1) It means the car has an open, as opposed to limited slip, differential. Probably 99% of cars & trucks fall into this category. It's why you get one black stripe when spinning the tire. Almost all Mercedes use open differentials. Newer MBs with traction control have an open diff but apply a single rear brake to equalize power transfer to each rear wheel. It works well but will eat up brake pads if you use it too much.

2) Agreed. I looked at some Subies before regaining my senses and buying an E55 station wagon as my practical car. Outbacks were all north of $30K. You had to chase down a low content Forrester to get even into the lower $20s.