[johncarlos2003]

Funny how your wife hated the 89-

my girlfriend hates driving my 88- let her drive it a couple times-

one thing is for sure- you will be driving the 996 pretty well right off the bat-

a 3.2/ sc etc takes some time- i got better and better and now it handles great, moves easily where and when i want it (most of the time!)-- in the beginning though it feels odd and heavy etc.

good luck with your decision- if your not going to keep it forever and don't mind double in repair/part costs go for the 996- they are a great drive, different, but still better than most on the road today- heck, if i wanted a modern sports coupe id go early 996 no question for the $ and the amazing amount of car you can get for mid 20's- just get a wicked good pre-purchase inspection done!

cheers!