I would recommend L200.
I have had a 2 pajeros a 93 that was stolen on me and I now have a 96.
Been using them for 6 years.
There are 2 main issues with the engines. First is the heads go. It's not due to any weakness in the heads but lack of proper servicing of the cooling system. Second is the diesel pump on the 2800 engines. I have repaired the pump on my 2800. Cost me 20 for the seals and about a day to do in my driveway.
I know a lot of Pajero owners who have only good things to say about them and I know 2 people who've owned ford rangers and hate them.
The main difference