One-Owner 1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Five-Speed
Description
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
After virtually creating the four-wheel drive segment in 1941 with the wartime GP model, Jeep vehicles spent the following decades fueling the dreams of adventurers around the globe. The new TJ Wrangler was introduced in 1997, with a retro-look very similar to the CJ-7 but very different mechanically. Nearly 80 percent of the Wrangler was newly designed. The biggest engineering change was the new Quadra-Coil suspension, which replaced standard leaf-springs and provided a greatly improved on-road ride. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with increased axle articulation, ground clearance and more aggressive approach and departure angles. The TJ also featured a new interior, including driver and passenger airbags. The TJ retained several classic Jeep features such as round headlights, a fold-down windshield, and removable doors, as well as a choice of a soft top or removable hardtop. A factory-fitted sport bar was also standard. The TJ engine is the same 4.0-liter AMC inline-six that was used in the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The 1997 Wrangler was the fifth Jeep vehicle to win the “4x4 of the Year” award.
Some Jeeps never leave town. This single-owner special order 1997 Wrangler has been to Australia and continues to be lovingly maintained by a true Jeep adventurer.
Highlights
Single-owner special order top-of-the-line Jeep Wrangler Sahara
4.0-liter AMC inline-six producing 181 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque
Five-speed manual transmission
Command-Trac part-time “shift-on-the-fly” four-wheel drive
Trac-Lok rear differential
Finished in Stone White over Saddle and dark green cloth interior
15x7 five spoke Grizzly wheels with General Grabber AT2 235/75R15 all-terrain tires
Satellite-ready Kenwood DMX908S stereo
Sport Bar with two speakers and full padding
The chassis number (1J4FY49S9VP504425) decodes as:
1 – United States country of origin
J – Jeep
4 – MPV vehicle type
F – 4001-5000 lbs GVWR
Y – Wrangler 4x4
4 – Sahara model
9 – Open Body
S – Engine 4.0-liter unleaded gas
9 – Check digit
V – 1997 model year
P – Toledo, Ohio, #2 final assembly plant
504425 – Sequential production number
Features
Sahara graphics
Body-colored grille
Power front disc and rear drum brakes
Removable Spice hardtop
Frame metal doors
High-back bucket seats
Air conditioning
Locking center console and trunk
Lockable storage trunk
Jeep-branded all-weather floor mats front and rear
Dual air bags
Side steps
Fog lights
Front tow hooks
Black bumpers
Known Imperfections
The CARFAX Vehicle History Report shows on 17 August 2009, “Accident reported: It hit a stationary object - It hit a guardrail - Damage to right front - Damage to right rear.” CARFAX further states “Vehicle functional.” Any superficial damage was repaired and is not visible.
Right rear wheel arch flare was replaced
Body has been repainted
Small blemish in windshield, which has been professionally repaired with resin
Included
Manufacturer’s literature
Service records
Full soft doors
New full soft top
Safari top
Tonneau cover
Hydraulic lift to remove hardtop
Original window sticker
All service documents from new
Ownership History
The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places this single owner 1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara in Texas and Maryland. This was purchased in Wichita Falls, Texas and traveled to Australia before settling down in Maryland. The consignor, an avid Jeep enthusiast, states it has been garage-kept for the last 20 years. It currently shows 154,119 miles.
