Same model different driving experience?

[neilf]

I've been the very happy owner of a base 2.0 Cayman since November.

Due to an unfortunate incident with a kerb it's currently residing at my local OPC having a scuffed wheel repaired. I've been given another base 2.0 Cayman courtesy car while the repair is done.

The relative specs of both cars are similar i.e. Both 2.0, both on 20" alloys and coincidentally both cars done just over 3,000 miles. Here's the rub... the courtesy car feels waaaaaaaay faster than mine, so much more eager to rev, also lighter steering and more nimble handling. Why?

I appreciate there are some differences:
Mine PDK - CC is manual
Mine PASM - CC standard suspension
Mine 20" Carrera Sports - CC 20" Carrera S

Could it be that the (presumably) harder life of the ex-demo/courtesy car has meant the engine has loosened up a bit earlier than mine or am I missing something?

[neilf]

Thanks for the responses. I'm clearly not on my own!

[neilf]

OMV said:

Hi Neilf, what were you thoughts on the difference PASM made to ride and handling?

I'm no expert but here's my two cents...

As far a comfort is concerned I feel there's as little as no difference between the std set up and PASM switched off. PASM on does firm up the ride and would be perfect for the track but I think most would consider too firm for frequent road use.

In terms of handling, the non PASM courtesy car certainly feels lighter on its toes, with a keener turn in (and a smidge of body roll) than my PASM car (hence me starting this thread).

However, my inner boy racer my always choose PASM in future (current Cayman is the first Porsche that I spec'd PASM). Besides the handling difference the 10mm drop in ride height makes a huge, very positive, visual difference.