I've never seen a JK that could wheel nearly as good as an xj, keep that in mind. at least with an equal build. plus they are gutless and HEAVY.
if i ever got a non xj jeep, it would probably be a LJ
Your statement about ability is far from the truth.
I have not seen many XJ's that can do what a JK Rubi does typically. But then you have to compare the $$ invested in what your comparing.
A heavy XJ build would (typ) include 35's, lockers, armor, 6" lift, heavy trimming.
A medium JK build would (typ) include 37's (or 39/40's), lockers, 4-6" lift with Coil over front, some armor, and front fenders.
The XJ would be lucky to fit 4 people inside (I would not sit in the back thats for sure).
The JK (4dr of course and the only way to buy one) I have and would sit in the back when ever. Not to bad at all in back seat.
The XJ will not likely make backdoor at JV even with a good familiar driver.
The JK will likely make backdoor with same driver.
The XJ will not handle on high speed as good as the JK.
The XJ will not have any occupant protection unless added (cage).
The XJ will likely have a failing part every 2 trail trips, due to age and just reg maintenance needs. A JK will not for years.
A JK will cost you about 40K to get to this level though and a XJ will take about 20K. I know people will say my XJ cost me only 10 bucks to build, but in ALL honesty, that is a 10$ XJ that will perform like one too.
My EMC XJ with Alot of very nice stuff is about a $40-50K rig when all said and done. My buddy just bought a JK Rubi 2012 for about 38K and put 12K into it. His will go Everywhere I try to take mine. Yes he will cry when done due to body damage. And he is on D44's (JK which are way diff then others), and I am on a D60RJ and 14b, but he will follow just fine for the most part I would bet.
But he gets to drive it there and home. Yes he doesn't have all the race safety stuff either, but how many need that anyways.