From what I understand the automatic transmission in a 993 is a Tiptronic, is this a similar transmission to the one that BMW uses?
Looks like the only P car for us is an auto, we are going to keep to 2 cars, and the compromise is an automatic for the Porsche....
My SO drives the X5 most of the time, but I need for her to be able to drive the 2nd car when I need the SUV, so what the hell, how bad is the auto?
I know it aint' a stick.....

 

For reference, I had a "steptronic" (what a goofy word) E46 and I'd say its gearbox was pretty comparable to a tiptronic 993 (i.e. it shifted pretty slowly compared to modern dual clutch manumatic transmissions). If your X5 is of an older vintage, expect about the same experience from the 993 Tiptronic gearbox. The 993 Tip is also strangely a 4-speed.

A lot of people consider the 993 Tip a bastardization, but most Tip owners seem very happy with them. You'll also save a little money relative to a comparable car with a 6-speed.

 

The tiptronic tranny is also known to be very durable. not right for everyone but if you want an auto they work pretty well. the newer 911's PDK is far more sophisticated but like all technology each generation is improved.

 

Ditto - mine has been very solid, it was state of the art for the mid-90s but something like a PDK is another beast entirely. For street driving, it shifts at pretty low RPMs probably for mileage. From my own experience and PO service history the transmission has required no service other than scheduled maintenance. Personally, I think they get a bit of a bad rap from folks who prefer a 3-pedal car, but to be honest this is my 5th Porsche, my first automatic, and I don't think having the auto detracts at all from the 993 as a street car. (track would be another story)