Clutch take up should be smooth as butter - it is in my car. In fact, I find it much more satisfying and linear than in my boss's new BMW M3.

What the Limited lacks in straight line acceleration it more than makes up for in cornering ability. I have personally chased down and passed Spec Miata racers on R-Compound tires on a race track, and I can't drive like Jenson Button. Braking is phenomenal in these cars as well. But not once have I felt a desperate need for more power when driving on the street with mine.

Otherwise:

1) Generally, how easy is it to mod this thing to go (somewhat) faster than stock? As per other's responses
2) Parts availability for the aftermarket? As per other's responses
3) Cost and demand of routine maintenance (i.e., is it more like a Chrysler, or an Alfa Romeo with a opiate addiction)? It's a Mercedes Benz, through and through.
4) General reliability of the breed? Bought mine 3 years and two days ago - not a hint of trouble
5) And most importantly, how would you feel about buying a former rental car? If this one is 5 years old, going on 6 real soon, has been privately owned by two others and only has 27k on the clock, how much rental use did it get? I don't think I'd be overly concerned, just have it checked out very thoroughly. That clutch description you gave bothers me as well.