I have a 039 from the 90's, and for some 10 years an MS361. They one "class" larger than the 2XX series. MS361 (or the new 362 - a bit more eco friendly though I think they made it a little heavier) is the most versatile chainsaw on the market, it'll really do everything, you can fell down really large trees or cut off small branches.

Now, I'd not use the 2xx series for large trees but overall they're still very versatile (compared to the 1xx series) nontheless, and a lot lighter.

I can compare my experience with the 039 and the 361. 039 is the farmer model (just like an MS390/391, or the smaller MS290/291), and the 361 is a pro saw. The 361 is more fuel efficient and just a tad lighter. But the ol' 039 is notably more torquey. I think it has some 5cc more. I assume that's even more notable between the smaller chainsaws (261 and 291). At full throttle the 361 is a better saw, but the 039 is really close in performance and I like how it won't stall even at less throttle.

Never had any serious problem with either. The 039 needed a new fuel lines every decade - time makes them rot, but that's to be expected. Never fully rebuilt the 039, but did inspect it ~ 5 years ago and cleaned up the carburetor. It was used a lot, especially in the past. Not daily, but when it was in use, it was a lot of use for 8-10 hours at a time.

If I bought again, I'd probably go for the 391. It's cheaper and totally fine for me. I have 15 hectares of forest. The 361 is really made to cut at least 8 hours, day after day, and be rebuilt countless times. I'd run out of forest in a month.

So, in your case I'd go with the 291. But if you've got some money to spare and want the best, the 261 is lighter and more powerful when you give it the nuts! :)