911&Porsche World Magazine 25th anniversary issue
 

Has an interesting piece on the Boxster history. According to the article, some at Porsche were pushing for a "two car only" strategy while some were pushing for 911 resurrection only. They expected the 993 to be a flop so the "two car team" prevailed in putting what cash they had on hand into developing their first purpose built mid engine roadster. According to them, in hindsight if they knew that the 993 wasn't to be a total flop, the Boxster may never have become a reality as they would have put all of their time into developing the 996. But the Boxster was a company-saving hit when it was unveiled and the "two car only" strategy prevailed with unprecedented level of major components sharing between the two models. Many layoffs ensued as they streamlined the workforce.
Some interesting points raised indicated that the body shell of the 996 was an instant ~33% increase in torsional rigidity over the 993 and the simpler revised rear suspension of the 996 reduced weight in the rear while sharpening the handling.


http://www.911porscheworldmag.co.uk/...er-229x300.jpg

This is a really good magazine, no matter which Porsche you drive. I've been a subscriber for years and have rarely been disappointed.
They did a multi page (+/- 10 page) feature in 2012 outlining the M96 engine's many problems and who can fix +what you can do as an owner to minimize them. Great reading.