I thought the 9xxx will have the same architecture that the 8xxx series have but just a little more upgraded.
I just got a 9800GX2 and running mxo with basic useropts at 60fps outside. Inside it does get a bit choppy but nothing near like what I saw from 8xxx videos that were posted. It was playable but not entirely enjoyable. So, I will probably have to make the same adjustments people are making for the 8xxx series cards.
With the 400 version useropts/options that I received from annbazman, I was running 30fps no lag outside and I forgot to check the inside of buildings because I was enjoying outside scenery too much