Love U 2 KAT
Vette,
The weight on the VX is prolly because of the full boxed frame. You're not gonna shave any significant weight off of a VX unless you REALLY think outsid the box - like tearing it all the way down and replace the frame with a custom built aluminum frame (which would be even stiffer and more prone to cracking). The bottom line is: don't get the VX if you want an economical car.
As far as parts availability - some may be hard to find but if you're diligent and willing to put in the time, you'll be able to keep a VX operational for another 10 years without much problem. The primary concern with parts availability is if you are ever in an accident; the insurance company will probably total the VX even if you don't think it should be. There have been numerous examples of that in recent months.
The locking hubs were mainly put on by certain members who are trying to improve gas mileage/decrease front end wear/set up for towing. There won't be any performance benefits (unless you like doing donuts in snowy parking lots).
If you REALLY want to get hooked on the VX, go to the Download Section here on the forum. We put together a digital picture frame for Moncha back at Christmas. It's a zip file of about 700 pictures of members VX's. It'll take about an hour to look through them all.
BTW - I've seen the other Gregg's Proton. It is mint & very impressive. He & rickshaw have the cleanest rigs of any on the forum.
Don't be afraid to shop for a VX from a distance. I got mine from MO & live in VA. You should be able to get one of our members to check out any that you find & let you know if it's worth it. It only cost about $1K to have mine delivered.
Tom