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1998 Jeep Wrangler SE: Basic Fun
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| Updated |
Mar 17, 2005 19:41:50 |
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 38 ( -6 -15.78% ) | | Author | Bruce Caldwell |
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Description:
The Jeep is an automotive icon that remains true to its heritage. The '98 Jeep Wrangler is considerably improved over earlier generations (especially regarding interior room), but there's no mistaking it for anything other than a Jeep. In these days of power everything, heated seats, concert hall acoustics, and triple door seals, it's refreshing to encounter basic transportation like the Wrangler SE. The SE is the base model, but it's an excellent choice because of its affordable price, spartan interior, and reasonable fuel economy. Simplicity is an asset in a Jeep. Our test Jeep had the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with the 5-speed manual transmission. The transmission was smooth and the engine adequate if driven with verve.
The new Wrangler has coil spring suspension in place of the traditional Jeep leaf springs. Purists might scoff at the new suspension, but all it takes is one off-road excursion to convert them. The Wrangler suspension is very agile and flexible on uneven terrain. The highway ride is better than before, but the short wheelbase still makes it pretty choppy. On- and off- road maneuverability is excellent. We did some serious off-roading with a friend in a heavily modified Jeep CJ-5. The stock P205/75R15 tires were the Wrangler's biggest limitation. Their 27-inch height and highway tread was no match for the CJ-5's aggressive 33-inch tires. Even so, we only got high-centered a couple times in deeply rutted water holes. Factory tow hooks would have made extraction easier.
The interior room and access in the Wrangler is excellent (especially compared to the CJ-5). The seats are comfortable and supportive. The rear seat is roomy enough for two adults. The canvas top is dry and quiet by Jeep standards, however it's still like riding under a huge sail on a stormy day compared to contemporary convertibles. The roll bar-mounted speakers help drown out the flapping canvas. The optional, removable hardtop is a good idea for daily commuting. The '98 Jeep Wrangler SE isn't for SUV poseurs-- it's for the young and young-at-heart who value fun and adventure over comfort and complacency. |
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