[pothole]

I doubt the 981 delivers more of what actually matters - driving pleasure - than a late model 987 3.4.

Frankly, I doubt it provides more than a 986 S on ROW M030. It may even provide less.

I think the best two Boxsters are the Spyder and a pre-facelift 986 on M030.

The only significant advantage of the 981 is that it looks snazzier to those who like shiny shiny new things. I actually think the 986 is the prettier car. And like I said I suspect a 986 on M030 is probably as good or better to drive. So the 981 doesn't hold much attraction to me.