Am (semi) seriously looking into trading for a 2009 GT2. I have used the search function and read multiple pages of threads, but have some quick questions to try and tie everything together in my mind:

1: Any major differences between the 2008 and 2009 model year version?

2: When getting a 'tune' on the car, is it absolutely necessary to replace the OEM titanium exhaust? I ask because everytime I've replaced an OEM exhaust in the past I've never been happy since I am very bothered by 'drone'?

3: What can one reliably expect from a 'tune' having to use 91 octane, which is the best in my area unfortunately unless you head to the track?

4: This would be my DD for about 4 months until the weather starts to turn bad again. The roads here are crappy; mostly broken up concrete and lots of potholes. Is this then going to be a disaster waiting to happen re: broken rims, etc. and would the ride be extreme?

5: For the road course, can you simply dial in an aggressive track oriented alignment and be highly satisfied with the handling?

6: Anyone have any recommendations re: track wheel/tire package suggestions?

7: The car has the Adaptive seats instead of the more highly bolstered, fixed seat back ones, (sorry, I'm blocking on their name at the moment). Are these useful on the track or is switching them out (almost) mandatory?

8: Is a harness bar/belts able to work with the Adaptive seats, or should I have a roll bar installed?

9: Am I going to kill myself? lol

Any help appreciated as in order to potentially get the car I'd have to be trading/selling my beloved 2008 CLK BS, and I would hate to make a huge mistake since mine is one of the very best in the country with only 3300 miles on it.

Bish

 

PCM updated to 3.0

You can replace the cats, but you may limit your power output by overall diameter of the tubing.

I don't go by dyno numbers, but you should expect trap times at or above 130.

The OEM wheels are cast - and very strong. It would take a significant impact to bend or damage it. I'd be more worried about your dental bill from rattled teeth and the stiffer suspension.

Subjective. Proper alignment always improves handling.

Subjective depending on whether or not you want dedicated wheel/tires.

They are very comfortable, but nearly 65lbs each. Compared to the GT2 buckets which are around 30lbs lighter each.

You should not install a harness bar without a full roll bar if you are using multipoint seating harnesses. If you roll, the harness will hold you in place as the roof gets crushed. Putting in race seats and harnesses and then a harness bar without any roll protection is just a bad idea.

 

Make sure you go on a good road test first,,the firm ride may really surprise you.