Old Chuck

Two days ago, I drove the new 3.4 and it was fairly impressive. However, I will echo what has been said elsewhere in this post.

It is not as noticeable as one might think. When looking at the weight per HP as posted you will get a good picture of the minimal increase. Don't get me wrong, the 3.4 is very nice but not gotta have. It is about .2 or .3 seconds faster then the 280 hp and that is about .2 or .3 seconds faster then the 260 hp in acceleration. Given a choice, I would like the 3.4 however I would not pay seven to ten grand to get it. When doing 0-60 or the 1/4 mile, a couple of tenths is not too relevant and can be made up by a good start or a good shift. I compared the 3.4 to a much earlier boxster and it did have more "seat of the pants" feel then the 250 hp. I would rather have the 3.4 then the 3.2 250 hp. but the 3.2 280 hp is very close in feel to the 3.4.

(newbie here ...)

has anyone driven both? how much difference can you *feel* ?

I have a 03 S and an 06 S, I really like the bells and whistles on the 06, but it is a heaver car I think.

what about GVW V/S BHP? I don't know what the 07 weight is, but probably heaver that the 06.

I have an 07 on order that wife wants , I just hope I don't like it more that mine. Ouch

Here's some info on the weight and P/W ratios of the models you mentioned. These are basic curb weights with standard equipment.

'03 Boxster S 2855 lbs 260HP P/W=10.98

'06 Boxster S 2965 lbs 280HP P/W=10.59

'07 Boxster S 2987 lbs 295HP P/W=10.12

Have not seen anything on a TSB however, there is a good bit on caymanclub.net on the issues under problems or complaints.

Just curious because am getting close to a purchase and want to be sure it is not a large problem. It seems that when spotted, PCA has been willing to fix the problem but I have not determined if they want to go so far as a TSB at this point. Also, as with any problem you never know just how prevelent it is by reading posts. Have only seen it on Caymans but since they have had the 3.4 longer it may be too soon to tell yet for the Boxster. Seems to be a lack of torque on the bolts but can effect the clutch, flywheel etc.

Have noticed some clutch related problems happening with the 3.4 Cayman and was wondering if this has happened with the Boxster. Apparently it is an assembly issue with the bolt tightening. Did not know if the Boxster was assembled in the same place/manner and if the 3.4 Boxster owners should be aware of the potential problem.

Having looked at prices for the 986, it seems that it loses much of its value fairly quickly.

That will not deter me from a 987 purchase in the near future but was wondering if any folks have any good answers on why it loses its value more then some. I am new to the forum and realize that most of you have many more years of experience with the Boxster then I and thought that you may have some reasons why.

There has been quite a bit on this topic over at the Bimmerfest forum. Many of the folks liked the Nuvi and gave good reports on it. Many opted for the after market to save a bundle. I would check all the major boards and get different opinions.

I was thinking Garmin 660 but maybe there is something better.

When did the Boxster lose its oil dip stick? Did most of the Porsche models lose it as well?

Have there been any problems with the dash board sensor readings? Just wondering if these sensors will be a problem with some miles and time on the car. I have always done my own maintence and not being able to check the oil with a dip stick is a concern of mine.

Thanks to all for helping me sort out some concerns. All were very helpful.

Mile Focke, thanks for your questions as they are all valid. I also appreciate your Porsche Boxster Web Pages. Things like this are invaluable to new folks.

I agree, it is what makes us smile. I am approaching 60 and have not had the means before to consider any of these cars but am looking forward to it. I do like the horsepower rush of the vette but am concerned about build quality after four or five years. Also the vette did not feel as tossable as I like although, when pushed hard they do perform with the best in a track setting. I do not intend to track the car. I fit into all roadsters fine and that is an advantage of being 5'6". This will be a toy as I have other vehicles. I am only considering a stick.

I will enjoy my search which, is part of the fun for me. I had not considered a Porsche before because of the cost and had heard that they were not too reliable but reading these sites proves that is not always true.

Do I need a Porsche? No. I am sure any of the cars considered will thrill me however, do I want one? Possibly.

Have driven the vette and the Z4M and enjoyed both. I did enjoy the Z4M better. After researching these posts, I may revisit the local Porsche dealership and take the test ride that I passed on the first trip.

Again, I do appreciate all the help on this forum.

Can't really respond unless I know what is important to you in a car.

What is your body size/type? Some people fit better in one car than another.

How important is taking 12 bags of groceries home? Luggage for 2 for a week long trip? 2 Golf bags? A computer? Whatever else your lifestyle says you will need to transport?

How important is a convertible top? Cloth OK? Store it outside or inside?

How important is all out acceleration?

How important is handling? Where are you going to use that handling?

Stick or Auto-Manual? Buttons on the steering wheel?

How important is pre-defined maintenance expense (BMW's everything covered for 50k factor)?

What car's styling do you like? Which styling do you thing will last over the 5 or 10 year period you mention?

How does your significant other feel about such cars (I ask because my wife of 30+ years urged me to buy 2 Boxsters but doesn't like to ride in it ... she feels vulnerable).

Going to have to cope with winter? How?

Have access to another car/SUV/truck (I bought a CRV before the Boxster just for the winter and rainy days so I could run all out summer performance tires)?

How comfortable are you with the stereotype others attach to those owning each car?

All three are beautiful cars in some ways, not so good in others.

Enjoy your shopping...its fun to be able to consider such cars ... cars that 80-90% of the people will never be able to own.

I know I am covering old ground that most every new member covers but need to ask.

Am presently considering a 987, Z4M and Vette. The overall quality of the vette has me concerned and have put it on the back burner. Looking for any opinions ( I know what that means) on the overall cost to own between the 987 and the Z4M if anyone has been down that road before. Looking at new. My history is to keep a vehicle for ten years although it may be better with these to trade more often. Again, looking for any thoughts.

Have been trolling different Porsche boards and feel this one best fits what I am looking for. Have seen some great tech support but for now, looking to narrow down my decision.