I don't find it odd at all (taking the tax credit off).
Unless the potential buyer is going to get hit up with the AMT (which as we know - IS possible), they WILL get it if they buy a new Civic. Of course, then, the car would also be NEW
This is different for the Prius, as Toyota has sold enough hybrids so that the (potential) tax credit is now shrinking.
One thing on your side is that these hybrids seem to retain their value quite well. I would think you could sell it for $20K in San Diego. You've hit a slight lull on the demand-side, I think. As gas prices creep up, maybe $21.5 isn't out of the question - IF demand outstrips availability again. Now - if it's got HOV-lane stickers - I'd advertise that! Some people in California go ga-ga over that *feature*.