I bought my 01S last May. California car. It was my DD all Summer and fall until mid-October. I could have gone into November, but I didn't want to do the final wash in 40-degree weather.
Mine has traction control (an option on the 986, so not all have them). I know I could have put all-seasons or winter tires on and driven year-round with no worries, but I didn't want to deal with the salt.
Everyone will confirm that the ride is extremely stiff. You'll feel every bump, road chip, expansion joint and pot hole - harshly. I would imagine it's worse in the Winter. Test drive one, any one, even if it isn't one you would buy, to experience it. If you think the enjoyment is worth the harshness (I do), you have your answer.
I kept my 99 Acura CL with 180K miles for any "dirty chores" and Winter driving.
DBear