Going to have a look at a 2005 (55) outback later this week, ( 2.5 SE Auto ).

Just wondering if there's anything in particular to look out for, also, I've noticed that it has corner protectors on the bumpers, ( front and rear ), I can't find another car of this age with them on, were they an option?

Yes an option. My 06 3.0 has them just on the back.

As you say I've not seen any with front and back, but even back are rare.

Good hunting!