GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

New forum member!!I went ahead and ordered a base Vibe today. (7-1-02)Shadow, 5-speed, power package. I looked up in dealer inventory for almost the whole state of MI, and couldn't find a base Shadow 5-speed. What's the deal with autos? Do car dealers order them with the $800 automatic transmissions so they can make more $$? I also thought about the GT, but looking at the torque peaks, and their respective rpms, I think the base motor will be fine for everyday driving. (If I want a shot of speed, I can fire up my Vette)I've spent alot of time on the Corvetteforum, and I realize how beneficial a forum like this can be. Thanks,Carl

Welcome to the board Carl!So you are from Auburn! I am originally of Redford Township myself, although I live in Florida now. Next week I'm picking up my Shadow base Vibe from the dealer as well. This board's been a big help to me just in the one week I've been a member. I'm sure you'll learn a lot while you're here.I know what you mean about manual transmissions being hard to find in dealer inventory. I suppose you might account for it by saying fewer people feel the need to learn how to drive a manual these days. (Like my wife -- she can't and will not, so I had to look for a Vibe with an automatic!) Even on the performance cars, finding a stickshift can be difficult. When I was looking to buy my Ram Air Trans Am in '98, there was not a single one anywhere on a dealer's lot with the 6-speed manual. I had to factory order it and wait 6 months.I agree with you too on the base Vibe's engine -- given the powerband of the GT engine, I think my wife would be happier with the base powerplant. She's certainly no racer, and she doesn't even like loud engines. And like you, if I want some speed, I still have an LS1 in the garage. Once again, welcome.-B.J.

I'm up in a little town between Midland and Bay City (not the Auburn by Detroit). It feels like Fl here the last few days. Low 90's with lots of humidity.Yes, there is a difference between 390 lbs of tq @ 3500 rpm, and 39 lbs of tq @ 35,000 rpm isn't there. Thanks for the reply.Carl