Had use of a 99 Cab this week.... (pic)
 

Been driving this 99 Cabriolet this week, and although it lacks the character of my 87 Cabriolet- WHAT A CAR! It is blindingly fast, the 6 speed trans is terrific, and the car is just so solid feeling.<br>
The other wonderful thing is that you can adjust the digital climate control and get warm! It was in the upper 30's this am and I drove to work with the top down- had the heated seats all the way up, and the heat set to max- it was comfortable! You guys need to give this car a try if you have the chance. <br>
The negative things include some very cheap feeling plastic interior parts, and the Boxster front end. Also, the 6 speed shifter does take some getting used to. <br>


http://www.pelicanparts.com/ultimate...s/bothcars.jpg

I've driven a 996 Cab and Boxster S quite frequently and I'd agree with your assessment ( I don't want to talk about which I prefer)... I didn't feel the 6spd too difficult to use, but I do find the plastic interior panels on the newer Porsche models to look and feel very japanese. Purchasing the full leather package does help. ;)