how does boxster S compare to bmw m3 in the real world

[John V]

I switched from an E36 M3 to a Boxster S.

The M3 is a better daily driver in that the visibility is better, there's more space, it's quieter and a bit more comfortable and it gets better gas mileage. The M3's engine sounds amazing, it's extremely flexible and very smooth when revved out.

The Boxster is a more focused vehicle. The M3's steering is slow and numb - the Boxster's is quick and full of feedback. The Boxster has better brakes. The Boxster's top goes down. It's a bit quicker than my lightly modified M3 in a straight line, but the Boxster destroys the M3 in the twisties. The M3 was sloppy, tall, tippy and overall very imprecise compared to the Boxster.

Having driven several E46 M3s, I never warmed up to them. Too heavy and too numb and I hate the sound of the exhaust (which, fortunately, can be fixed). They're not the light-feeling, nimble cars the E36s were.

I would love to pick up another E36 M3 as a daily driver. They're great cars.

[yjm3]

Wow, thanks for all the replies.

It sounds like a really tough decision! (a fortunate one to make!) I wish I could keep both, but I have a winter vehicle already, plus my wife's SUV so really no room for 4 cars.

Seems like everyone feels roughly the same way regarding the boxster. Thanks for your time in giving me some real world input. I look forward to checking them out and finding the right one for me.



Which leads to my next question -

Are there any options you guys could not live without in the boxster? Also, anyone have a hardtop?

Thanks,
Vince

[fatmike]

Originally Posted by yjm3

Which leads to my next question -

Are there any options you guys could not live without in the boxster? Also, anyone have a hardtop?

Thanks,
Vince

In your original post, you said you were considering an '02 thru '05 "S". There is difference between '02 vs. '03/'04. And a very big difference between the '02-'04 and the '05. Porsche changed the model designation in '05 to the "987" model. Prior to that, the Boxster was a "986" model. You can search this forum for the differences.

I consider Stability Control and Litronics (Xenon Headlights) to be the two must-have options.

The '03 model brought a glass rear window and an engine tweak. The glass rear window is certainly a nice-to-have and something you'll get if you buy on the newer side of your range.

But, if you can afford a 987 it is generally considered a step-up.

Good luck in your search.

[John V]

Originally Posted by yjm3

Are there any options you guys could not live without in the boxster? Also, anyone have a hardtop?

I would try to find a car with Litronics, but I don't think they're a necessity. I love my full-leather car. It takes the 986 interior from bland to quite nice, in my opinion. The windstop is a must.

I would have to say the only requirement I had when looking for a Boxster is that it be a manual. Having driven a tiptronic car, I really think it ruins the experience.

[Jeph]

I like Litronics too. Hopefully yours will come with the windscreen. 18 inch wheels are ideal for me, mostly for looks. The good thing about these options is that they can all be added later if you find a great deal on a car that doesn't have some of these items.

Also, I have a hardtop. Most people do fine without it I imagine. I keep mine on throughout most of the year. Summers are too hot, winters are too cold for me. Plus, ironically, I'm not a huge fan of convertibles. (Girls like it.)

[Lil bastard]

I dunno, one is a Roadster, the other a Sport Coupe'/Sedan, that's an extremely significant difference right there. As such, any similiarites, it would seem to me, are coincidental.

Both are great cars, but neither is a Giant Killer, in terms of American motorsport - off line acceleration, ¼ mile ETs, etc. If that's your thing, be prepared to swap Pinks with modded 5.0 Mustangs, 350Zs, and stock Vettes, and Vipers.

It may all boil down to practicalities. If you need a Coupe'/Sedan, go with the Beemer. If a Roadster fits your lifestyle, choose the Boxster. In the end, only you can say.

[peakpro]

Originally Posted by Lil bastard

I dunno, one is a Roadster, the other a Sport Coupe'/Sedan, that's an extremely significant difference right there. As such, any similiarites, it would seem to me, are coincidental.

Both are great cars, but neither is a Giant Killer, in terms of American motorsport - off line acceleration, ¼ mile ETs, etc. If that's your thing, be prepared to swap Pinks with modded 5.0 Mustangs, 350Zs, and stock Vettes, and Vipers.

It may all boil down to practicalities. If you need a Coupe'/Sedan, go with the Beemer. If a Roadster fits your lifestyle, choose the Boxster. In the end, only you can say.

sounds right...

(FYI..beemer refers to a motorcycle....bimmer is used when referring to a car....)

[RickS]

I recently traded in my 99Z3 2.8L for a 00 Boxter 2.7L. Totally different vehicles. The Z3 had crisper and more reponsive midrange power whereas the Boxter seems to suck in alot of air without much acceleration in comparison. The Boxter is more refined and a bit larger car which probably accounts for the sapping of some horsepower. The overall ride is similar but the Boxter has a much more luxurious feel and appearance plus shifts much easier than the Z. I'm still getting used to the transition but definately happy regarding the choice that was made so far.