Jerry Ku

Take a month or so and do some research on the Prius. It sounds like jumping on it right now would be emotional. Do some research on the Prius (or any car) before you buy. Make sure you know what you're getting into. Learn about the car, as it's different enough to warrant more research.
Cheers!
Jack

Keep in mind, demand of the Prius drops a couple of hundred dollars in the winter because 1) winter blend = cheaper gas, which means lower demand for fuel efficient cars, and 2) in the winter, hybrids get worse gas mileage. People tend to get emotional about gas prices and dump their cars when they think it isn't matching up with their expectations.

This one sold for 7400, which I think is probably about right:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2005-Toyota-Prius-LOW-MILES-NO-RESERVE-CLEAN-CARFAX-/130800309611?pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item1e744e556b#ht_500wt_1182

Here's a quick ebay search on Prius prices via eBay:
http://motors.completed.shop.ebay.com/Cars-Trucks-/6001/i.html?MotorsShowItems&_qfkw=1&_fspt=0&_flso=0&_sop=Year_ASC&Model%20Year=2005&Model=Prius&_dmpt=US_Cars_Trucks&LH_Complete=1&_fpos=77098&_myi=2005&Make=Toyota&guest=1

That Prius seems very high. Keep shopping and compare prices. You'll start to see a pattern in about a month or so of searching. IMO, a touring version of that car with leather might be worth $8k.
Good luck!
Cheers!
Jack