911 vs Boxster S

[mylamb]

I have a back issue of EVO magazine that compared a loaded (PCCB) 987 Boxster S against a base 997 coupe with the standard brakes. After several test laps on one of their tracks, they consistently posted slightly better lap times with the Boxster. By slightly better, I mean 0.2 - 0.4 seconds. True, the Boxster had ceramic composite brakes, something that most Boxster owners will never order (and don't need) but it does say a lot, that it was able to best the 911's times. Unfortunately, once you tack on the price of PCCB, the Boxster ceases to be such a value!


And of course, after all that testing, I'm sure you know how the EVO writers voted... "We'd rather have the 911." Oh, well...

[AUDIOGUY]

I wonder if the guys on the 911 forum ever really wonder if the Boxster S is a better car?? Something tells me probably not.

[mtch]

Originally Posted by AUDIOGUY

I wonder if the guys on the 911 forum ever really wonder if the Boxster S is a better car?? Something tells me probably not.

While @ a DE event @ VIR, I had the only Boxster S there. (03) There were also some Caymans, but mostly 911s of various model yr and trim levels. While there I swapped cars with a friend who has a 00 Carrera. After a short session, we compared notes. We both agreed that the Boxster S was easier to drive fast and inspired more confidence when approaching limits. We he was also surprised at the speed that the Boxster S could carry around the track. It's lower tq numbers gave him the idea that is would be much slower out of corners, but the balance and lighter weight helped make up for that. Although a DE event is not a race, there are always competitive undertones, and MANY 911 owners were surprised to see a Boxster (of all things) moving just as quickly or quicker around the track than than their cars. This is especially true or owners of the pre-996 cars.

In Porsche circles and every other owner group , you will find car guys and fan boys. The car guys are usually informed and have knowledge and information on a broad spectrum of sports cars. Fan boys usually believe that their cars are the only true sports cars and nothing can compare. You'll find that cars guys have a true respect for the Boxster and its capabilities, while fan boys believe that it's not even worth mentioning in the same breath or worthy to be on the track with their 1974 911s with 180 hp.

So to answer the question, the ideas and opinions of the uninformed don't hold much weigh.

[blue2000s]

Originally Posted by mtch

While @ a DE event @ VIR, I had the only Boxster S there. (03) There were also some Caymans, but mostly 911s of various model yr and trim levels. While there I swapped cars with a friend who has a 00 Carrera. After a short session, we compared notes. We both agreed that the Boxster S was easier to drive fast and inspired more confidence when approaching limits. We he was also surprised at the speed that the Boxster S could carry around the track. It's lower tq numbers gave him the idea that is would be much slower out of corners, but the balance and lighter weight helped make up for that. Although a DE event is not a race, there are always competitive undertones, and MANY 911 owners were surprised to see a Boxster (of all things) moving just as quickly or quicker around the track than than their cars. This is especially true or owners of the pre-996 cars.

Which is why it's such a shame that Porsche refuses to professionally compete with Caymans or even offer a track version.

[mtch]

Originally Posted by blue2000s

Which is why it's such a shame that Porsche refuses to professionally compete with Caymans or even offer a track version.

I think the day will come. In Panorama last month, there was mention of privateers beginning to race Caymans in Europe, so it's probably just a matter of time and demand for racing parts and equipment supply to create the offering.

[blue2000s]

Originally Posted by mtch

I think the day will come. In Panorama last month, there was mention of privateers beginning to race Caymans in Europe, so it's probably just a matter of time and demand for racing parts and equipment supply to create the offering.

I hope so, There were racing versions of the 914 and 924, so there some precedent.

[iflyadesk]

Originally Posted by blue2000s

I hope so, There were racing versions of the 914 and 924, so there some precedent.

Oh boy would I buy a 2200lb Cayman Cup car!

I love factory built race cars. Viper GTS Competition Coupe, 911 GT3 Cup, Miata R, Neon ACR, etc. I love it when the factory does all the development work and all we need to do is provide the nut behind the wheel.