I like that era of Specialized bikes and have had a few. Hardrock was the lowest model and yours is in rough shape, can totally be brought back, but will require quite a bit of time and effort. I would start fresh with another, higher in the line-up, late 80's early 90's mtb. You know this style/geometry works for you and it will be much cheaper (and in my opinion better) than a Priority or other new commuter. You haven't shared where you are located, but in most places these bikes are available at very reasonable prices. $200 should get you a good condition, better frame and components for sure, where I am with a little patience/looking $75. I would either try to find a bike with Thumb shifters or a frame/bike and a donor bike with Deore LX,DX or XT. There are various threads with lists of the better bikes of the time but generally want to find one of the top two models for any given brand (can vary by year) ie. Trek- 970+950, 870+850 | Specialized Stumpjumper + Rockhopper | Diamondback Apex + Arrival | Univega Alpina, etc.

For $500-$600 - you can have you pick of top of the line MTB's in great condition, likely even with shipping