[JavaBrewer]

DII's came out in 99, the 98 you're quoting is a DI. Big difference's are the DII no longer has the center locking diff and replaced it with electronic traction control (ETC). ETC applies brake to slipping wheel to divert power to planted wheels. Both work well but ETC seems more error prone and hard on system. Also, the DII scraped Lucas electronics for Bosch, and has a bit more interior room and longer wheel base. Engines are the same until the 04 model.

For real off-road use you can't do better than a Disco. Disco handicaps include poor reliability, sparce service centers, and miserable MPG (12 on freeway). They are very comfortable and unique to drive.