I had a few minutes to test drive a 981S today. My primary goal was to compare the 981 suspension choices to my current 987S on 19s. There was no X73 available at my local dealer, but he had a PASM equipped car on 20s. In sport mode, it was actually a little more supple than my current car. There seems to be lot more sound deadening material in the new car, as a lot of the engine noise and tire noise I have become accustomed to has disappeared. I don't mind that too much, but it was a little less involving somehow.

The electronic handbrake is a real disappointment, and the hydraulic steering is going to be missed, although it is not a dealbreaker. However, their opening offer was 3% off MSRP for a July build, so I think that's positive.