Paul 
2003 BMW M3 Coupe 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
BMW M3
 I was on the wait list for the Porsche 997 and decided to get the M3 instead.  I would love to own both but do not regret my decision to get the M3.  I have been in or owned and/or driven Audi S4, Ferrari 550, Porsche 911T, Corvette Z06.  All are outstanding in their own way.  Bottom line is that there is no comprable car for the money.  Corvette Z06 is a fantastic performance machine but still in essence a 'Chevy.'  The C6 may be different.  The S4 (2001) was a great car and easier to modify for more horsepower but had severe understeer and turbo lag.  I would rather have the 911 turbo or Ferrari but obviously both are in a different price class. 