Is a Jeep right for me???

[askwhy]

Hi there, I need a little Jeep advice with a dilemma I am having....here's the deal, I now drive a '99 4WD Toyota 4runner with 72k miles and I am looking at a '99 4.0L Wrangler Sport with 35k miles. (Price is about break even, MPG is about break even). I drive 80 or so miles per day, most of that is on the highway. If I sell the 4Runner and get the Jeep, I am concerned that after a month or so, I am going to smack myself for buying what is essentially a great off-roading vehicle and putting it (and me) thru the highway life.

I am single (female, in case that matters), childless, and I love the outdoors! I have driven all summer with the A/C on twice and all 4 windows down/sunroof up/back window down the rest of the time. (I want a convertible, apparently). I really do love my 4Runner- it just seems that I have realized in the past couple of months that what I really want to have is a Wrangler, which makes me feel like the token soccer mom driving my 4Runner around---in comparison (sorry to all soccer moms). I know the Toyota will last forever, it is great in the winter & summer- So, I'm at the point where I WANT a Jeep but I just don't know if I should give up my faithful, comfortable, highway-happy 4Runner to have the rugged, sky open Jeep I can't seem to let go of. Any thoughts? Thank you--------

[JustinC9905]

Well I was argued with much on the last reply I had giving advice to someone...but here it goes anyway. My philosophy on driving is that it should be fun, especially if you do a lot of it. Why spend your hard earned money on something you wont enjoy. Everyone has different tastes as to what they like and dislike. My personal opinion is that you should go with what will make you happy. If you really enjoy the bumpy, loud ride that a Wrangler has (that I love) then I say go for it. If you are one of those top down, doors off, music turned way up type of people then there is no reason why you shouldnt buy one.
Some people say that Jeeps arent practical, but unless you are driving a Honda Insight, you arent totally practical either.
I say go for it...you will enjoy the hell out of it. And in two months you arent going to be asking yourself why you bought one, you will be asking yourself why you didnt buy one earlier.

[fredjacksonsan]

While the on-road ride of a Wrangler is a little choppier than the 4 runner (due to shorter wheelbase) you'll soon get used to it.

I've found that once you get above 70 or 75, the ride really smooths out.


Enjoy....

[scoutinkeith]

I just got a wrangler about a week and a half ago, and I'm lovin' it. it's lifted with larger tires, and all the off road goodies, but it's still fun to drive on the road as well. normally my wife and I ride together to and from work in our minivan, but lately I've been working a lot of overtime, and we needed to get another vehicle. the jeep not only gives me a way to get to and from work when I need to work longer hours than my wife, but it also gives us something to drive around on the weekends, which my wife is really liking, especailly with the top off.
I think you'll be verry happy with a jeep, but if you have doubts, just test drive a few before you make your decision.
good luck.

[JeeperRich]

Drive what you love, and the miles don't matter. Drive something reasonable, and you look forward to buying the next car.

Driving home from work with the top down is great for de-stressing!

[Jeepins]

Bumpy, schmumpy! Driving should be fun, I agree! Unless you're worried about dentures falling out (which doesn't sound like you are), then what's a bumpy ride?!! If it makes your rear hurt, then eat more junk food. People are getting too soft and lazy. Jeeps make you feel tough! And you've obviously done your homework with the mileage and specifics. Good luck with your decision!

[spishack]

I too am contimplating a Jeep Wrangler. I drive an Isuzu Rodeo now that is modified for off-road and still kind of sucks.
I am about 90% sure a Wrangler is want I want and I haven't even test driven one yet.

Good luck,

Mike

[fredjacksonsan]

So did you guys get smart and get a Jeep yet?

[fredjacksonsan]

Originally Posted by fredjacksonsan

So did you guys get smart and get a Jeep yet?

-edit- The term "guys" meant to be numerous people of indeterminate sex. No offense meant, askwhy.

[askwhy]

Thank you everyone for your replies! Of course, I expected an overwhelming YES from those on a Jeep forum, but all very helpful nonetheless.

So- yes, I did get my Jeep, despite the sideways glances of all those that "think" they know me.

I now have a 2001 Wrangler Sport- the ride is bumpier, but at least twenty times more fun, so what are a few bumps? as someone else said. I really do find longer ways to go home to and from work- who knew an hour drive to work would turn into an hour and a half and I would happy about this???

So it is a blast, of course, and I am excited for the weather of September so I can have the top off!

I am driving what I want and that makes me happy. So that's my advice to anyone else who isn't sure....

Thanks again! I'm sure I'll be posting a question soon about my "NEW" JEEP!!!

[fredjacksonsan]

Well done. Enjoy!