Yeah, PD150 manifold is pretty good. Also nice because you can bolt VNT-15/17 turbos on there and have no clearance issues. Also, it will always be worth something if you decide to sell later down the road.
Still researching a vacuum pump delete scenario. Power brakes are overrated!
Won't you still need vacuum to actuate servos in your HVAC system? My '79 Rabbit didn't have power brakes, but still had a vacuum pump for HVAC purposes.