Horsepower difference between 99-00 and 00-01?

[ThatIsSoSteve]

I have been looking for a 4.0 TJ wrangler. Something seems to be off for me.

2001-2006 has 190 hp.
1997-2000 has 181 hp.

I am aware that the distributor less started in 2000.
I am trying to find out how or why the 2000 still has 181 hp not 190 hp when it has distributor less?
Hope you can help clear things up for me and maybe for others?
If this has been posted else where, please let me know and I apologized in advanced.
Thank you

 

[SkylinesSuck]

It's all academic and if you plan to leave it stock don't give it a second thought. There are intake manifold, cylinder head, and exhaust differences, but again, nothing that will matter unless you plan on doing things to the motor.

 

[ThatIsSoSteve]

As for now I may just stick with a stock but was just wondering if I should look at 00 and up or 01 and up. That little extra hp and toque may be worth getting than the one that is not.
I am aware of the cracked cylinder head that is known for 00-01 but that should be easy to replaced.

 

[SkylinesSuck]

The HP rating is not a reason to choose one year over another. Axle(s), trim, and lack of rust are though.

 

[1o1proof]

The HP rating is not a reason to choose one year over another. Axle(s), trim, and lack of rust are though.

Exactly right and I will add mileage and how well it has been maintained. Besides, you would never EVER notice 10 - 15 hp difference anyway.

 

[SkylinesSuck]

And reading your original question a little closer, the difference doesn't come from the ignition. Not at all. It's all in the differences I mentioned, plus probably tuning differences.

 

[Wtrask]

If I remember right. The cherokees made more HP than wranglers back in the day due to the air intake. I think they made 195hp instead of the 190hp the Wrangler made. Could also be the tune like others mentioned.