<<So whats putting me off. Well I plan to use it for touring, and understand that the ride is hard and bad due to the cart spring suspension, engines underpowered and weather gear useless.>>
Not sure if you are buying new or used but everything is fixable.
<<ride is hard and bad due to the cart spring suspension>>
Depends what you are comparing it with. The new models ride is pretty good. Older models can be "upgraded" with more modern rear springs, dampers etc.
<<weather gear useless>>
I have no experience of modern hoods, they may well be waterproof. I replaced my old-style hood with a Simmonds hood. It does not leak at all.
<<engines underpowered>>
Depends what you are comparing it with. My chipped, decatted, exhaust enhanced +8, probably has Boxster level performance (But I suspect that I have more fun)
You REALLY need to drive one.
