using GPS derived altitude/heading and "attitude" displays for aircraft control

I have seen the high end GPS units present a psuedo panel display (I am
specifically refering to the Garmin 296).

It provides a DG/HSI presentation, GPS derived altitude, turn-and-bank and
vertical speed.

Has anyone experimented with this to maintain level flight in lieu of actual
gyroscopic instruments. I am *very*
skeptical of this, but have heard it suggested. Has anyone experimented
with recovering from an upset using it?
I would be eager for first hand experiences.

In my '170, which only had a needle and ball, if you were trapped on top and
the gyro failed, that all things being equal it was bravely suggested you
turn to a southerly heading, and use only the rudders and wet compass to
maintain wings level during the descent.

In these same heroic hanger flying sessions (when the weather was cloudy and
you weren't going to fly the airplane anyway) we speculated that setting up
an upright spin was the safest course of action. Spin thru the clouds and
then recover when you are visual, just like the old DH-4 air mail pilots.

I am curious if anyone has played with a hood and one of these gyro
displays. Let me know.


--
"Instrument flying, I had concluded, is an unnatural act, probably
punishable by God."
--Gordon Baxter