I had a '90 Legacy (1st gen) and I now have a '95 Legacy (2nd gen). The '95 is far more reliable than the '90 I had, but then the '90 was abused by previous owners. After much TLC from me, the car became very reliable and now my sister-in-law has it.
The '95 is, I think, a far better car. It rides better and has much better weight to the steering (the '90s steering was way over-assisted).
Botho f my Legacys have had the 2.2L engine, which is outstanding, I think. The major problems I had with the '90 were vacuum leaks and the idle air control valve. The '95 has needed its water temp sensor replaced, but that's a common and cheap fix (about $25 for the part, I installed it myself).
Both were also automatics. The '90 seemed to have a badly worn transfer clutch, but I'm pretty sure you get a totally different system, so it's none of your concern.
I love the Legacy. I think it's a fantastic car - and a great value, considering what used Legacys sell for here in the US.