2005 Boxster S initial impressions

[Adam]

Originally Posted by eslai

I agree about the engine noise--I already mentioned the same thing you just did, a little further up in this thread. Actually, I can feel the cam change right around 4500 it seems, the car just starts "going" and then I let off the gas.

I picked up a book at work that comprehensively covers the boxster. The exact rpm when the vario-cam kicks in is 5,120 rpm. 4,500 rpm is right around the torque peak of the engine so I can see why some ppl think it kicks in at a lower engine speed. Just thought I would share this little piece of trivia.

[eslai]

Oh yeah? Is everything the same for the new car?

[Adam]

I haven't heard anything about Porsche changing anything the variocam in the numerous articles I've read.

[jwc]

I just hit 3000km's on mine - so break in is basically over (it only took a few weeks but tons of self control). My impressions...
- I love the car!
- Sounds very nice, at lower rpm's there is that cool high-tech sounding "whine" (I like to call it 'the angels singing'); then the beautiful high RPM sound
- I don't have any rattles with the top down, but there are a few coming from the top when it is up (not very often)
- I didn't get the upgraded Bozo stereo, I like the way mine works (controls etc.) but it sounds like a tin can. I pretty much leave it off and listen to the engine and bugs hitting the windshield.
- Handling is a dream; the driving sensations from this car are utopia.
- Battery cover is bowed a bit (as mentioned by others in this thread)
- I've had two Miata's, and I do love their shifting; but I like the Boxster as well. It doesn't have the same 'snick', but it is very smooth. I have to watch fourth to make sure it is all the way in (about half way it feels like you might be there).
- I rarely drive the Viper any more; just enough to keep the battery charged etc.
- I like the looks of it better every time I see it; it has really grown on me.
- Absolutely no buyer's regret.
- Life is great... and get a 987 if you can!

[eslai]

Originally Posted by jwc

- I've had two Miata's, and I do love their shifting; but I like the Boxster as well. It doesn't have the same 'snick', but it is very smooth. I have to watch fourth to make sure it is all the way in (about half way it feels like you might be there).

Yeah, that's EXACTLY how I feel about it, although i also get that feeling when I shift into third.

Glad to hear you're enjoying it, and that your issues seem consistant with mine!

[BoxsterMD]

I too have an 05' S and I have the same problem with it not always going into fourth. Is this normal?

My wind deflector rattles also. I thought I read somewhere that someone used double sided foam sticky tape to get it to stop rattling. Anyone try this?

I have taken people for a ride in the car and when they hear that "whine" at low rpms, they often ask if it is a turbo. I just chuckle to myself. I can't get enough of the sound, but I too wish the engine was a hair louder. I am not one for changing the exhaust. I did that on my VR6 Corrado and I ended up wishing I hadn't.

I only have 600 miles on mine and I love it. I could sit here all day and list the positives of the car, but I don't have time. I need to go put some more miles on.