[blue2000s]

Drove Panameras, 991s and 981s on track today.

Panameras are very capable but boring. I suppose the performance should impress me, but I just don't care. The 991 and 991S are very close in engine performance. The extra 50hp is very hard to feel. Grip is fantastic. Boxsters are very solid and the balance is fantastic. All the new cars sound great. What an improvement in engine music both inside and outside of the car. PDK is impressive and it's nice to not have to worry about shifting on the track, but the loss of involvement isn't worth it. The 981 is even bigger sitting next to a 986 than pictures show. The 986 looks graceful and purposeful next to the hefty 981. The electric assist steering in both new cars, I don't care what they tell you, is more numb and lighter effort.

The new interiors are WAY too overstyled. Too much jewelry, too many unnecessary angles and creases. Seating position is nice and the seats are hard but feel great though.

There's no comparison, the 986 is much more communicative and connected. The new cars are fast and capable but clearly more isolated from the road, for a fun car on the road, NO contest, 986 hands down.