I have a confession to make - 986 vs 987 S

[BYprodriver]

Originally Posted by rondocap

OK guys, so I previously had a base 2001 986 Boxster, which was a manual.

After getting rid of it, I got the urge again for a Boxster and ended up getting a 2009 PDK Boxster S.

It was the opposite of the 986 - it had navigation, PDK, was an S, etc.

Obviously it is a fantastic car. The speed on curvy roads is unbelievable - and that S engine has a significant amount of torque on the highway and you really fly.

It also was reliable as can be; no issues at all.

My 986 had a cracked plastic window, IMS potential issue always looming, and had rattles over the place. The manual was also at times not the easiest to drive.

Having said that, the 987 S, with all its sharp performance - sort of bored me at times. The 986, being raw and a lot harder to drive fast because of the manual, just excited me more.

I always was fixing little things on the 986 myself too, you'd think that would make you not like the car, but after a while you develop a more personal connection.

THe 987 S is just...too good! Odd statement, I know. But I got more character and enjoyment out of the base 986.

Am I wrong here? I may not be - perhaps it's why so many people still like old 911's and things of that nature vs the newer cars, which are so competent and smooth/easy to drive that it takes away a little bit of the excitement.

I drive a good customers nice 987 it just feels so insulated. I never like the aircooled cars, too underpowered, spartan interior, antique shifting. I believe the 986 is the perfect sweet spot & a future classic. That's why I have invested heavily in mine.