I had an Subaru Legacy 2.5 gx 2001 model (worst engine ever) not reliable for 5 seconds.

 

 

I'm thinking of buying a new Subaru again older version this time, is the engine EJ201 who are in Legacy's 2.0 lx and gl models around 1999 and 2000 model year any good are they reliable and good engines?

 

Or is it a much better way to find an old Outback 1996 model with the EJ22 engine who i know is very good engine and stick to that?

I've done many 96-99 Outback 2.5 to 2.2 swaps with the 95 2.2 engine. I think this is a great combination. The reliability of the 95 2.2 with the features of the Newer Outbacks.

 

The 2.2 is great to work on, IMHO.

The 2.0 is still open deck similar to the 2.5 but without the head gasket problems. It is still an interference design though (pretty sure at least) so timing belt intervals must be adhered to.