PDK: Experiences, test drives, opinions, issues

[CRCGuy]

I am a new member, currently looking to purchase an S (MY09 or 10).

I thought it would be nice to have a PDK thread. I didn't see anything during a search so moderators feel free to remove if there is one somewhere.

I will start with a recent test drive of a MY09 Boxster (both S and standard), both as a manual and PDK. No Sport Chrono.

My observations and thoughts from a test drive:

The Good:
-Boxster(S) with PDK is FAST! Believe the low 4-sec 0-60 times reported for S
-PDK makes the Boxster much faster--less reason for the extra $10k for the S
-Shifts are so fast they are nearly imperceptible--only the sound gives it away
-Zero loss of momentum during shifts (up or down)
-In auto mode, the brain picks the right gear every time even after hard braking
-In auto mode you can focus on driving--getting cornering/braking right
-Fuel economy will be slightly better with PDK
-Shift buttons on steering wheel are very ergonomic while hands are at 10 and 2

The Bad
-Shift buttons can only be used while hands are at 10 and 2
-You can't find the buttons whilst turning the wheel--needs paddles (or both)
-Using shift lever to change gears isn't fun either-travel is too short-just clicks 1cm
-If rowing your own gears is what excites you, this is not for you
-Buttons are a bit counterintuitive--you push to upshift and pull to downshift (both left and right)--will be a bit of a learning curve there to become habit.
-Very slight lag on take off when you first mash the accelerator-less than having to use clutch of course but more than a slush box.
-No long term reliability history with this new tranny
-Likely more expensive to repair than manual due to complexity

Just my thoughts from a test drive. Would love to hear comments from anyone that actually owns one of these.

CRCGuy