Why do people like JC2 more than 3 and 4?

JC2 was the first in the series that I played. I loved the map, multiplayer mod was great, but....well, sandbox was pretty bad to be honest. Having to pay for vehicles and weapons, the actual selection of vehicles being absolutely terrible, needing to get vehicle parts if I wanted to get the best possible rides...

3 has better "destroy all the red and white objects" locations due to the fact you can actually see what you're missing on the map, 4 has all the fun tether tools and the most interesting vehicles, and both added in a far superior supply drop system so you don't need to pay for what you're calling in.

Just about the only thing I actually think 2 did best was the map. It was big, lots of memorable locations, overall just super solid. Aside from that though, I don't think there's any reason I would ever go back to play 2's singleplayer...so why does everyone love it so much? What is it that I'm missing?