Observations on my new 997S v prior 996

[Joe997SCab]

This post has a longish lead-in but the point is to ask the group whether they can relate to my 2 observations at the end.   

I just traded up to an '06 997S Cab (San Diego porsche dealer) from a 30k mile super clean '99 996 Cab.  I had bought the 99 expecting it to be a Friday and weekend car only but I could never bring myself to drive the Acura again except in rain.    So after 1 yr I sold my Acura rl and 99 996 and put 20k on top to buy the 997S primarily bc I find the 996 interior dated, frontend a bit homely, love the 19s on the 997 and most important wanted cpo.   The 997S has 11k miles, CPO, Bose, PSE, sports shift, full leather, xenons, basalt black over tan.  I paid 62K and hopefully you tell me I didn't get fleeced.  

Anyway, the 997S is clearly faster, handles much better ESP w sports suspension on, interior is gorgeous by comparison, Bose stereo is RIDICULOUS ( although I only turn on for a minute at a time so I can listen to the whine of the car and exhaust) and the lines are much prettier than the 996 ( oh and the 19s :) ).    I think I love the PSE (hard not to keep it on all the time and do like to unplug the 35-55 cutout on weekends) but it does tie in to one of the two things I like less about the 997.  

Things I like less

- I feel I don't hear the whine of the engine and transmission nearly as much on the race up to redline.   Even w the PSE off, I just don't feel like the mechanicals sound/feel as primal as on my 996.  Anyone else relate or am I crazy?   

- on a similar note, I feel like the speed/acceleration is so effortless that it is removed from the drivers more somehow.   Press the gas and effortless speed.   So, although the steering/suspension is worlds better, it doesn't feel as connected in accelerating/running through the revs. Again, can anyone relate?

Overall, I am so happy and would make the upgrade in a second (and what a joke that I have any complaints bc I now have owned my dream car twice over).   

Thoughts?  Thanks

[HassaanAbdeen]

- I feel I don't hear the whine of the engine and transmission nearly as much on the race up to redline. Even w the PSE off, I just don't feel like the mechanicals sound/feel as primal as on my 996. Anyone else relate or am I crazy?

First, congratulations for the major upgrade!

Second, only a Cayman or Boxster can fulfill the excitement you seek in a Porsche. You need a mid-engine to roar in your ears and vibrate behind your back to live this experience.

[PAULSPEED]

Yes you are crazy!!!

Take the car to the track. Open the windows and drive as fast as

you can. You will be connected to the sound very soon.

The acceleration pedal is a no brainer. Either you are full on or

full off. Take a Driver's Education event at the track and feel the fun!!!

Paul