Beschreibung
A practical and durable 'go anywhere' Jeep Cherokee XJ in astonishingly good condition, top specification and with comprehensive service history - ready to be enjoyed.
At a glance:
- Jeep Cherokee XJ 4. 0 Limited SE
- 4. 0 litre six cylinder petrol, automatic gearbox, two & four wheel drive.
- Original high specification
- Moss green pearl metallic paint with dark grey leather interior
- 145, 821 miles
- Comprehensive service history, will have a fresh 12, 000 mile annual service
- MOT to 14th April 2019
- HPI Clear
The Model:
The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) was manufactured and marketed by Jeep from 1983 to 2001. The models were originally marketed as 'Sportwagons' and became the precursor to the modern sport utility vehicle (SUV) as that term was not yet in use. The XJ spawned competitors as other manufacturers noticed that this Jeep design began replacing regular cars. It also began to supplant the role of the American estate cars or 'station wagons' and 'transformed from truck to limousine in the eyes of countless suburban owners.' The XJ was a significant link in the evolution of the 4x4, whilst journalist Robert Cumberford, writing for Automobile, called the Jeep XJ one of the 20 greatest cars of all time for its design, and "possibly the best SUV shape of all time, it is the paradigmatic model to which other designers have since aspired". The XJ was also selected in 2011 as one of "10 cars that refuse to die" by Kiplinger.
The XJ Cherokee introduced for the 1984 model year was the first Jeep with a ladder-boxed chassis integrated into a single monocoque unit rather than the traditional separate body-on-frame construction. The design was rigid and sturdy with approximately 3200 welds in a completed body, yet lightweight, this uniframe construction allowed outstanding performance compared to previous models.
American Motors's compact XJ Cherokee was to be replaced by a new and larger model known as the ZJ (later named the Jeep Grand Cherokee when introduced in 1993). However, The XJ's continuing popularity caused Chrysler executives to rethink this decision, and while the ZJ models were introduced in 1993, these XJ models were retained until 2001. The Jeep XJ has remained a popular choice by off-roading enthusiasts due to its potent off-roading capability in stock form. Its popularity has resulted in strong ongoing aftermarket support in the form of a wide variety of products. The Cherokee XJ remains a popular vehicle among off-roading enthusiasts, whilst Popular Mechanics listed the XJ as one of "the 25 greatest boxy cars of all time".
The history of this car:
The car was first registered new in the UK on the 20th October 1995, with 7 owners over the last 23 years. Looking at the superb condition, particularly of the interior, it is clear that this car has been cherished and well cared for throughout its life.
The specification:
This is the 4. 0 Limited SE version, with an interesting colour combination; moss green pearl metallic with dark grey leather interior. The Limited SE version was very generous trim level including options such as electrically operated leather seats, cruise control, air conditioning and walnut trim. The 4. 0 litre is the best choice for power, comfort and smoothness, as opposed to the slightly agricultural diesel, or underwhelming 2. 5 petrol. It comes equipped with automatic transmission and switchable 2/ 4 wheel drive with high and low ratios. The car has a couple of tasteful additions above the factory specification - 'Borbet' five spoke wheels, additional high level brake light and two pairs of Hella front spotlights. The car also has a fitted tow bar with twin electrics, with a very capable towing limit of 3135kg.
Availability:
According to online sources, at the end of 2017 there were only 73 of these Jeep Cherokee 4. 0 Limited SE automatic models still taxed on UK roads, making this car increasingly rare and desirable and likely to become a sure-fire future classic. The prices seem to be rising rapidly for these XJ Cherokees, and finding one like this in such great condition is increasingly difficult.
Service History:
The Jeep has up to date, comprehensive service history stamped in the service book at the following intervals:
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 652 miles
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 7, 394 miles
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 16, 177 miles
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 29, 523 miles
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 36, 264 miles
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 47, 590 miles
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 55, 892 miles
Varsity Jeep Oxford - 63, 145 miles
Independent Garage - 69, 347 miles
Independent Garage - 75, 852 miles
Independent Garage - 83, 050 miles
Independent Garage - 90, 136 miles
Independent Garage - 97, 460 miles
Independent Garage - 103, 401 miles
Independent Garage - 110, 069 miles
Independent Garage - 117, 425 miles
At which point, the service book was full. Subsequently it was serviced by the previous owner at 5, 000 mile intervals, and there are various receipts for items such as new radiator, rocker cover gasket, battery, power steering hose, brake calliper etc. The car is now having a 12, 000 mile annual service carried out by my garage, keeping the servicing up to date and also making it ready for immediate enjoyment by the next owner.
Mileage:
This Jeep has covered 145, 821 miles - an average of under 6, 400 miles per year over its 23 year life. This mileage may be higher than some, but it drives superbly and you could be forgiven for thinking it has only covered 20, 000 miles. No doubt this is due to the impeccable servicing record which has keep the car in superb mechanical order. With cars of this vintage, I tend to feel that mileage is less important that condition, and it's also worth remembering that 145, 000 miles on long journeys and motorways is far less wearing for a vehicle than 50, 000 miles on the school run...
On the Road:
I absolutely love these Jeeps, and this is possibly the smoothest and best behaved XJ I have had the pleasure of driving. The car starts quickly and pulls very strongly through the gears. The engine has bags of torque and grunt and can be relatively brisk if encouraged. It's not a sports car, but it will get you anywhere you want to go, on or off road. Importantly, the drivetrain is whisper quiet, no doubt due to regular servicing. The differentials are silent with no whine, front and rear axles are quiet too, silent wheel bearings - all very encouraging. The steering is precise, the speedometer appears accurate and the brakes work smoothly and efficiently. It keeps perfect temperature, helped by a renewed radiator and the addition of a secondary electric fan which cuts in only on the hottest of days. It has a sense of purpose and poise on the road, and enjoys a high driving position with excellent visibility with its uncluttered design. It's a delight to drive and puts a smile on my face everywhere I have been in it. The interior is a wonderful place to be, and these pre-facelift cars have a far more American feel to them with their retro dash and squared-off styling. This Jeep is rugged, capable and enjoyable - retro in an uncomplicated way and easy to maintain and enjoy.
This car could easily be used for everyday commuting, for safe family and/ or pet transportation, as a working thoroughbred 4x4, full on mud-plugger, or just for pleasure as a weekend treat - by being capable of so many different uses these Jeeps represent brilliant all-rounders.
Engine:
This car is fitted with the fuel injected 180 hp 4. 0 litre (3960cc) AMC 242 straight six engine, one of four AMC engines kept in production when Chrysler bought AMC in 1987. Chrysler engineers continued to refine the engine and the last in the line of the AMC inline sixes, the 4. 0 is regarded as one of the best Chrysler 4x4 off-road engines ever made. A Motor Trend long-term test of a 1997 Cherokee XJ noted "this long-lived OHV powerplant has a reputation for getting people where they need to go" as well as "much love expressed by owners for the torquey 4. 0-liter/ 190-horsepower inline six." The engine is known for longevity, and can sometimes cover more than 300, 000 miles without rebuilding. It also features a timing chain which should last the life of the engine, as opposed to a timing belt which needs changing at regular service intervals.
Transmission:
The car has the AW4 four speed automatic transmission which operates perfectly. The AW4 automatic transmission was designed jointly by AMC and Jeep and produced by Aisin-Warner. It has four forward speeds and shares many common parts with Aisin- Warner’s 450-43LE transmission. It first went into production in 1987 and lasted until the end of the 2001 model year. It was used in many popular Jeep vehicles, including the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Comanche. There is also the selector for 2 and 4 wheel drive with high and low ratios, should you require some off piste activity.
MOT:
Sold with long MOT until 14th April February 2019 with no advisories - pretty good for a 23 year old car.
Condition:
As you can probably see from the pictures, this Jeep is in really lovely condition. Maybe one or two little marks as you would expect, a few stone chips, but it's extremely presentable. The only thing which I think might improve it would be to refinish the rear bumper corners and there is a little flaking on the alloy wheels - other than that, the Jeep is hard to fault. The interior is fantastic with no rips or tears in the leather, it's like a 3 year old car inside. I'm sure if you have been looking at these, you'll agree it's really rare to find one with such an immaculate interior. It’s always difficult to express in words the condition of any car, and most people have differing opinions about condition, so the best way to get a true impression will be to view this lovely car in person. I’m confident that anybody with realistic expectations will be delighted to own and enjoy this really handsome four wheel drive.
Pricing:
The general value range (which seems to be increasing rapidly) for these Jeeps in good, road worthy and presentable condition with long MOT is normally £2500 - £4, 000 with immaculate examples (if you can find them) priced considerably higher. This car is offered to sell swiftly at a very tempting £3450, and I'm confident it will be the best one you will find at this price point.
Conclusion:
This is a hugely entertaining 'proper' 4x4, in wonderful condition, coupled with serious 'go anywhere' credentials, it’s sure to put a smile on your face with every mile. Every now and then I come across a car which I'm sorely tempted to keep for myself, and this is one of those. However, the objective is to sell cars, not just to covet them. However, you may have to pry the keys out of my hands... Just saying. Finding one which hasn't had a hard life is tricky, the majority of those available are normally worn out examples, as they tend to be used for a purposeful outdoorsy lifestyle, as intended. This is a rare car in this condition, hence my desire to retain it for my own use..!
Contact:
Please feel free to call or email me for further information. I’m more than happy to have a chat about this wonderful Jeep and you are welcome and positively encouraged to come to view. I hope you will appreciate that this is an honest car, honestly priced and honestly sold.
Please call me on the details below or email via the 'email the seller' link at the top of the page.
Viewings by arrangement, at a time convenient to you.
The car is located in Lymington on the southern edge of the New Forest approximately 30 minutes by road from Bournemouth and Southampton.
If you wish I am happy to collect you from Brockenhurst station which is only 90 minutes from London Waterloo on the mainline from London to Weymouth and Poole, with direct trains also calling at Brockenhurst from Manchester, Birmingham, Oxford, Reading etc.
