Hello again everyone,

Yes, I agree with the sentiments about tire choice in bad weather. My old E36 M3 had some Yokohama S-Drives that did not fare to well in the cold or the wet, especially after a year or so of driving on them. M3s tend to eat rear tires more quickly than the fronts, similar to the 996. Throwing some nice all-seasons or something similar to Blizzaks on there works wonders.

Dennis - thank you for that explanation of how the AWD system works on the various years. More than likely, I will be looking at the first generation of 996s since the second generation is likely a bit beyond my price range. I don't have any experience with Audi's AWD system, but I have thoroughly enjoyed the Subaru AWD on our Outback. It has done fantastic in all weather conditions throughout the years.

Here is another subjective question for you guys: how would you rate the stock stereo system? I'm no crazy bass fiend or anything, but I do enjoy a "robust" sounding stereo.

 

Blizzaks are best for winter. I used DWS as a compromise.

Stereo, pretty weak. The Bose option, pretty weak but less weak. You can live with it. Nothing stellar anyway.