Horsepower question + 1 more

[shaman1204]

Is there a real world (i.e. not track) noticability between a 2002 Boxster S with 250hp and a 2003 base with 228hp? Both are tiptronic trans. I know the S has the upgraded brakes and everything and I wanted the S, but I found a nice 03 Boxster base with the exact color combo I was wanting. I was also wondering if anyone has installed a subwoofer in their Boxster? I don't want a huge system or anything, but I am a bit of a, as my gf would put it, a "music snob." I don't want something that others can hear booming at a stoplight, but I have a 10" in the trunk of my current car just to round out the sound and I have become quite fond of it.

[Houston C4S]

I would say the "felt" horsepower difference would be imperceptible in
the real world, especially with an automatic.

More perceptible would be the sharper handlng of the S and the
brakes, which you noted. Although the base model is no slouch
in either department. And if you are not a track junkie, you will
never really know the difference.

More importantly, it seems to me, is that you get the color you
prefer and a glass back window in the '03.

As far as tunes, I would council you to just put your right foot
down as often as you can and enjoy the engine music.

My ever so humble opinion...

- Mark

[jmabasa]

Originally Posted by Houston C4S

I would say the "felt" horsepower difference would be imperceptible in
the real world, especially with an automatic.

More perceptible would be the sharper handlng of the S and the
brakes, which you noted. Although the base model is no slouch
in either department. And if you are not a track junkie, you will
never really know the difference.

More importantly, it seems to me, is that you get the color you
prefer and a glass back window in the '03.

As far as tunes, I would council you to just put your right foot
down as often as you can and enjoy the engine music.

My ever so humble opinion...

- Mark

Nicely put!

[RandallNeighbour]

While I fully agree with Mark, there are times you want tunes and want them LOUD.

The problem with the boxster when it comes to stereo equipment is space. There's zero space behind the seats for a sub, so a few people are having custom enclosures for subs mounted in the passenger footwell. The amp goes in the front trunk, of course.

This will give you the thump you desire without losing any real usable space... your GF will have to keep her Dolce & Gabbana heels out of the sub's grill, but that's about the only downside.

[Houston C4S]

That's an interesting comment, Randall, from
MR, LOUD EXHAUST!!!

No wonder you need it loud.

Just kiddin', as you know. (Sort of)

Personally, I'd rather listen to talk radio
and that lovely engine than any music
that needs a thumper.

Perhaps a little Steve Tyrell instead?
Or the old pro himself, Tony Bennet?
His CD with kd lang is pretty darn good as
is his new duet CD.

But what do I know?

I don't even drink civet poop coffee.

- Mark

[John V]

The later model cars are getting up there in horsepower, but you pay the price in torque. There is no replacement for the extra .5L of displacement the 3.2 motors have.

In everyday driving, the earlier S will feel (and be!) quicker.