Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.

I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).

This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.

I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
highways during winter.

Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
$5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.

It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
"comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
Cherokee.

But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
clearance though.

Any thoughts?

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

The Cherokee is my choice.

It is super easy with their solid axles to just put a lift block kit to
get a couple more inches clearance and the Cherokee can keep all 4
wheels on the ground 'far' better than the Liberty with it's independent
suspension.

We take our Cherokee on all the forestry/hunt access roads we take our
CJ7 on up here in Canada. I have a 2" lift kit I got for it about 5
years ago, but just haven't needed it.... Save it for the next one I
guess...

We have gotten some wild looks from ATV'ers when they come across us
figuring we 'must' know some other way to get in other than the one they
just spent a half day sweating on to get to us. LOL!

I also think the 4.0 engine is the better one and there are tons of
Cherokees out there so parts are easy to find, new and used.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Aug./05 http://www.imagestation.com/album/in...?id=2120343242
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
>
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

The Cherokee is my choice.

It is super easy with their solid axles to just put a lift block kit to
get a couple more inches clearance and the Cherokee can keep all 4
wheels on the ground 'far' better than the Liberty with it's independent
suspension.

We take our Cherokee on all the forestry/hunt access roads we take our
CJ7 on up here in Canada. I have a 2" lift kit I got for it about 5
years ago, but just haven't needed it.... Save it for the next one I
guess...

We have gotten some wild looks from ATV'ers when they come across us
figuring we 'must' know some other way to get in other than the one they
just spent a half day sweating on to get to us. LOL!

I also think the 4.0 engine is the better one and there are tons of
Cherokees out there so parts are easy to find, new and used.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Aug./05 http://www.imagestation.com/album/in...?id=2120343242
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
>
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

The Cherokee is my choice.

It is super easy with their solid axles to just put a lift block kit to
get a couple more inches clearance and the Cherokee can keep all 4
wheels on the ground 'far' better than the Liberty with it's independent
suspension.

We take our Cherokee on all the forestry/hunt access roads we take our
CJ7 on up here in Canada. I have a 2" lift kit I got for it about 5
years ago, but just haven't needed it.... Save it for the next one I
guess...

We have gotten some wild looks from ATV'ers when they come across us
figuring we 'must' know some other way to get in other than the one they
just spent a half day sweating on to get to us. LOL!

I also think the 4.0 engine is the better one and there are tons of
Cherokees out there so parts are easy to find, new and used.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Aug./05 http://www.imagestation.com/album/in...?id=2120343242
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
>
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

While the liberty would work fine for your stated purpose, as a matter
of principle you should avoid it. Don't contribute to rewarding DC for
diluting the brand.

I mean really, if you're not going for a real Jeep, why not buy a Toyota
or a Nissan or even a Kia. You'd just be paying for a name otherwise.

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

While the liberty would work fine for your stated purpose, as a matter
of principle you should avoid it. Don't contribute to rewarding DC for
diluting the brand.

I mean really, if you're not going for a real Jeep, why not buy a Toyota
or a Nissan or even a Kia. You'd just be paying for a name otherwise.

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

While the liberty would work fine for your stated purpose, as a matter
of principle you should avoid it. Don't contribute to rewarding DC for
diluting the brand.

I mean really, if you're not going for a real Jeep, why not buy a Toyota
or a Nissan or even a Kia. You'd just be paying for a name otherwise.

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

"Clap Trap" <nowhere@the.net> wrote in message
news:681ca$43a9c074$45490842$27267@KNOLOGY.NET...
: While the liberty would work fine for your stated purpose, as a matter
: of principle you should avoid it. Don't contribute to rewarding DC for
: diluting the brand.
:
: I mean really, if you're not going for a real Jeep, why not buy a Toyota
: or a Nissan or even a Kia. You'd just be paying for a name otherwise.

Other than the cheap shots, you won't find many admirers of the Liberty in
this group.
Change is hard for some to take and a lot of people curse what they do not
understand or what does not suit their particular purposes.
If you want a better perspective of the KJ, then go here:
http://www.lostkjs.com/forum/phpBB2/
http://www.jeepkj.com/forums/index.php
and there are some interesting notes here too:
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/index.php
Where people have them and use them and most love them.

The KJ is not necessarily as serious an off road vehicle as some ot the
Jeeps that are in this particular group but they can be very capable in the
right hands.
Have a look at some photos:
http://www.frappr.com/lostkjs/map

From your post, it sounds as if you already know what you want, so you may
as well go ahead and get the Cherokee. Yes, at this point in time you CAN do
more to it as far as lift and after market options are more redily available
BUT that's because the Cherokee has been around a lot longer.

The KJ is a popular, good looking little rig that (in my case) averages
18mpg, is comfortable enough, shifts on the fly, has good convertible seats
(I think the 03 does not goe as flat as newer models) and really good
appearance. It has ample power for a vehicle of it's type and turns on a
dime.

If you get a Liberty, be prepared to take some flack over it not being a
"real Jeep" but no matter what anyone says, it IS a Jeep, and they can just
learn to live with it.

KJKate
2O|||||||O5 Liberty

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

"Clap Trap" <nowhere@the.net> wrote in message
news:681ca$43a9c074$45490842$27267@KNOLOGY.NET...
: While the liberty would work fine for your stated purpose, as a matter
: of principle you should avoid it. Don't contribute to rewarding DC for
: diluting the brand.
:
: I mean really, if you're not going for a real Jeep, why not buy a Toyota
: or a Nissan or even a Kia. You'd just be paying for a name otherwise.

Other than the cheap shots, you won't find many admirers of the Liberty in
this group.
Change is hard for some to take and a lot of people curse what they do not
understand or what does not suit their particular purposes.
If you want a better perspective of the KJ, then go here:
http://www.lostkjs.com/forum/phpBB2/
http://www.jeepkj.com/forums/index.php
and there are some interesting notes here too:
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/index.php
Where people have them and use them and most love them.

The KJ is not necessarily as serious an off road vehicle as some ot the
Jeeps that are in this particular group but they can be very capable in the
right hands.
Have a look at some photos:
http://www.frappr.com/lostkjs/map

From your post, it sounds as if you already know what you want, so you may
as well go ahead and get the Cherokee. Yes, at this point in time you CAN do
more to it as far as lift and after market options are more redily available
BUT that's because the Cherokee has been around a lot longer.

The KJ is a popular, good looking little rig that (in my case) averages
18mpg, is comfortable enough, shifts on the fly, has good convertible seats
(I think the 03 does not goe as flat as newer models) and really good
appearance. It has ample power for a vehicle of it's type and turns on a
dime.

If you get a Liberty, be prepared to take some flack over it not being a
"real Jeep" but no matter what anyone says, it IS a Jeep, and they can just
learn to live with it.

KJKate
2O|||||||O5 Liberty

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

"Clap Trap" <nowhere@the.net> wrote in message
news:681ca$43a9c074$45490842$27267@KNOLOGY.NET...
: While the liberty would work fine for your stated purpose, as a matter
: of principle you should avoid it. Don't contribute to rewarding DC for
: diluting the brand.
:
: I mean really, if you're not going for a real Jeep, why not buy a Toyota
: or a Nissan or even a Kia. You'd just be paying for a name otherwise.

Other than the cheap shots, you won't find many admirers of the Liberty in
this group.
Change is hard for some to take and a lot of people curse what they do not
understand or what does not suit their particular purposes.
If you want a better perspective of the KJ, then go here:
http://www.lostkjs.com/forum/phpBB2/
http://www.jeepkj.com/forums/index.php
and there are some interesting notes here too:
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/index.php
Where people have them and use them and most love them.

The KJ is not necessarily as serious an off road vehicle as some ot the
Jeeps that are in this particular group but they can be very capable in the
right hands.
Have a look at some photos:
http://www.frappr.com/lostkjs/map

From your post, it sounds as if you already know what you want, so you may
as well go ahead and get the Cherokee. Yes, at this point in time you CAN do
more to it as far as lift and after market options are more redily available
BUT that's because the Cherokee has been around a lot longer.

The KJ is a popular, good looking little rig that (in my case) averages
18mpg, is comfortable enough, shifts on the fly, has good convertible seats
(I think the 03 does not goe as flat as newer models) and really good
appearance. It has ample power for a vehicle of it's type and turns on a
dime.

If you get a Liberty, be prepared to take some flack over it not being a
"real Jeep" but no matter what anyone says, it IS a Jeep, and they can just
learn to live with it.

KJKate
2O|||||||O5 Liberty

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

u can buy a dam near new liberty for 16 k

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:

> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

u can buy a dam near new liberty for 16 k

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:

> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

u can buy a dam near new liberty for 16 k

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:

> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135207424.417859.40260@g14g2000cwa.googlegro ups.com...
:I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
: find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
: I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
: 4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
: find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
: added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
: three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
: from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)
:
Oh --- I understand completely!
Those are the VERY reasons I chose the Libby.

I have owned two CJs in my past life, and found them to be a lot of fun, but
not much for a daily driver.
As far as features, obviously the Libby will be better accomidated, but the
Cherokkee is a helluva nice rig. I have nothing bad to say about the, I
wanted one for a long time, and was looking for one when I found that they
had been picked out of the herd and replaced with the KJ....

Not wanting a used rig, I got the Liberty. In your case, Like I said, you
already know what you want, so go find a good one and get er done!

:)

Kate

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135207424.417859.40260@g14g2000cwa.googlegro ups.com...
:I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
: find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
: I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
: 4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
: find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
: added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
: three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
: from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)
:
Oh --- I understand completely!
Those are the VERY reasons I chose the Libby.

I have owned two CJs in my past life, and found them to be a lot of fun, but
not much for a daily driver.
As far as features, obviously the Libby will be better accomidated, but the
Cherokkee is a helluva nice rig. I have nothing bad to say about the, I
wanted one for a long time, and was looking for one when I found that they
had been picked out of the herd and replaced with the KJ....

Not wanting a used rig, I got the Liberty. In your case, Like I said, you
already know what you want, so go find a good one and get er done!

:)

Kate

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135207424.417859.40260@g14g2000cwa.googlegro ups.com...
:I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
: find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
: I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
: 4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
: find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
: added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
: three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
: from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)
:
Oh --- I understand completely!
Those are the VERY reasons I chose the Libby.

I have owned two CJs in my past life, and found them to be a lot of fun, but
not much for a daily driver.
As far as features, obviously the Libby will be better accomidated, but the
Cherokkee is a helluva nice rig. I have nothing bad to say about the, I
wanted one for a long time, and was looking for one when I found that they
had been picked out of the herd and replaced with the KJ....

Not wanting a used rig, I got the Liberty. In your case, Like I said, you
already know what you want, so go find a good one and get er done!

:)

Kate

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

Why would you consider a Liberty and not a ZJ or WJ Grand Cherokees?

That you are considering a Liberty implies to me that you have interest in
more than just a utilitarian vehicle.

If your interest is to upgrade the vehicle for more off-road you will find
ZJ parts plentiful and ZJs went to Select-Trac as the standard autobox in, I
believe, '96.

As for your budget you can buy a lot for $16k.

--
Billy_Ray@fuseSPAM.net (Remove the SPAM)
2002 WJ Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat
Helping is why we are all here on RAMJ+W, or should be.
..
"philthy" <dbrider@cac.net> wrote in message
news:43A9E9C4.E9B2EC9D@cac.net...
>u can buy a dam near new liberty for 16 k
>
> coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
>
>> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
>> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
>> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>>
>> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
>> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>>
>> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
>> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
>> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
>> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
>> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>>
>> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
>> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
>> highways during winter.
>>
>> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
>> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
>> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
>> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>>
>> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
>> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
>> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
>> Cherokee.
>>
>> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
>> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
>> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
>> clearance though.
>>
>> Any thoughts?
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

Why would you consider a Liberty and not a ZJ or WJ Grand Cherokees?

That you are considering a Liberty implies to me that you have interest in
more than just a utilitarian vehicle.

If your interest is to upgrade the vehicle for more off-road you will find
ZJ parts plentiful and ZJs went to Select-Trac as the standard autobox in, I
believe, '96.

As for your budget you can buy a lot for $16k.

--
Billy_Ray@fuseSPAM.net (Remove the SPAM)
2002 WJ Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat
Helping is why we are all here on RAMJ+W, or should be.
..
"philthy" <dbrider@cac.net> wrote in message
news:43A9E9C4.E9B2EC9D@cac.net...
>u can buy a dam near new liberty for 16 k
>
> coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
>
>> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
>> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
>> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>>
>> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
>> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>>
>> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
>> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
>> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
>> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
>> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>>
>> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
>> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
>> highways during winter.
>>
>> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
>> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
>> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
>> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>>
>> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
>> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
>> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
>> Cherokee.
>>
>> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
>> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
>> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
>> clearance though.
>>
>> Any thoughts?
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

Why would you consider a Liberty and not a ZJ or WJ Grand Cherokees?

That you are considering a Liberty implies to me that you have interest in
more than just a utilitarian vehicle.

If your interest is to upgrade the vehicle for more off-road you will find
ZJ parts plentiful and ZJs went to Select-Trac as the standard autobox in, I
believe, '96.

As for your budget you can buy a lot for $16k.

--
Billy_Ray@fuseSPAM.net (Remove the SPAM)
2002 WJ Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat
Helping is why we are all here on RAMJ+W, or should be.
..
"philthy" <dbrider@cac.net> wrote in message
news:43A9E9C4.E9B2EC9D@cac.net...
>u can buy a dam near new liberty for 16 k
>
> coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
>
>> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
>> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
>> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>>
>> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
>> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>>
>> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
>> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
>> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
>> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
>> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>>
>> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
>> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
>> highways during winter.
>>
>> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
>> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
>> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
>> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>>
>> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
>> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
>> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
>> Cherokee.
>>
>> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
>> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
>> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
>> clearance though.
>>
>> Any thoughts?
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

Seriously, if durability is prime, go with a Japanese offering. Toyota
in particular is terribly hard to beat. If I were to ever by something
with IFS, it would be a Toyota, hands down. Dunno if they have a
Selec-Trac equivalent though. If they don't, check out the Subaru
Outback. Good reliability and nice AWD system. No low range though.
But if you get the auto, it probably would be fine.

Even though I'll dis the libby every chance I get, it would be just fine
for what you want. If you go that route though, at least spring for the
diesel.



coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
> I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
> find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
> I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
> 4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
> find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
> added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
> three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
> from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

Seriously, if durability is prime, go with a Japanese offering. Toyota
in particular is terribly hard to beat. If I were to ever by something
with IFS, it would be a Toyota, hands down. Dunno if they have a
Selec-Trac equivalent though. If they don't, check out the Subaru
Outback. Good reliability and nice AWD system. No low range though.
But if you get the auto, it probably would be fine.

Even though I'll dis the libby every chance I get, it would be just fine
for what you want. If you go that route though, at least spring for the
diesel.



coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
> I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
> find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
> I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
> 4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
> find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
> added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
> three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
> from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

Seriously, if durability is prime, go with a Japanese offering. Toyota
in particular is terribly hard to beat. If I were to ever by something
with IFS, it would be a Toyota, hands down. Dunno if they have a
Selec-Trac equivalent though. If they don't, check out the Subaru
Outback. Good reliability and nice AWD system. No low range though.
But if you get the auto, it probably would be fine.

Even though I'll dis the libby every chance I get, it would be just fine
for what you want. If you go that route though, at least spring for the
diesel.



coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
> I respect what you're saying, but at this point my main prinicple is to
> find a durable, reliable vehicle that can do what I want for something
> I can afford--whatever the pedigree :) I want a competent full-time
> 4wd system for the mixed ice/snow/dry pavement conditions I sometimes
> find myself driving in, but there also plenty of times when I want the
> added traction of traditional part-time 4wd and 4low. If you want all
> three options in the same rig that removes a bunch of possible choices
> from the list--at least for vehicles in my price range :)
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I've owned both. I started out with an '89 Cherokee (new), then a '99
Cherokee (new), my wife traded in her Intrepid on an '02 Liberty (new) and,
after the 4.0L in the '99 broke a connecting rod and punched a hole in the
crankcase, I went out and got an '05 Grand Cherokee (new).

Opinion: Despite what you may or will hear, the Liberty is a Jeep. It is
rugged and capable of doing "Jeep things." Just because it does not have
flat fenders and round headlights. . . The only drawback is that the
Liberty seems a bit top heavy, like it has the wheels spaced too narrow for
its height. Parked side-by-side with the '99 Cherokee, the Liberty was
taller!

Also opinion: Don't put too much weight in my '99 throwing a rod. That
could happen to any engine any time.

In my For What It's Worth Department: On the advice of the salesman when I
bought my Grand I donated the '99 to a charitable organization. The
vehicle, with *no* engine brought $2500 at auction! Not bad for a machine
with >104K miles and no motor!

Bottom line: Either vehicle will do for your stated use. You might be
happier right now with the Cherokee for, as an earlier poster stated,
accessories and parts are easier to come by for the Cherokee only because
the Cherokee has been around longer than the Liberty. But, I think the
Liberty is going to catch up and catch on (my opinion, again).

Good luck,

Turner

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135196278.220181.306370@o13g2000cwo.googlegr oups.com...
>
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I've owned both. I started out with an '89 Cherokee (new), then a '99
Cherokee (new), my wife traded in her Intrepid on an '02 Liberty (new) and,
after the 4.0L in the '99 broke a connecting rod and punched a hole in the
crankcase, I went out and got an '05 Grand Cherokee (new).

Opinion: Despite what you may or will hear, the Liberty is a Jeep. It is
rugged and capable of doing "Jeep things." Just because it does not have
flat fenders and round headlights. . . The only drawback is that the
Liberty seems a bit top heavy, like it has the wheels spaced too narrow for
its height. Parked side-by-side with the '99 Cherokee, the Liberty was
taller!

Also opinion: Don't put too much weight in my '99 throwing a rod. That
could happen to any engine any time.

In my For What It's Worth Department: On the advice of the salesman when I
bought my Grand I donated the '99 to a charitable organization. The
vehicle, with *no* engine brought $2500 at auction! Not bad for a machine
with >104K miles and no motor!

Bottom line: Either vehicle will do for your stated use. You might be
happier right now with the Cherokee for, as an earlier poster stated,
accessories and parts are easier to come by for the Cherokee only because
the Cherokee has been around longer than the Liberty. But, I think the
Liberty is going to catch up and catch on (my opinion, again).

Good luck,

Turner

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135196278.220181.306370@o13g2000cwo.googlegr oups.com...
>
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I've owned both. I started out with an '89 Cherokee (new), then a '99
Cherokee (new), my wife traded in her Intrepid on an '02 Liberty (new) and,
after the 4.0L in the '99 broke a connecting rod and punched a hole in the
crankcase, I went out and got an '05 Grand Cherokee (new).

Opinion: Despite what you may or will hear, the Liberty is a Jeep. It is
rugged and capable of doing "Jeep things." Just because it does not have
flat fenders and round headlights. . . The only drawback is that the
Liberty seems a bit top heavy, like it has the wheels spaced too narrow for
its height. Parked side-by-side with the '99 Cherokee, the Liberty was
taller!

Also opinion: Don't put too much weight in my '99 throwing a rod. That
could happen to any engine any time.

In my For What It's Worth Department: On the advice of the salesman when I
bought my Grand I donated the '99 to a charitable organization. The
vehicle, with *no* engine brought $2500 at auction! Not bad for a machine
with >104K miles and no motor!

Bottom line: Either vehicle will do for your stated use. You might be
happier right now with the Cherokee for, as an earlier poster stated,
accessories and parts are easier to come by for the Cherokee only because
the Cherokee has been around longer than the Liberty. But, I think the
Liberty is going to catch up and catch on (my opinion, again).

Good luck,

Turner

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135196278.220181.306370@o13g2000cwo.googlegr oups.com...
>
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I agree, I bought my 2000 Grand Cherokee Limited WJ (with selec-trac)
with every possible amenity except heated seats (including sunroof,
leather, dual power seats, etc) with <70k miles for $12k earlier this
year. The original sales tag was still in it at $35,500. Its a DAMN nice
vehicle for an affordable price. It also handles snow, ice, and gravel
better than my Tahoe ever did, and almost laughably so. If you look
around you could probably find a better deal on an XJ, ZJ, or KJ. Or
even a WJ if so inclined. It all depends on your needs.

Brandonb


billy ray wrote:
> Why would you consider a Liberty and not a ZJ or WJ Grand Cherokees?
>
> That you are considering a Liberty implies to me that you have interest in
> more than just a utilitarian vehicle.
>
> If your interest is to upgrade the vehicle for more off-road you will find
> ZJ parts plentiful and ZJs went to Select-Trac as the standard autobox in, I
> believe, '96.
>
> As for your budget you can buy a lot for $16k.
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I agree, I bought my 2000 Grand Cherokee Limited WJ (with selec-trac)
with every possible amenity except heated seats (including sunroof,
leather, dual power seats, etc) with <70k miles for $12k earlier this
year. The original sales tag was still in it at $35,500. Its a DAMN nice
vehicle for an affordable price. It also handles snow, ice, and gravel
better than my Tahoe ever did, and almost laughably so. If you look
around you could probably find a better deal on an XJ, ZJ, or KJ. Or
even a WJ if so inclined. It all depends on your needs.

Brandonb


billy ray wrote:
> Why would you consider a Liberty and not a ZJ or WJ Grand Cherokees?
>
> That you are considering a Liberty implies to me that you have interest in
> more than just a utilitarian vehicle.
>
> If your interest is to upgrade the vehicle for more off-road you will find
> ZJ parts plentiful and ZJs went to Select-Trac as the standard autobox in, I
> believe, '96.
>
> As for your budget you can buy a lot for $16k.
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I agree, I bought my 2000 Grand Cherokee Limited WJ (with selec-trac)
with every possible amenity except heated seats (including sunroof,
leather, dual power seats, etc) with <70k miles for $12k earlier this
year. The original sales tag was still in it at $35,500. Its a DAMN nice
vehicle for an affordable price. It also handles snow, ice, and gravel
better than my Tahoe ever did, and almost laughably so. If you look
around you could probably find a better deal on an XJ, ZJ, or KJ. Or
even a WJ if so inclined. It all depends on your needs.

Brandonb


billy ray wrote:
> Why would you consider a Liberty and not a ZJ or WJ Grand Cherokees?
>
> That you are considering a Liberty implies to me that you have interest in
> more than just a utilitarian vehicle.
>
> If your interest is to upgrade the vehicle for more off-road you will find
> ZJ parts plentiful and ZJs went to Select-Trac as the standard autobox in, I
> believe, '96.
>
> As for your budget you can buy a lot for $16k.
>

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I hear ya....the rig I'm replacing is a '94 Toyota xtracab pickup which
I'm just nearing 270,000 miles on. 'Nothing but routine maintenance
needed...very reliable. 'Decent 4wd system for the backcountry; not
real great for at all for snowy roads and ice. I thought about the
CR-V and Subaru because of reliability. Our local mail carriers love
CR-Vs and I've seen them move through gumbo roads that were sticking
tractors. 'Better mileage too. But I'm not convinced the AWD systems
of these are better than Jeep's, and as you say no true part-time 4WD
and 4low. And limited ground clearance too. Also as far as
service...Jeeps may be less reliable but in my rural neck of the woods
they can be fixed by just about anyone...not as easy for Honda or
Subaru... :) I'd like that diesel if I could afford it :)

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I hear ya....the rig I'm replacing is a '94 Toyota xtracab pickup which
I'm just nearing 270,000 miles on. 'Nothing but routine maintenance
needed...very reliable. 'Decent 4wd system for the backcountry; not
real great for at all for snowy roads and ice. I thought about the
CR-V and Subaru because of reliability. Our local mail carriers love
CR-Vs and I've seen them move through gumbo roads that were sticking
tractors. 'Better mileage too. But I'm not convinced the AWD systems
of these are better than Jeep's, and as you say no true part-time 4WD
and 4low. And limited ground clearance too. Also as far as
service...Jeeps may be less reliable but in my rural neck of the woods
they can be fixed by just about anyone...not as easy for Honda or
Subaru... :) I'd like that diesel if I could afford it :)

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

I hear ya....the rig I'm replacing is a '94 Toyota xtracab pickup which
I'm just nearing 270,000 miles on. 'Nothing but routine maintenance
needed...very reliable. 'Decent 4wd system for the backcountry; not
real great for at all for snowy roads and ice. I thought about the
CR-V and Subaru because of reliability. Our local mail carriers love
CR-Vs and I've seen them move through gumbo roads that were sticking
tractors. 'Better mileage too. But I'm not convinced the AWD systems
of these are better than Jeep's, and as you say no true part-time 4WD
and 4low. And limited ground clearance too. Also as far as
service...Jeeps may be less reliable but in my rural neck of the woods
they can be fixed by just about anyone...not as easy for Honda or
Subaru... :) I'd like that diesel if I could afford it :)

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?
>
Well I've got an '02 Liberty and a '04 Wrangler. I liked the Cherokee
and was upset when it was discontinued, but the V-6 Liberty kind of
grows on you. The gas mileage is better than the Cherokee and it is more
manuverable in tight places. Of course it will cost more than a '99
Cherokee...duh! And it will go darn near anywhere I can take the
Wrangler. Great ground clearance and a bit narrower than the Cherokee.

--
FRH

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?
>
Well I've got an '02 Liberty and a '04 Wrangler. I liked the Cherokee
and was upset when it was discontinued, but the V-6 Liberty kind of
grows on you. The gas mileage is better than the Cherokee and it is more
manuverable in tight places. Of course it will cost more than a '99
Cherokee...duh! And it will go darn near anywhere I can take the
Wrangler. Great ground clearance and a bit narrower than the Cherokee.

--
FRH

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

coyotefred@gmail.com wrote:
> I'm hoping you all can help me with a Jeep buying decision. I'm
> trying to decide between a late 90s/early 2000s Cherokee (not the
> Grands, just straight Cherokee) and a 2002 or 2003 Jeep Liberty.
>
> I'd like to spend no more than $16000, and would like to pay
> something less than that (Santa has to pay his bills).
>
> This Jeep would be seeing about 75% paved/highway driving (60
> miles/day), 15% lousy gravel, rock and "gumbo" county roads and
> pasture 2-track (including the 4-mile gumbo stretch to my house), and a
> little moderate "off-roading" now and then (by necessity rather
> than choice) for hunting and fishing trips.
>
> I'm only looking at Cherokees and Libertys with Selec-trac, since I
> want the option of full-time4WD for mixed driving conditions on our
> highways during winter.
>
> Bottom-line I need to decide whether it is worth it to spend another
> $5-$6000 for Liberty. For example, I can get a '99 Selec-trac
> Cherokee in great shape with 62K miles for around $9000. Or I can
> spend around $16,000 for a 2003 Liberty with Selec-trac.
>
> It seems to me that I'd be paying for lots of appearance and
> "comfort" stuff with the Liberty that I'm not particularly
> interested in. I actually like the simple and blocky old look of the
> Cherokee.
>
> But maybe there are some reliability or performance reasons to spend
> more for a newer Liberty rather than that '99 Cherokee. Gas mileage
> seems about the same. I think the Liberty has a little more ground
> clearance though.
>
> Any thoughts?
>
Well I've got an '02 Liberty and a '04 Wrangler. I liked the Cherokee
and was upset when it was discontinued, but the V-6 Liberty kind of
grows on you. The gas mileage is better than the Cherokee and it is more
manuverable in tight places. Of course it will cost more than a '99
Cherokee...duh! And it will go darn near anywhere I can take the
Wrangler. Great ground clearance and a bit narrower than the Cherokee.

--
FRH

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135218465.320640.276430@g43g2000cwa.googlegr oups.com...
:I hear ya....the rig I'm replacing is a '94 Toyota xtracab pickup which
: I'm just nearing 270,000 miles on. 'Nothing but routine maintenance
: needed...very reliable. 'Decent 4wd system for the backcountry; not
: real great for at all for snowy roads and ice. I thought about the
: CR-V and Subaru because of reliability. Our local mail carriers love
: CR-Vs and I've seen them move through gumbo roads that were sticking
: tractors. 'Better mileage too. But I'm not convinced the AWD systems
: of these are better than Jeep's, and as you say no true part-time 4WD
: and 4low. And limited ground clearance too. Also as far as
: service...Jeeps may be less reliable but in my rural neck of the woods
: they can be fixed by just about anyone...not as easy for Honda or
: Subaru... :) I'd like that diesel if I could afford it :)

Then you should avoid the Libby for sure.
All the shade trees will probabaly not know about it. Seems that's the case
for me here (not that I need anyone yet)

KJK
:

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135218465.320640.276430@g43g2000cwa.googlegr oups.com...
:I hear ya....the rig I'm replacing is a '94 Toyota xtracab pickup which
: I'm just nearing 270,000 miles on. 'Nothing but routine maintenance
: needed...very reliable. 'Decent 4wd system for the backcountry; not
: real great for at all for snowy roads and ice. I thought about the
: CR-V and Subaru because of reliability. Our local mail carriers love
: CR-Vs and I've seen them move through gumbo roads that were sticking
: tractors. 'Better mileage too. But I'm not convinced the AWD systems
: of these are better than Jeep's, and as you say no true part-time 4WD
: and 4low. And limited ground clearance too. Also as far as
: service...Jeeps may be less reliable but in my rural neck of the woods
: they can be fixed by just about anyone...not as easy for Honda or
: Subaru... :) I'd like that diesel if I could afford it :)

Then you should avoid the Libby for sure.
All the shade trees will probabaly not know about it. Seems that's the case
for me here (not that I need anyone yet)

KJK
:

Re: Cherokee or Liberty???
 

<coyotefred@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1135218465.320640.276430@g43g2000cwa.googlegr oups.com...
:I hear ya....the rig I'm replacing is a '94 Toyota xtracab pickup which
: I'm just nearing 270,000 miles on. 'Nothing but routine maintenance
: needed...very reliable. 'Decent 4wd system for the backcountry; not
: real great for at all for snowy roads and ice. I thought about the
: CR-V and Subaru because of reliability. Our local mail carriers love
: CR-Vs and I've seen them move through gumbo roads that were sticking
: tractors. 'Better mileage too. But I'm not convinced the AWD systems
: of these are better than Jeep's, and as you say no true part-time 4WD
: and 4low. And limited ground clearance too. Also as far as
: service...Jeeps may be less reliable but in my rural neck of the woods
: they can be fixed by just about anyone...not as easy for Honda or
: Subaru... :) I'd like that diesel if I could afford it :)

Then you should avoid the Libby for sure.
All the shade trees will probabaly not know about it. Seems that's the case
for me here (not that I need anyone yet)

KJK
: