Thanks Mike. I think it is safe to say that the XLS and Limited housings and innards are interchangeable. I know I will be looking to go that route (to 4.9's) when I get new tires!
And to the OP, I'd skip the XLS as there really isn't any advantage to the truck and you cannot upgrade the gearing to accommodate larger tires (like moving from 4.3 to 4.9 R&P). In the grand scheme of things there isn't much difference between the early Gen III's and the later 3.8l Gen III's. Mainly just newer, slightly more HP (which is nice), and the addition of traction/stability control. The 20th Anniversary model adds the cool wheels in addition to the alternative interior trim color and badges.
You can't go wrong with either of them. Personally I prefer the look of the 01-02 models and favor the LSD over the TCS. Though you could add the LSD to a newer Montero like Mike did and have the best of both worlds.
And to the OP, I'd skip the XLS as there really isn't any advantage to the truck and you cannot upgrade the gearing to accommodate larger tires (like moving from 4.3 to 4.9 R&P). In the grand scheme of things there isn't much difference between the early Gen III's and the later 3.8l Gen III's. Mainly just newer, slightly more HP (which is nice), and the addition of traction/stability control. The 20th Anniversary model adds the cool wheels in addition to the alternative interior trim color and badges.
You can't go wrong with either of them. Personally I prefer the look of the 01-02 models and favor the LSD over the TCS. Though you could add the LSD to a newer Montero like Mike did and have the best of both worlds.