[daepp]

It's just so interesting to me how a request for knowledge or experience about a subject can turn into a boatload of negativity.
Everybody has an opinion – and of course, they're entitled to it – but if I lived my life entirely as suggested by some here, I would never have purchased an old 911. It was a most irrational purchase.
My lifestyle is such that I drop in on a few jobsites a couple of times a week, mostly to see how my guys are doing and to see if they need anything. We also frequently go into Los Angeles or down to San Diego with 2 to 3 other couples - a bit of legroom is nice to have at this stage in life. I also tow a 911 or 356 fairly often - sometimes without a lot of planning ahead of time. Ito be nice just to hook up and go.
I also haven't financed a car since I was 30; I wonder how extra mpg compare to not paying interest for 22 years. Instead, I scrimp and save until I can purchase for cash.
So since I got an invitation earlier this week, in a couple of hours I'm gonna load up my new Explorer, and my wife and I will meet up with some folks in Malibu who are camping on the edge of the sand. With twin turbo's and a tiny motor, I'll be able to bring all my gear and spend an extra 5 gallons of gas ($12.50) to get there and back. And sometime late this afternoon I'll enjoy the serenity of a west coast sunset.

I hope you find some serenity too.

ps To the Brain Trust - thanks for all the help!