I read the article and really enjoyed it, there's a good argument for each of the cars and each have a unique appeal, though I agree the Aston is probably the best compromise of being able to be used daily and still being special, though the smaller engine ones just aren't quick enough IMO.
It amazes me how quick modern 911's are, I had a play with a 991 GTS on an open road and it was a fair bit quicker than the GS
The sheer in gear pull is astounding in the 911. The 997 was very nearly as bludgeoning as the 996 Turbo. Sadly, it lacked the fingertip delicacy (channeling Troy *****) I was expecting.
I’ve driven a few 911s - 993 Carrera, 996 Carrera 2, 996 Carrera 4, 996 Turbo, 996 GT3, 997 Tiptronic, 997 PDK and only the GT3 delivered thrills to match the 911 hype. That wore off when I saw myself in the reflection of traffic in a jam on the Holloway Road - a fat bloke in a suit in a car with more wings than an Always Extra factory. The 996 Turbo is a staggering car, but it lacked the GT3’s steering fizz; it felt like it would grip and grip, and grip, until it wouldn’t. At that rate of knots I’d be collected for burial with a sponge. Utterly amazing experience that should but Done once, but it lacks a certain tactile fizz. A bit like the Audi RS6 V10, really.
The GS isn’t perfect - despite reading about the ride in period, I was truly shocked by how harsh it was. I’d driven them before, but the roads around Richard Grace’s HQ are very smooth. In Yorkshire it was very nearly as bad as my Alfa’s, and that’s on Eibach Pro Street Coilovers and ARBs! I’d still have one though...