'99 or newer used 9-5?

[splinter]

Hi, all. My wife and I are considering the purchase of a 1999 9-5. It would be a 4 cyl wagon. I know of the frequent issues of the series (BTW: the engine already encountered the sludge issue and was completely rebuilt.), but my question is "Is there a notable quality difference in 2000 and later models as opposed to the first model year 1999?"

For example, I know with the Volvo S80 (which I also like), posts on Volvo boards generally suggest to avoid the 1999 (also first model year of the S80) if at all possible. Thanks for any help you can give.