Like Franc said, the TPM has a battery.
I was told (by somebody in the know) that the batteries in these things are supposed to last 8 years. But they're batteries, and I would think temp and moisture would play into how long each one lasts. Maybe even one too many chuck holes could take its toll on their longevity as well.
My car was built in January 04, so it's just over 7 years old, and my TPM started glowing in August. I just figured it was the battery.
Since the base cars seem to do fine with no monitors, I can too. Besides, the light is hidden by the steering wheel anyway.
The car's title dictates what year the car is, it doesn't matter if the car was manufactured in 04 or 05, it's still titled an 05.
I like both colors, if the SSB has a good Carfax, I'd probably go with it. Just assuming the "Lady" owned one may have been driven just a little easier. But that's not always the case.