Not being able to see this with the engine set in place, I would change the seats to the buckets allowing the shifter to move back. To me it is more important to get the engine to sit where it needs to with all the accessories functioning.

Cheers, Charlie
If It ain't broke, Modify it!
87 Montero turbo Converted back in Spring1989
95 Montero SR 3.8 DOHC Only one?
93 Pajero 3 door 6G75 Mivec with paddle shifted 5 speed
Then a Gen2 SR with full coil independent suspension.