[slowTA]

I found a black on black, 6 speed, 18K mile, 2005 GTO locally and I'm very interested in it. I've read online that there are some suspension issues with the car, some parts are pretty odd and have to come from down under, they're almost the red headed step children of the service centers. I guess I'm asking if the problems are wide spread, only on the '04 models, or are exaggerated by 'internet information'.

While at the dealer I drove an '08 Malibu. The salesman (fellow gearhead) said it is such a better car than the previous versions that it shouldn't be called a Malibu. I agree. It has a great ride and more power than you would expect. It was raining so I didn't get a full appreciation for all the power. The transmission seemed to shift nicely (6 speed paddle shifted automatic) and wasn't clunky on the downshift, just kinda slow.

Also, when you search for GTO on this board it comes up empty. I found the post by 2000Z-71 because I remembered his GTO was hit by a suburban.

[CrashTestDummy]

I have a friend who owns a 2005(?) 6 spd. He loves it. He is a regular autocrosser (his wife is a multi-time FS champ), and has even autocrossed the car a couple of times. He says it makes an awesome DD, and he is quite pleased. He thinks it is a little heavy and under-tired for autocross, but can fill in in a pinch. The additional back seats are good for when he has to haul the kiddos to and from soccer practice (he claims to have the fastest Soccer-Mom-Mobile out there).

That weight is due to a lot of double-panels, which, while not really necessary here in the states, results in a very quite riding car. That, 400 HP, as you say, and upper-20s to 30's MPG, and you have a nice commuter car. I have been eyeing one for my daily commute, but would opt for an auto.

Other choices I have been thinking about:
Sky Redline
Solstice GXP
C6
LS*-powered Fbod.

Not necessarily in that order.