I bought a Wrangler new for $27k
'96-’01?
given your story, it sounds like you did your best to drive that thing into the ground (not judging). I’m glad you had fun with it, as that’s what they’re for, although, you probably would have gotten many more years out of it had you actually driven it like a car and on the street (also, regular maintenance). just sayin’.
given your follow-up, it was obviously not a long-term choice (is it for anyone?), and I’m glad you’ve found what works for you. I discovered that my vehicle of choice is the NYC Subway! But, fuck, I REALLY miss my 2001 Honda Accord EX Coupe! That car was the shit!
edit: I changed out the headers, injectors, and spark plugs, had a friend replace the muffler, and replaced the air intake, and took that ca from 195HP to 245hp. it was so light, that such an increase was huge, and the transmission was delightful, with a trick in the accelerator where you could get it to shift up or down if you knew how to tap it just right. and that spoiler? smoooooth.
Look, Jeeps are only for fun, and if you buy one, knowing that, all the more power to you. Enjoy it.
As for living in NYC, that’s a lifestyle choice, and you either love it or hate it. I loved it, and it was the lifestyle choice that worked for me. It is not for everyone, I repeat: it is not for everyone, but if it is for you, It’s the only choice for you.
But I will say, my favorite car was my 2001 Honda Accord ex coupe. That car was fucking awesome. If I were in the market for another car right now, it would be between that, and a 2023 or 2024 Toyota Corolla hybrid.
I would go for EV if I could afford it, but I cannot at the moment. And, frankly, I’m trying to get back to New York, so I don’t even want to buy a car at all right now.
