MadEric:

I took delivery on Friday of a Cayman S. The only normally aspirated Carrera pre-997 that I have ever driven that felt quicker than the Cayman S, and mine still does not have its legs yet because of break-in, was a 40th Anniversary 911 with an X package that generated about 345 HP. That 911 handled like a boat compared to the Cayman and its internal finish was not at the same level as any of the 9X7 Porsches.

As an aside, I have a 97 540i 6-speed with sport suspension that I used to feel was a great handling sport sedan. Since Friday I can barely tolerate driving the BMW.

I also noted the tranmission whine, but after 100 miles it seems to be quieting a bit.

JHellow