Jeep Wrangler: The Real Thing?

Jeep Wrangler: Icon or Imposter?

1999 Jeep Wrangler TJ Sahara!

1999 Jeep Wrangler TJ Sahara

***Tell us about your
Wrangler YJ, TJ or JK!***

When comparing the Jeep Wrangler to the long-lived Jeep CJ (which the Wrangler replaced) is it a continuation of the CJs rugged utilitarian history, a politically correct compromise or both?

Well, experts and owners have weighed in on the matter and formed several camps.

On one side are your die-hard CJ lovers who appreciate the uncompromising off-road abilities of the little work-horse...and would prefer that a good thing be left well enough alone.

Wrangler or CJ...
Which Jeep is For You?

Another side would argue that the old CJs were just too limited, especially regarding their on-pavement noise and bone-jarring ride, not to mention the often political safety concerns which have affected all automakers.

Then there are those who just like change for the sake of change...or...don't really care one way or the other.

1994 Wrangler YJ

1994 Wrangler YJ

A bit of history on the Wrangler reveals that this model did indeed replace the CJ line. However, the Jeep Wrangler maintained most of the aesthetic features of the "Universal" Jeep design which had been around pretty much since the beginning (going back as far as its military origins in the 1940's).

Note: To test peoples impression of what a Jeep looks like, most people will invariably describe (or draw) some version of the "Universal" style which includes the original military, CJ and Wrangler. You will also notice that they usually don't refer to any of the SUV types of Jeep models produced today or over the years.

The Jeep Wrangler began life (or, at least became available) in 1987 created by the American Motors Corporation (AMC).Chrysler Corporation bought out AMC about the same time taking over Jeep, including the new Wrangler. The new Jeep was designated the Wrangler YJ and was produced from 1987 through 1996.

Note: There were no designated 1996 Wranglers...although the 1995 YJ Wrangler continued to be produced into 1996...while also in 1996 the new TJ Wrangler was being readied for it's debut as a 1997 model.

The Wrangler YJs most controversial change from the previous Jeep models was the rectangular headlights, which deviated from the traditional round headlights of all previous Jeep "Universals".

The YJ did keep the leaf spring set-up on all 4 corners just like its older CJ relatives...only better.

***Do You Have A Wrangler?
Then tell us about your
Wrangler YJ, TJ or JK!***

1991 Wrangler YJ

1991 Wrangler YJ

For a while Jeep purists were not so impressed with the new Wrangler especially since some of the compromises in design and function appeared to affect the all out off-road ability when compared with past Jeeps (especially the beloved CJ).

However, for many the compromise appeared to be just the ticket. Now the Jeep was a bit more civilized, but had most of the characteristics of the best off-road abilities. You could drive on the streets (i.e. commute) with some direct improvement in ride and safety (although the noise issue didn't improve much)...and...have the ruggedness and go-anywhere capability.

Click here to read more about the Jeep Wrangler YJ...the First Wranglers!

Many of the die-hard CJ Jeep lovers found that the Wrangler YJ could be easily modified to do the deeds of the old CJ...and then some. Most of these folks have been converted, but not all. And, that's just fine! That's what makes lovin' Jeeps what it is.

1997 Wrangler TJ!

1997 Wrangler TJ

Then, in 1997 Chrysler/Jeep announced the availability of the new Jeep Wrangler TJ model which some experts have said is the ultimate Jeep compromise with both improved on-pavement characteristics and off-road abilities.

The most notable change on the TJ was the use of coil springs on all 4 corners, which replaced the leaf spring set-up that had been on Universal Jeeps since the beginning.

The TJ model continued to be produced through 2006. Then in 2007 the newest Wrangler JK model was introduced sporting even more sophisticated technology and upgrades to the once simple "Universal" Jeep design. Just as on the TJ, the coil sprung suspension continued on the JK models.

2009 Jeep Wrangler JK

2009 Wrangler JK

So, which is the best: Wrangler or CJ? You decide if you haven't already.

However, the aging CJs are becoming more and more scarce...and even the early Wrangler YJs are getting a little difficult to find...leaving the TJ and JK to carry the Jeep torch forward...for the time being anyway.

James submitted his 1989 YJ Islander. Fill in the form below and show off your Wrangler too!

Do You Drive A Jeep Wrangler?

So tell us about your Wrangler YJ (1987 through 1995), TJ (1997 through 2006) or JK (2007 to present).

Describe your Wrangler...year, model, engine, transmission (standard or automatic), accessories, upgrades, etc.
How do you use your Wrangler? Daily driver, off roader, project build, race/competition vehicle or any combination of these?
Tell us what you like AND don't like about your Wrangler.
Upload a photo (up to 4 accepted) of your Wrangler.

TIP: Send your best photo(s) and a detailed description/story about your Jeep to assure getting your Jeep featured on this website.

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What Others Have Said

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2010 Jeep Wrangler JK Rubicon

2011 Jeep Wrangler Hardtop!

2011 Jeep Wrangler Hardtop

The Pentastar 3.6L V6 is Introduced in the 2012 Wrangler JK and Unlimited JK

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Page!

Get Tips on How to Sell Your Used Wrangler

Jeep CJ Page!

Jeep YJ...the First of the Wrangler Class!

Jeep TJ...Is It the Best?

Jeep Rubicon Page!

Jeep Comanche Challenges the Mighty Wrangler Rubicon!

Jeep Roll Cage Page!

Jeep Lifts Page!

Jeep Safety Page!

Jeep Tires Page!

Jeep Wheels Page!

The "Jeep Wave". Are Wrangler and CJ owners Stuck Up?

Wrangler vs Cherokee XJ. .Which is the Best?

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