I've got 217K miles on my 5 speed '99. Has been VERY troublefree. Original clutch, original struts and axles. Only recently put new rear brake shoes on it (myself), originals lasted 216K miles. OEM front pads usually last 85K miles. And I do tow alot with it.
By the way I have seen info by a Honda Element owner that shows how for about $160 in Honda OEM parts you can add a sixth gear and up the highway mileage, lower the highway interior noise and I suspect extend the life of the vehicle. Just Google for it.
Wonder what your neighbors think of your meaner sounding Subbie? I used to live on a hilly four way intersection and notice loud cars now years later... GRIN!
EXCELLENT! Thank you! Doesn't use much of the possible range of motion does it?