A M96 is not a Toyota engine. Every engine is a compromise in design and cost with the engineers and the accountants fighting over what gets put into the engine. Put a big lump of iron in there in '97 and you don't get a Boxster. But they did.
For those who want a balanced approach to the whole IMS thing, go read
this.
For someone who has maintained hundreds of engines, listen to JFP.
Don't let personalities lead you astray. Don't let quantity one experiences sway you. Don't let internet posting on forums from folks who don't have a multi years track record of helping P-car owners influence you.
Your car, your money, your decision.
Wonderful cars.