98 CR-V reliable? or 98 rav4?

Im looking for a car. First it was the jetta but heard bad reviews regarding
reliability. (very far from an SUV right? i think im really a small suv
type, i never liked lowered cars where i have to steer away from small
potholes and risking myself in ramming a truck instead.)

 now im looking at the CR-V which is a 98 EX. Since its a honda i expect it
to be reliable. Is this a good car? i want something that has a high profile
but not too much like standard SUVs. I want something that still rides like
a car. how is the aftermarket parts on the cr-vs?

Im also looking at the Rav4 and debating which one i should look into. Seems
like cr-vs have more aftermarkets like roofracks, bike racks, bras and
etccc...

Reports says that rav4 takes 13secs on 0-60 while crv takes 11.3.

Should i be concerned to see mileages of up to 85k on toyota rav4s and honda
cr-vs? It seems that on the VW's its scary to have mileages that high.

btw, im not a speedfreak. I want something that is rugged, sporty, not too
big and has a good MPG. (did i mention reliable?)

I also carry wide & long cargos. some are illustration boards that are 3x4
feet and rollled paper that are 107 inches long.