I understand what ABS is, and that it could malfunction, but I wouldn't think it could cause the brake to quit working altogether. Which I think is what OP is saying. IDK either man, just doesn't sound right.
I just buy one that's middle of the road. No snake oil and no fram. I figure that'll cover me well enough, and imo it's not worth putting much thought into.
I've seen enough mud smeared on the Fram name to be wary though. Can't speak to its truth.
I double clutch when making big downshifts, like from 6 to 3 or 4 to 2. Not necessary but I feel it helps prolong the synchronizers.
Now my Miata I double clutch almost every downshift and the 1 to 2 upshift. Synchronizers on that car are pretty worn out. Too many people learned to drive...
FWD for a DD.
Realities: It's not a race car and I don't drive it like one (most of the time!). I also don't take it off-road or try to drive during Snow-pocalypse. Not trying to impress anyone with my DD while still in school. Married, so I don't really need to impress anyone anyway...
They're absolute **** as a DD. Slow, poor mpg, relatively unreliable compared to an econo or mid-sized car of similar value.
The Jeep guys are gonna say that Jeeps of that vintage are reliable... but that's the Jeep guys.
That said, if it's not a DD go for it. I wouldn't hesitate to get one...