the head gaskets were only a huge problem on the 2.5L
PHASE 1 (Dual Overhead Cam):
Used in:
1996 to 1999 Legacy Outback
1996 to 1999 Legacy GT
1998 Impreza RS
1998 Forester
PHASE 2 (Single Overhead Cam):
Used in:
2000 to present (non-turbo) Legacy Outback
2000 to 2004 Legacy GT
2000 to present Legacy
1999 to present non-turbo Impreza 2.5 (RS, TS, Outback Sport)
1999 to present non-turbo Forester
the 1.8L is a good motor and could last a lot longer that 208
GLWS