[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.

[slowTA]

I'm thinking the Astra might be worth at least a test drive too, but I have to stick to my original plan and at least test drive a G8. I'm sure the Astra is about half the price. The downside to any Saturn is that they don't honor the points from my GM card. I don't have much now but 2 years ago I got a mailer from GM doubling my points, and it doubled the amount you can take off of a new car. Fortunately I was able to transfer it all to take $3k off my mom's trailblazer.

I got a voice mail from the GTO salesman today... and had to talk myself out of calling him back.

[Teutonic Speedra...]

I got a voice mail from the GTO salesman today... and had to talk myself out of calling him back.

They are hurting....I'm sure he'll call back again. I test drove a Tundra about 6+ months ago, and he still occasionally calls me to see if I'm ready yet even though I told him I wouldn't consider buying it until I get a house next year and my commute gets cut in 1/3. Some are so persistant.