I think the base GTs are a pretty good bargain, I have had a ton of fun with mine. I would never buy a loaded up GT near sticker, may as well just get into a GT500..
Agreed, I paid under 27k for my base GT, only option being the automatic. To me the amount of car we get for that price is awesome. I can't imagine paying close to 40k for a loaded up GT, that is ridiculous and no longer any type of bargain.