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Posted by: Cal Dec 11 2019, 01:31 PM

Dumb question....I know these two cars are like comparing 'apples and oranges' but I'm attracted to both for different reasons. I'm considering which one would be a better purchase and I'm looking for advise. The two cars in question are a 1968 BMW 2002 or a 2000 Porsche Boxster S. The 2002 would sit adjacent to my '74 914 2.0L in the garage and would be used occasionally for nice weather weekend drives while the Boxtser would probably be used more often.....but not as a daily driver. Both cars are in excellent condition.....the 2002 is in mint driver condition while the Boxster is concours with only 8K miles and had the IMS bearing replaced already. The 2002 is more $$$ than the Boxster but would probably retain it's value better in the longer term. I'm very open to hearing anyone's experience with these two cars and any advise / suggestions.

Please feel free to move this thread if it's in the wrong forum.

Thanks





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Posted by: 73-914 Dec 11 2019, 01:46 PM

my vote is BMW , you already have mid-engine fun

Posted by: Coondog Dec 11 2019, 01:48 PM

BMW will go up in value while that Porsche is a dime a dozen.

Posted by: 914_7T3 Dec 11 2019, 01:56 PM

It's up to you and don't see how you can go wrong either way. As you have already identified, the Boxster S a modern day 914 with all the amenities that you can drive any where and not just a Sunday morning driver.

I've got an '02 Boxster Base for just over 2 years now and have clocked 20,000 miles over that time on what is primarily a pleasure car. I love it, but 2-seat, open top mid-engine cars are my thing.

Posted by: bumper2bumper Dec 11 2019, 02:26 PM

Hi,
You said that you are attracted to both cars for different reasons. Before commenting on which one I think you should go for, I would be interested in knowing what attracts you to the 2002?
Bill.

Posted by: mmichalik Dec 11 2019, 02:28 PM

I have a 914 and a 2002 and my vote would go for the BMW. It's such a fun car to drive and talk about with others about.
But, I'm biased.

Posted by: johnhora Dec 11 2019, 02:30 PM

Jeff...definitely the BMW...you will love it...same era as your 914 and just plain fun to drive....your garage will look eclectic
Good luck with either one...nice cars.

Posted by: mepstein Dec 11 2019, 03:51 PM

Boxster is the best - drive anywhere, any distance, most any weather - car.
BMW is the- fun, occasional driver that looks really sweet in your garage - car.

And I agree, the BMW will only appreciate while the Boxster will only get old.

If you can swing it, buy both.

Posted by: tomh Dec 11 2019, 03:55 PM

Boxster?

Posted by: john77 Dec 11 2019, 04:08 PM

Those two cars are so different I'd ask what is it you really want from your next car.

If you want something fast and agile, I'd choose the Boxster.

If you want something you can cruise around in and enjoy leisurely drives, I'd choose the 2002.

The 2002 is pretty agile, but it's no 914. The steering feels heavier and personally I find them a little slow for my taste.

As everyone else has said, the 2002 is the more likely of the two to hold its value and appreciate over time. The market for them was really hot about 5 years ago but it's plateaued in the last couple of years

Posted by: DRPHIL914 Dec 11 2019, 04:48 PM

Agree with this,
I have had 2 Boxsters, a 2000 S model and a 1997 very low miles originally with hard top. Good car and very low failure on IMS for those years but if done now with a LN bearing you are set for 100k miles.
It will depreciate but not a lot- but it right and like I did, you can drive it for a few years and still sell it for same or more- I did that with both of my Boxsters- bought the ‘97 with 30k miles for $7500, had it 2 years and put 10k miles on it and sold it for $12,500- did the clutch and IMS right after I got it and drove the snot out of it and broke even- so I’d say deal on it and get it right and get both the Boxster for daily driving and the 2002 for fun but also investment. If you absolutely have to choose one or the other- BMW-

Posted by: eric9144 Dec 11 2019, 05:37 PM

This is why I bought an early Bronco vs a Jeep to go use off-road, the Bronco only goes up in value, whereas a Jeep is a money looser.
Same holds true for the 2002 vs the Boxster. *If* the financial side of it is a determining factor.

Posted by: BENBRO02 Dec 11 2019, 05:43 PM

I have never met a person that owned a 2002 and didn't love it.

Posted by: oldschool Dec 11 2019, 09:09 PM

I've had both loved my BMW, great lil car.
Now my Boxster is not stock, and a blast to drive...with cold AC.

BMW not fast..

Posted by: Charles Freeborn Dec 11 2019, 11:10 PM

You already own one vintage car (the 914).. I'd add the modern car. AC, stereo, reliable, good heat, etc etc...

Posted by: Larmo63 Dec 11 2019, 11:20 PM

I owned a '68 2002 (w/sunroof) in high school. It was a great car for a young kid who didn't know any better. I recently bought a '71 and it struck me as to what a really NOT great car it was. Slow and boxy, classic yes.

I'd probably do the Boxster. I don't even like Boxsters that much, but there is a lot of value there for the money.

Posted by: sixnotfour Dec 11 2019, 11:34 PM

Even tho youre a bit 90 off, I have to agree.....my chev pickup is a necessity,, but sure is comfy....and my jeep is ...never mind,,


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Posted by: ndfrigi Dec 12 2019, 12:00 AM

Boxster since u already have the best classic 914 in your hand. You can drive it anytime anywhere except 2 seater. But lots of storage frunk and trunk. Oh Hagerty insured boxster, I guess it’s already under a classic category and it means price can be steady or goes up later.

Posted by: cali914 Dec 12 2019, 01:27 AM

the BOXSTER FOR SURE ALWAYS GO WITH THE SEXIER CAR.

Posted by: Gatornapper Dec 12 2019, 07:14 AM

For pure FUN driving, the Boxster S will beat the BMW 4-to-1 - and it will be a joy every time you drive it - just like the 914.

Is it FUN DRIVING you want? Or another classic? Seems the appreciation/depreciation element is not an issue, and the difference isn't significant anyway.

And then there is the convertible element - do you love the wind in your hair? If so, how important is that?

Who needs 2 classic cars? if you are not a collector? Having 2 completely different driving/handling/age vehicles brings variety - the spice of life. I collect vintage Triumph motorcycles - but all are for sale but one......so I can focus more time and money on my 914.......

Yeah, I'm biased. On my 2nd Cayman S.......and just my opinion......there is no right or wrong here.......

GN

Posted by: Front yard mechanic Dec 12 2019, 08:15 AM

Your a Porsche guy follow your heart

Posted by: TonyA Dec 12 2019, 08:42 AM

I don't know how you got yourself into that predicament in the first place.
Buy them both then decide which one you want to keep after next summer.
Are all your cars painted silver?

Posted by: dr914@autoatlanta.com Dec 12 2019, 10:19 AM

definitely the 2002, just need to get a good one not rusted in the rear shock towers and as original as possible. AND hopefully a tii. Those were great cars and still are, THEN bmw replaced in with the 320 which was a big step down

Posted by: Tdskip Dec 12 2019, 10:41 AM

Wait - doesn't to come down to your usage pattern?

Around town vs highway trips etc?

Posted by: 914_teener Dec 12 2019, 10:58 AM

I'd go with the Boxster since it's an S version. They are cheap now but that will change. I'd agree they are kind of like the 914 of the 90's.

You have a teener. Although the 2002 is also period 70's, it's no where near as fun to drive. Sounds like the important stuff has been done.

Keep the teener to work on and tinker.....get the BS to drive and have fun when you want a change.

Posted by: jvmarino Dec 12 2019, 11:07 AM

I recently have gone through a similar predicament. I have multiple vehicles (definitely more than I need), and recently acquired a nearly new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider at a significant discount. I am happy with the purchase, but find myself thinking about other classic cars I have always wanted that I could have bought for less money.

In the end, it comes back to the fact I really didn't want to acquire another classic car and add it to my string of cars that are 40+ years old. I love my older cars, but I do need to worry about things breaking when I go on drives, or concern about rain, etc. causing rust to start. Of course, it is an Alfa Romeo, so there is always a chance for a breakdown , but the car seems to be quite reliable from all I have read from current Owners. So with the newer car (still has factory warranty even), I can have a different experience in a car that embraces the vintage sports car concept, but is almost new.

Jim

Posted by: billh1963 Dec 12 2019, 01:51 PM

Is this for an investment or enjoyment?

Get a 996...or a couple of them

Not a huge price difference but a big change in driving experience

Posted by: eeyore Dec 13 2019, 11:37 AM

Depends on which is more important -- space, top down driving and/or comfort.

I have to agree with the 996 suggestion -- the modern comforts of a Boxster plus the extra space of the 2002, and more oopmh than either.

For looks, I'd go with the 2002 -- the 1st generation water cooled Porsches are blah, and getting blaher by the minute.

Posted by: rgolia Dec 13 2019, 04:13 PM

get the 2002 and then take a ride up my way, I want to see that baby and maybe get a ride? I'll buy the drinks Always liked those cars but went for a 89 911 as my second car.

Posted by: raynekat Dec 13 2019, 09:25 PM

I'd buy neither.
JMHO
Neither car is that special.
Sorry...the truth.
Wait for something different.

Posted by: Cal Dec 14 2019, 07:13 AM

Thanks for all the great advise and comments. It's interesting the amount of love/hate that folks have towards the Boxster and how similar it was to the 914 from +/-25 years ago. Someone made an interesting comment that is probably true.....the days that you'll want to drive the 914 will be the same days that you want to drive the 2002. The Boxster will offer something completely different and is usable in an alternative way which likely means that you'll get more wheel time in a 914/Boxster combination than you would in a 914/2002 comb.

Posted by: 914forme Dec 14 2019, 10:49 AM

Get an E36 M3, solves all your problems and worse case a convertible Chassis is great, the balance is beyond compare. Loved the one I used to auto-x with for a few years.

In the Boxster line up, nice cars, I prefer the Cayman, fewer of them, better handling.

Posted by: Gatornapper Dec 14 2019, 11:15 AM

Unless you are a convertible guy - get a Cayman S.

Ditto on "I prefer the Cayman...."

And......

"Playboys drive convertibles. Serious drivers drive coupes." Enzo Ferrari

GN

Posted by: roblav1 Dec 14 2019, 12:28 PM

Concur with comments on the Cayman. The 2002 is slow. Rode around in one in Germany the summer of 1984. My friend bought a 320i that summer, and the 6 was a far nicer car. Boxsters are grest value to dollar right now. I vote Boxster.
I had a few BMWs, by far best was a 1998 M3 sedan.

Posted by: Superhawk996 Dec 14 2019, 06:01 PM

I'm biased. I always prefer a classic over a modern car but I'm biased. I had a BMW 520 when I lived overseas. It was a ton of fun and the 2002 is even better yet.

I see people commenting that a 2002 is slow. So is a Boxter, Cayman, or 911 as compared to a Tesla Model S P100D in ludicrous mode . . . so what. The 2002 is just an awesome classic that makes folks smile. If you know how to drive and carry momentum into and out out corners, the 2002 will make most folks soil themselves.






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Posted by: Morph914 Dec 14 2019, 06:45 PM

I was prepared to go with the 2002 because of the classic status, appreciation in value and the fact that you don’t see them on the road every few minutes like the Boxster. However, after taking in all that has been said, and digesting it, I am of the opinion that you will have more fun driving the boxster and if you plan on driving this vehicle a bit more than the 914, you will enjoy the modern amenities that it provides. And with 8 k on the odo you will basically have a new car.

Posted by: DRPHIL914 Dec 14 2019, 07:28 PM

No wonder I don’t have a Boxster anymore!!! Had to change- so what’s at targa guy? Something in between??

That said I seldom ever took the hard top off of either one and would get a cayman if I ever sell my Maserati

Posted by: Gatornapper Dec 14 2019, 08:09 PM

Phil -

An F1 is a Targa......so real race cars are Targa's - they do not have a top that goes up and down, but are pretty enclosed but open above the drivers head.......

GN

Posted by: Cal Feb 11 2021, 12:36 PM

Update on this thread.....I ended up purchasing an '08 987.1 base Cayman with 25K miles from a Porsche dealership in St. Louis. It's nicely equipped with a 5-speed manual, 18" S wheels, sport seats....it's an absolute blast to drive and the prices are a bargain right now. Thanks for all the advice from the members here.



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Posted by: Tdskip Feb 11 2021, 12:47 PM

Loads of 2002 owners think you are being a bit myopic with that reply, including me.

Posted by: Cairo94507 Feb 11 2021, 01:08 PM

If it is a "tii" then that is the way to go. If not, then I would lean towards the Boxster.

Posted by: mepstein Feb 11 2021, 01:22 PM

Looks right at home. Nice to have a car that can click the sports car box but still drive x-country without worry.

Posted by: Mayne Feb 11 2021, 01:25 PM

Beautiful Cayman! I have a friend with a silver Cayman S and I think it's an almost timeless look, especially for a modern car. Sleek, beautiful, sporty.

I could sell my 944 Turbo and 986 Boxster and be most of the way to a Cayman purchase...must resist!

Posted by: KELTY360 Feb 11 2021, 01:39 PM

The BMW gives me a stiffy .......but that Cayman is a very nice choice.

Posted by: 2mAn Feb 11 2021, 01:53 PM

Thats a great 2-car combo, assuming you never need to carry more than 1 passenger.

Posted by: CHIZ 914 Feb 11 2021, 03:12 PM

987’s are fun


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Posted by: Cal Feb 11 2021, 07:11 PM

I looked at a number of Tii’s for sale the past 12 months through private sales, BAT auction, dealers, etc. The prices of these cars have gone the same route as early 911’s. All of the Tii’s that I seriously considered were almost twice the price that I paid for the Cayman....

Posted by: bkrantz Feb 11 2021, 09:15 PM

In case nobody noticed, the 2002 has a back seat. That makes it possible to take kids, grandkids, or 2 couples out for a ride (at least if not too far).

I loved the 71 2002 I had, even when pulling the engine under a friend's tree.

Posted by: 914_teener Feb 11 2021, 10:00 PM

I agree....I looked really hard at this same choice and a while ago.

Cayman S was my choice.

Since then.....my wife and I both agreed on a Macan S to replace the CX-5 which was also a great SUV.

The 987 is destined to be a classic like the 914 if not already...at least in Porsche family.

Posted by: TonyA Feb 12 2021, 05:29 AM

I we will be seeing this car at Bucks County C&C this spring. If the snow and salt ever goes away.