[speeder]

Having owned a 996, (early, modded coupe), and driven a 997, I can say that the 997 seemed like a pretty huge improvement in nearly every way. From the obvious improvement in looks and interior to the increased power, active suspension, (perceived) better build quality, etc., it seemed not at all similar to a 996 to me. And I really liked my 996. It was a tough car.

Granted, my 996 was a beat-up example but it was still tight and I've also driven cream puff 996s. The 997 dash, especially without the sport chrono option, is one of the best looking 911 dashboards ever, IMO. The 996 is the worst. Same with the 996 door panels, etc. If all you care about is performance:buck and don't care about aesthetics, buy a beater Z-06 'vette. That will walk all over a stock 997. But who wants to live in that interior?

I think the 997 was a sweet spot for 911s, they are now overboard with technology, (almost) no manual trans, etc.