I can give you a comment on the Hardrock, cuz I got an 03.
Handling 10 Fantastic
Performance 8 Quick but a little heavy
Toughness 10+ this is one tough bike(Frame) 1050 miles of torture
Comfort Minus 3 It rides too rough for th dirt, and on the road it rides,,,too rough.
I converted mine to a utility bike and use it to pull trailers, a lot.
The only thing I wish to change is the front suspension, it vibrates my hands to sleep.
If you want tough this is your bike, if you want comfort, it ain't.