I'm not sure about the exact sizes of batteries, but yes the best Optimas to get for the '96-'02 have reversed terminals. Many stores don't have those in stock. I had to modify my stock cables because I installed my standard Red Top before it became known on the forums that it's best to get the reversed terminals. At least now mine is flexible to accept either type of battery, which is now handy on the trails if my battery dies and I could use someone else's battery.

Another problem that you'll run into is that Optimas are too short to secure with the stock tie-down. I've been using a couple of roughly 1" thick pieces of wood underneath the battery for the last 6 years, which has worked great for me. Just make sure the battery is definitely tight so the wood won't work its way out with vibration. For that reason I know it's not the best solution. There's also a 2" or so thick plastic spacer offered from Optima that snaps onto the base of the battery to fix this problem for various vehicles. You might be able to get that for free from some battery store.

I also wrapped the stock metal tie-down with electrical tape in case there's ever a time when someone or myself does a bone head thing and shorts to ground with a wrench. I also keep the stock rubber protector taped over the positive terminal to make it less likely to short to ground if it ever comes loose or if I'm in an accident and it touches the hood.