Late 90’s 2.5L are the ones to be cautious about. The head gaskets fail around 100k.
Imprezza’s will ride more sporty, and be much zippier, while the Legacy is a much smoother ride. I haven’t been in a Forester but have heard they ride a bit harsher than the legacy.
Aside from the HG on the late 90’s 2.5L, Subarus are tanks. Very durable, and they avoid rust pretty well. My '96 Outback is a WNY car for it’s whole life and just started getting some rust on the lower door area on one side, but the chassis is still clean as a whistle.
If you want something practical only, get a Legacy wagon/Outback. Tons of room.
If you want something still reasonable but sporty and more fun to drive, go with an Imprezza wagon.