I'm buying a vibe-- 5 speed base or GT?????

[newconvert]

I love the Vibe. Should I buy an 04 GT or the base 5 speed?I am trading in my 5 yearl old Lexus RX 300. I wanted something with SUV space (but not stationwagon looks) and better fuel economy than my SUV (avg 21mpg combined)The Vibe seems like the perfect choice. I am in the process of buying a 2004 GT. I drove the base auto and felt a little letdown by the hesitation when accelerating. My dealer doesn't have an 04 GT in stock yet but has one on the way which should work for me. I have driven an 03 GT which I thought drove great. The Dealer let me take a base 5 speed home to drive and I like it a lot as well.I love the GT but have the following concerns:-- clutch- on this site and others I have heard alot about clutch problems (maybe too much vehicle for the Celica clutch?). I wonder if it has been fixed for 04? I have also read on your site that GM dealers are refusing to fix worn out clutches even during the warranty period. I hate that if it is true? I haven't read about any clutch issues with the base 5 speed.-- fuel economy. The GT sticker says 25/32. Is that accurate? Some feedback I read said that some people were getting more like 20/25 which is more like 6 cyl milege. (the edmunds.com site shows 21/28 with 22mpg overall for the model they tested. This seems very low and I would be very disappointed if that is the real number. What are people getting in their GTs? Also, it says premium fuel. The salesman said this means 89 but my Boxster uses Premium fuel which means 93. What are you guys feeding your GTs? The base 5 speed says 29/36? This seems great. Is it accurate? Why the big delta from the GT if it is basically the same engine?-- performance. Does the GT give you noticeably better performance? I probably wouldn't tach over 6000 rpms very often. At lower revs is there still a difference that makes the GT the way to go. I read on your site that the 04 GT may have been retuned to provide better midrange perf. Is this accurate? What do you folks think? Is it worth the lower fuel econ/prem gas?Any other factors/differences I should consider?As far as the base 5 speed goes, I have really enjoyed driving it and it seems to shift very smoothly. The biggest problem I have found is that no local dealers have them except for a few stripped models (I want power, moons and Tunes, alloys and ABS so I would likely have to order one and wait 6-8 weeks. Also, I hate to give up 4 wheel discs.MY thought is to go with the 04 GT which is coming to my local dealer but I would really appreciate any feedback?New Convert.

[ragingfish]

Quote, originally posted by newconvert »it says premium fuel. The salesman said this means 89 but my Boxster uses Premium fuel which means 93. What are you guys feeding your GTs?Owner's manual says you must use 91 or higher.89 is regular grade. Can be used if premium is not available, but computer will retard timing to account for lower grade, thus hurting performance and fuel economy, so you shouldn't use it on a regular basis.Quote »Why the big delta from the GT if it is basically the same engine?GT has 1.8L high output engine. 173 HP vs. 130. And GT has LIFT!!!!!Quote »Is it worth the lower fuel econ/prem gas?I've heard of GT owners getting better mileage than I do on my base model. Depends on your driving. The more you're in 6, I suspect, the more miles per gallon you'll get.If I could repurchase, I'd most definitely get a GT model!!!Quote »(I want power, moons and Tunes, alloys and ABS so I would likely have to order one and wait 6-8 weeks.If you're lucky yo'll get it that fast. Some people wait months.Quote »MY thought is to go with the 04 GT which is coming to my local dealer but I would really appreciate any feedback?New Convert.Always trust your first instinct...

[tots]

My 2 cents -I test drove both and bought the base 5 speed. While the GT has 50 more horse than the base, it's only available in a narrow RPM band. IMHO, it's just not worth the extra cost unless you drive you really want to tap into the extra horses by running it hard.

[Jahntassa]

Quote, originally posted by newconvert »I love the GT but have the following concerns:-- fuel economy. The GT sticker says 25/32. Is that accurate? Some feedback I read said that some people were getting more like 20/25 which is more like 6 cyl milege. (the edmunds.com site shows 21/28 with 22mpg overall for the model they tested. This seems very low and I would be very disappointed if that is the real number. What are people getting in their GTs? Also, it says premium fuel. The salesman said this means 89 but my Boxster uses Premium fuel which means 93. What are you guys feeding your GTs? The base 5 speed says 29/36? This seems great. Is it accurate? Why the big delta from the GT if it is basically the same engine?I couldn't deal with the Base Vibe...just not enough juice for me. As far as fuel economy goes, here's a history of my fuel consumption.http://home.sprynet.com/~rapto....htm The beginning of the life of the car, I did a lot of long-range journies. You'll see the days when there were three fills in one day.. Lately, it's mostly cityish driving..A chart - http://home.sprynet.com/~rapto...t.htm Hope this helps. And yes..it's always "Premium"...I think 93 Octane each time.Quote, originally posted by newconvert »-- performance. Does the GT give you noticeably better performance? I probably wouldn't tach over 6000 rpms very often. At lower revs is there still a difference that makes the GT the way to go. I read on your site that the 04 GT may have been retuned to provide better midrange perf. Is this accurate? What do you folks think? Is it worth the lower fuel econ/prem gas?Any other factors/differences I should consider?Yes...you would reach over 6000 often...it's addictive...it really is. There's nothing better than cruising along, and suddenly be cruising faster...especially past those pesky Honda Ricers.. And Sixth gear, man! Sixth gear!

[FusionVGT]

I have, and would recommend an 04GT.My only issue with the clutch was getting reaquinted with a hydraulic clutch. My Mustang used a cable-operated clutch which gives a more linear feel. Mine did smell during break in but went (and stayed) away after about 700 miles.I get 27/35 in my GT with no regard for saving fuel. My wife does even better with it - 29 City. She hasn't driven it on the highway enough to have solid numbers.The 04 has been retuned for better midrange torque. It is in my opinion a better performer than last year's GT and the base from both years. I rarely get mine over 6 grand and I'm not wanting for passing power.Get yourself the 04GT you're leaning towards and enjoy your new car

[goodvibe]

I love my air pump free 03 GT but it soungs like you might prefer the base. The 04 GT changes were due to the air pump and the model years are hard to tell apart unless your screaming. A pound or 2 of torque betow 3k is probably offset by the weaght of the pump etc. The GT does get poorer milage and most of us average about 27 mpg premium but get into lift now and then. Base vibes regularly do over 5 mpg better. Contrary to what you might hear, a GT is slightly quicker below lift due to the lower gearing but not enough to make it a worthwhile expenditure if you're not going to use lift and it is harder to launch. There are GT/XRS clutches aproaching 50k mi with no problems but it's probably not a 100k clutch in this car even driven nicely. If you use lift your mileage will show it but it also makes HP like a 6 cylinder and without the added weight. It rides firmer due to the shocks, is louder, and takes more effort to drive. Just the way I like it and the motor is special but if your not going to use lift and the cost of gas is a concern, I don't see why you would buy a GT.

[joatmon]

I have a base 5 speed, and it has enough acceleration for me. I've been getting a little over the EPA rating of 36 mpg. There are plenty of GTs out there with no clutch problems, but there are GTs that do have clutch issues. Since the clutch is a wear item, and subject to heavy wear from improper use, it is understandable that dealers may be hesitant to warranty it to owners satisfaction. I think GM/Toyota are looking at it, but have no significant finds yet (implied because none have been reported here yet), so I would expect 04 GTs to have the same clutch problem possibility as the 03 GTs. If the clutch is a major concern, you could go with a base and add on a supercharger to get back up into comparable power.The GT will cost you more, with higher purchase price, premium fuel, lower mpgs, higher insurance cost, but those that have them talk about the thrill of lift so much that if you really want to be able to zoom then you may be disappointed in the base. Power vs. cost is a tough compromise. GT owners will tell you that the increased cost is worth it. When I went to buy mine, I deliberately refused to test drive a GT, because I was afraid that I would want one, and wanted to not be tempted. No regrets so far.The GT has rear disk brakes which are supposed to be better, but someone reported here somewhere that the parking brake worked better with the base's rear drum brakes. I haven't had any stopping problems with the rear drums.Your local dealer should be able to check the inventory system and tell you where the nearest base is that meets your specs. You should try that to see if there is one around within a reasonable distance. The base was the best option for me, but for some others the GT is best. Cars cost a bunch of money, so get what you want. Whatever kind of Vibe you do get, I expect you will really like it.Quote »I have also read on your site ...it's your site too, welcome to genvibe

[Sub-Vibe-R]

Why not thinking about a base with SC???The cost will be almost the same then the GT, you'll get around the same HP but lot more low end torque then the GT.I know the SC on manual is not released yet (may be I'm wrong) but it will be very shortly.Plus you will save few penny on your insurace, because you're driving a base and not a GT.

[Faultline]

I think that it has been covered, but simply put...you will not get better power from the gt below 6krpm..all the gt extra power is at the top end. Based on what you have stated, you might be happeir with the 5 spd...but then again you might find it addicting to drive over 6k rpm

[bellwilliam]

I am one of the few Vibe owners here that gets consistentely below 25mpg, I am extremely disappointed. I get almost the same mileage with my other 6 cylinder minivan. and yes, I always get over city EPA with every car I own, and I own 7 cars right now. I have base / auto, I regret it very much that I did not get a GT. Every Camry / Accord on the street can out drag me. includes almost all the minivan. Get the GT !!

[vibe owner]

Base and GT engines are quite different -- same displacement, but GT has bigger bore, shorter stroke, different rear gear ratio, etc. Adding the supercharger is currently for base automatic transmission only. Maybe Pontiac worries about the clutch too? I try to remember to do low-rev starts and very gradual engage. More low-end torque, flywheel, beefier clutch would be improvements. But I love my GT, and probably wouldn't feel the same about a base 5-speed.My 2003 GT gets low 30's on the highway (mid-30's infrequently in summer only) and considerably less in town.

[Craigmri]

When we bought our Base 5-speed we also tested an '03 GT. To be honest I didnt notice any difference in power untill I hit the high notes. My wife and I both agreed we never drive like that so the better gas mileage and lower insurance made it a no brainer for us. No offense to Vibe owners whether it be base or GT but Vibes arent sports cars....They're just not fast so be honest. if I wanted a fast car I'da got something with over 225 horsepower.I think its a matter of perception here......The Vibe is such a sweet vehicle and drives so good it lulls you into a feeling of sportyness and you forget what it really is.....an Economy car........a real nice one though.

[joatmon]

Have you looked at the Matrix? Maybe there is one around that has the options you want.The Vibe and Matrix are effectively the same car. There are some minor differences. The Matrix rear windows provide a bit better visibility, the Toyota warranty is longer, the Matrix has no roof rack, there seem to be a lot more aftermarket parts for Matrix than Vibe. There are also factors like resale value based on badging, and dealer service familiarity with the vehicle.For me, the choice came down to appearance and individual dealers. I prefer the look of the Vibe (a lot more than should really matter), and had some bad times at the local Toyota dealers. Not trying to say you should buy a Matrix instead of a Vibe, but that since it's the same car, you should at least consider it, and if you do get a Matrix, you're still welcome here.

[Reynoma]

I own a GT. If I were to do it all over again, I would still stick with the GT. I get about 29/30 miles to the gallon in mixed driving. My clutch is fine. I drove the base 5-speed and the GT when purchasing. I would stick with the GT for the long run, it will be the most satisfying.

[Faultline]

Quote, originally posted by Craigmri »When we bought our Base 5-speed we also tested an '03 GT. To be honest I didnt notice any difference in power untill I hit the high notes. My wife and I both agreed we never drive like that so the better gas mileage and lower insurance made it a no brainer for us. No offense to Vibe owners whether it be base or GT but Vibes arent sports cars....They're just not fast so be honest. if I wanted a fast car I'da got something with over 225 horsepower.I think its a matter of perception here......The Vibe is such a sweet vehicle and drives so good it lulls you into a feeling of sportyness and you forget what it really is.....an Economy car........a real nice one though.you know, you are telling my story here...I bought the vibe for practicality, reliability, and economy...but it was so fun to drive....and I guess that I could not let go of the sportyness...soooooomy solution was a turbocharger!

[Craigmri]

Turbo?....SaWeet!Have you had that thing dyno'd?

[Faultline]

Quote, originally posted by Craigmri »Turbo?....SaWeet!Have you had that thing dyno'd?yes , a couple of times at 2 different places..the 1st was 210hp to the wheels , and the 2second was 194hp.....why athe diff? i dont know , but maybe air temp , elevation ...boost setting...anyway, some where around 200hp to the ground I have had it on for nearly a year with about 13k miles on it....it is way fun!

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[Craigmri]

The million dollar question......How much and have you spanked a GT with it yet?

[Faultline]

Quote, originally posted by Craigmri »The million dollar question......How much and have you spanked a GT with it yet?On the street i have only raced a matrix xr that is our car, or close to it ,poor guy...didnt know what hit him...no vibe gt though...I kinda dont want to , its like we're on the same team or something ...but to put things in perspective, i beat a celica gt-s at the track by a half a second, and he had a new intake and exhaust...I beat a brand new pontiac garand prix v6, new mustang v6,1.8T golf, hundai tiberon v6..bunches of hondas...even a acura rsx-s..i have lost to g35 coupe which is 280hp at the crank..a 350z and an srt-4...awd audi something..those awd cars will hit 1.8 or 1.9 at the 60ft and i am out there dancing my way at 2.5 ,2.6 at the 60ft...oh well , its all fun anyway l have found that launching a fwd turbo car is not easy, and I am kind of relieved to hear that that is common

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[Craigmri]

What times are you turning in the 1/4?

[Mavrik]

I test drove the Vibe GT but settled for the Vibe 5spd. I have driven a 5 spd all my life and 6 gears did not set comfortable with me. Plus the lower insurance and better fuel economy won me over. I'm more into looks then power and from what I have experienced with my new Vibe, the GT seems to be all the same. It is true about the 6000 rpms required to get that extra 35% horse power experience in the GT. But the 5spd Vibe has a very good amount of power to it all the same. As for actual fuel economy of the 5spd Vibe... I'm still on my first tank of fuel heh. I have 150km on the car and the tank is just around 3/4 full.

[AKLGT]

hmmm. i have an '03 gt and love it. i test drove all the models adn just didn't like the lag in the base models and especially the awd. now, from my understanding there are a few things you can do to help increase low end torque, mid range hp. i have a cai and it makes the driving more fun. i am also looking to get a chip soon and see how much that improves teh low end torque etc. all in all, i'd go with the gt. you will be happier for the future if you like more power. if you don't care, then go for the base.

[4X4CHICHI]

I test drove both, gt's rule. my insurance cost was like $20.22 more a year, woopty poop. live a little.

[Faultline]

Quote, originally posted by Craigmri »What times are you turning in the 1/4?15's ...15 flat is my best which I know isn't great, but the track is LACR, which is 3k ft elevation...elevation adjustment would put me about .6 faster, but one of my biggest problems is my 60ft times..with thsoe two things solved, I should be ablel to knock off a full second...I have seen stock celica gt's run low 17's at this track...anyway I am way off topic...

[goodvibe]

Faultline, I don't race but I'ld make an exception just to see your baby run. I'm sure I'ld have a great view of you out of my GTs windshield.