yeah i dont buy it...

Didn't someone say that Porsche and VW are working on a new 914, maybe that is really the car this thread is about?

500 HP 4 cylinder 911. Mitsubishi Eclipse engine. There's huge cheap power potential in a turbocharged 4.

http://www.dsmworld.net/forum/dsm-media/2354-911-dsm.html

with Porsche's mixed track record on catastrophic engine failures, the idea of a turbo powered out of warranty engine will destroy any resale value for the Boxster.
In terms of prestiege this is a terrible idea. You already have Hyundai and Pontiac comparing their cars to the Boxster in tv commericals. A lowered powered Boxster will only invite more of this. And even worse, the idea of being regularly beaten on the track by a four cylinder Honda s2000 will be like gifting them free PR.

Check it out.
http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=10&article_id=7123

Call me crazy but those headlights look a lot like the Carrera GT.

Here's a different rendering of the VW Concept... to be unveiled at NAIAS 09.

http://www.motorauthority.com/volkswagen-confirms-roadster-concept-for-naias.html

I could go for a retro styled version of the 912. Small coupe with an rear mounted 4 cylinder boxer engine, mabye a slick six speed manual. Very light, very cool.

It has to get at least 40 MPG and make 180 HP.

Yeah, that's the ticket.

VW and Toyota roadster concepts are pretty cool looking. They're on the right track, but the fronts still look very GM. [Didn't see the rear view] If they would incorporate the Italian taste for 'sleek' it might be improved. Sleek is sexy. Bubbly and choppy are, well, bubbly and choppy. :)

Reminds me of the VW concept 'EcoRacer'. It was a mid engine two seater that would have used a small TDI to generate about 150hp (IIRC) and get around 72mpg. It was also pretty light, being mostly carbon fiber, so it would have been pretty quick.

A little car like this newer VW concept could do really well if it gets good fuel economy. Heck, I would be interested in one in a few years when they could be had on the used market!

Honestly IMO, Porsche is making some bad moves. A 4 cyl turbo boxster will never have the performance ( or aftermarket support ) of the Evo or Sti. This on top of the 4 door Panamera coming out, and the Porsche brand is pretty much diluted.