[JGoatley]

I had a client request that I run up to his home in the mountains of North Carolina. Since I did not need many tools, I decided to take the 928. I am in Birmingham so I decided to take interstate to chattanooga and then take HWY 64 the rest of the way. 64 goes beside the Ocoee river and continues north and east to the Nantahala National forest where you once again ride beside the river. 320 miles total - 180 on the interstate, 140 through the mountains. I was a little worried about going that far as it could be an expensive tow home if something went wrong. This really is a garage queen. Sits under a cover in the garage way too much!

The ride up was a little cautious. My ball cup popped off about a month a go and left me stranded on the side of the road so I was shifting very gingerly. The ride home (next day) on the other hand not so much. Lets just call it spirited! I know these cars are considered "Grand Touring" because they are so comfortable on the interstate but I have to say that twisting through the mountains on a tight curvy two lane was absolutely awesome. I was very fortunate that I had an almost unobstructed route. No sunday drivers slowing me down. I really got to push it and the car handled it beautifully. Loved hearing the exhaust screaming through the mountains.

The driving position has to be one of the most comfortable I have ever been in. Really hated getting out of the car after a 5 hour drive. Drives like that make it worth all the time spent working on it.