Just traded my 1998 (79450 mi) outback wagon for a new 2004 VDC wagon. The 1998 had no head gasket leaks. Replaced the timing belt at about 70000 and the lettering on the belt was not even worn off yet, the mechanic was impressed. I did have the crank shaft and cam shaft seals replaced at the same time as the timing belt, $20 for each seal at the dealer!
Only issues with this 1998; heated seat switchs illumination bulbs went out. The 1 ply sidewall Michelin tires origionally supplied by the dealer, discontinued by Michelin 6 mo. after buying the car, side walls could not take the AWD? I changed to a 2 ply side wall tire and they were fine.
