I happen to have both as my daily drivers, 02 330ci and 99 Boxster. The red car is my 85 635csi that is up for sale as I rarely drive it since buying the Boxster.
They are both fun but different. The 330ci is a larger, heavier and more comfortable car. HP is just a little more than the Boxster, but power comes on differently. The straight six has more low end grunt and nice smooth power. Although at 225 HP, it is not very quick by today's standards. It is also an automatic. With it you have more engine sound than exhaust. It handles great and has all the comforts I desire.
The Boxster is smaller and lighter. The engine does not have the low end torque of the BMW, but goes nicely if you wind it up. You hear less of the engine at lower revs and more of the sweet exhaust note. Of course the engine gets louder as you increase the revs. Not near as roomy inside but still comfortable. Both cars have similar features, traction control, antilock brakes... My Boxster is a 5 speed.
The Boxster is much more fun around town. I think the gearing is perfect for city traffic and just having fun. And I sometimes drive it as far as 5 hours in a day depending on where I need to go.
The 330ci is more comfortable for going longer distances and not as fun around town. It is still a sweet car to drive, just does not have that zippy factor.
I try to drive the Boxster at least 2 days a week and the 330ci the other 3. But, I mix that up depending on the weather or just a desire to drive one or the other. Both were cheap, $4750 for the 330ci and $4700 for the Boxster. Both needed a little work when I bought them, but that is expected with cheaper cars. They are not perfect, but in pretty nice shape. I consider myself lucky in regard to what I get to drive every day!
