Goodbye 997.2, hello 991
Traded in my 997.2 w/ SPASM and PDK for a 991 w/ SPASM and PDK, had the car now for 2 weeks and figured I'd share some of my thoughts on the differences between the two. Will attach a couple pics since they are already out on the internet thanks to some friends (I value my privacy, hence my typical lurking here on Rennteam).
In the two weeks I've had the car it's survived tornadoes and hail, and then two days later six inches of snow, been some crazy weather here in KY. Still have managed to get ~500 miles on the car. I picked the car off the lot so it didn't have everything I would have spec'd and a couple things I wouldn't (sunroof being one of 'em). But the dealer gave me a very good deal on my trade-in and the car, so not too difficult a choice.
Looks: subjective of course but I do like the new car as it's very modern looking. After first seeing the pics I wasn't convinced, but in the metal it does make the 997.2 look a bit out-dated and boring. However, I can understand how the 997.2 has a little more of the 'classic' 911 look and appeal from a visual perspective. I plan to black out the Porsche lettering on the back at some point. The only line I'm not sold on is the line sweeping across the width of the rear of the car.
Interior: certainly a step up from a quality perspective. Being 6'4" there is definitely more leg room and head room than my previous car. I actually have to move the seat up to get in my preferred driving position. My only beef with the rising console is my right knee really doesn't have any where to go, a tad annoying if you are tall.
Engine / Drivetrain: this to me is the biggest seller of the car. The engine just feels so much more lively than my 997.2 did. The programming of the PDK is also far superior, seems more immediate than the 997.2. Having sports exhaust is also a must in my opinion, it really shows the character of the engine and car. Love the pops and crackles, it's just a wonderful sound they have engineered.
Handling: not the best driver in the world, but drove my old car hard on some country roads day before picking up the 991 and then drove it on same roads next day. As all the hacks have mentioned turn-in is certainly improved and the car feels more planted. Don't have a track outing planned till June so can't really speak to 'on the limit' handling. You can certainly tell it has a wider front track.
Steering feel: disappointing, again not best driver but to me some of the character of the 911 has been filtered out. While I like that the steering wheel doesn't tug when driving on uneven roads or jolt when hitting a big bump / hole, I do find myself missing some of the 'nervousness'. I realize that statement is somewhat contradictory, but I think they did filter out too much. Driving at speed the car is wonderful, but even at low speeds driving home from work my old car had a bit of life to it that the new car is missing. I'm curious to see as I drive the car more if my perception changes or not, but I hope the GT3's steering is a little more raw.
Some pics, they are Iphone pics so sorry for the quality, I think it's an RC approved color. Yes I missed an opportunity when I didn't back into the space with my old car for a comparison...Pic with turbo is a buddy who has a very tuned 996 turbo. I also have a very blocky, white head as you may see below.