When I drive the bug dad told me the same thing, brakes are cheaper than a new clutch setup. This is true...I don't like using the clutch to downshift that car regularly just becuase since it is so light...it jerks you around a lot...the benz's...I dunno.
Compression braking is nice at times but I still like rolling up slow in stickshifts and not really having to stop at all!
I have the bug driving down to the point that I can roll to a stop sign, and take off in 1st gear without even using the clutch or stalling...amazing huh? haha
and I ALMOST come to a complete stop...more than I normally would
I don't know...in a car you plan to work on yourself, and don't know its past history, I would take care of it unless you like ripping things apart and replacing, whatnot..
Something you know bumper to bumper, tire to piston? I'd do however you please and what you THINK is good for your car...
Then again...a VW engine can be pulled, clutch replaced, and back in the car in a matter of minutes for the average well learned VW owner
2 bolts, 2 nuts, 3 cables, 3 hoses, a few screws, a few wires (depends on year and modifications ), a jack+jostling and a VW engine is on the ground..
lovely cars