My twin boys were 2 when my current 997 was purchased and they are now 10 and though they still (barely) fit in the back seats they can only be comfortable for short rides. I am fortunate enough to have 3 other (two of which a Panamera and a modified Abarth that are fun to drive) cars that they do fit in and when they are with me we almost always end up leaving the 997 at home. I became a parent at a fairly old age and was told by many of my friends it does change your life and it certainly did in my case. When my boys are with me I could care less about fun driving, my mind is on keeping them safe.

 

The highway noise in Seattle is terribly loud on e46. It would only be worse on the 997. Does it bother you yet or do you find it acceptable?

 

I am with mr price. The p car is for personal fun, when kids are not around. Personal fun when kids around are with the kids!

 

If you want 4 doors, AWD, and a manual I would highly recommend finding a well maintained RS4. Best car I ever owned, besides the 997 of course :-) Sold it at 60k miles and had ZERO issues with it. Literally was as new when I sold it. No rattles, squeaks, suspension play, etc.. Great solid car and the engine/tranny are a thing of beauty.