[racer]

I'll throw out a few more... What does she want? If you are going to upend your hobby, she better be fully on board. My wife drive a stick. She did a track day.. She has NEVER liked my Porsches as a mode of transport for her. Over the years I've had track oriented and street oriented Porsches. She's never felt comfy driving them. And really only tolerates them. I think they are just a little too low.. and too flashy for her.

Before you drop 997.2 / 987.2 / Cayman R money, figure out what you are really chasing.

That said, if its really only a little more "safety" or "comfort", I'd consider a newer aircooled car first.. Maybe a 964 or 993 - both have airbags and ABS yet both have that classic aircooled sound and feel. Plus they may even have working AC!

As for PDK?

it always sounds like the correct compromise.. and they are amazing transmissions.. but you do give up the feel and fun of a true manual. Be sure to test drive a few and make sure you'd really like one, vs just enjoying the video game like feel of awesome power transfer.