Soon-to-be new owner. Have been here for a while, but never able to finalize the right deal. I have two jeeps with stickers nearly identical, both unlimiteds. The first is a 2011 Rubicon, hard-top and auto; second is 2012 Sahara with dual tops, leather and auto. Other than the drivetrain differences, opinions on which is better would be appreciated in finalizing my deal. The dealer gave me the sahara to drive til Saturday, but could change out for the rubi on Friday. If they were both 12's, I would definitely go for the Rubi. I drive to multiple construction sites daily, and am off-highway on those sites every day. Thanks for any help, Chris

 

I would go with the 12 just for the new motor that is being raved about. The Rubi would obviously be the answer if they were both 12's. What gears and axles does the 12 have?

 

No question. Go with the '12, for the Pentastar alone.

 

The 12 Sahara has the 44 rear/30 front with the lame 3.21 gearing. Really wanted the 410 gears so when tires are upsized, motor will still pull. The 12 does not have the max tow package that would have given the 373's, but no such luck. I'm leaning towards the 12, but the lack of gearing is what is probably holding me back. Tried to have the dealer change out the gears, but they say its not an option/they aren't willing.

 

It should be pretty easy to get the dealer down on the price of the 11 Rubi. I personally could care less about painted fenders so I would go with the awesome extras that the Rubi has.

 

If you plan to do any serious offroading go with the
Rubicon, if not then the Sahara is a sweet ride.

 

Thanks for all of the input. I have made my decision, and will pick-up the new 12 Sahara this morning. While I don't care about the painted fenders, or matching top, this is the closest I was able to find. The 11 rubi was nice, but it was lacking a few things I wanted, and the new 12 powertrain was too good to pass up. I am offroad daily, but nothing too serious. I found another Sahara with more of the equipment I wanted at another dealer, and made my dealer trade for it. The new one has the max tow with the 373's and the 430 nav. I did have to give up the dual tops, but hopefully I can find one for sale here or locally.

 

Congrats, I would have said the '12 mostly due to the new powertrain.

 

I was in the same position you were and went the other way for a couple of reasons. I test drove both the 11 & 12 and while there was a REAL difference in the engine I went with the 11. My logic was that the dealers were giving the 11' away and not budging on the 12 price and the zero % financing. I saved over $8,000 alone between those two factors. I know I gave up one heck of an engine but money is money. Not sure what color Sahara you got but you might be surprised how easy it is to find someone who will trade you out their black tops for a painted one. I found one here but changed my mind. Just post that you want to switch and see what happens.