2003 Boxster S or 2005 Boxster?

[z12358]

base 987, hands down.

[aren040]

Well, since I have a base 987 I would say that but there are things to consider. Some people like the exterior of the 986 and some the 987. Find out which one you like better. Keep in mind that you will probably spend some money on the 986 to clear the headlights and this and that. You know, the normal stuff people do to their 986 when they get them. The 987 seems to have the better interior. Find out if this is important to you.

The most important thing is to drive them both. You can quote figures all you want but numbers on a piece of paper dont mean anything to you when you are out enjoying the car. I was very surprised that the base 987 has some go to it.

Also take into account mileage and the dreaded RMS failure issues that these cars have.

-aren

[mylamb]

Kan-O-Z,

It is definitely funny reading these posts - everyone is right. We're going to recommend the generation that we purchased. LOL! So, my suggestion is the '03 S.

No one can really question that the 987 is superior aesthetically and dynamically, but I guess it just depends on why you're buying the car. 986's are by no means HOMELY, and the S versions deliver A LOT. If you can swing a 2005 987 S, then please do so, but if your price range puts you closer to the base model, then I don't think I would do it. Here are the 986 advantages that I see:

* Slightly more HP
* 30 lb/ft more torque
* Six gears instead of 5 (although you can get a 6 speed base 987 but they're rare.) Those first 2 gears are super short on the 986 S
* Carrera's brakes
* 3.2 liters vs. 2.7

I back2backed a 2002 S & a 2006 base in the same day. I test drove a 2002 S for 30 minutes & took it over to a Porsche dealership for a PPI. While I was waiting, they tried to put me into one of their cars instead, a 2006 base. Sorry, but aside from looks & better balance (once again, 986's aren't exactly Buick's in the handling arena) it was definitely lack luster. Those bullet points make for a better day to day driver, a more fun driver, and I would assume a better track car. I haven't tracked it yet - first event for me will be in May 07.

You should be able to grab a very good warranty on a 2003, especially if you get it from a Porsche dealership. If it's not CPO, then they'll probably try to offer you a warranty by a company called Easy Care (very good warranty & very familiar with RMS). IMHO I could not buy a Porsche that didn't feel quick & ballsy. The marque is special & their heritage is impressive but I need the whole package. I went with "seat-o-the-pants" feel over looks, build quality, and newness. But please, test drive them back 2 back if you can. It's your money! You may find that you don't really care about the performance difference, and the improved looks, balance & piece of mind (fewer RMS issues) of the 987 may win you over. Definitely nothing wrong with buying a car for these reasons. Either way... you will be getting a great car!

[Pilot2519j]

As 986S driver I would say that the S is the better choice but it really depends on your needs. If you rather have a nicer interior hands down the 987 is the choice. Should you desire perfomance then the 986S is the choice. Let's not forget the super brakes that you get with the S package. Both models are meant to be pushed the top speeds are about three times the speed limit in NY therefore top speed and performance plays a lesser role in the selection. The two cars are about driving and handling and there is no questions that Boxsters shine in that arena. The 986S styling is not dated and looks great with the Carrera 18" alloys. Radios probably suck on both cars but who listens to the radio anyway, it's all about the engine noise. Either way you have a nice quandary there but it is after all a win win situation. Best of luck in your decision!

Kan-O-Z how tall are you? You will have more leg room in the 987.

[drburton]

Good point Bmuss. If you plan to do any events and you are tall the broomstick test will be much easier to pass on the 987.

[z12358]

Originally Posted by drburton

Good point Bmuss. If you plan to do any events and you are tall the broomstick test will be much easier to pass on the 987.

From what I have observed, all 986 DE participants had to have the roll-bar extension. No 987's (including the 6ft tall self) need it. I think both the 987 bars are higher (and stronger) and the 987 seats can be adjusted lower than 986. If you observe the 986 and 987 side by side, you'll notice the 987 top has one extra "rib" and the cabin space is noticeably larger.

Z.