- Joined
- Nov 29, 2023
- Threads
- 7
- Messages
- 3,199
- Reaction score
- 6,516
- Location
- the cornbelt
- Vehicle(s)
- '21 JLR 6MT
- Banned
- #76
The base model is an incredible deal. However, in no time has Jeep offered such a diverse array of options. In the 70-90s, for example, the concept of the Rubicon didn't exist until the end, meaning that you couldn't get a Wranger with locking differentials, substantially beefed up axles, 4:1 gearing in the transfer case, etc. The introduction of the Rubicon, Mojave, and 392 has made the base model much less attractive and therefore people set their eyes on a $30-60k upgrade over the base model. I believe this is the reason that there are so many people who fail to see the truth.
More over, while this doesn't specifically address your post, I find it insane that aftermarket accessories have gotten substantially more expensive since COVID. I'm not sure if the world is truly still experiencing supply and material shortages, or if the price hikes are just staying inflated for profitability, but in 2019 complete long arm lift kits were $3500 (coils, steering, shocks, arms, brackets, etc) and now they're $7000. 40" Nittos were selling for $440 each in 2019 (I have the receipts) and now 40" tires are $600. I bought UD60s for $11,500 a PAIR in 2019, and now you can't find them under $17,000. Same with literally everything else. We're seeing a 30%-200% price hike on everything which is making it insanely difficult to build another Jeep in the current economy.
As far as I can tell, D44 Rubi axles used to cost roughly $2,500 now they are $5,000 or $10,000 for a set which is absurd.
Sponsored