Topic: How much to pay for 4 banger automatic

[keithert]

Someone on Craigslist is selling a 2000 4 banger automatic Wrangler  with 58k miles for $7500.  That is exactly KBB private party price for excellent condition.  Because a 4 cylinder automatic is generally the least desirable Wrangler in terms of resale value would you hold out for a much lower price?  Also this one has no rear seat.

I actually kind of want this model because I want an automatic and would like the extra 1 or 2 mpg over the 6 and want to pay less than a 6 would cost.

[sharpxmen]

Someone on Craigslist is selling a 2000 4 banger automatic Wrangler  with 58k miles for $7500.  That is exactly KBB private party price for excellent condition.  Because a 4 cylinder automatic is generally the least desirable Wrangler in terms of resale value would you hold out for a much lower price?  Also this one has no rear seat.

I actually kind of want this model because I want an automatic and would like the extra 1 or 2 mpg over the 6 and want to pay less than a 6 would cost.

is it stock or does it have any mods on?

[oldjeep]

Around here in MN, that would be maybe a $5000 jeep assuming it is in stock condition

[keithert]

It is stock.

[bammerman]

Around here in MN, that would be maybe a $5000 jeep assuming it is in stock condition

Where at in MN oldjeep?  I lived in Mankato before I went overseas.

[oldjeep]

Where at in MN oldjeep?  I lived in Mankato before I went overseas.

Victoria (Near Chaska/Chanhassen).  I went to school in Mankato - many years ago.

[sharpxmen]

It is stock.

pros: only 58k miles. no mods means less likely someone did a hack job on it. (and maybe only one owner which usually goes long ways when it comes to the vehicle's condition)
cons: no mods, you'll need to invest some money depending on your plans with it.

if it's in pristine condition (I mean flawless) $7500 sounds reasonable to me (although i would negotiate the difference for the rear backseat).

i would think that 5 or 6k would be alright otherwise given the low miles on it (like oldjeep said, $5k in his area).

[Jeffy]

Well the automatic is a 3-speed and not the better 4 speed.  The auto was probably around $1200 option but if you plan on building it up then I would look for either a +2003 with the 2.4L or get a manual.  The auto isn't bad but you start off with 3.73 gears and no OD which is like starting off in a hole.  If it was a 4.0L then I'd consider it.  KBB isn't that accurate anymore as most trucks have dropped in price since the $4 gas days.

If you're plans are to drive around town only and keep it relatively stock, then it would be OK but not for that price.  I think $5-6000 is probably what it's worth.  TJ's have really dropped in price and you can find a 4.0L for around that price with a bit more mileage.

[neale_rs]

Sounds too expensive.  Here in Mexico 10 year old TJs (the newest used that can be imported) go for about $6000 USD and used cars are more expensive here than in the US.  So it looks like about $5000 would be about right.

[keithert]

It would be used for winter commuting on 40 miles of expressway and around town use.  Occasionally I would take it camping 3000 miles away.

[Jeffy]

It would be used for winter commuting on 40 miles of expressway and around town use.  Occasionally I would take it camping 3000 miles away.

40 miles on the highway?  Are you going to keep it stock?

[keithert]

40 miles on the highway?  Are you going to keep it stock?

Yes, 29 or 30 inch BFG AT's probably.

[Jeffy]

Yes, 29 or 30 inch BFG AT's probably.

I guess if you're keeping it stock, it wouldn't be so bad but liek I said, you don't have OD so you'll have to rev it up to cruise.  What are your highway speeds 65-70mph?

[keithert]

Yea 65 to 70.  I had a 4 cylinder Wrangler previously.  It was a 5 speed with 31 inch tires.  I remember that 5th gear was pretty much useless at speed.  It would do 70 okay though in fourth.  I've driven a couple automatic 4 cylinders only up to 50 mph.  Up to that speed they seemed fine.  When I test drive this one I'll get it out on the expressway and see how it does.

[Jeffy]

Yea 65 to 70.  I had a 4 cylinder Wrangler previously.  It was a 5 speed with 31 inch tires.  I remember that 5th gear was pretty much useless at speed.  It would do 70 okay though in fourth.  I've driven a couple automatic 4 cylinders only up to 50 mph.  Up to that speed they seemed fine.  When I test drive this one I'll get it out on the expressway and see how it does.

I still think it's priced too high.  KBB isn't accurate for many niche vehicles.

The problem with comparing the manual to the auto is that the axle gearing is not the same.  You're comparing 3.73:1 gears with 4.11's and that makes a big difference.  It doesn't matter if you don't use 5th, because the manual has deeper gears to begin with.  These drivetrains were all carry over from the YJ and meant to cruise at 55-60mph when the national speed limit was 55 mph.  Now that it's 65mph, it makes for sluggish performance.

Also, I would hope at that price the jeep has AC and a hardop.  I'd really look for a 4.0L if it's going to remain stock.