Main question:

I'm looking at buying a 2001 Outback 5-speed with 125,000 miles and
power everything, after a long line of Fords where "power everything"
means "lots of electrical problems"

I've heard lots about the almost mystical reliability of Subarus -- does
that extend to the wiring harnesses as well?  Can I expect trouble-free
operation with power seats, mirrors, windows, etc. at high mileage?

Other questions:

Can I tell how much clutch pad is left without having a mechanic look at it?

I've looked at a number of older legacies and outbacks which all have
rust under the hood -- especially on the radiator bracket, the power
steering pump, some metal hoses (A/C lines?) on the right and some kind
of bracket on the left.  (This is in Pittsburgh, we get a lot of salt.)
 Is a more-rusty under-hood car going to be having more trouble with
its radiator and engine accessories than a less-rusty under-hood car, or
is this mostly a surface issue that doesn't matter?

What are the problem areas I should be looking for with 95 - 2001
Outbacks and Legacies?

Thanks muchly,
 ~Adam Aulick