Getting close to the limit? Chose function over form and get PSM over the 18" wheels and Bose stereo. You can upgrade the wheels and stereo later after living with your care for awhile. You can use the time to look at other 996's to see how their stereos and wheels turned out.

You don't need bad weather to lose traction. Situations such as emergency accident avoidance maneuvers, oil, dirt and other road debris can conspire to put you into a spin or worse. PSM also gives you a sense of security in a RWD car with 60% of its weight on the wrong end.

 

i like that advice... its so interesting to hear all the different perspectives on this board. respectfully, the response i have gotten are not very consistent for some options (like PSM) - but that is what makes the board a cool source of info...so many different opinions.

1. 18 inch wheels - does anyone have pics of a car with 17 inch wheels? these dont really seem like a "form" option, but rather a function option needed for this car. wont it be very expensive to try to add these later?

2. PSM - done deal, I am adding it.

3. Xenons - done deal, they are in

4. Stereo - I would skip the BOSE, but my understanding is that with the optic set up now standard on the 996, makes it VERY difficult to upgrade later...so might as well get the best now?

5. Sport chasis - getting it...for $700 seems a good deal

6. PSE - going to wait and do some kind of exhaust upgrade later aftermarket.

7. Interior - standard leather works for me...sat in a standard leather car last weekend, and although I could tell the difference, on a black interior, wasnt much of a difference to me. I am going to do the aluminum shift **** and brake handle though...because I hate the stock shifter - feels wimpy in my hand

Now I just have to find a dealer that will offer me a sweet deal on the car, and I am in...

 

Where are you located man?? I might know a dekaer or two in your area

 

i am in dallas, TX....but would be willing to travel to pick up car...i dont care which dealer i buy from, as long as in the US.

ideally, in town would be nice for the service relationship, but i am open...

 

give Bruce Harnish at Beechmont Porsche a call and tell him I sent you
http://www.beechmontporsche.com/

 

XSD, without a doubt (seat adjustment ***** in leather).
Can't live without them (OK no I don't have these).

Seriously, I'd strongly recommend heated seats because they can't be added later, aren't too expensive, and will almost make your spouse happy that you just spent $80K on a Porsche (got 'em).

PSM is a huge "can't-add-it-later" item, is fairly non-intrusive, and may save your **** more than once (got it, $$ tho).

I LIKE the newer Turbo-esque wheels on the 996 - classic design but big and light, too (got C-18's).

Full leather is noticeably better for lighter interiors - not as obvious w/ black (got it, $$, but I LIKE it). And deviating carpet is like an insurance policy for light interiors...pay now, or pay more to replace it in a few years.

Everything else on your list is right on the money.

HANDY TIP: Don't buy "regional" options. I bought my "keeper" C2 when I lived in the desert, but now I live near Tahoe again...sure glad I got the PSM, Xenons, rear wiper, self-dimming/rain sensor, heated seats, etc!

Cheers,
-DT