need advice on models: 97 sport or 99 se

The SE might be prone to a cracked manifold exhaust bolt, the Sport a cracked exhaust manifold. Both may eventually exhibit instrument gauge failure unless it's already been fixed (loose connection).

Pers>Looking to buy my first jeep, used.

I'd take the i6 over the 4 banger any day.. There isn't a siginificant fuel economy difference.. the i6 is just about right for power, could do with a bit more, but if your ever going to do any highway cruising or tow anything bigger is better :)

I'd go with the 6 cyl, but mine is my daily driver. Don't think I'd like the 4 cyl. on the freeway very much, particularly not in Arkansas where we have a ton of hills.

The 4.0L will most likely last longer as well. I would go with the soft top model also, I'm not big on the full doors.

Who knows what was pulled with that 2.5L. It has a tow package? Check the tow area for scrapes to see if it was used. You have no idea if someone tried to tow a 5000 pound boat behind that little 2.5L. That could take some years off the engine.