What are the Differences between the Jeep YJ, TJ, and CJ?
If you’re new to the Jeep Wrangler brand, you may get confused about the differences between its different models. The jeep brand has three popular models: YJ, TJ, and CJ. Most beginners don’t know the fundamental differences between these models and may not identify them while purchasing. This article will help you quickly distinguish between the different models of Jeep Wrangler as we will discuss the specifications, features, and peculiarities separately.
Jeep CJ
The Jeep CJ is a modified form of the original military Jeep. It was launched back in 1945 and remained available till 1986. It’s the basic model of the Jeep Wrangler brand that ruled the market for 40 years. From 1945 to 1986, Jeep offered a wide range of the CJ versions, such as:
- Open-body versions
- Enclosed versions
- Sports editions
- Farm editions
The Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler is considered one of the most versatile and popular models of the Jeep CJ. It was the last CJ model manufactured between 1981 to 1986. If you’re interested in purchasing a Jeep CJ, you should know that it now falls in the category of the “classic” Jeep models due to an older age. It requires higher maintenance because when it was built in a different automobile era when the engine rebuilding was anticipated after every 50000 miles.
Jeep YJ
The Jeep YJ was the model that boosted the popularity of the Jeep Wrangler brand to skyrocket. It’s the true symbol of the off-road capabilities of the Jeep. Jeep YJ was launched back in 1987 and remained available till 1995. It’s a modified version of the CJ model and equipped with lots of new features, such as:
- Stiff frame
- Increased stability
- Protected seating area
- Fuel injection development for improving fuel efficiency
The easiest and fastest way to identify the Jeep YJ is to look at its headlights, which are always square-shaped. Square headlights are a unique feature of the Jeep YJ.
The Jeep YJ is also considered classic because even its latest models are more than 30 years old. Due to its old age, you must carefully check for any wear or tear while purchasing a YJ model.
Jeep TJ
The Jeep TJ is the first model of the modern era of the Jeep brand. It was launched in 1996 and produced till 2006. Jeep TJ is equipped with round headlights, making it easily identifiable. It inherited the rounded headlight feature from the original models of the Jeep. Some popular versions of the Jeep TJ that made their mark in the market are the Rubicon trim and the TJ-L. The latest modes of the Jeep TJ were equipped with an overdrive automatic transmission. A six-speed manual option is also one of their top features. If you’re looking to buy an older model of the Jeep Wrangler, the updated version of the Jeep TJ is worth considering as they’re equipped with lots of modern features, such as:
- Updated power features
- Improved safety
- Enhanced efficiency
- Modern off-road capabilities
Final words
As you have learned the basic difference between the three different models of the Jeep, you might be wondering which model is suitable for You. Well, if you’re looking for a classic Jeep model, you can go with the Jeep CJ. However, if you’re inclined to modern off-road options and features, you may choose the Jeep TJ or YJ.