Yup, the Bianchi looks like about a 1997; according to BikePedia it came in blue, had a rigid fork, and featured Alivio/Acera components. I'd buy it for $75 if it's in decent shape.

http://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/B...Lynx&Type=bike

Hybrids from that era (like that Specialized) are basically mountain bikes with road wheels. They use MTB components, but are meant to be more road-friendly. That being said, a rigid MTB with slick tires makes an excellent road-worthy commuter.

I like the Bianchi just because it's a Bianchi, and therefore seems more exotic.