Boxster "S" vs. 996 911 - help

[23109VC]

I have been on this site researching the boxster and boxster "S".

I've test driven a few boxsters - all base models. Still looking to test drive an S.

I've driven one 996. It was a 1999 model, manual 6 speed.

I am still leaning toward a boxster - partially because this will mainly be a third/toy car and I really want a convertible. I think the boxster is a good looking convertible. The 911, to me is ugly as a cabrio. I think the coupe 911s look awesome. I would be tempted to get a used 996 coupe instead of a boxster.

i have noticed in many of the 911 ads for 1999-2001 models that the owners are commenting that they have new motors. I see that a lot more on the 911 ads than on boxster ads. Is the 911 more prone to engine problems / replacements?

have any of you owned / driven both and what are your biggest observations in the differenes in how the cars feel/handle. they look very similar - i'm looking primarily at 1999-2000 911s or a boxster or boxster S of 2000-2002 model years.

if i got a boxster, I would probably get an S. the 1999 911 that i drove compared to the base 2000 boxster I drove - I felt the 911 was faster, but it didn't seem TONS faster. but clearly faster. also - i felt the boxster was a much better handling car than the 911.

is that just me - or is that universal that a boxster, being midengined is a better handling more balanced car? i woudl think the boxster is a better handling car bu the 911 is "faster".

my questions is - comparing a boxster S of say 2000-2002 vintage vs a 1999-2000 911 - is the 911 really much faster??

i'm honestly more interested in the boxster. being this is a boxster forum, maybe you'll all tell me to get the boxser - but i figure there are probably a lot of peole here who have driven or owend both and may want to chime in.

part of me loves the look of the 996 - especially the ones iwth that factory aero kit and nice wheels - i think they look amazing. but the feel/sound of the boxster with the top down...wow. and the balance.

i'm figuring the boxser will be more affordable in the long run... cheaper to get a newer/lower miled car vs a 996 and maybe chepaer to maintain too?