With its mid engine layout, the 981 is an awesome drive. I have a 2014 Cayman. For me a hard top is more practical for my daily drive needs. Likewise the PDK transmission. Whilst a manual will give you a purer driving experience, the PDK provides slick instant gear changes. I never yearn for a manual. Although a potential PDK owner needs to be aware of the hugely expensive 12 year PDK service - unless they do all their own spannering. Although at 5’10 I’m not as tall as you, I find the cabin space very roomy. Mine is fairly low specced, but moving from a modern car, I really love the more analogue drive with all the driver aids that take away the pure driving experience. Mine’s a keeper.