I just took my new o4 for a 70 mile run on dark country paved roads and an elevated highway. Before getting this car I had test driven three earlier examples.

I haven't accelerated above 6K given break in concerns. I can't say how the car accelerates yet. Even taking it easy, it seems quicker and to accelerate with much less effort than the 03.

I can comment on it's handling. I think that concerns about it's handling compared with earlier versions are misplaced.

First, I'd say the steering feels heavy. Not unresponsive as some have said, but heavy. Especially at low speeds. It's not a feeling that I liked initially. I soon learned, however, that it would respond quickly when I needed it to, especially at higher speeds. I think that once I get used to the handling and steering characteristics I will prefer this to the 03.

I feel much more secure around corners, especially tight corners. The tail is planted. This is a good thing.
The ride is softer, but not in a cushy way. It's less jarring but I don't think you loose anything for it. I was driving at times over rough uneven pavement at speed in the dark. I could feel the road, but the uneven surfaces did not disturb the suspension in a way that threatened control. I thought it was terrific. And I felt like it would only get better as I became more comfortable with the car.

On test drives I never went really fast before. I approached higher speeds in this car. It doesn't mask your speed the way some cars do. It will take some getting used to that level of honesty.

The quality and finish is so nice, inside and out.

 

Seems you like the 04 better

 

I drove a 993 C4S before, and it didn't feel much better than our cars. I guess the '04 can be ranked as a super sports car now since it takes off with much less effort and feels much better in the corners compared to my '03 when it was stock.

Very few people admitted the '01s were the most fun to drive, neither did many people admit the newer Miatas being down a notch in terms of driving pleasure. I remember the time when people were claiming effortless acceleration when the newer units came with falsely advertised hp numbers.

It takes guts to admit stuff like that. I tried to convince myself my '03 was better than my friend's '01. I gave up, no matter how Honda claimed easier handling, or paid the press, and it didn't matter how many people echoed what Honda and the press said about the less twitchy suspension to make themselves feel better.

My '03 did feel more comfortable though, I'll give you that.
And it is better for novice drivers I suppose.

 

I wouldn't drive an 04' so I wouldn't know what I am missing