Leburpor

You own the 997S, and I did state at the end of my para that "you'll need the 997S to match against the M5". The base 997 doesn't cut it. I've spent time in the 997 and it was because of that I decided that it just wouldn't satisfy me unless I get the 997S. In fact, I would rather get a 2nd hand 996 GT3 rather than a base 997.

Personally opinion with bias? Sure that's possible, but I like both cars and I think I have been pragmatic in my assesment.

wolverine

I've owned a 545i 6sp, have almos 75,000 miles on my E60 M5 to date, and have driven the 997S a number of times. I've just put a deposit down on an '09 Cayman S with all sorts of goodies for the track. On my M5 I have a full complement of engine/exhaust/suspension mods so I think I'm pretty well set up for an entertaining drive.

No question whatsoever the Porsches are more entertaining to drive at low speeds around town. More torque down low, better sound from inside the car, better steering feel, and more responsive chassis. You can really have a lot of fun with the Porsche without exceeding the speed limit (by too much). Especially I've found this the case with the Cayman. With the window open you sound and feel like you're doing 90 mph when you're running 45 mph on some backroads.

That said, I choose the M5 for 90% of my daily driving. Much more comfortable, luxurious, spacious and on the highway there's nothing that compares with the V10. The biggest problem I have with the car is you don't realize how fast you're going, the speed is so deceptive, and you can run up over 100 mph without trying hard at all. That's why I've got two radar detectors and a laser jammer.