The first gen Prius cells just aren't as good as the second gen versions, although apparently the second gen cells can be used in a first gen. I think that more than anything sitting w/o being driven is hard on NiMH packs. The only other thing I can think of as a reason to buy a second gen Prius is that the first gen trans isn't quite as robust. But at that age, and driven leisurely after a trans fluid drain/refill, I think you would be fine. I think rmay has some good advice. Get something from the bank showing that they won't give you the loan because the sales price is too high. Give the dealer the bank's number, and tell them you want the car, and if they want to sell it, work out a purchase price that's acceptable to the bank. The dealer should still make money off the car, the bank will make money off the loan, and you should get a decent car.
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