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I suspect that the 981 is going to be a huge success. Opinions vary, of course, but I think the new body is very attractive while being much more aggressive than the 986/7. The headlights? They blend in well IMO and certainly look similar to the headlight set-up of many of the Porsche 908 and 917's from endurance racing in the early 70's. Do I like the electric steering? Not having tried it, I probably would prefer the additional feel of my 986. However, I suspect that it is less of an issue than many believe. Indeeed, I recall the outrage of many when Porsche moved from manual to power steering on the 911 and, there can be no doubt that even hydraulic power steering elimiinates the direct mechanical connection of non-assisterd steering (alhtough with the size of current tires, the effort that would be required without power assist is virtually out of the question).
Do I like the electric emergency brake? Again, no - to me it is an unnecessary complication to a straightforward mechanical system. Would this stop me from buying a 981? Of course not.
I very much like the increased use of aluminum in the structure (and the reduced weight, in spite of increased size, over the 987). I love the increased efficiency of the new top (quieter and faster to operate). On the other hand, I miss the more finished look that was derived from the metal tonneau that was fitted on the original. I like the increased interior dimensions ( which will also prove important for those who are mcuh more than 6 feet tall), but also miss the unique curvaceousness of the 986 interior (and the lower shft knob).
Is it a win/win? Nothing ever is. Yes, it loses a bit of the uniqueness that was achieved when Porshce first introduced the Boxster in 1996. Is the design as clean and uncluttered as the 986? No, and while I quite like the new 981, I still prefer the clean, almost feminine lines of the 986; the historical cues from the 550 Spyder and the incredible symmetry in that design - note the repetition of modified 'C' forms in the front grills, headlights, front wheel openings, door handles, tail lights, side window and top profile, rear center light, head rests, roll bars, gauge hood, etc., etc. that was carried so elegantly throughout the entire 986. But the new car is handsome indeed and will no doubt eliminate much of the criticism that that 986 received for being a 'chick's' car - there is nothing feminine about it, for those who are concerned about such things.
For those of us who prefer the earlier cars, we get to keep them and have a good supply of parts from a manufacturer that is becoming more and more profitable. If Porsche continued to live in the past, I have no doubt that would be on the road to insolvency and we would all be the losers. Vive the new Boxster!
Brad
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