flappan replied:

The 3.0l in a SWB PJ goes well. IFS is somewhat limiting, but not overly so. Driver plays a bigger part then the vehicle.

Wrangler, not as capable Offroad then the GQ . . . don't kid yourself here, The wrangler is the equal to these.

Neither of these are great onroad (PJ would be far better at that).

The Wrangler are fairly thirsty, with a small tank , it is a fairly old motor with EFI stuck on it.

All in all though, the are a good, fun, capable vehicle , that can become an addiction if not careful.

Here's the place to go to ask Jeep questions.
http://ausjeepoffroad.com/forum/??sid=28a0fd27bb3e6a7e5c847e1e438be739

Member - Ross replied:

Rino

As far as I know they're reasonably competent off road. Before you buy one be sure to look under the seats, there you should find kidney belts ..... in the spot where they put life jackets on aeroplanes .....................;-)))))))))))

CheersFidei defensor

Rosco

Troopie replied:

G'day
Sounds like you've mostly made up your mind... Unfortunately I can't comment on the wrangler - which was your question.

I can tell you though that the IFS on a Shorty Paj is not as limiting as you'd think.... I had a GLS 3lt Paj and so far it has been the car I've missed the most after selling. I gave that poor car an absolute beating and not once in the entire time I had it did it go close to letting me down.... I suspect you can't really go wrong no matter which way you go. If you want to get really serios, the Wrangler is far better in terms of modifications available (the reason I sold my Paj).

All the best.