Did I Miss Something?
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From: Arizona
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Did I Miss Something?
I am the kid on the commercial sitting at his desk dreaming about Porsche. Now that I can afford one, I decided to give it a test drive. Keep in mind, I want to want this car so bad. In the short ten minute test drive of a 2006 C2 manual, I just did not get it. I was not wowed by much. The interior just did not feel all that great to me. The thin, hard steering wheel was not what I expected to wrap my hands around. Easily exchangeable, but for a car at this price, I should not have to. The feel, interior/exterior sound, excelleration and being kinda lurchy between gears was just not what I had hoped for. Am I a V8, torquey? (M6ish or possibly new M3 -heavy, quiet interior, creature features, plush) - kind of guy? Does anyone feel the same way I unfortunately currently do? One side of me says, go buy something like an E55 and another side says give this car a chance. I hear owners say they love their car more and more with each drive. Do I need more time behind the wheel to appreciate what Porsche has to offer? I don't need a daily driver, have an Expedition for that. I want something that is fast and fun to drive on sunny days and treks back and forth to the grocery store, etc. Please tell me that I just did not have enough time. I have loved these cars for most of my life and have a great opportunity to buy a preowned 2005 C2. Love the look, just want to enjoy driving it as much as I do looking at it. Thanks for anything you can offer.
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Joined: Mar 2007
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From: Hinsdale, Illinois
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You might want to give the dealer notice that you need the car for a day or two (the weekend) for a real chance to know if you like it or not.
When I first drove a Porsche over 3 years ago, I had mixed feelings like you. I was crossed between the raw power and handling, in the confined quarters with little to no "creature comforts" by todays standards.
Yet, I was drawn to the style, look and elegance of the body. The fact it had little to no "creature comforts" was not a big negative, as I had the main needs: A/C, a good radio/cd, and heated seats for the Chitown weather. Over time, I learned to appreciate the ride and handling of the car. The power and speed I also appreciated as time went on. In addition, I realized that the Porsche is not for everyone. I learned this the hard way.
I fell out of love with my Porsche and bought a Vette. I loved the lines of the car and the raw horsepower. Fast forward less than two years later, and I am back in the Porsche (997 C4S). Why????? I missed the handling, the power and control, and I honestly felt more comfortable (from a seating perspective, as I am 5'11, about 212 lbs).
Hope this helps you.
When I first drove a Porsche over 3 years ago, I had mixed feelings like you. I was crossed between the raw power and handling, in the confined quarters with little to no "creature comforts" by todays standards.
Yet, I was drawn to the style, look and elegance of the body. The fact it had little to no "creature comforts" was not a big negative, as I had the main needs: A/C, a good radio/cd, and heated seats for the Chitown weather. Over time, I learned to appreciate the ride and handling of the car. The power and speed I also appreciated as time went on. In addition, I realized that the Porsche is not for everyone. I learned this the hard way.
I fell out of love with my Porsche and bought a Vette. I loved the lines of the car and the raw horsepower. Fast forward less than two years later, and I am back in the Porsche (997 C4S). Why????? I missed the handling, the power and control, and I honestly felt more comfortable (from a seating perspective, as I am 5'11, about 212 lbs).
Hope this helps you.
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Joined: Mar 2006
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You don't need to make excuses ,or feel bad about what you think .
A pure Sports car (such as Porsche or Ferrari ) is not for everyone.
If you want a plush "sporty" car, try the Mecedes SL .
They are very comfortable, much quieter,basically a two seat limousine,
have plenty of power and still give you a "sporty" feeling when you drive it .
My wife loves hers.
A pure Sports car (such as Porsche or Ferrari ) is not for everyone.
If you want a plush "sporty" car, try the Mecedes SL .
They are very comfortable, much quieter,basically a two seat limousine,
have plenty of power and still give you a "sporty" feeling when you drive it .
My wife loves hers.
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Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Edgewater, MD
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Different kind of speed
Depends on what you think is fun. If you want instant on, snap your head back fun, a Corvette is for you. This is certainly fun, but I wanted a bit more involvement when I want to go fast. The Corvette is a great car, and handles much better than it used to. I can't knock them. The Mercedes are also great cars with big V8's.
But for me, I appreciate working the car, working the revs, and that is what I enjoyed about my M3, and my S2000. Both were very involving cars to drive. The Porsche is just more of the same. The guys with the older Porsche can tell you that those cars require much more drive input to keep them on the road. The newer cars have much more safety built in for average drivers like me.
Do I wish Porsche gave me more torque, sure, but I like this car, and frankly, should I want more power for my C4, I can get a supercharger from EVOMS, or trade up down the road.
Get what makes you happy.
For the moment, this car keeps a smile on my face. I smile everytime I step down into it, and turn the key.
But for me, I appreciate working the car, working the revs, and that is what I enjoyed about my M3, and my S2000. Both were very involving cars to drive. The Porsche is just more of the same. The guys with the older Porsche can tell you that those cars require much more drive input to keep them on the road. The newer cars have much more safety built in for average drivers like me.
Do I wish Porsche gave me more torque, sure, but I like this car, and frankly, should I want more power for my C4, I can get a supercharger from EVOMS, or trade up down the road.
Get what makes you happy.
For the moment, this car keeps a smile on my face. I smile everytime I step down into it, and turn the key.
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I know where you are coming from. I had an '04 E55 modded to about 590 HP and about 650 lb/ft and running the 1/4 in the high 11's. I had never owned a sports car and quite frankly, never thought of getting one.
I have a company car and the E55 was my "fun" car. I drove a friends M5 and was amazed at how nimble that car was for a sedan. You can say a light bulb went off and I thought "Hmm, maybe if the E55 is treated like a sports car, maybe I should get a sports car".
I went to a porsche dealer and went for a test drive. It was your typical 10 minute drive around some congested streets (Huntington for you L.I.'s) and don't think I ever got the car out of 3rd gear. Even so, it was just so different from my E55 I was intrigued but needed more.
I contacted another dealer and told them up front I needed a real test drive. I drove to NJ and they actually had to take a C2S out of the showroom to let me drive it. I was with a salesguy and he let me drive first. I drove for about 35 minutes. Didn't beat on it as it wasn't my car but pushed it pretty good. They had a nice loop that we kept going on. We pulled over and he got in the drivers seat. Well, let me tell you - He beat the **** out of the car and had me like this
Maybe I shouldn't say "beat". He drove it the way it was supposed to be driven! he also drove for about 35 minutes. The handling, braking, steering, and overall feel just blew my mind.
I realized very quickly that there was a lot more fun to be had other than just standing on the gas pedal. Is the P car the fastest? No. Best handling? probably not. Best at any one thing? Not sure. But, for an overall package, it is very hard to beat. I think the fact that the 911 has been basically unchanged for so long, it's easily taken for granted.
I will admit that it took about two months for me to stop wondering if I had made a mistake. I found the more I drove it the better it got. It is an absolute joy to drive. My E55 would destroy it in a race, but it is not slow by any stretch. have it in the right gear and it pulls pretty hard. As far as fun factor goes, there is just no comparison.
If you had concerns about the interior that is easily fixed! Mind you it will cost you but I like the fact that I can custom order a car exactly as I want it. Not sure what options the car you drove had, but try to see a car with full leather, thicker wheel etc. You can argue a car costing this much should have all of this, but you can say that just about any car. Ever see some of the ferrari options!
Not sure what your coming from but only you'll know if it's for you or not and also what characteristics are important in a car. I'm expecting a TT in a few months but had I not ordered that I can tell you I could have been happy with the C2S for a long time and don't regret for a second, selling my E55 for the 997S.
Do try to get more seat time. I would even suggest contacting someone here who lives near you. I'm sure there is someone who would give you a ride.
I have a company car and the E55 was my "fun" car. I drove a friends M5 and was amazed at how nimble that car was for a sedan. You can say a light bulb went off and I thought "Hmm, maybe if the E55 is treated like a sports car, maybe I should get a sports car".
I went to a porsche dealer and went for a test drive. It was your typical 10 minute drive around some congested streets (Huntington for you L.I.'s) and don't think I ever got the car out of 3rd gear. Even so, it was just so different from my E55 I was intrigued but needed more.
I contacted another dealer and told them up front I needed a real test drive. I drove to NJ and they actually had to take a C2S out of the showroom to let me drive it. I was with a salesguy and he let me drive first. I drove for about 35 minutes. Didn't beat on it as it wasn't my car but pushed it pretty good. They had a nice loop that we kept going on. We pulled over and he got in the drivers seat. Well, let me tell you - He beat the **** out of the car and had me like this
Maybe I shouldn't say "beat". He drove it the way it was supposed to be driven! he also drove for about 35 minutes. The handling, braking, steering, and overall feel just blew my mind. I realized very quickly that there was a lot more fun to be had other than just standing on the gas pedal. Is the P car the fastest? No. Best handling? probably not. Best at any one thing? Not sure. But, for an overall package, it is very hard to beat. I think the fact that the 911 has been basically unchanged for so long, it's easily taken for granted.
I will admit that it took about two months for me to stop wondering if I had made a mistake. I found the more I drove it the better it got. It is an absolute joy to drive. My E55 would destroy it in a race, but it is not slow by any stretch. have it in the right gear and it pulls pretty hard. As far as fun factor goes, there is just no comparison.
If you had concerns about the interior that is easily fixed! Mind you it will cost you but I like the fact that I can custom order a car exactly as I want it. Not sure what options the car you drove had, but try to see a car with full leather, thicker wheel etc. You can argue a car costing this much should have all of this, but you can say that just about any car. Ever see some of the ferrari options!
Not sure what your coming from but only you'll know if it's for you or not and also what characteristics are important in a car. I'm expecting a TT in a few months but had I not ordered that I can tell you I could have been happy with the C2S for a long time and don't regret for a second, selling my E55 for the 997S.
Do try to get more seat time. I would even suggest contacting someone here who lives near you. I'm sure there is someone who would give you a ride.
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first time i ever driven a porsche was coming home with my 02 C4S. my test drive was 5 minutes and i was so excited to be in my dream car that i never left 2nd gear!
i sat in the garage after getting home and said to myself, "what a beautiful looking car", but why does drive so "shi***".
i didn't sleep for days. first, my dream car for 20 years was a bust. second, i could've bought all kinds of other cars!
as weeks went on. i suddenly realize that i am waiting for every opportunity to drive this car. the previously noted poor insulation now let's me hear that loud engine behind me. the previous stiff and poor ride now allows me to feel every part of the road. overall, the car just transformed back to the dream car again. unfortunately, the car reamins under power. this was eventually resolved with an upgrade to C2S.
anyhow, my wife still hates the car. i still wish it was not so loud when i have to be on the cell phone. i also miss the smooth "sporty" feeling from a M5 or even M3. i have concluded that i am not a true "porsche" person. but when i am in that mood, i would'nt trade the car for anything else. fortunately, i have a daily to suit the part of me that is not a true fan!!
try to drive it again, you never know!! good luck.
i sat in the garage after getting home and said to myself, "what a beautiful looking car", but why does drive so "shi***".
i didn't sleep for days. first, my dream car for 20 years was a bust. second, i could've bought all kinds of other cars!
as weeks went on. i suddenly realize that i am waiting for every opportunity to drive this car. the previously noted poor insulation now let's me hear that loud engine behind me. the previous stiff and poor ride now allows me to feel every part of the road. overall, the car just transformed back to the dream car again. unfortunately, the car reamins under power. this was eventually resolved with an upgrade to C2S.
anyhow, my wife still hates the car. i still wish it was not so loud when i have to be on the cell phone. i also miss the smooth "sporty" feeling from a M5 or even M3. i have concluded that i am not a true "porsche" person. but when i am in that mood, i would'nt trade the car for anything else. fortunately, i have a daily to suit the part of me that is not a true fan!!
try to drive it again, you never know!! good luck.
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Joined: Jul 2005
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From: North Pole
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Originally Posted by trovan
first time i ever driven a porsche was coming home with my 02 C4S. my test drive was 5 minutes and i was so excited to be in my dream car that i never left 2nd gear!
i sat in the garage after getting home and said to myself, "what a beautiful looking car", but why does drive so "shi***".
i didn't sleep for days. first, my dream car for 20 years was a bust. second, i could've bought all kinds of other cars!
as weeks went on. i suddenly realize that i am waiting for every opportunity to drive this car. the previously noted poor insulation now let's me hear that loud engine behind me. the previous stiff and poor ride now allows me to feel every part of the road. overall, the car just transformed back to the dream car again. unfortunately, the car reamins under power. this was eventually resolved with an upgrade to C2S.
anyhow, my wife still hates the car. i still wish it was not so loud when i have to be on the cell phone. i also miss the smooth "sporty" feeling from a M5 or even M3. i have concluded that i am not a true "porsche" person. but when i am in that mood, i would'nt trade the car for anything else. fortunately, i have a daily to suit the part of me that is not a true fan!!
try to drive it again, you never know!! good luck.
i sat in the garage after getting home and said to myself, "what a beautiful looking car", but why does drive so "shi***".
i didn't sleep for days. first, my dream car for 20 years was a bust. second, i could've bought all kinds of other cars!
as weeks went on. i suddenly realize that i am waiting for every opportunity to drive this car. the previously noted poor insulation now let's me hear that loud engine behind me. the previous stiff and poor ride now allows me to feel every part of the road. overall, the car just transformed back to the dream car again. unfortunately, the car reamins under power. this was eventually resolved with an upgrade to C2S.
anyhow, my wife still hates the car. i still wish it was not so loud when i have to be on the cell phone. i also miss the smooth "sporty" feeling from a M5 or even M3. i have concluded that i am not a true "porsche" person. but when i am in that mood, i would'nt trade the car for anything else. fortunately, i have a daily to suit the part of me that is not a true fan!!
try to drive it again, you never know!! good luck.
Byron
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From: New Jersey(outside Phila)
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OK,
Go to this site and watch some of the 997 vids. Especially number 12 in the 997 section. It compares the m6 to the am to the 997. Spend some more time in the car and than decide.
http://coochas.com/porsche/911vids.html
Go to this site and watch some of the 997 vids. Especially number 12 in the 997 section. It compares the m6 to the am to the 997. Spend some more time in the car and than decide.
http://coochas.com/porsche/911vids.html
