[MikenOH]

If i were looking at the same buying question, the first item on the list would be warranty. If I could afford a 987 that came with a warranty, that would be the car I would pursue first. The additional torque and HP in the earlier S models might be fun, but he cost of repairs on these models--in my mind-puts the warranty issue ahead of the power ratings. The reliability on these cars has improved with each year and I think the 987 models--for the most part--have been extremely reliable. Adding to that, the number of IMS failures that I've seen on this and other boxster boards--particularly in the 2000-2004 range--would give me reason for pause when considering those models. No stats on how many, but they sure seems to be showing up with some frequency as the miles go up.

I wasn't real high on the 987 styling when it first came out but have grown to appreciate it. Interior wise, this car is leaps and bounds above the '99' in comfort and and quality of materials. I've heard criticisms of "lexus like" interior styling; it does look a bit generic compared to the 986 style but it works.

Regarding the tranny, I think the base 987 5 spd has a great linkage--very smooth. Every 987 six spd I've driven feels notchy, not terrible but not quite as silky. By comparison the '99's linkage felt more akin to a VW than Porsche.

The only time I miss the S extra HP on the track going down the straight at Mid-OH and the bigger brakes which you need when you're looking at turn 7 at the end. For typical use on the street, I don't think the HP differential is a big deal. Of course, YMMV..