What drop-top would you consider as a replacement to the Boxster?

[Topless]

I think the MG is nice looking. Much better than most of the Jap beer can roadsters. It doesn't say ATTITUDE though.

If faced with such a dilemma I would apply simple logic... If not Porsche... then Ferrari. They are arguably still the only game in town if you want great looks, great performance and great pedigree in a purpose built, no compromise roadster. If you do decide on a Ferrari keep a good mechanic on retainer though. Maintenance and repairs are mind-boggling.

[racer_d]

I'm not sure if "use" was specified but...

1) 1950's Porsche Speedster
2) Any 356 Cab (mmm Carerra II with Fourcam would be nice

3) Cayman Convertible
4) 996
5) Mini Cooper S JCW
6) MB SLK
7) Z4, M

[webster132]

You can get a used SLK55 AMG for ~$45-50k. It's a V8, 355hp, 376 lb-ft, convertible hardtop. That's a pretty nice machine and tad faster than a new Boxster S. (I'd still pick the S any day of the week, but if you're tired of the pcar for some reason).

See http://www.mbusa.com/models/features/specs/overview.do?modelCode=SLK55&class=07_SLK

[Grizzly]

I've been thinking about this all day (I know, scary isn't it). With a ceiling of $40,000 and change, there really aren't too many inspiring cars out there, particularly if you want something you can comfortably drive daily. If you were looking for a toy, there are many offerings in that range (the 550 Spyder and Cobra replicas immediately come to mind). I have to say that if you don't like the 996 and you don't want to stay with the 986, the NSX is not a bad choice. Still, you're going to be pressed to find a good, later model example in the price range you're talking about.

The Mercedes SL500 and SLKs really don't do it for me, especially after my experience with my last E Class. It probably varies by area of the Country, but around here, everybody seems to have one. They're like the Annapolitan Corolla or something.

To me, the MGF is still a pipe dream and even if it does happen and appears on our shores, it looks eerily like this...



I guess if it were me, I'd upgrade the Boxster or step up to a 987S ...which is probably why I bought a Boxster when looking for a fun rag top in the first place.

Good luck.

[Grizzly]

Hey, how about the Elise? They are a blast to drive and the way their values have fallen off a cliff, you may be able to get one and a half of them for $40k. Of course, if they haven't improved their reliability over the years, you may need one and a half of them just to keep it running. I'd recommend the roadside assistance insurance, but it is cool.

[CJ_Boxster]

Originally Posted by Grizzly

Hey, how about the Elise? They are a blast to drive and the way their values have fallen off a cliff, you may be able to get one and a half of them for $40k. Of course, if they haven't improved their reliability over the years, you may need one and a half of them just to keep it running. I'd recommend the roadside assistance insurance, but it is cool.

Lotus, Yes... Elise no.... Exige S OH YEAH BABY!
top comes off too!

Supercharged, more aggressive styling, slightly better suspension and better tires.

[Grizzly]

Originally Posted by CJ_Boxster

Lotus, Yes... Elise no.... Exige S OH YEAH BABY!
top comes off too!

Supercharged, more aggressive styling, slightly better suspension and better tires.

...And bigger price tag too. That's why I mentioned the Elise. Exige is cool as hell for $55 grand.