Looking For Your Opinion.

I started driving mine at 14 - put the V6 in when I was 16 - it was a '49 CJ3A, and its still out by the shop. My oldest started driving a '46 with a V6 when he was 16.

My builds focus on:
1. Stop - Disc front and 11" rear preferred. Put 11" all 4s for the nephew's rig I did (CJ3B).
2. Steer - Saginaw required IMOP. A good manual is fine and can be quick enough for any safe move you need to do in the short wheel base. Even quick enough to roll you if you don't watch it.
3. Go - I like the v6s. Altitude matters, and the 4 banger just wont run safe with 55 traffic in Colorado most of the time.

NO LIFT - keep the center of gravity low to reduce roll issues for a new driver. Also keep the tires to 27-30" range at most.
CAGE is a MUST with good belt/harness setup.
OD if you can to save on fuel and run with traffic easier.