91 or 96?

[Dscott]

I'm a potentially new Cherokee owner. I'm trying to decide between similar models, one from 91 and the other 96. Both are sport 4wd, inline 6, 4.0. The 91 has 160,000 miles and is selling for $1400. The 96 has 218,000 and is selling for 2100. Both have extensive service records, but the 96 looks nicer (possibly simply because it is newer). Otherwise, they are comparable. I'm just looking for a reliable around town tank. I want something that isn't going to start slowing breaking down. Any advice on which to take and why? Thanks for the help

[XJ Wheeler]

Welcome to xjtalk first off.

I'll say i would pick the '91. Everyone will have a different answer but the lower miles and cheaper price are big factors to me but not deal breakers either.

The '96 should be OBD2 equipped which makes diagnosis easier but '96 is a bit of an odd year. The first for OBD2 and last for the older style. Many owners have reported oddities with them. Stuff like bumpers not lining up right.

Either way, they are both good choices. The drivetrains offered were nearly identical in both years and are great to say the least.

Do you plan on taking this jeep (whichever you buy) off road and to modify it?

Sent via messenger pigeon - i talk, he types.

[nickyg]

I have a 96 and I can say. It's built with left over 95 parts and 97 parts. Some stuff from 95 fit and others are a 97 and up. for example I went to autozone bought a TPS and the connecter didn't fit I took it back and got one for a 97 and what do know the conncector fit. sometimes it's very inconvenient. but nothing I cant handle
If I had a choice I would go with the one in the best condition or buy both. you can't have too many Jeeps.

[89Laredo]

89 and 96 are my favorite years by far.
BUT, I would go with the 91. Better bang for the buck.

[4x4Dalton]

I would have to say go with the 91. I own a 91 now( used to have a 95). Things under the hood are a little different then the 92' and up but nothin major.

[Mudderoy]

Is the 91 a RENIX? What year was the HO engine, 92?

[Rustbucket]

I'd go with the 91, unless it has a rust issue. Lots more parts are gonna be worn out at the 218,000 the 96 has on it

[89Laredo]

Is the 91 a RENIX? What year was the HO engine, 92?

Dammit, didn't mean to "like" that...
91+ is Chrysler electronics, "HO" engines.