[Spark Plug Issue - Help!]

I went out and checked this morning, and the hose was disconnected. Super relieved, thanks for your help!

[Spark Plug Issue - Help!]

I checked and couldn't find anything. Could it be the wires failed? They are old as well, but I was trying to put off putting in new ones. I figured if they worked before the swap, they should still work, but I just read another post that says they are known for shorting after adding new plugs.

[Spark Plug Issue - Help!]

So, I recently purchased a 1998 Legacy with the 2.2 engine. When I got it inspected, the mechanic told me it needed new spark plugs, so I went ahead and swapped them out earlier. Now, when the car starts, it idles for 5 seconds then dies. I have absolutely no idea what the problem might be. I gapped them correctly, made sure the wires were all back in their correct spot, made sure they were all connected. I even put the old spark plugs back in and it does the same thing, dies after 5 seconds. Any ideas what the problem might be??

[Purchase Advice: 2.2 vs 2.5]

Hey I was wondering if I could get some second opinions from yall. I plan on purchasing one of these two cars, and cant decide which is the better option. Here are the details:

 

-98 Subaru Legacy, 2.2L, 240k miles, newer trans/head gaskets/timing belt, very well maintained.

 

VS

 

-98 Outback, 2.5L, 185k miles, newer head gasket/timing belt, original trans, also very well maintained.

 

Both are automatic, and being offered for $2000. I know the 2.2 is much more reliable, but is 240k too much miles?? The 2.5 has much less miles and the head gasket replaced, but is the trans likely to go out soon? I can't make a decision. Any thoughts??