I have a 98' Sephia (5 speed manual) with 69,000 miles.  I've had it for
five years and in that time, it has not given me any *major* problems.
There have been several recall notices on this model for some minor
things like wiper washer fluid hoses, to more substanial things like the
ORVR valve and a problem with some seatbelt latches.

In the five years that I've owned it, I have never been stranded in my
Sephia.  In terms of reliability, I would rate it pretty highly.  That
said, there are some aesthetic issues:
1.  The engine noise is substantial in the cabin, especially at highway
speeds.
2.  The 1998 model does not have a trunk light.
3.  The exterior body is succeptible to door dings.  I imagine if my
model had different moulding (like on the LS), there would be fewer.

I speak about Croatia, but I think that $2,800 USD is pricey in the US.
  I looked at Kelly Blue Book's website, and a private party sale price
comes in under $2,000.

www.kbb.com

Good luck!
-Minh