My opinion below...FWIW
I agree. All old cars/trucks have issues (rust, engine problems/wear, interior/paint wear and age). 20 years in the elements is not kind to anything. One good thing about buying a truck this old... ALL THE ISSUES ARE KNOWN! Sure a brand new car/truck, looks nice, has a updated interior and drive train, make more power, etc... However, they all have their problems, its just now the problems are new and unknown. With our trucks, we know what all the issue are or likely are. It's a known commodity. Prime example, plenum gasket failure,automatic transmission anti-drain valve restriction, etc... If you like wrenching on vehicles, these are easy fixes. Plus, the parts for our trucks are CHEAP compared to other makes.
I love my 2nd gen (much to my wife's and my wallet's dismay). It has personality and people still give me compliments on it. I think there is a building nostalgia for these particular Dodge trucks. Think about it, this was the last generation a 1/2 ton truck was offered with solid front axle suspension. Much more durable and solid than the competitors at the time. You don't see that anymore except on heavy duty truck (3/4 ton+). These trucks look WAY nicer in the body design department than any other truck of its time. Was it the most powerful or the highest quality built vehicle? No... but how many vehicles can claim that. These trucks have a following.