So what don't you like about the Boxster? Options

[96conv]

I can't understand what folks don't like about the Boxster. Even the base 1997, 2.5L model is way quick and handles like a sports car should. I've had the hots for a 993 for a while now but the 2005 Boxster S has taken its place in my dreams. So, besides the stigma that it's a hairdresser's car, is there any other reason to dislike the Boxster? I wish I could afford it now but I'll have to settle for an '03 S next year.

[grantsfo]

Here's my perspective from owning both cars as well. I have driven 914's since the mid 1970's and bought a 2002 2.7 Boxster 3 years ago.

Boxster likes:

Outstanding suspension that offers civilized street ride with track like performance.
Incredibily smooth and powerful 2.7 that pulls like crazy from 4500-redline.
Great brakes
No nonsense interior
Predictable dry handling
Heated seats
Great intake sound
A cool little wing that pops up at speed
Incredible engineering and chassis rigidity
Kick butt on lots of prepared cars in your stock 2.7 Boxster at PCA AX's
Great safety features
Speed sensing volume on stereo
Corrosion resistance that a 914 owner could only dream of
Electric top
High speed stability that makes the 914 feel like an econo car


Boxster Dislikes

Its too big and heavy - suspension and tires over come the weight, but you still know you are in a big car when you get into the twisties compared to razor sharpness and tossability of the 914. One thing to consider about Boxster weight. Honda S2000 only weighs about 35 lbs less than the standard Boxster and has a 2.4 four cylinder engine.

Heavy clutch feel
Clunky 5 speed gearbox
ABS feels like it deploys a little early at times
Lack of interior room for big drivers
Honda like sounds coming from the powerplant - still havent figured out if this is good or bad
Engine bay isnt easily accessed
Unnerving/squirley wet handling
Burns through expensive big rear tires much too quickly


Biggest problem - lack of aftermarket support for the car - things are slowly changing, but it has to be the most poorly supported Porshe and I dont understand why?

I find the "chick car" and "everyone has one" comments about Boxster funny. 914 was the just as common as the Boxster in its day and suffered the same gender identity crisis.

Boxster is a used car bargin. You can find older 2.5 or 2.7 Boxster for about $18K. Go to low to mid $20K range and you can find real nice low mileage cars. I dont think you can find a low mileage 993 anywhere close to this price.