At some extent you are right, but my XLI is not daily driven, its in use of my dad and he use it very rarely like 3 times a wk .
Kindly dont buy 1988-1990 , as it has very less resale value and wont give you that much comfort which you are expecting from these SUV, even most of your time might be spend in workshop with maintenance.
Was confused in Surf and Pajero . Surf has low maintenance but 5 seater, and i am looking for 7 seater SUV. I dont think that adding a third row will be workable for adults to sit on last seats.
As per my search in last 2 wks, i think under 1.5 million i can get a good condition 92 model or normal condition 94-95 million. Engine has its own science too, 20+ year car wont b in stock engine and other parts until unles any land lord is selling 
