GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

I am thinking about buying a 04 vibe gt mainly for the "fun to drive" option and the ability to haul our three dogs for long road trip (truck gets 17 mpg!) The car has moon/tunes, power package, and monotone paint. The dealer is asking 18,994 in central pennsylvania. Is this a good price? Also, I have read about some issues with the clutch in the GT. Should this deter me from buying the car? Also, what is the best way to lengthen the life of the clutch? Also, I get to teach the soon to be wife how to drive a standard. Thanks.

I have a base auto, and I get great mileage (average 31) and it is still fun to drive. The base motor, in my opinion, is better than the GT around town unless you rev over 6000RPM between stoplights. The difference in 0-60 times is only about a second (give or take), insurance isn't as much, and if you want to go fast, add the supercharger when you buy.Just my opinion.......