Alpine IVA-D105 or JVC KD-AVX44

[msanford]

I'm trying to choose between the Alpine IVA-D105 and the JVC KD-AVX44.

The Alpine is seemingly the superior choice, but it's also 200 $ more expensive. I don't care for the ugly interface design of the Alpine either (it looks like the old computer screen's built-in "adjust brightness and contrast" menu, yuk).

I am weary, though, of the JVC for two reasons: (1) they've made a name for themselves in home electronics, but not car A/V and (2) that button-less touch-screen interface looks like it might not be great for long (cold weather, fingerprints, electro-static interface getting shakey over time). Also, the screen is much smaller, but it's not the end of the world.

I'll be using it for iPod interface more than anything, but I'll definitely make use of the DivX and DVD player (point for the JVC with a small screen?)

Any suggestions, especially from those who have actually used one (I tried out the models in Best Buy but it's just not the same)?

Side question: how does the park sensor work on a manual transmission (i.e., cuts video if not in park)? I don't want a DIY workaround to disable that, because where I live it's a 2000 $ fine and 90-day suspension for having a device capable of producing video to the driver while not parked. (Hearesay from someone else.)

PS I don't have plans to upgrade any other part of the audio system at this time (amp & speakers are stock). Some day, when I have more money.