07-11 are all the same, and 12-current are the same.
The 07-11 have the 3.8l motor that has a habit of burning a lot of oil. Some are ok, others burn a quart per 1000 miles. The auto trans is geared wrong for the engine power band, so you'll want to regear that if you put on bigger tires. Manual trans is better, but the engine is still a little weak.
12+ have the 3.6l motor and a new auto trans. A lot more power, and better gearing. 2012 year have a lot of bad heads, but covered under warranty. My 2012 just hit 30,000 miles on Saturday with no issues.
Base vs Rubicon is up to you... I love my Rubi but I'm keeping it mild (2.5" lift and 33x10" tires). A base model (X or Sport) will save you $2000-4000 for add-ons. If you don't *need* the 4:1 4low gear, selectable lockers or the front electric swaybar disco, go for a base model and do it the way you want. Rubicon also comes standard with more creature comforts like power locks, subwoofer, etc...
Id consider buying new and ordering it from the factory. Or at the least go see what it would cost. We saved a lot of money by ordering a new 2014 with only the add ons we wanted over buying one off the lot that was almost loaded just to get the few options we had to have. The resale is so good that its hard to get a good deal on a used one.
Id consider buying new and ordering it from the factory. Or at the least go see what it would cost. We saved a lot of money by ordering a new 2014 with only the add ons we wanted over buying one off the lot that was almost loaded just to get the few options we had to have. The resale is so good that its hard to get a good deal on a used one.
Good point, plus new car financing is usually much much better than used. Guess you do the math..
Id consider buying new and ordering it from the factory. Or at the least go see what it would cost. We saved a lot of money by ordering a new 2014 with only the add ons we wanted over buying one off the lot that was almost loaded just to get the few options we had to have. The resale is so good that its hard to get a good deal on a used one.
I did the exact same thing with my 2013 JK, It took about 5 weeks to come in... I couldn't be happier with it 
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Thanks for the advice.
Went with the Rubicon.
Pro-tip: Do a side pic.
Nice color! Looks great. I love that the top is folded back before leaving the dealership. 
Congrats! Is that new or a 2013? I know last year you could only get that color with a Rubicon. The Rubi will blow you away with what it can do while still stock. Just remember that your breakover clearance is less due to the wheelbase.
lift will depend on your use...what are you looking to do? i have the AEV budget boost and have been more than happy with it for what's involved. 30K miles and it wheels blues great on 33's....
AEV usually uses Bilstein shocks, great ride quality. I'd echo the AEV budget boost recommendation. I have the 2.5" spring lift, but I knew I planned to not lift it again any time soon and wanted the absolute best quality.
Tire size and intended use will dictate the minimum lift height. 2-3" lift will fit 35s, but if you want to wheel it harder, you might want to go a little bigger for extra clearance. Once you get past 3", though you'll need more components... but, if you're ok with trimming the flares, you won't need to lift more. They're cheap though, so not too hard to replace if you change your mind. 
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