Sorry to see you leave the Forum but congrats on the sale and the new ride!
I loved my 996 and it was a blast to own. I certainly didn't drive the 996 any slower than my Boxster. That 320hp is awful nice to have on tap and it seemed like such a waste not dipping into it often.
About 90% of what you learned about a Boxster is applicable to the 996. Just remember that the engine mounts are now in the back and the trans mounts are in the front!