 1999 w/ 4.0 manual sport at the auction for $1100 with 162,000 miles. Generally looks good exterior interior only one problem - the frame. I’ll fix the frame and enjoy it.
Ive got a 97 TJ Sahara inline 6, 4.0 litre , 5 spd ..runs strong at 369 ,000 kms ..this thing is a tank , daily to work in winter an drive here an there in summer as i have other toys , its fully loaded , 3 inch lift with 15inch 33 M/T on it all around ....great lil tank ...but with the 33s ..it tops on hwy at 108 kms lol ...but 4x4. its a HUMMER/ FORD /CHEV/ DODGE RECOVERY VEHICLE IN THE BUSH LOL
Chrysler was on such a roll in the 90s--the Viper, the second gen Ram and Dakota, the Durango, the Grand Cherokee, this Wrangler....then those Euro clowns got involved and ruined everything.
This generation of Wrangler has become very sought-after here in Colorado, clean ones in good shape go for lots of money and it's tough to find one that isn't lifted on big tires. I'm happy with my '93 XJ Cherokee though much more practical and almost as capable offroad.
I had 2 Cherokees (89 and 96). I have a 98 wrangler now and they aren’t cheap here either. I got a steal for mine when I paid just $5k for mine with 150,000 miles on it 5 years ago. The only thing it needed was a new soft top. My back actually asked me if I wanted to borrow more money because they assessed it alot higher then 5k.
@@CamaroAmx Sadly within the last 2 years I got rear-ended in my Cherokee and it got totaled. I pulled the drivetrain and all the parts to convert another XJ or possibly even a YJ Wrangler to stick-shift since ones with manuals are much harder to find and worth a lot more. A TJ would be cool but I honestly prefer leaf springs, and a better deal haha
@@mopartron3030 I know how that feels. I hit a deer with my 89 Cherokee and totaled it. My rust bucket 96 was rear ended and it crumbled. My wrangler was also rear ended but I was lucky and it didn’t really do much damage and was easily fixed (the Colorado wasn’t so lucky). My favorite is the CJ7 (my father had one when I was growing up) but those aren’t remotely cheap around here.
Every time I see one of these on the road, I think of this story, when I was in high school, a girl I was friends with had one of these with the 5-speed manual transmission. She forgot to set the parking brake and left it in first gear. As a result of that, the transmission slipped out of first and riled down a hill and crashed into a nearby garage as a result of her not setting the parking brake. I wasn’t there when it happened but I could only imagine how her and her friends must have reacted
Typical Auto Guy I had the same thing happen in one of my old YJs - I think my mechanically cursed '89. Forgot to set the brake in a flat parking lot at Napa (oddly enough). When I came out, it had somehow weaved through 2 rows of parked vehicles in the lot, and was in the street, completely untouched!! I have no idea how it didn't hit anything, as the road where it ended up was not a straight shot from where I'd parked it!
@@ohyeah5014 Yes, yes! You can always justify one more....and then another...and then... enjoy them - they are fantastic. It’s hard to pick a favorite...probably the cj5 -v6 models for me.
$19,774 in 1997 is the equivalent of $37,000 in today's dollars. So today's Sport Wrangler JL for $31,000 is actually a steal considering what you get for that compared to back with the TJ
Considering the Wrangler it replaced did 0-60in 12.5 seconds or so, that is a heck of an improvement! Did the 5-speed and lighter vehicle make that much of a difference?
Chrysler didn't do any better across two versions of the Neon, trust me. The first Neon was, well cute (according to my wife), it was very roomy and had good performance. Unfortunately it was also poorly made. The second generation Neon was much the same except less cute. After the Neon, we went to the insipid Dodge Caliber, the car which basically killed domestic Chrysler products in the small car market altogether... now all we get are warmed over Fiats with silly names (500, 500L, 500X).
I have a tj and it's the 2.5 and the only downside to every Jeep out there is the PO 171 engine running lean or rich code which gives me 140 kilometers to a full tank. Not one mechanic out of many can even find the solution to this and only the 1997 TJ has this problem.
Check Quadratec. They are one of the better Jeep aftermarket companies. Mine came stock with the Add-A-Trunk. Mine is also a 1 of 2500 (1 of 500 that year) Chili Pepper Red edition.
looks are deceiving. that is in 1997 dollars. the equivalent of $19,744 in 1997 would be $38,000 today. you can actually get a Jeep 2 Door JL sport base model for $33,000 today. so Wranglers have become cheaper
+derzx 479 yeah above 75 it struggles. in fact when my TJ was stock i cruised on the highway at 75 pretty good without issue but even above 65 it really starts to require much more effort. Lack of aerodynamics really effects it at those speeds. You really dont want to drive a Tj over 80 it doesnt feel safe lol.
The TJs were the last DIY'ers before the new JKs got the Chrysler Pentastar v6. The latter is a good motor, but try peeking at the engine bay, and all you see is wires. The TJs are still mechanically simple, which means any mechanic can workmon them. The 4.0 inline 6 cyl is the preferred engine. All Jeeps leak oil, it's almost a requirement! Becaue of their simplicity, TJs are relatively easy to maintain, run, and fix, if necessary, but you still get coil springs (leaf sprung Jeeps ride harsher), and 2 air bags, so it is not a death-trap. They corner well too, somlong as you don't drive like a douche. Bone-stock they can accomodate narrow 31" tires. Ansoultely a joy.
if your mechanic can't work on a JK, get a new mechanic. Wranglers are the easiest vehicle to work on, period. i have a beater TJ and a JK. they are equally easy to work on, in fact i prefer the JK to be flat out honest. more room in the engine bay to work.
I own an 05 TJ. The TJ was the last jeep that many would consider an actual jeep. JK and JKUs are still technically jeeps, but they've been neutered in a way. They've been put through so many focus groups and lawyers that they seem like an everyday car now and not so much a jeep. If you want a jeep simply for daily driving on paved roads, then a JK is perfectly fine. But if you want a jeep that is capable of daily driving AND off-roading, a TJ is the best. You could even go as far as getting a CJ if you just want a weekend off roader.
+Jonathan Bridges I'm really enjoying crawling around on forest roads and desert trails. I haven't done any upgrades, besides hunting down rattles. It is hard to get her over 65mph, even slower with a head wind. The first upgrade I have been thinking about is some type of diff lockers, because everytime I have gotten stuck at least one tire had good footing while the other spun
Yeah that was my issue before I upgraded. By upgraded I mean go from 2004 Wrangler X to a 2005 Rubicon mainly because I wanted a 6-speeed. It was about the same price difference to by the Rubicon and sell the X as it would have been to do a tranny swap in the Wrangler X, plus I got the Rubicon goodies to start with. For your case, assuming you don't want a transmission swap, I would re-gear on top of getting the lockers you want. That way you would be able to put down the power more efficiently. I noticed a big difference driving in the wind when I went from 3.73 gears in the X to 4.10 gears in the Rubicon.
I bought it planning on a engine and transmission swap in about 6 years, and new axles asap. I don't want to go crazy. just about 250-300lb/ft torque, 1" lift, fenders to fit, and I haven't even settled on the axle/tires. Its got 100k on the clock, bone stock, new dealer replacement top, looks brand new...I don't know who owned it prior but except for a tap in the engine at idle, its cherry
Nice. Sounds like you make out good. I'm wanting to get a new soft top, 2.5" lift, 32" tires, and a winch. Like you nothing too crazy but just enhance the capabilities it already has. What engine are you thinking about putting into it?
We have a 1997 wrangler Shara 4.0 I6 made during the 96 “change over” year, got its door sticker in 11-96..!! Anyone know what That would have cost in 97?? 🤷🏻♂️🤔
SteelCity1981 side marker lights have been DOT mandated since '67 or '68. Gotta put them somewhere...my '66 cj5 doesn't have them, but later ones and everything since all do.
im honestly a huge fan of the rectangle head lights if i were to get a Tj i would really look into a custom grill/headlight swap. its weird that its not more common
So many people complained to Chrysler about the headlights and grill so to meet the demands they changed them back. I personally like the square headlights but there is something about it the round lights that tugs at my heartstrings and because of that I'm glad they changed them back. I'm sure you can find an after market set that you can install if you really wanted to.
BigXSmoke1 Wait, you'll cry about a 4 door, but get all wet over those hideous square headlights that shit on Jeep heritage???? Man, you're fucked up, lol
All of the Big 3 and even some imports used 3 speed autos as the entry level shifts-by-itself tranny for many yrs. Those in trucks and some SUVs were used because they were proven and often times more robust for HD and off road use. The 1 used in the featured Jeep is based off the old Chrysler A904, which became the A999 and eventually the 32RE with electronically engaged lock up converter. It was a very good transmission with better seals, bands, better clutch materials, increased fluid flow, deeper pan for more capacity, and had an aux. cooler. 4 speed aod transmissions were used in the Cherokee behind the 4.0 but were built by Mitsubishi and no where near as robust early on for serious off road use. That would change in time after several upgrades. 1 would have to move up to a full sized truck/SUV to find a stronger aod of the time, as they were much larger units and won't fit in the tiny Wrangler TJ w/o massive chassis and floor changes.
They changed a lot of the flooring, chassis and drive shafts to make that system work, as the A500 OD which that transmission is based on is really a large, long unit. Early examples had much more drivetrain vibration at speed than the 3 speeds did, until they figured out the geometry. You'll notice that the rear drive shaft is nearly a stub shaft on that short chassis.
Chrysler was the most profitable automaker in world in the 90s. Then the merger of equals came along (more like hostile takeover) with Mercedes. After Daimler bled Chrysler dry and restricted new car development, they sold them off to an investment firm who didn’t have a clue or the money to run a car company and they went bankrupt. Which lead to Fiat buying them.
@@jgg204 the TJ wasn’t designed by AMC. The last wrangler designed by AMC was the YJ. The last Jeep AMC designed was the first Gen Grand Cherokee (it was basically finished by the time Chrysler bought AMC. Chrysler just got it production ready). The TJ however was the last Wrangler to use AMC parts. Also a large portion of the former AMC design staff moved to Chrysler and many worked in the Dodge Truck/Jeep development division. In fact former AMC employees helped design the Viper, Neon, 90s dodge trucks and several of the cloud cars. In fact on a side note, Chrysler used the AMC designed Eagle Premier platform as a basis for the LH platform. (the cloud cars of the 90s). The LH platform was then modified to RWD and became the LX and LC platforms (the current Charger and challenger).
Not really...we got by just fine with a 2 door Wrangler when I was a kid. People had more kids back in the 1960s than they do now, and yet most vehicles were two doors. Now, a couple of squares have their child, they feel they need the biggest SUV equipped with every electronic/luxury/gadget known to man, and of course 4 doors.
@@jgg204 might want to double check the classifieds again. A really nice stock TJ is 10-15k all day. I bought my 98 Wrangler 4 years ago for $5k and the back asked me if I wanted a larger loan because their assessment of its worth on the low end was $8k.
The newer ones fell way to big and bulky and they ride way to smooth to feel like they could off-road. They feel like if I hit a hard bump, something would break. And the JKs eat front calibers (I’ve replaced a lot over the years) and they always get evap leaks.
Why in the hell do these manufactures keep producing these plastic pieces that fade/discolor so badly? At my shop, I paint all these faded pieces so they don't fade and deteriorate.
Joel Alexander and why are the door/windshield/tailgate hinges STIll not stainless?? Just paint them with the body at the factory, or leave them as is!
I own this Jeep,, ,Bought it for 5000 in 2018 with 120,000 miles on it. I have now put 5000 miles on it myself, and the only thing I can say is, "I frickin" LOVE IT!!! PURE AWESOMENESS!
Bought an '03 a month ago. It topped 100k miles. Paid a bit too much at 7100 USD, put another 4500 USD into bouncy and steery stuff, couldn't be happier. Gonna do a thousand in paint and stuff then 750 in new tires.
All in all, I'll prolly have close to 14k in it. Is is worth it?
You be the judge. At 40k for a brand new one, I'm still 26k ahead.
They got everything right with this wrangler. Seems Jeep has lost its way since focusing on soccer moms.
When Jeeps were real Jeeps. Loosing the Jeep wave 👋 too.
@@cfvrq I know right! It’s so sad some of them look at me weird when I try to wave at them
I totally understand, but, you can only do the same thing, for so long.
@Akira S no they havent, JL is being bought like mad and the JK was fine.
Everyone's losing their way focusing on soccer moms...and don't get me started on supply/demand for SUVs; that excuse is bullshit.
This model debuted a year before I graduated high school... and is now in the retro section. Man I feel old.
I graduated high school in May 1996. That's was when I saw the first of the 1997 Wranglers.
1997 grad here. 😁
I bought one new (August 1, 1996) and still have it. Build date April 1996. When I saw this review back in the day, it was part of what made me want one. I was driving a 1979 J-10 truck at the time.
I was born in '97
Graduated in 1997. I wanted one of these ever since. I just got my first jeep - (a 2002 TJ) a few weeks ago from a buddy (he sold it for $1000 bucks) I feel like a little kid. I dream of restoring it and maybe converting the 2.5 4cyl to electric plug in.
Just bought my 97 TJ last month, it's so analog I love it
I hear ya! Always wanted a Wrangler and just got a 98 TJ…love it!
Wow, 7.6 seconds 0-60 is really impressive for ANY suv made during this era.
agreed. i was very surprised! must be the relative lightweight of the jeep?
@@theknubbles5075 Yeah, that's probably a big factor, that and the Inline 6 nature of its engine probably puts down a boat load of torque in low RPM and runs out of breath at higher speeds, hence the impressive 0-60 but lukewarm 1/4 mile time/speed.
I have one with the 4.0 i6 and manual and the best I’ve done is 10.5
@@leifberg2165 10.5 is a little more in line with what I would expect it to be.
@@nathanmcdonald610 I’ve done a little better with 8.6 but that’s me really giving my all
Just brought home new new to me 2002 TJ with 130k on the clock....love it!
Got a 98 Wrangler exactly like the red one in this review. 212,000 miles and running strong. Nothing on the market today is even close to this reliability.
John Robi my 98 has 169,xxx on it right now. Frame is solid (was properly repaired) and is rust free. 4.0l 5-speed.
Car...truck or suv?
I absolutely love my '02 Wrangler Islander. 109K miles on the original 4.0L and 32RH, did an extensive body and frame restoration 10 months ago to original factory specs. Incredibly reliable and an all-around great vehicle. I plan on keeping her for the rest of my life!
That's actually really impressive acceleration for a 90's vehicle, let alone one built for off-roading.
Agreed. Must be the relatively light weight.
Yup - I was very impressed with that as well. An I6 Wrangler is actually faster than a V6 Mustang of the same year! (although it does make sense - both weigh about 3200 lbs, but the Wrangler has more torque)
@@michaelramsey82 Also the optional lower gears helped. My 01 had the 3:73 gears I believe it was. My boss was playing around showing off and tried to race me in his V8 full size truck with automatic. The Jeep with the 5 speed and low gears smoked him lol.
TJ is my favorite generation of Wrangler
It's the best generation by far!
I have a TJ but I love the CJ7s better but they go for the same price as a new wrangler around here.
@@CamaroAmx I like the CJ7s as well- the TJ has a good mixture of a classic design but with a semi-modern interior
@@finecorinthianvideos I’m a big AMC fan. I’ve owned a 73 AMX for over 20 years. I picked the TJ because it was the last wrangler built using AMC parts.
I bought my 97 Sahara in 98 with 8k miles on it. It now has 220,000 miles on it with the original starter, alternator and never been inside the engine. I have replaced the radiator. Other than having the transmission issue years ago, the only other problem I recall having was some plastic piece inside the distributor broke causing it to skip.
I've own several vehicles in my 60 plus years and this one has been the most reliable.
If my daughter doesn't want it... they'll probably bury me in it. Lol....
My 98 is all original except for the radiator (developed a leak), the wheels (not the ones that came on it from the factory, but they were an option that year. They were on it when I bought it), the radio (also replaced before my ownership) and the alternator. Has 188,000 miles on it.
That's actually a great deal for a jeep as they hold their value so damn good!
+Acc0rd79 Those MSRP's are pretty much what you can buy a used TJ for, today. It's almost like they don't depreciate at all lol.
Ethan crazy huh, it's like a Subaru WRX or STI, those things barely go down over the years.
These TJs didn't lose value at all! You still can end up paying alot for a fair condition TJ
when adjusted for inflation their still lower than modern jeeps
still have my old trusty 1998 tj sport. Best vehicle I ever owned plan to keep it for ever
Just bought one, so flipping happy lol
Man I miss my TJ! It is still on the road, the gent that bought it from me 7 years ago lives a few blocks over and it has 210,000 miles on it last I spoke to him- lol
And it still looks good 👍🏼
I still have my 97’ TJ. I told my kids to bury me in it when I pass🤣
I have a 2017 JKU and a 2000 TJ 2.5 liter.
I love my TJ the most
These were very good keeps with the 4.0 if only we could freeze time and leave it alone
chad harmon probably one of the best resale values out there.
The 3.6 Pentastar is far better in every way.
@@nickmotsarsky4382 Maybe so but not nearly as charismatic
Not low grunt torque wise, the i6 beats it there.
I’d get a brand new TJ tomorrow if these were still made exactly like this. Bought a 2000 new, and when that rusted out, I got an 08 JK new.....hated it....sold if for a 2006 TJ. Will never sell it.
still have my 99 tj with dana 44 axles and 40 inch tires 4:88 gears 6 inch lift 5 speed had it for 16 years has 365,000 and going wouldn't trade it for nothing
joe dufey Impressive! I have a 6 cyl that had 70k - I hope i can take care of it enough to out that many miles on it!
@@mezzano8954 if it gets too many miles you can buy a brand new engine off line rite? A brand new 4.0 in line 6, I've seen them there only a few thousand but I dont know how much it costs for labor. Why do people get engine rebuilds instead of new engines????? I get the money issue but why else?????
My dad just bought a 99' SE with a 5 speed manual. It's a 4 cylinder sadly but still a lot of fun!!! Now I want one myself! A 2002 or older Sahara with a 5 speed manual, cruise control and air conditioning in dark green. Wish me luck!!!
Mopar Man Just don't get into JK's lol
hey, I love my 2.5L! Sure its slow, but it's a fun motor, and even more fun to mod. Love the Sahara models ;)
As an (original) owner of a 2.5L, I can tell you that the 4.0 has better fuel economy because the AMC 2.5L struggles to accommodate the increased weight of the TJ (particularly with a hard top and gear). Otherwise the 2.5L has been an amazing Jeep for me all these years. TJs were last of it’s breed and I can probably get close to the base 1999 MSRP today if I wanted it.
Nathan Kopel my firts 1999 4cylinder mpg 15 or lessss and i sold to get a 2003 v6 4.0L 19mpg
Rony Villeda I average 19mpg in my 98 TJ 4.0l 5-speed with 3:73 gears and 32x11.5 tires. I drove mostly backroads.
The 0-60 time is super impressive!
0-60 in 7.6 seconds is spetacular and fanstatic
Picked up a blue 97 sport with a stick. So far so good, 89k miles on that 4.0 the thing is barely broken in
7-bar grill? There are 6 bars. With 7 slots. Dammit, MotorWeek.
I’m so happy with my trusty TJ. I’m here just checking out side decals for the sport so I can get them updated/refreshed and this is a nice video to watch.
Reading these comments are making me so happy lol, I just bought one of these 😭 can’t freaking wait
Welcome to the club!! Don’t forget the Jeep wave👋👋
Awesome Jeep. The new jeeps are refined but if u mess up the interior especially with all the tech. Good luck 5 year warranty is not enough. Plus the price is sooo high.
my 2006 tj unlimited is so nice, the longer wheelbase gets you stuck in some places but nothing that a big ol lift wont fix
that TJ Unlimited was definitely one of a kind. the longer wheel base also made it more pleasant to drive, especially on the roads here in PA. they go for an insane amount of money on craigslist. i can't justify buying one since i already have a TJ and a 2016 JKU, and a Honda Civic. i've run out of driveway space lol
They are the best in my opinion. So much so that I own a 2005 “Rubihara”. Jeeps are great vehicles and a joy to drive.
I remember when these clogged Kmart parking lots. Now that Kmart is gone, they clog Costco parking lots.
It's not the Stig... it's the Stig's 90s cousin.
Now you are lucky you buy a Jeep for any less than the mid 30s..
That thing weaving around was wild. I don’t know if I’d want to do that even in the long wheelbase
No mention of the self-destructing frame lol!
geez, when adjusted for inflation, the base TJ costs like $9,000 less than the base JL
Do you have an episode with a review of a 95-98 nissan 240sx s14? If so I would love to watch it.
Make one on the TJ Rubicon!
$13,000 in 1997 → $20,338.87 in 2018 for base model
Base price for new 2019 model is $28,045
Wow, that's an $8k difference!
I'm sure almost half of that is justified, but really surprising
You get a lot more creature comforts on new wranglers today. In opinion, just more stuff to go wrong. I like my vehicles simple.
Is there an episode for any of the 1991-1995 Jeep YJ's with the 4.0L?
I watched the one with the 1987 4.2L YJ that was extremely slow with a 13.9 second 0-60
I had this exact model TJ, a 1997. 5-speed, 4.0 L and 3.73 gears. This thing was very fast for what it was. If it weren't for the excessive mechanical issues and total rusting of the body panels I would still have it. I do regret selling it...sometimes.
Jeep Wrangler is authentic and unique Jeep
YAY! NOT A BMW!!!
Must've been a bmw throwback week
Andrew Dion it was, sorry.
Naw it's alright. Don't get me wrong, old skool beemers are the da bomb. Just too many videos on one series
***** it was great, I had a chance to see my 96 328i, but I am not going to lie it was too many in a row
crazy wheel indeed. It was needed for a project we were collaborating on, and was simply the easiest way to share the footage.
Had a 2000...Definitely miss it.
Where in Arizona was this filmed?
$14-21k price would be nice today. Honestly one of these with a hitch would be a fun "work truck" for an in-town mowing route. Lil Wrangler would be nice for plowing snow in-town also.
Their towing capacity is pretty low and using it to plow is also not a great idea. They don’t weigh much (disadvantage when plowing) and that will rot it out faster then almost anything else. There is no such thing as a rust free plow vehicle.
I just purchased one 1999 w/ 4.0 manual sport at the auction for $1100 with 162,000 miles.
Generally looks good exterior interior only one problem - the frame. I’ll fix the frame and enjoy it.
You got a stellar deal my friend. Repair or replace the frame and get out there!👍
Ive got a 97 TJ Sahara inline 6, 4.0 litre , 5 spd ..runs strong at 369 ,000 kms ..this thing is a tank , daily to work in winter an drive here an there in summer as i have other toys , its fully loaded , 3 inch lift with 15inch 33 M/T on it all around ....great lil tank ...but with the 33s ..it tops on hwy at 108 kms lol ...but 4x4. its a HUMMER/ FORD /CHEV/ DODGE RECOVERY VEHICLE IN THE BUSH LOL
Is it still for sale?
Chrysler was on such a roll in the 90s--the Viper, the second gen Ram and Dakota, the Durango, the Grand Cherokee, this Wrangler....then those Euro clowns got involved and ruined everything.
0-60 time is amazing
This generation of Wrangler has become very sought-after here in Colorado, clean ones in good shape go for lots of money and it's tough to find one that isn't lifted on big tires. I'm happy with my '93 XJ Cherokee though much more practical and almost as capable offroad.
I had 2 Cherokees (89 and 96). I have a 98 wrangler now and they aren’t cheap here either. I got a steal for mine when I paid just $5k for mine with 150,000 miles on it 5 years ago. The only thing it needed was a new soft top. My back actually asked me if I wanted to borrow more money because they assessed it alot higher then 5k.
@@CamaroAmx Sadly within the last 2 years I got rear-ended in my Cherokee and it got totaled. I pulled the drivetrain and all the parts to convert another XJ or possibly even a YJ Wrangler to stick-shift since ones with manuals are much harder to find and worth a lot more. A TJ would be cool but I honestly prefer leaf springs, and a better deal haha
@@mopartron3030 I know how that feels. I hit a deer with my 89 Cherokee and totaled it. My rust bucket 96 was rear ended and it crumbled.
My wrangler was also rear ended but I was lucky and it didn’t really do much damage and was easily fixed (the Colorado wasn’t so lucky). My favorite is the CJ7 (my father had one when I was growing up) but those aren’t remotely cheap around here.
Every time I see one of these on the road, I think of this story, when I was in high school, a girl I was friends with had one of these with the 5-speed manual transmission. She forgot to set the parking brake and left it in first gear. As a result of that, the transmission slipped out of first and riled down a hill and crashed into a nearby garage as a result of her not setting the parking brake. I wasn’t there when it happened but I could only imagine how her and her friends must have reacted
Typical Auto Guy I had the same thing happen in one of my old YJs - I think my mechanically cursed '89. Forgot to set the brake in a flat parking lot at Napa (oddly enough). When I came out, it had somehow weaved through 2 rows of parked vehicles in the lot, and was in the street, completely untouched!! I have no idea how it didn't hit anything, as the road where it ended up was not a straight shot from where I'd parked it!
@@ohyeah5014 Haha - awesome! Same kinda thing, indeed. Jeeps know how to find their way home. :)
@@ohyeah5014 good question....hmmmmm....89 and 91 YJ, 00 and 06 TJ, 08 JK, 65 66 67 CJ5, 46 2A. Still have the 06, 66, 67, and 46.
@@ohyeah5014 Yes, yes! You can always justify one more....and then another...and then... enjoy them - they are fantastic. It’s hard to pick a favorite...probably the cj5 -v6 models for me.
Well now I know what my TJ should look like.... If I decide to clean it up
2019 jeep to a 1997 so much change and price and horsepower still seen on roads
The TJ has lower power but the toque peak is alot lower then current wranglers and the TJ weighs alot less then the current wranglers.
Buying an 06 this week.
Ended up buying a 98 wrangler sport. Looks just like the red one featured in this video. Mine also came with factory 30” tires.
Is that the Stig behind the wheel
I want to get a TJ and mod it.
love it @AllMuscleNoRice
My God, that TJ is a legend! I had a 05 Sport, and I beat the shit outta it, the only thing i broke was the clutch!!
I miss my '98 Grand Cherokee :(
Just bought a 2006 TJ with 25k miles on it. 4.0 amc
I love my 1997 4.0 5 speed
I like mine very much incredible
$19,774 in 1997 is the equivalent of $37,000 in today's dollars. So today's Sport Wrangler JL for $31,000 is actually a steal considering what you get for that compared to back with the TJ
Yes I want
I didn’t know the auto was only a 3 speed.
0-60 in 7.6?
How?
***** No doubt it'll scoot along. Just never felt that my '03 4.0/5 speed is that quick to 60.
blkfreedom03 it's also stock
blkfreedom03 I
Considering the Wrangler it replaced did 0-60in 12.5 seconds or so, that is a heck of an improvement! Did the 5-speed and lighter vehicle make that much of a difference?
Maybe the Professional driver had something to do with it. I don't think my '06 would do that...
thank you, neon twins, for bringing back round headlights =)
And then Ford tried to copy the Neon look and killed the Taurus...
Chrysler didn't do any better across two versions of the Neon, trust me. The first Neon was, well cute (according to my wife), it was very roomy and had good performance. Unfortunately it was also poorly made. The second generation Neon was much the same except less cute. After the Neon, we went to the insipid Dodge Caliber, the car which basically killed domestic Chrysler products in the small car market altogether... now all we get are warmed over Fiats with silly names (500, 500L, 500X).
I have a tj and it's the 2.5 and the only downside to every Jeep out there is the PO 171 engine running lean or rich code which gives me 140 kilometers to a full tank. Not one mechanic out of many can even find the solution to this and only the 1997 TJ has this problem.
The strong survive they're kind of a bastard year, all the 97 Jeeps were. 98 thru 2000 were probably the best years for them.
Where can I buy the rear trunk panel ? 4:17
Check Quadratec. They are one of the better Jeep aftermarket companies.
Mine came stock with the Add-A-Trunk. Mine is also a 1 of 2500 (1 of 500 that year) Chili Pepper Red edition.
Looking at those prices, I wish that I could have bought one new when I was a teenager.
looks are deceiving. that is in 1997 dollars. the equivalent of $19,744 in 1997 would be $38,000 today. you can actually get a Jeep 2 Door JL sport base model for $33,000 today. so Wranglers have become cheaper
Love these videos! Can you guys post more Toyota trucks? Such as a first gen Tacoma or Tundra? Thanks
You can now order 30 inch tires lol..its funny how 29s and 30s were considered big tires back then
They were. Not many vehicles, if any came with anything bigger then 30” tires back then.
when did Motorweek stop doing MPG tests on their reviews?
They may not have had it long enough.
0 to 60 is fast but what happens after that? 83 in the quarter means it loses quit a bit of power after 60
+derzx 479 yeah above 75 it struggles. in fact when my TJ was stock i cruised on the highway at 75 pretty good without issue but even above 65 it really starts to require much more effort. Lack of aerodynamics really effects it at those speeds. You really dont want to drive a Tj over 80 it doesnt feel safe lol.
It's a brick. It'll never not struggle above 70.
These things aren't sports cars. Not even remotely designed for high speed driving. In fact it's rather dangerous to do so.
To think that in 1997 ABS was considered an optional
I want to buy my first jeep, this is the best to start?
+TailsBit I'm getting a 1997 tj on Sunday morning for a good deal:P I'm stoked!
The TJs were the last DIY'ers before the new JKs got the Chrysler Pentastar v6. The latter is a good motor, but try peeking at the engine bay, and all you see is wires. The TJs are still mechanically simple, which means any mechanic can workmon them. The 4.0 inline 6 cyl is the preferred engine. All Jeeps leak oil, it's almost a requirement! Becaue of their simplicity, TJs are relatively easy to maintain, run, and fix, if necessary, but you still get coil springs (leaf sprung Jeeps ride harsher), and 2 air bags, so it is not a death-trap. They corner well too, somlong as you don't drive like a douche. Bone-stock they can accomodate narrow 31" tires. Ansoultely a joy.
if your mechanic can't work on a JK, get a new mechanic. Wranglers are the easiest vehicle to work on, period. i have a beater TJ and a JK. they are equally easy to work on, in fact i prefer the JK to be flat out honest. more room in the engine bay to work.
I own an 05 TJ. The TJ was the last jeep that many would consider an actual jeep. JK and JKUs are still technically jeeps, but they've been neutered in a way. They've been put through so many focus groups and lawyers that they seem like an everyday car now and not so much a jeep. If you want a jeep simply for daily driving on paved roads, then a JK is perfectly fine. But if you want a jeep that is capable of daily driving AND off-roading, a TJ is the best. You could even go as far as getting a CJ if you just want a weekend off roader.
I highly suggest you get a hardtop if it's gonna be your daily driver.
I just got a 98 SE 2.5 rag top less than 2 months ago. Still fealin her out, but havent gotten her dirty yet.
+KelvinSmoke How do you like her now? Have you done any upgrades?
+Jonathan Bridges I'm really enjoying crawling around on forest roads and desert trails. I
haven't done any upgrades, besides hunting down rattles.
It is hard to get her over 65mph, even slower with a head wind. The
first upgrade I have been thinking about is some type of diff lockers,
because everytime I have gotten stuck at least one tire had good footing
while the other spun
Yeah that was my issue before I upgraded. By upgraded I mean go from 2004 Wrangler X to a 2005 Rubicon mainly because I wanted a 6-speeed. It was about the same price difference to by the Rubicon and sell the X as it would have been to do a tranny swap in the Wrangler X, plus I got the Rubicon goodies to start with. For your case, assuming you don't want a transmission swap, I would re-gear on top of getting the lockers you want. That way you would be able to put down the power more efficiently. I noticed a big difference driving in the wind when I went from 3.73 gears in the X to 4.10 gears in the Rubicon.
I bought it planning on a engine and transmission swap in about 6 years, and new axles asap. I don't want to go crazy. just about 250-300lb/ft torque, 1" lift, fenders to fit, and I haven't even settled on the axle/tires. Its got 100k on the clock, bone stock, new dealer replacement top, looks brand new...I don't know who owned it prior but except for a tap in the engine at idle, its cherry
Nice. Sounds like you make out good. I'm wanting to get a new soft top, 2.5" lift, 32" tires, and a winch. Like you nothing too crazy but just enhance the capabilities it already has. What engine are you thinking about putting into it?
We have a 1997 wrangler Shara 4.0 I6 made during the 96 “change over” year, got its door sticker in 11-96..!!
Anyone know what That would have cost in 97?? 🤷🏻♂️🤔
I didn’t know tjs could have abs breaks ?
Mine came with ABS. It was an option.
I had an 04 4.0 5 speed and have an 06 4.0 6 speed. 7.6 sec 0-60 is an error.
I have an 03 4.0 5-spd. Closer to 17.6 than 7.6.
Is this basically the same as the 2015 Jeep ???
+Fromthefuture No. They have different a engine and transmission for starters.
not even close.
I never liked how those front turn signals looked on the fender.
I agree. They should have been placed on the grill like all other jeeps.
SteelCity1981 side marker lights have been DOT mandated since '67 or '68. Gotta put them somewhere...my '66 cj5 doesn't have them, but later ones and everything since all do.
im honestly a huge fan of the rectangle head lights if i were to get a Tj i would really look into a custom grill/headlight swap. its weird that its not more common
So many people complained to Chrysler about the headlights and grill so to meet the demands they changed them back. I personally like the square headlights but there is something about it the round lights that tugs at my heartstrings and because of that I'm glad they changed them back. I'm sure you can find an after market set that you can install if you really wanted to.
BigXSmoke1 Wait, you'll cry about a 4 door, but get all wet over those hideous square headlights that shit on Jeep heritage???? Man, you're fucked up, lol
LOL, $15k brand new... I miss my '99 TJ.
Casey Weaver That's $22,000 adjusted for inflation.
Wow that’s cheap but then I remember that minimums wage was 4.25 in 96 in California
Wow....I thought 3-speed autos were dead by '97. Guess I shoulda paid more attention back then.
deloreanman14 The TJ continued to use the 3-speed 32RE until 2006, embarrassing as it is.
Also Toyota Corolla/Chevrolet Prisms had 3ATs until the 2002 model year!
+deloreanman14 +SchizoFilms They discontinued the 3 speed after 2002 and from 2003 to 2006 had a 4-speed auto 42RLE.
All of the Big 3 and even some imports used 3 speed autos as the entry level shifts-by-itself tranny for many yrs. Those in trucks and some SUVs were used because they were proven and often times more robust for HD and off road use. The 1 used in the featured Jeep is based off the old Chrysler A904, which became the A999 and eventually the 32RE with electronically engaged lock up converter. It was a very good transmission with better seals, bands, better clutch materials, increased fluid flow, deeper pan for more capacity, and had an aux. cooler. 4 speed aod transmissions were used in the Cherokee behind the 4.0 but were built by Mitsubishi and no where near as robust early on for serious off road use. That would change in time after several upgrades. 1 would have to move up to a full sized truck/SUV to find a stronger aod of the time, as they were much larger units and won't fit in the tiny Wrangler TJ w/o massive chassis and floor changes.
They changed a lot of the flooring, chassis and drive shafts to make that system work, as the A500 OD which that transmission is based on is really a large, long unit. Early examples had much more drivetrain vibration at speed than the 3 speeds did, until they figured out the geometry. You'll notice that the rear drive shaft is nearly a stub shaft on that short chassis.
I just bought a tj
How is it?
@@geordi5054 love it! I regret not owning one 16 years ago 😭
Sickkk the year I️ was born 🤘
Fast acceleration
My dad still has his lmao
Chrysler was a cash cow during the mid 90s. The new minivans, the TJ, refreshed Grand Cherokee were selling like hot cakes.
Chrysler was the most profitable automaker in world in the 90s. Then the merger of equals came along (more like hostile takeover) with Mercedes. After Daimler bled Chrysler dry and restricted new car development, they sold them off to an investment firm who didn’t have a clue or the money to run a car company and they went bankrupt. Which lead to Fiat buying them.
Jeep
Born: 1941
Died: 2006
bingo. this was the last real jeep designed by AMC
@@jgg204 the TJ wasn’t designed by AMC. The last wrangler designed by AMC was the YJ. The last Jeep AMC designed was the first Gen Grand Cherokee (it was basically finished by the time Chrysler bought AMC. Chrysler just got it production ready). The TJ however was the last Wrangler to use AMC parts.
Also a large portion of the former AMC design staff moved to Chrysler and many worked in the Dodge Truck/Jeep development division. In fact former AMC employees helped design the Viper, Neon, 90s dodge trucks and several of the cloud cars. In fact on a side note, Chrysler used the AMC designed Eagle Premier platform as a basis for the LH platform. (the cloud cars of the 90s). The LH platform was then modified to RWD and became the LX and LC platforms (the current Charger and challenger).
4 door jeeps make me sick
Get a wife and some kids and you'll fall in love.
BigXSmoke1 Better than all the soulless CUV's people buy in heaps today.
+Mike Hawk I was gonna say the same thing..m
Not really...we got by just fine with a 2 door Wrangler when I was a kid. People had more kids back in the 1960s than they do now, and yet most vehicles were two doors. Now, a couple of squares have their child, they feel they need the biggest SUV equipped with every electronic/luxury/gadget known to man, and of course 4 doors.
Unless it's a Xj I agree
...and 26 years later, they are still $15,000...
lol you wish
@@jgg204 might want to double check the classifieds again. A really nice stock TJ is 10-15k all day.
I bought my 98 Wrangler 4 years ago for $5k and the back asked me if I wanted a larger loan because their assessment of its worth on the low end was $8k.
Now you need a 96mo car loan to afford one
Unlike new Jeeps that look like hummers and stall out
The newer ones fell way to big and bulky and they ride way to smooth to feel like they could off-road. They feel like if I hit a hard bump, something would break. And the JKs eat front calibers (I’ve replaced a lot over the years) and they always get evap leaks.
Why in the hell do these manufactures keep producing these plastic pieces that fade/discolor so badly? At my shop, I paint all these faded pieces so they don't fade and deteriorate.
Joel Alexander and why are the door/windshield/tailgate hinges STIll not stainless?? Just paint them with the body at the factory, or leave them as is!
Tony Costello They fade and look ugly.
Can I drive to Mount Massive Asylum and never return? hahaahah reference.
I bought a 2001 sport 4.0 for $1300. Did I pay too much? It has 122,000 miles on it.
the XJ and the TJ...the last of the real Jeeps.
The last good Wrangler 1997-2006 RIP. All good Jeeps died with the 4.0L, it's all over, and these bloated, tech loaded imitations are all that's left.
It stacks up well against the model T
Here's a MotorWeek Retro Review of the Jeep Wrangler TJ from 1997.
David Valenzuela Really, never would have guessed by reading the TITLE! SLAP!!
The front end looks like an OWL! 🦉🦉🦉🦉🦉🦉🦉🦉🦉