Hi Octo. Twinfan is right and you will find opinion very split here about the 996 999 bikes. SP1 was built to race against the 996-8R ducatis in WSB. So comparision with a 749 in not really valid.
Try a 999(s) and if you can get out on a couple of 996-8's as well. Personally I do not like the 999 series and agree with the mechanic but don't hurry just try as many as you can and find the one you like there are a lot around.
