Serious question - 914 or Boxster? Options

[96conv]

I've always wanted a 914. Looks cool, well-balanced, old school air-cooled Porsche. But I've been afraid to jump in because of all the horrific stories of rust damage. So I decided to save a little more $ and buy an already restored beauty. However, I've read somewhere on this board that there isn't a way to totally prevent rust on these babies as they were never galvanized by the factory. And, the car will be living outside 24X7 under an all-weather cover.

Is it true that rust cannot be prevented on a 914? If this isn't true, what will it take to make it rust proof? How much will it take? Am I better off buying a used Boxster ('97s - '99s are hecka cheap)? Ok, not old school cool, not air-cooled either but well-balanced vehicle with all the modern amenities plus supercharging potential.

What do you think would be more cost-effective to own? What do you think would be most satisfying to own?

[horizontally-opposed]

Painfully hard question. (IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/html/emoticons/blink.gif)

My 1973 914 has owned me since I was 15. I absolutely LOVE a good day in that car. And while I hate the idea that there are a few rust spots in cosmetic places that will have to be dealt with (but will probably come back) at some point -- I love the car's simplicity and long-life mechanicals.

We bought a 1999 Boxster a year ago for $17,500 and it's plain wonderful. I love the fact that I am not concerned about the march or corrosion, but hate the complexity that creates a lot of great features (retracting rear spoiler, ABS, four airbags, heated seats, a flat six that's as maintenance-free as they get).

As for the driving? The 914 is unbeatable on the right day on the right road and in the right temperature. Get two out of three and it's still super enjoyable. The difference is that the Boxster always shines no matter what the weather or environment.

If I had to keep only one, it would be a very, very hard decision. My head would say Boxster all the way, but (most of) my heart would say 914. (IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/html/emoticons/sad.gif)

What you didn't mention initially is that you have a 911 SC. I had a 1979 and liked it but decided there was only room for one old Porsche in my life. If I were in your shoes, the answer would be very, very easy: Boxster all the way.

I am a big proponent of one old Porsche and one new one -- and a 914/996 or 911/986 garage would be the ideal, "reasonable-money" setup IMHO. (IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/html/emoticons/wub.gif)

Whatever, you can't go wrong with EITHER of the Porsches your looking at....

pete