I will only add to this that if you can afford it -- get a jack that will lift 30". The low lift height you're asking for is easily overcome by driving up on a very small ramp to get some clearance under the car for the jack. Race Ramps are very handy -- and the aluminum ramps I bought from Pit Pal work just perfect for this...
Now --- HEIGHT while working under the car is far more "critical" IMHO. 24" is bare minimum. So that means you've got to get the bottom of the chassis at least that high.... and use 12 ton jack stack stands because they'll extend enough for a comfortable working height.
Most of these cheap ass jacks will only have a lifting height of 17" --- and that's just not anywhere near enough. That's tire changing height and that's it. INVEST in a great floor jack and jack stands and the hours and frustration you'll save yourself will pay back in spades.