Which do you subu gurus reccomend, the 97 legacy outback wagon, or the 99 impreza wagon? And what kind of matinence is common at about 100k miles for both modles?

Does the 97 have the 2.2? If so that would be my pick

Depends on engine, tranny, and condition for me. If things were equal I'd take the 99.

If the 97 has the 2.5 and has not had head gaskets fitted it may be more of a risk.

[The 99 has a 2.2 5 speed and Im not sure about the 97. How do you know how good the transmisssion is?

in the states the 97 is going to have a 2.5. i would definitely get the 99 unless the 97 was a great deal and i had an extra motor lying around (which i do). auto or manual trans? make sure all the tires match. auto trans, look for signs of torque bind, check the fluids.

Gary is another of the guys who love the Impreza!

 

If an Imp would do the job for me I'd love it. I have a Forester so I can get the high roof, but I have to use the 2.5 since that's all they came with here.

All the folks I know who have had Imps or outback sports have had great luck. This would not be the case among full size 2.5 owners.