Just about every vehicle has at least some redeeming features. Whether it be the paint, the drivetrain, or even just a never-smoked-in interior, nothing deserves to be cast off based on a first impression. Or does it?

So let’s proceed. Here today is a red 1997 Wrangler from Insurance Auto Auctions (IAA), an inaugural model that heralded in the TJ generation. Many of the issues that Jeep fans had with the preceding YJ were listened to and corrected with this era, including but not limited to increasing its ground clearance, trimming up the track width, putting the wiper blades below the windshield, and, of course, abandoning the square headlights for some good ol’ circular ones.

The effect of years past could still be felt on this generation, however, with all three available motor options tracing their lineage back to the days of AMC. These included the 2.4-liter inline four, 2.5-liter inline four, and 4.0-liter inline six.

The middle of those mills is what’s powering the TJ we have here today, but good luck trying to get it to start. The front has been punched deeply into a concave shape, doing quite a number on the bumper, hood, grille, passenger headlight, and accessory drive. Needless to say, this all points to frame damage as well.

We can’t see too well underneath the Wrangler, but it’s fair to assume that things aren’t looking too good there either. The tires’ positions indicate misalignment, and you can bet the sway bar and driveline are bent out of shape.

The airbags have deployed inside the cabin, so this must have indeed been a hard hit. There’s some tearing on the driver’s seat cushion, but that’s to be expected on a Jeep this old.

With an estimated cash value of $6,621 when rebuilt and $17,841 needed for repairs, the future looks grim to say the least. What do you think?