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Chris - you make good points. I have driven a few PDK cars as well, and I came to the conclusion in every case that yes it is faster, and more capable. At times I am sure it is more fun too, since you can focus on other aspects of driving.
But, and it's an interesting note: As a more recent manual driver, even I am having so much fun just physically moving the gear shifter around, learning heel-toe, learning to properly downshift, etc.
I have a BMW with paddle shifters as well - 335i. It's definitely fun at times, but the manual gives you that physical interaction that honestly the PDK cannot replace. So I see why people still like manuals. There is a reward element in doing a nice downshift and shifting smoothly.
Aside from that, PDK is definitely superior technically.
Honestly a manual works great in my base Boxster and in the newer Porsche base cars I have driven. When I do eventually go to PDK, I think for me it needs 2 things to keep it exciting: An "S" version of the car, and the sports chrono pack so you can get the faster shifts in sport plus mode. That way it gives you a new level of speed and excitement.
Otherwise, the manual really makes great and fun cars out of even the most seemingly underpowered Porsches.
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