2000+ are not bad comfort wise they got rear coils on 3.0L so it's very similar to Gen 2. The truck you posted is too much money still. Personally I would look for XLS (if you particular about mileage you get with 3.0) because it was available with Hybrid LSD (nice), not on all of them though. Better yet look for 2003+ rigs. With some bargaining price should be 5-6k range. Although then XLS becomes 3.5L. Reason 2003,2004 Sports got raised roof which gives you extra inch or so of headroom (quite noticeable actually).

92 SR, 285/75R16 Yoko MT ARB locker GAST compressor AirLift 1000 MM10500 Snorkel custom rear bumper
02 Montero LS died protecting the master
08 PowerWagon (stock!)