Any opinions on the differences between the two units. Other than the
faster updating and the better street atlas, what makes the newer model
worth $600 more?

That, and the taxi diagrams.

Quite frankly, if you're only looking for a GPS, get yourself a
Lowrance 2000c or the AvMap IV. You'll save yourself a bundle, and end
up with a vastly superior GPS unit.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for XM datalinked weather,
you're pretty well stuck with the Garmins. If that's your goal, you
may as well spring for the 496 -- we did.

On-board weather changes everything.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"