I've been interested in a manual trans C for a couple years and finally took the plunge today and ordered a crazily-loaded V6. Just finding one to test drive was a challenge, but a local dealer has an executive pre-driven model for sale (but I didn't want black on black and no PASM). What it lacks in acceleration is more than made up for by being tossable and fun (at least for a 2 1/2 ton SUV). While a bit wanting right off the line, mid-range performance is pretty impressive and it drives much "smaller" than the specs would lead you to believe.

I wanted a GTS, but "someone" wanted more butt-friendly seats and a luxe wood interior. But I got my manual trans and PASM and a whole host of goodies. OK, so it cost as much as very well-equipped S, but still 20-30 less than a loaded GTS. Resale value will suck, but this will be a weekend hauler that we'll probably keep for a long time, so I don't care.

And now the wait begins! Supposedly I have a build date for mid-April, so late spring delivery is possible (but I'm not holding my breath).

I also have to put in a good word for Loeber Motors (Chicago area). They took care of me and didn't act like I had 2 heads when I said I wanted to order a 6 speed. And for those very few of us that like the idea of shift-yourself SUV, that exec model is available at a big discount.

 

Congrats! So what color combo?

 

Nice. I bet the stick is going to be fun.

 

I ordered the "controversial" (beautiful, "interesting" or hideous, depending on your take) olive green metallic (the lighter one), havanna/sand beige leather with Porsche crest in headrests, high-gloss light olive wood dash/steering wheel, aluminum instrument dials and the custom leather-bound matts. Exterior has side sills, sport exhaust tips, stainless steel F/R skid plates, and 18" Turbo wheels (our roads are so horrible and pothole-strewn, I was worried about 20s or 21s).

The overall effect was to look aggressive on the outside and luxe inside. Only cut a few corners: Went with PASM, but not PDCC; moonroof instead of panoramic; parking assist but not backup camera; and didn't cover everything in leather. Did go for PCM, Bose and XM but not rear seat DVD, since the rear compartment passengers won't be human, mostly.

I'm really psyched about this purchase, my first Porsche after a whole string of Benzes. Haven't had a manual since my 2001 SLK (which was a prime example of why MB should stick to automatics). I considered getting an ML550 or even an ML63 AMG, but the Cayenne is just more fun to drive despite the vast difference in acceleration. The build quality and trim component quality seems better on the Porsche, too. Time will tell.

 

Congratulations in advance.

 

Congrats. It looks nicely equipped but not over the top. Enjoy it and give us your impressions after driving it for a while.

 

i have driven the manual a bit and it was fun car. longer throw and slushier than my 4s but fun.

i also ordered a crazy V6 manual but buil dates screwed up etc and ended up with hp vs tranny. the other 1/2 looked and asked only one question - is it auto!

you should look at the dark wood option vs the light. i have seen a few cars in that combo and it really looks good.

i have the black piano and the contrast with the sand is sharp.

 

here is a link to one. i don't like the wood wheel but the rest is nice - better in person:

http://www.rennteam.com/showflat.php...&page=0#417789