Current and former Jeep Wrangler owners

[Archie F. Swin]

I'm looking at 2007 as the year I replace my daily driver, a '94 Jeep Cherokee (4.0l 2wd). I'm looking for input and advice concerning a used Jeep Wrangler, a vehicle I am giving serious consideration as my next daily driver. I will probably try to find a '97 to 2000 Wrangler.

First of all why am I tiring of the Cherokee?
-It looks like the Exxon Valdez ran ashore on my driveway
-No driver's side airbag
-the auto tranny has been quirky lately, regualry slipping into what wrenches call "limp" mode
-the vehicle performs very poorly (read: dangerously) on icy, at times wet roads

Why am I considering a Wrangler?
I would like to have a vehicle with a bit more of a "fun to drive" factor, and more importantly I'm becoming increasingly more interested in owning a convertible. Now I know a Jeep Wrangler is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think convertible, but here's my reasoning.
Convertibles are one of three things A)two-seat roadsters B) limited production American cars C) expensive imports.
With that in mind I'm thinking that the Wrangler is the only vehicle I can squeeze my wife and two kids in, drop the top, and If it something fails mechanically...O'Reilly has the part on the shelf.

Even though my Cherokee has not been my favorite, primarily because of the stupid ****ing sensors, that can leave you on the side of the road if one fails, I do like the 4.0l engine because of the ease of maintenance and the common parts. Not to mention its a potent six-banger.

I would especially be interested in opinions in hard top vs soft top.