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Originally Posted by eslai
Carl mentioned the 6-speed not because of it having shorter shifts (it does not), but because of the shorter gears allowing it to take better advantage of the power band.
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At least eslai understood what I was getting at...
Sorry...I guess I took it as obvious that I was talking a standard manual transmission car; 5spd versus 6spd. The close ratios of the 6 spd will keep the car in the meat of the powerband easier than a 5 speed. Of course you can order a 6 speed on a non S but, regardless of the transmission (5 speed, 6 speed or Tip) or short shifter or not, I stand by my statement that an S will beat a non S in a straight line contest.
If you want to bring in the equation a moron for a driver who can't drive with their foot to the floor in a straight line and/or shift a manual transmission you're right. However, that wouldn't make me feel great about the power of my car or my driving skills. But remember we are talking about one driver deciding on a car with more or less power for more or less money.
I doubt anyone is buying any Boxster for it's power or straight line prowess. It's certainly about the handling and open top fun for me. Given that I have a couple of other very fast cars and autocross/track my cars, the power of the car (even the S) is a negative point for me compared to some rivals. The chassis is so wonderfully competent that it could certainly handle an extra 50 hp over the S. I certainly wasn't going to pass on 40 more HP from the factory but it would certainly depend on someone's financial situation and their personal opinion on the cost/benefit ratio of the extra ponies (and 6 speed, bigger wheels and brakes, etc.)
I'm personally waiting patiently for a nice aftermarket header/exhaust combination to add some more ponies to my S but some of us are seduced by power and some of us aren't. Buy the one that is right for you, enjoy it and don't look back.