When I first got my scissor lift, I did not have the pit. Even with the El Camino, I had to put down a pair of 2X12s. Those tended to move while driving up on them. So I had to use 2x4 against the stem wall to keep the 2x12 from moving.
Then I had to move the "portable" Bendpak MD6xP. Yea, it is possible to wheel it around with the supplied handle. I weigh 208 pounds, and it took all my weight to move the thing around. A small man would not be able to do it.
Storing the 2x12s when not in use was a pain as well.
The pit just made it a permanent lift. Just move the 1/2 inch plywood off, and adjust the arms to the jack points and up it goes. The 911 is a bit more difficult, as the jack points are small targets. The El Camino has a full frame, so it is super easy. The Macan is easy as well.
It was money well spent. Total happy expenditure. Mounting the pump on the wall we a great way to do it.