$$$ for Jeep YJ/TJ Hardtop ?

[Momto_2]

Does anyone know off hand how much money it would cost to buy a hardtop for a Jeep? I have looked at a Jeep that I like and it only has a softtop.

Thanks!

[happygirlmichelle]

I know buying a vehicle is a big thing so I thought I'd give you my experience with the YJ.

With a soft top they are freezing in the winter and noisy- very noisy. With the hard top they are still a little noisy but not terrible. The one thing that scared me is thet in the event of an accident the top will not protect you as it is fiberglass and not metal like in most vehicles.

Also I found the carseats sit quite high so it used to make me nervous to have my child in the back.

If it is a vehicle just for yourself, go for it as they are fun!

Oh, I think you can call the dealer and find out the hard top prices and if they are compatible with all years/ models.

[Momto_2]

I do appreciate the feedback. I know that it would not be the ideal vehicle for having kids with, it would be a BIG adjustment for me as I currently drive a newer Volvo wagon. I am hoping to downsize things a little and thought a Jeep would be fun, and affordable. I like the idea of having 4WD in the winter as well in case I want to take the kids skiing. I have a friend that has one and always has had one with her son and loves it. It is one of the few 4WD vehicles that you can buy in a 4 cyl so the gas consumption won't be astronomical.
Are they reliable? I would think they would have to be somewhat with the amount of KMS you see on some of them and how many of them are out there. I also looked at a 2 door Explorer, any experiences with those? A 2000 model, but I think it is a 6 cyl.
I did test drive a Jetta, great little car and it was fun to drive but I still hesitate to buy it as I want to be able to get to work in the winter and would love to be able to take the kids to the mountain.

any thoughts, suggestions, experiences are more than welcome!!!