As an owner of a GT3 Touring Manual , I am in the process of buying a 986 Boxster S. I sometimes want the top down cruising experience. I don’t like the look of convertible 911’s.The boxster is a great car - anyone that frowns on them because they aren’t a 911… they can go “F” themselves. All vehicle preferences are 110% subjective. Thank you very much
I’ve owned both from new in the UK (both manual). The Boxster S was great and fun to drive but I always wanted a 911 so bought a 996 C2 Cab. It was much faster and I felt brilliant driving it. With the benefit of hindsight the Boxster S was without doubt the better car. I could drive that on the edge all the time, the 996 always felt like it wanted to kill me 🤪 If I had my time again I’d keep the Boxster S
Thanks for the helpful comment. Having owned a 986 Boxster and now a 996, I know what you mean. Both are great cars, but you can use more of the Boxster’s power on the road, when I have tried on the 911 I quickly have to lower my speeds because you can hit triple digits quickly when passing a car. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
Ha ha, one has to over come decades of marketing the 911 as ‘the car’ to not want one. Boxster makes more sense really. Cayman is the car I must drive next.
Brother….this was an outstanding video. I’m in my late 60s, retired military, retired federal LEO. The year I turned 50 (damn, that now seems like yesterday!) coincided with the year I was promoted to O6 (Navy Captain). I gifted myself a car I always admired (especially since my recently divorced CO had a gorgeous white one) was the 944S2 Cabriolet. With my wife’s blessing, I found a very low mileage Baltic Blue beauty, owned by a Marine LTCOL. I still own that car, as I live in New England, she is stored 5-6 months of the year. While I still enjoy the car, I continue to yearn for a 911….though I’m giving the Boxster S serious consideration! So your video is extremely timely…..and as my wife is tired of hearing me “whine” about it (I seriously don’t think I whine….but she does, I guess), I’m getting close to “pulling the trigger” and buy one of these! (Wooohoooo! No more whining!). Anyway, again, Bravo-Zulu….excellent-and in my case, timely--video. Thanks so much.
I faced the same choice this year. Ended up with a 996 C2 Cab. The look on my 3 year old son's face when I strapped him and his carseat in the back seat sealed the deal.
I have 2 girls, 4 years of 911 cab, they still prefer it over Jaguar sedan with leather and wood. When kids gone, I am going to get a Cayman. Wife’s Boxster is a fun, yet subtly different car.
Having owned a 986S and now a 996, I feel my experience may help. The 911 is more usable. Driving the 986 in bad weather is not much fun for me. At 6’1” there is head room, but quite confining and at this age, lots of jiggles and creaks. Hands down best roadster no question. How they drive is very different, inside very similar, some upgrades in the 911. But I drive the 996 in everything but winter, no longer watching the weather for a clear day over 50 I can wear gloves and hat with top down.
I’ve owned a 2002 Boxster s and currently own a 2000 996 C2. So I guess I have experience in this subject. Yes the interior and front end of both cars is similar but that’s where the comparisons end. The Boxster is a more fun car lighter easier to drive etc. The 911 in comparison is an animal bigger more brutal the 3.4 engine feels and sounds and feels so much more than the 3.2 version the 3.6 doesn’t rev as sweet. Handling wise the Boxster is a delight very neutral. The 911 is a one time experience with the rear engine pendulum effect it can bite you very quickly especially the C2. Would I go back to a Boxster? I guess not the 911 even the 996 has an X factor that the Boxster doesn’t have and if you like to pose then everyone looks at the 911 even non car people.
Very valid points and good to hear your experience. Both are wonderful cars and the Boxster is probably a better technical platform, but there is something about the way a 911 drives that gives it a special feeling. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
I bought a 1999 996 in March. One thing I considered that you didn't mention was depreciation. The 996 might depreciate a bit once it gets over 100K miles but shouldn't go down in value much. I looked at the Boxster values and they tend to keep depreciating down to around $4K. While the initial price point for the 996 was higher than for an equivalent Boxster, I should be able to sell it for around what I paid for it.
996 prices do seem to be on the rise as of late. The 986 will likely see the same rise, but the 911 will probably see a faster rise due to it being the car Porsche is best known for and smaller production numbers. Sounds like you have a great car enjoy it as often as you can. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Thank you! Always enjoy your video’s! One aspect you did not touch is “cost to operate”. I find my 986 to be fairly affordable. You owned both. What is your experience between the 986 and 996? A separate topic would be the engine-issues with these cars. They both use the same engine, but the larger the cylinders, the more vulnerable they are for e.g. bore-scoring. Something to consider?
Good vid, my tip: match the images you show to what you're talking about - I found it weird to hear about the 996 then see an image for the Boxster and vice versa
Glad you enjoyed it. I’ve been trying to do better about that since this video so hopefully newer videos are better and less jarring. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
I used to work on Porsche 911 and Boxsters myself and I will be looking for a Boxster S next year.. For me I just like the way they drive over the 911, but like you say people really do need to drive them both as they a so different
In your opinion.. is the 911 a much better car for a larger wider heavier driver ?? Considering a 2002 or so 911 coupe base vs a 2007 to 2009 cayman base .. would really appreciate your opinion.. 300 lb... 6 foot 1.. big in the middle..
Part of it will depend on the seat option in the car as the sports seats have bolsters that are a bit bigger and you may find uncomfortable. With the standard seat both should be pretty comfortable, but the interior of the Cayman out of the box will provide a little more leg room with the center console. With the 996 many taller folks remove the center console to allow for more leg room. The thing that the 911 will offer is more seat adjustment options because the engine isn’t right behind your seat. If possible your best option would be to test drive each option and that will give you the best idea of how they will fit you. You’ll also get to experience the drive and see if you prefer the rear or mid-engine layout. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
@@OurRideLife thanks.. the virus is just killing my ability to try driving any of these cars.. i am in the PCA and the bmw club and they have functions but your ten feet from each other. And getting near a car is forbidden. Great. I have owned Z cars and a mid engine lancia beta montecarlo. Scorpion . Loved the width and engine placemenr of the scorpion.. car rotation with mid engine is so awesome. Mine was a 450hp road racer . Illegally on the street.. Dont know how that relates to a porsche. I am bigger now than the lancia days. I know the 911 ability to have the seat recline would help me. Did not think of taking out the center console. That could sure help. I love the idea of super firm suspension race car for the street. Comfort is no priority. I love fast and horsepower. The cayman is not super powerful. The 911 2002 base would not be a ton faster. Owned a 944. Loved the leg room.
Fair point and I do currently own a 911. The Boxster and Cayman are incredible cars, but the feel of the 911 is something else and I do enjoy the extra horsepower when I pass folks. The best answer is to own one of each. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
I do like Boxster and Cayman as well don't get me wrong! It's the passion for the brand that I have since I was a very young kid growing up with them because my father had a small business in Germany during the 80s selling only used Porsches..Sooo many memories and traveling's as well around Europe during the summertime with all kinds of models like Targas, 944 turbos, 928gts, and sooo many other versions of 911s..
Funny thing is my 996 ended up being a Tiptronic model due to knee issues, so I don’t have recent memories of the 986 clutch versus a 996 clutch. I don’t remember them feeling much different, but it has been a while since I drove each. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Never hate 911s, oog, respect but the boxster, CHAINSAW! I agree, raw,power, etc. Boxster is a samurai's sword, from machete.? Swift,smooth, sharp,and just feels clean and Balanced. ! That's it,4 wheels balanced and rollllllin!
You make a good point. Thanks for the tip on the audio. I had been looking up how to get rid of the popping, but nothing helped that I found, but I didn’t try to cross fade the edits. I’ll give that a try on the next video. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Not mentioned is racing heritage. I grew up watching 935s and then later various RSR models. So for me it is 911 coupe all the way. Not that I drive my 99 996 like a race car, but it does contribute to my total ownership experience.
Very good point. The 911 does have a wonderful racing pedigree. The Boxster has shown to be a good race car as well in spec racing series, but the 911 has had many class wins at Le Mans. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Really good video. I particularly appreciate how you treated the comparisons of handling and the idiosyncratic aspects of the 911 (and how that’s been engineered toward neutrality over the generations). Well done and thanks. My only bond to pick is on your comment about the price gap in the secondary market......I don’t think it closes as much as you implied. The 911 seems to command (on an apples to apples basis) a fair chunk more than the boxster/cayman does when both cars are 5, 10, or 15 years old. Also the more apt comparison might have been boxster and 911 cabriolet.....in which case, you’re adding another 12k to the latter....making the price as nee over 50k between them. Since their personalities are decidedly different driving both make sense but to choose the 911 you gotta like it a lot more imho.....as the gap could pay for one year of college for a kid. Keep up the good work!
Glad you enjoyed it and for adding some good points. The Boxster, Cayman and 911 are all awesome cars, just in different ways. I guess the best answer is to own all three, but then that isn’t cheap. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
I have four boxers all great cars the latest version I have is a 2009 trip tonic engine transmission I think it's the best way to go and as far as a 911 where do you buy a cheap or a new one it's very expensive if that doesn't bother you just get the 9/11 but basically if you're sitting in a car a boxer or 9:11 it looks the same from the sitting view
From a creature comfort stand point, some of it depends on what options you have on your NA and the options ticketed for the Boxster. With the 2.5-liter 986 you will get a power top (if I remember correctly the NA Miata doesn’t have that) and leather seats. While there is still a good amount of visible plastic, the interior does feel like it is a higher quality compared to the Miata (of course it also cost a lot more when new). On my 986 2.5 I had heated seats and that was nice when it was cold out. The early Boxsters have a plastic rear window, but you can install a glass rear window top (which is what I did with mine and I have a video detailing the installation). Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I have an NB and a 2.7 986 Boxster. My Boxster has the automatic climate control which is great. It is more comfortable and the seats are better. And more power of course. ;-) Good luck in finding your boxster.
The answer is No. The price difference is to great. More bhp but more kgs. Interior is the same. Front end is the same. Understeer is big in a 996 including C4S. 986 is neutral in corners. Running costs are less 996 plus points are revised headlights 03MY and that rear end/hips. Oh don't forget 3.6 lumps are prone to fail. Take your pick on engine issues. From 15yrs with this brand a 986 2.7 is the best ownership experience for first timers and 911 owners. Avoid the tiptronic on both. its beyond piss poor.
You have a point in general. Because I bought my 986 when prices were a bit higher and my 996 not that long ago, I actually payed less for my 911 (but then I also got a better deal on the 996 and it has a few more miles on it). The manual is certainly the better option and I would have gone for that in the 996 as I had it my previous three Porsches had it not been for knee issues getting aggravated by the clutch. As far as old fashion semi-automatics go, it isn’t bad, but compared to the manual and newer dual-clutch transmissions it isn’t as good. Of course if one does go for a Tiptronic car, the more power the engine has the better as it will make up for some of the power loss in the transmission. Sounds like you have a fun ride, so enjoy it as often as possible. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
You’re not that far away from a 986 Boxster S. You have about 50 more Hp, but with your Tiptronic, the Boxster S 6-speed is faster to 60. Factor in the neutral handling of the Boxster S and you have two cars that are neck and neck. Factor in the price, which can be a 50% savings with a Boxster S, and then tell me which is the better car. Guess what I drive.
You make some very good points. For my particular car, the price of a Boxster S with a six-speed would have cost about the same, but that is an unusual case. The Boxster S is a great car and if it wasn’t for knee issues I would have gone for a six-speed. Still the 996 power is fun, but a Boxster S would provide about the same performance, as you said, if you compare the Boxster six-speed with the 996 Tiptronic. It sounds like you have a fun drive and probably hit the sweet spot for the Boxster (at least outside of the newer Boxster Spyder or the 4.0-liter 718 Boxster GTS). Enjoy the car and the wind in your hair while flying past most traffic. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
9:30 You don't get a "bit more" structural rigidity, you get a "lot more" structural rigidity. I checked into this when some clown with a Boxster in our local PCA club said his Boxster was more rigid than a 911. So I dug up an article that showed the rigidity of countless vehicles, both coupes and convertibles of the same model and generation, and the torsional values weren't even close.
I was probably a little generous about that. You don’t notice it much in the Boxster, but when you drive a hard top right after the open aired vehicle at a good rate of speed you begin to notice the difference. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
The Boxster was designed from the ground up as a convertible, so no extra bracing and weight was needed. It’s not as stiff as the Cayman however, weights are similar. I’d take my 981 Spyder over any 911, well maybe not a Speedster.
Man thanks a lot, I was looking exactly that review. I am so much confused between 987.2, 981 boxster and 997 carrera. I think I need to go test drive for three of them. Let me know if you have any opinion =)
Those are all great options. The 981 is going to offer the most modern drive, but the steering feel won’t be as good as the 987.2 or 997. Both the 981 and 987.2 have wonderful balance and in S form won’t be far off of the 997 (the 981 will be about the same performance wise). The 997 isn’t a widow maker like many of the air-cooled 911s, but you will notice the weight in the back and it can take some time to feel completely comfortable with using it at its full potential. From a resale standpoint point the 997 probably will retain a bit more of its value due to it being a 911. If you like to work on cars yourself then the 987.2 is probably a bit easier to work on than the other two. The 997 isn’t too bad, but for some things like the air/oil separator or the water pump, you need to adjust the engine placement a bit to give yourself enough clearance, which can be a little nerve racking if you haven’t done it before. In the end the best option is to test drive each option as some prefer the 911 feel and others find they would rather have a mid-engine car. Thanks for watching and I hope whatever you choose will be a good dependable Porsche for years to come.
@@OurRideLife it is the most comprehensive answer I have ever recieved on youtube. Thanks a lot for all the advices, I will let you know when I finally have my Porsche =)
I had a 1999 Boxster before getting a 99’ 911. It was a great fun car and the main reason I moved to the 911 was the back seat as it allows me to take all three of my children places. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I have had both cars and many of them. The Boxster handles, it really does. Its easy to drive fast, no argument. In a 911 you have to learn the craft. Its very light and precise on steering and you need to learn to be comfortable with its ride and its unique balance. This said, the 911 is well, a 911. The boxster good car but hey, its a boxster! Absolutely no cudos and its just not cool in comparison to the legendary 911. That is why a boxster is so much cheaper. I drove a boxster because I could not afford a 911. Harsh I know but just true IMHO
Right to the heart at the end of it. Probably the reason why most people get a Boxster instead of a 911. I’m a bit different as I actually paid more for my Boxster than my 911, but that has a lot to do with the market at the time that I bought each. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
That is a big difference in price. At that price difference I don’t know that the 911 is worth the extra money, unless you need the back seat. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
6 speed is definitely better from a value and performance stand point. Of course folks with knee issues (like myself) are forced to go with an automatic. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Nah the real value play is in the 996 Carrera vs 987 Boxster S. They're roughly in the same price range. The 987 gives you the newer, more updated car with a much more modern interior. Most 996's will leave you worrying about IMS whereas the 2006+ cars went back to dual row with a much less occurrence. 986 S is a pretty slow car. The 987 Boxster S and a 996.2 Carrera will be neck and neck for acceleration up to 120mph.
You have a point there. I had a manual with my previous 986 Boxster, but was forced to get a Tiptronic due to knee issues when I bought the 996 (since it was going to be my daily driver). I have thought about adding another Boxster or a Cayman with a manual transmission for weekends. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Are you a Phineas and Ferb fan, because after watching that with my boys I use that phrase all the time. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I have a 2000 986 S I've done about 3K Plus work on the suspension it has a tune and a couple of other cheap mods. The car is very dialed in. I just purchased a 2002 C2 6-speed Coupe. I don't have a lot of time in the seat yet but I will be glad to report my findings. I live in North Georgia so I do a lot of mountain driving. I will say that I am only 510 but less claustrophobic in the 911. It will be hard to out handle the Boxster the way it is set up but I'm okay with that I want a 911 and I want the extra power. And I would be much more comfortable going on a short trip in the 911. I have also owned several air-cooled 911s and I'm quite comfortable with a rear engine car . . In the end I guess it's not a bad problem to have.
Those are cool cars. I believe old Top Gear did an episode on Saab and it is one of my favorite episodes. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
You never told us what "you" think what you think after owing both?all you had to say at the end of the video was "for me I like the ( fill in the blank) better." and this is why...
I guess I forgot to do that, kind of a long time to watch with no answer of my thoughts. I loved my Boxster and it was a great car. However, for me the 911 is a better car for my driving enjoyment. Just the fact that it has rear seats means I can take my children in it and don’t have to drive a boring vehicle as often. That means more time behind the wheel and that is worth a lot. Another thing I personally like is that when I bought my Boxster prices were about higher, so I paid $14K for it, but the 996 only cost me $12,500, so I like that I paid less for it. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
It’s been a while since I released this video, so I would need to watch it again to see what was said (but knowing me I probably got my words mixed up). Obviously, the 986 would be the Boxster and the 911 generation during that timeframe would be the 996. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
@@OurRideLife Cheers for replying, I wasn’t sure if maybe the model numbers were different in the US. I kind of thought you meant 996 but maybe I was being a bit pedantic. Great video 😂
I've had a 964 for 15 years. I never even considered a Boxster. Why? I see girls driving Boxsters everywhere. Almost never see one in a 911. 'Nuff said 😄 Seriously, they're totally different cars. A Cayman, now - that's another story. But we're in way different pricing territory there. I do love Boxsters, though. They make Porsche money that it can use to continuously update the 911 😉
You make some good points. Both are good cars, but you can tell that the 911 is more powerful and is the more expensive car. Of course the Cayman is probably the best compromise, but on the used market they cost more as you said (of course the opposite is true with a new 718). The Boxster, Cayman and their four door vehicles all help the bottom line and keep the 911 in production. Each is good in its own way, but the 911 is well, a 911 and there is a reason why it is the sports car that others are compared to. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Thanks for watching. If you like videos like this then subscribe and check out my latest videos.
As an owner of a GT3 Touring Manual , I am in the process of buying a 986 Boxster S. I sometimes want the top down cruising experience. I don’t like the look of convertible 911’s.The boxster is a great car - anyone that frowns on them because they aren’t a 911… they can go “F” themselves. All vehicle preferences are 110% subjective. Thank you very much
Man, the topics you choose are simple, yet missed by many. Great job; keep it up.
Glad you enjoyed it.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
I’ve owned both from new in the UK (both manual). The Boxster S was great and fun to drive but I always wanted a 911 so bought a 996 C2 Cab. It was much faster and I felt brilliant driving it. With the benefit of hindsight the Boxster S was without doubt the better car. I could drive that on the edge all the time, the 996 always felt like it wanted to kill me 🤪 If I had my time again I’d keep the Boxster S
Thanks for the helpful comment. Having owned a 986 Boxster and now a 996, I know what you mean. Both are great cars, but you can use more of the Boxster’s power on the road, when I have tried on the 911 I quickly have to lower my speeds because you can hit triple digits quickly when passing a car.
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
Ha ha, one has to over come decades of marketing the 911 as ‘the car’ to not want one. Boxster makes more sense really. Cayman is the car I must drive next.
Brother….this was an outstanding video. I’m in my late 60s, retired military, retired federal LEO. The year I turned 50 (damn, that now seems like yesterday!) coincided with the year I was promoted to O6 (Navy Captain). I gifted myself a car I always admired (especially since my recently divorced CO had a gorgeous white one) was the 944S2 Cabriolet. With my wife’s blessing, I found a very low mileage Baltic Blue beauty, owned by a Marine LTCOL. I still own that car, as I live in New England, she is stored 5-6 months of the year. While I still enjoy the car, I continue to yearn for a 911….though I’m giving the Boxster S serious consideration! So your video is extremely timely…..and as my wife is tired of hearing me “whine” about it (I seriously don’t think I whine….but she does, I guess), I’m getting close to “pulling the trigger” and buy one of these! (Wooohoooo! No more whining!). Anyway, again, Bravo-Zulu….excellent-and in my case, timely--video. Thanks so much.
I faced the same choice this year. Ended up with a 996 C2 Cab. The look on my 3 year old son's face when I strapped him and his carseat in the back seat sealed the deal.
For those with young children, the backseat makes quite a difference.
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
I have 2 girls, 4 years of 911 cab, they still prefer it over Jaguar sedan with leather and wood. When kids gone, I am going to get a Cayman. Wife’s Boxster is a fun, yet subtly different car.
Having owned a 986S and now a 996, I feel my experience may help. The 911 is more usable. Driving the 986 in bad weather is not much fun for me. At 6’1” there is head room, but quite confining and at this age, lots of jiggles and creaks. Hands down best roadster no question. How they drive is very different, inside very similar, some upgrades in the 911. But I drive the 996 in everything but winter, no longer watching the weather for a clear day over 50 I can wear gloves and hat with top down.
Saying “I drive a 911” has a better ring to it!
That is true. Although, you can always just say “I drive a Porsche”.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
@@OurRideLife “Yeah, a cute little one!”
I’ve owned a 2002 Boxster s and currently own a 2000 996 C2. So I guess I have experience in this subject. Yes the interior and front end of both cars is similar but that’s where the comparisons end. The Boxster is a more fun car lighter easier to drive etc. The 911 in comparison is an animal bigger more brutal the 3.4 engine feels and sounds and feels so much more than the 3.2 version the 3.6 doesn’t rev as sweet. Handling wise the Boxster is a delight very neutral. The 911 is a one time experience with the rear engine pendulum effect it can bite you very quickly especially the C2. Would I go back to a Boxster? I guess not the 911 even the 996 has an X factor that the Boxster doesn’t have and if you like to pose then everyone looks at the 911 even non car people.
Very valid points and good to hear your experience. Both are wonderful cars and the Boxster is probably a better technical platform, but there is something about the way a 911 drives that gives it a special feeling.
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
You peeps gotta drive a Spyder, mine is the 3.8, and I’ll take it over any 911 because of the mid engine platform.
My 981 Spyder definitely has “x factor “, it’s 3.8 liters. Peeps are always complementing the car.
I bought a 1999 996 in March. One thing I considered that you didn't mention was depreciation. The 996 might depreciate a bit once it gets over 100K miles but shouldn't go down in value much. I looked at the Boxster values and they tend to keep depreciating down to around $4K. While the initial price point for the 996 was higher than for an equivalent Boxster, I should be able to sell it for around what I paid for it.
996 prices do seem to be on the rise as of late. The 986 will likely see the same rise, but the 911 will probably see a faster rise due to it being the car Porsche is best known for and smaller production numbers.
Sounds like you have a great car enjoy it as often as you can.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Value
BOXSTER: $4000
911: $10000
Thank you! Always enjoy your video’s! One aspect you did not touch is “cost to operate”. I find my 986 to be fairly affordable. You owned both. What is your experience between the 986 and 996?
A separate topic would be the engine-issues with these cars. They both use the same engine, but the larger the cylinders, the more vulnerable they are for e.g. bore-scoring. Something to consider?
Thanks for the idea and for watching.
Good vid, my tip: match the images you show to what you're talking about - I found it weird to hear about the 996 then see an image for the Boxster and vice versa
Glad you enjoyed it. I’ve been trying to do better about that since this video so hopefully newer videos are better and less jarring.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Had a 2.7 boxster for a while, looking at an S or a base 911 so this very useful for me and topics on point thanks. good knowledge thanks
Glad it was helpful. Hope you find a good example.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I used to work on Porsche 911 and Boxsters myself and I will be looking for a Boxster S next year.. For me I just like the way they drive over the 911, but like you say people really do need to drive them both as they a so different
They certainly drive differently, both a great, just very different experiences.
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
In your opinion.. is the 911 a much better car for a larger wider heavier driver ?? Considering a 2002 or so 911 coupe base vs a 2007 to 2009 cayman base .. would really appreciate your opinion.. 300 lb... 6 foot 1.. big in the middle..
Part of it will depend on the seat option in the car as the sports seats have bolsters that are a bit bigger and you may find uncomfortable. With the standard seat both should be pretty comfortable, but the interior of the Cayman out of the box will provide a little more leg room with the center console. With the 996 many taller folks remove the center console to allow for more leg room.
The thing that the 911 will offer is more seat adjustment options because the engine isn’t right behind your seat.
If possible your best option would be to test drive each option and that will give you the best idea of how they will fit you. You’ll also get to experience the drive and see if you prefer the rear or mid-engine layout.
Hope that helps.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
@@OurRideLife thanks.. the virus is just killing my ability to try driving any of these cars.. i am in the PCA and the bmw club and they have functions but your ten feet from each other. And getting near a car is forbidden. Great.
I have owned Z cars and a mid engine lancia beta montecarlo. Scorpion . Loved the width and engine placemenr of the scorpion.. car rotation with mid engine is so awesome. Mine was a 450hp road racer . Illegally on the street..
Dont know how that relates to a porsche. I am bigger now than the lancia days. I know the 911 ability to have the seat recline would help me. Did not think of taking out the center console. That could sure help. I love the idea of super firm suspension race car for the street. Comfort is no priority. I love fast and horsepower. The cayman is not super powerful. The 911 2002 base would not be a ton faster. Owned a 944. Loved the leg room.
Get a panamera turbo
A 911 is an 911!!! Historic number and model period. That defines Porsche.
Fair point and I do currently own a 911. The Boxster and Cayman are incredible cars, but the feel of the 911 is something else and I do enjoy the extra horsepower when I pass folks.
The best answer is to own one of each.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
I do like Boxster and Cayman as well don't get me wrong! It's the passion for the brand that I have since I was a very young kid growing up with them because my father had a small business in Germany during the 80s selling only used Porsches..Sooo many memories and traveling's as well around Europe during the summertime with all kinds of models like Targas, 944 turbos, 928gts, and sooo many other versions of 911s..
Do you notice that the clutch feel is different between them? For instance,my 06 civic si had a way heavier clutch than the base
Funny thing is my 996 ended up being a Tiptronic model due to knee issues, so I don’t have recent memories of the 986 clutch versus a 996 clutch. I don’t remember them feeling much different, but it has been a while since I drove each.
Hope that helps.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Never hate 911s, oog, respect but the boxster, CHAINSAW! I agree, raw,power, etc. Boxster is a samurai's sword, from machete.? Swift,smooth, sharp,and just feels clean and Balanced. ! That's it,4 wheels balanced and rollllllin!
Can’t argue with that.
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Boxsters outhandle 911s for less money.
Dude your audio! You need to cross fade the edits that’s it’s popping all the time. Makes it hard to watch!
You make a good point.
Thanks for the tip on the audio. I had been looking up how to get rid of the popping, but nothing helped that I found, but I didn’t try to cross fade the edits. I’ll give that a try on the next video.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Not mentioned is racing heritage. I grew up watching 935s and then later various RSR models. So for me it is 911 coupe all the way. Not that I drive my 99 996 like a race car, but it does contribute to my total ownership experience.
Very good point. The 911 does have a wonderful racing pedigree. The Boxster has shown to be a good race car as well in spec racing series, but the 911 has had many class wins at Le Mans.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Really good video. I particularly appreciate how you treated the comparisons of handling and the idiosyncratic aspects of the 911 (and how that’s been engineered toward neutrality over the generations). Well done and thanks. My only bond to pick is on your comment about the price gap in the secondary market......I don’t think it closes as much as you implied. The 911 seems to command (on an apples to apples basis) a fair chunk more than the boxster/cayman does when both cars are 5, 10, or 15 years old. Also the more apt comparison might have been boxster and 911 cabriolet.....in which case, you’re adding another 12k to the latter....making the price as nee over 50k between them. Since their personalities are decidedly different driving both make sense but to choose the 911 you gotta like it a lot more imho.....as the gap could pay for one year of college for a kid. Keep up the good work!
Glad you enjoyed it and for adding some good points. The Boxster, Cayman and 911 are all awesome cars, just in different ways. I guess the best answer is to own all three, but then that isn’t cheap.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
I have four boxers all great cars the latest version I have is a 2009 trip tonic engine transmission I think it's the best way to go and as far as a 911 where do you buy a cheap or a new one it's very expensive if that doesn't bother you just get the 9/11 but basically if you're sitting in a car a boxer or 9:11 it looks the same from the sitting view
Guys, I currently daily driving a NA miata and planning going for a 986 2.5. In terms of creature comfort, is that going to be an improvement?
From a creature comfort stand point, some of it depends on what options you have on your NA and the options ticketed for the Boxster. With the 2.5-liter 986 you will get a power top (if I remember correctly the NA Miata doesn’t have that) and leather seats. While there is still a good amount of visible plastic, the interior does feel like it is a higher quality compared to the Miata (of course it also cost a lot more when new). On my 986 2.5 I had heated seats and that was nice when it was cold out. The early Boxsters have a plastic rear window, but you can install a glass rear window top (which is what I did with mine and I have a video detailing the installation).
Hope that helps.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I have an NB and a 2.7 986 Boxster. My Boxster has the automatic climate control which is great. It is more comfortable and the seats are better. And more power of course. ;-) Good luck in finding your boxster.
The answer is No. The price difference is to great. More bhp but more kgs. Interior is the same. Front end is the same. Understeer is big in a 996 including C4S. 986 is neutral in corners. Running costs are less 996 plus points are revised headlights 03MY and that rear end/hips. Oh don't forget 3.6 lumps are prone to fail. Take your pick on engine issues. From 15yrs with this brand a 986 2.7 is the best ownership experience for first timers and 911 owners. Avoid the tiptronic on both. its beyond piss poor.
You have a point in general. Because I bought my 986 when prices were a bit higher and my 996 not that long ago, I actually payed less for my 911 (but then I also got a better deal on the 996 and it has a few more miles on it).
The manual is certainly the better option and I would have gone for that in the 996 as I had it my previous three Porsches had it not been for knee issues getting aggravated by the clutch. As far as old fashion semi-automatics go, it isn’t bad, but compared to the manual and newer dual-clutch transmissions it isn’t as good. Of course if one does go for a Tiptronic car, the more power the engine has the better as it will make up for some of the power loss in the transmission.
Sounds like you have a fun ride, so enjoy it as often as possible.
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
You’re not that far away from a 986 Boxster S. You have about 50 more Hp, but with your Tiptronic, the Boxster S 6-speed is faster to 60. Factor in the neutral handling of the Boxster S and you have two cars that are neck and neck. Factor in the price, which can be a 50% savings with a Boxster S, and then tell me which is the better car. Guess what I drive.
You make some very good points. For my particular car, the price of a Boxster S with a six-speed would have cost about the same, but that is an unusual case.
The Boxster S is a great car and if it wasn’t for knee issues I would have gone for a six-speed. Still the 996 power is fun, but a Boxster S would provide about the same performance, as you said, if you compare the Boxster six-speed with the 996 Tiptronic.
It sounds like you have a fun drive and probably hit the sweet spot for the Boxster (at least outside of the newer Boxster Spyder or the 4.0-liter 718 Boxster GTS). Enjoy the car and the wind in your hair while flying past most traffic.
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
9:30 You don't get a "bit more" structural rigidity, you get a "lot more" structural rigidity. I checked into this when some clown with a Boxster in our local PCA club said his Boxster was more rigid than a 911. So I dug up an article that showed the rigidity of countless vehicles, both coupes and convertibles of the same model and generation, and the torsional values weren't even close.
I was probably a little generous about that. You don’t notice it much in the Boxster, but when you drive a hard top right after the open aired vehicle at a good rate of speed you begin to notice the difference.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
The Boxster was designed from the ground up as a convertible, so no extra bracing and weight was needed. It’s not as stiff as the Cayman however, weights are similar. I’d take my 981 Spyder over any 911, well maybe not a Speedster.
@@clu4u Still does not alter the fact that it is not as stiff or rigid as a 911 coupe as that idiot claimed. He is lots of talk with no substance.
@@clu4u dsportmag.com/the-tech/chassis-tuning-torsional-rigidity/
Man thanks a lot, I was looking exactly that review. I am so much confused between 987.2, 981 boxster and 997 carrera. I think I need to go test drive for three of them. Let me know if you have any opinion =)
Those are all great options. The 981 is going to offer the most modern drive, but the steering feel won’t be as good as the 987.2 or 997. Both the 981 and 987.2 have wonderful balance and in S form won’t be far off of the 997 (the 981 will be about the same performance wise). The 997 isn’t a widow maker like many of the air-cooled 911s, but you will notice the weight in the back and it can take some time to feel completely comfortable with using it at its full potential. From a resale standpoint point the 997 probably will retain a bit more of its value due to it being a 911.
If you like to work on cars yourself then the 987.2 is probably a bit easier to work on than the other two. The 997 isn’t too bad, but for some things like the air/oil separator or the water pump, you need to adjust the engine placement a bit to give yourself enough clearance, which can be a little nerve racking if you haven’t done it before.
In the end the best option is to test drive each option as some prefer the 911 feel and others find they would rather have a mid-engine car.
Thanks for watching and I hope whatever you choose will be a good dependable Porsche for years to come.
@@OurRideLife it is the most comprehensive answer I have ever recieved on youtube. Thanks a lot for all the advices, I will let you know when I finally have my Porsche =)
I have a 99' Boxster. It is fast enough and was cheap. I am surprised about the front end that seems light and understeer.
I had a 1999 Boxster before getting a 99’ 911. It was a great fun car and the main reason I moved to the 911 was the back seat as it allows me to take all three of my children places.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I have had both cars and many of them. The Boxster handles, it really does. Its easy to drive fast, no argument. In a 911 you have to learn the craft. Its very light and precise on steering and you need to learn to be comfortable with its ride and its unique balance. This said, the 911 is well, a 911. The boxster good car but hey, its a boxster! Absolutely no cudos and its just not cool in comparison to the legendary 911. That is why a boxster is so much cheaper. I drove a boxster because I could not afford a 911. Harsh I know but just true IMHO
Right to the heart at the end of it. Probably the reason why most people get a Boxster instead of a 911. I’m a bit different as I actually paid more for my Boxster than my 911, but that has a lot to do with the market at the time that I bought each.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I don't like convertibles, so the answer is simple which is why I have a 911. Besides, if I want that open road feeling, I'll get on my motorcycle.
If you have a motorcycle then you certainly have that open air feeling taken care of.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
In australia a 986 boxster is is around $20,000 and a 996 911 is around $45,000 so thats a big diifference
That is a big difference in price. At that price difference I don’t know that the 911 is worth the extra money, unless you need the back seat.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
It's a no brainer decision if you're that smart but 6 speed is still the way to go.
6 speed is definitely better from a value and performance stand point. Of course folks with knee issues (like myself) are forced to go with an automatic.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Sell that car, buy the 986 Boxster S manual and use rest of the money in petrol :)
Nah the real value play is in the 996 Carrera vs 987 Boxster S. They're roughly in the same price range. The 987 gives you the newer, more updated car with a much more modern interior. Most 996's will leave you worrying about IMS whereas the 2006+ cars went back to dual row with a much less occurrence. 986 S is a pretty slow car. The 987 Boxster S and a 996.2 Carrera will be neck and neck for acceleration up to 120mph.
You have a point there. I had a manual with my previous 986 Boxster, but was forced to get a Tiptronic due to knee issues when I bought the 996 (since it was going to be my daily driver). I have thought about adding another Boxster or a Cayman with a manual transmission for weekends.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
You make some good points.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Yep, 911. :) Cheers.
Since I have one in my garage now, can’t argue with that.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
YES , YES IT IS
Are you a Phineas and Ferb fan, because after watching that with my boys I use that phrase all the time.
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Convertible cheaper used, amazin bargain!
Very true.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
I have a 2000 986 S I've done about 3K Plus work on the suspension it has a tune and a couple of other cheap mods. The car is very dialed in. I just purchased a 2002 C2 6-speed Coupe. I don't have a lot of time in the seat yet but I will be glad to report my findings. I live in North Georgia so I do a lot of mountain driving. I will say that I am only 510 but less claustrophobic in the 911. It will be hard to out handle the Boxster the way it is set up but I'm okay with that I want a 911 and I want the extra power. And I would be much more comfortable going on a short trip in the 911. I have also owned several air-cooled 911s and I'm quite comfortable with a rear engine car . . In the end I guess it's not a bad problem to have.
Those sound like the kind of problems most wish they had. Enjoy both cars as often as you can.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I drive a Saab 900
Those are cool cars. I believe old Top Gear did an episode on Saab and it is one of my favorite episodes.
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@@OurRideLife Christ you do know I’m taking the piss
You never told us what "you" think what you think after owing both?all you had to say at the end of the video was "for me I like the ( fill in the blank) better." and this is why...
I guess I forgot to do that, kind of a long time to watch with no answer of my thoughts. I loved my Boxster and it was a great car. However, for me the 911 is a better car for my driving enjoyment. Just the fact that it has rear seats means I can take my children in it and don’t have to drive a boring vehicle as often. That means more time behind the wheel and that is worth a lot.
Another thing I personally like is that when I bought my Boxster prices were about higher, so I paid $14K for it, but the 996 only cost me $12,500, so I like that I paid less for it.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
986 911 are you sure?
It’s been a while since I released this video, so I would need to watch it again to see what was said (but knowing me I probably got my words mixed up). Obviously, the 986 would be the Boxster and the 911 generation during that timeframe would be the 996.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
@@OurRideLife Cheers for replying, I wasn’t sure if maybe the model numbers were different in the US. I kind of thought you meant 996 but maybe I was being a bit pedantic. Great video 😂
@@davidmason1919 glad you enjoyed it and thanks again for watching.
I've had a 964 for 15 years. I never even considered a Boxster. Why? I see girls driving Boxsters everywhere. Almost never see one in a 911. 'Nuff said 😄
Seriously, they're totally different cars. A Cayman, now - that's another story. But we're in way different pricing territory there.
I do love Boxsters, though. They make Porsche money that it can use to continuously update the 911 😉
You make some good points. Both are good cars, but you can tell that the 911 is more powerful and is the more expensive car. Of course the Cayman is probably the best compromise, but on the used market they cost more as you said (of course the opposite is true with a new 718).
The Boxster, Cayman and their four door vehicles all help the bottom line and keep the 911 in production. Each is good in its own way, but the 911 is well, a 911 and there is a reason why it is the sports car that others are compared to.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Aren’t Boxsters and the Miata about the same......?
@@spanky08001 Sounds like you and woofwgns are girls...👩🦰👧👩🦱👱♀️
Tatra
Overpriced,Funny-looking urinepeon car
But what do you really think?
In all seriousness, thanks for sharing your thoughts and for watching.
Yes, people should buy cars made in Mexico like Chevys, Fords etc
@@themancuniancandidate2744 America's sports car, Corvette, made in good ole' Bowling Green, Kentucky, by good ole' American workers, y'all!