In a recent podcast Matt seemed to have an issue with the 986 Boxster, for someone already in the market for an older/cheaper one ($15-20k) would I be better off with a 986 Boxster S or a 987 base? I know the 987 has a better interior, but I don't know if there is a big difference dynamically and really didn't think about it until Matt disparaged the 986.
Probably the GTS 4.0. It offers a lot and it's not "special" enough like the Spyder or 25th anniversary for dealerships to try and get ADM. The T looks like a great car but, the 2.0T for $70k+ is not a good value. You've REALLY gotta want a porsche boxster to pay that when, there's so many great (I'd say better) offerings in that price range.
I have a base 718 and love it. I bought it for several reasons. Two seats, convertible, fuel economy, trunk space, solid build quality and of course handling. I don't need a lot of power since most of my driving is on tight, winding roads. 300 hp is enough for fun and for fuel efficient road trips. Perfect for me.
It's not the badge...it's the feel, the manual, the light weight. All of these drastically change the driving characteristics. 718 buyers are not Corvette buyers.
I have 987 3.4L Boxstere S and very happy with this analogue sports car. My dream would be 981 Spyder or Boxster GTS in the future. Can't beat the sound of 3.4L flat six.
Boxsters and Caymans tug my heartstrings more than most 911s these days, I like the size, packaging, and price points more. While I'd never kick a flat-6 out of bed the flat-4 keeps growing on me too, slowly but surely. The T is a really nice package if you can't pony up for a GTS! Those are the two I like the most these days.
Excellent production and great job. As an owner of a 992 911 and a 981 Boxster S, the Boxster continues to impress and always puts a big smile on our face.
The Spyder is the top of the tree for a good reason. To be fair .I haven’t driven all of the iterations but I think you need to chose the one that fits you best - commuter car, weekender, financials, roof, looks, etc. I think the reviewer demonstrated that you can’t go wrong with any of them. I love my gentian blue Spyder and I owned a Ferrari 360 manual before it. Another brilliant drivers car. So yes the Spyder, mines a manual, is quite an impressive drive - a real drivers car. Not a lot of gadgets, just driver focussed. I don’t think technically Porsche label the Spyder a Boxster. I remember the joke “It is not a Ferrari, it’s a Dino”. I can see the T-Shirts now “It’s not a Boxster, it’s a Spyder.” 😊 Thanks for the review - enjoyed the nuance difference between all of them.
@@bmx687 if you put a catless downpipe and cat back and intake system on it with a tune...youll have plenty of power as well as a great sound coming from the rear...
Excellent job articulating the similarities and differences between the models! - Although I don’t need the power, based on the look and sounds, I would pony up the coin and choose the Spyder version of these variants. Worth mentioning, I have driven all drivetrains in either Cayman and Boxster models. Also worth mentioning, I currently own a 981B with many enthusiast options found on the T. After driving the newer 982s in all trim levels, I decided to keep mine because it is still so satisfying to drive. It’s fun to drive a slower car fast, as many enthusiasts understand!
I’ve been hunting the last 12 months for a 987 Cayman S in the spec I want but they’re getting harder to come by- especially this summer when the prices jumped for everything. Lots of base 2.7s around but i reaaaally want that 3.4
These are all amazing cars! I went with the Cayman GTS 4.0, which is perfect for me. Yes, the gearing could be better but even despite that, I can’t think of a better sports car at this price point. The Corvette may have better performance numbers but it does not look as good, in my opinion and it is not a Porsche, like you said. That 25th anniversary Boxster is the best looking soft top on the road and has the performance to match! These cars are great on their own and should no longer be considered second to a 911.
A GTS 4.0 here in Oz will be a direct rival to the Lotus Emira. That’s a helluva a choice! (And also the corvette which will be as rare as hens teeth here). I love having a convertible and that engine is hard to walk by but the Lotus has a bit more cachet in my eyes especially with the supercar styling… anyway I’m off to auction my children. Great vid Zack as always👍
Nice boxster review ..way to go Zack. Best value would be a preowned 718 ..then a quick tune to get 400 hp when warranty expires...3000 pounds 400 hp...(with tune)
Honestly, I’d have the T with short shifter manual over the GTS where you get one gear change before losing your license. It might not sound as good, but it would be the more involving drive. PDK? I’d go with the GTS then.
Great video! There isn't a day that doesn't go by where I miss my 02' Boxster S. I can only imagine what this new generation of Boxsters are capable of ... screw imagining, time to start shopping for another Boxster!
Great review of the Boxster range. I have a new Boxster 4.0 GTS PDK and it is a dream. I have previously owned the 981 GTS 3.4 PDK and a 981 S PDK and a 987 S, this is by far the best Boxster for me to date. Yes I have the PDK gearbox similar to my others but it shaves a full 0.5sec off the 0-100kph or 0-62mph in old money. You don't get the lovely pops and bangs like the 981 GTS 3.4, I've tried! But you do get a fantastic engine note throughout and its quicker in PDK form than the Spyder. In the UK where it rains...the Spyder Roof is completely impractical particularly when the others sort themselves out in 9.5 secs up to 30mph. Love the saviour of Porsche!
Unfortunately it would have been too expensive due to emissions regulations in Europe. For example. The Base Boxster starts at a whopping €92.200 in my country (Netherlands), that's $104.000 !!! For a base! (Yes I know, incredible prices, but that's due to taxes making ICE cars with high emissions more and more expensive to promote EV's)
The boxster is quickly becoming much more desirable. It really is the more fun car to drive over the 911. The 986 or 987 boxster and the Honda S2000 are the absolute most enjoyable analog drivers cars that u can drive. I highly recommend any generation boxster base model to top model you literally can’t wipe the grin off your face while driving. Porsche nailed it perfectly when they designed and started building the boxster. If you ever get a chance to drive one u will have to have one they are that awesome
100% truth right here. If you're a driver, and not a highway pull hero, 300ish HP is the sweet spot on the street and 400HP is really the exploitable limit. Of all the boxsters the best one for the street is the 987 Boxster spyder. But seeing as I'm poor, and have a short attention span for the bikini top, I have a Boxster S with cayman R suspension. done.
I believe, JMHO, that the reason the boxster sales, as a % of the market, are increasing is MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. The other companies have stopped offererring, so that leaves the 718 the only choice.
Porsche needs to fix the tall gearing problem. It’s insane that you can get to 80+ mph in 2nd gear. These cars would be both more fun and quicker if you could redline more than once on the road without breaking the law. The manual transmission is the main thing that the Boxster/Cayman has going for it over the C8 vette, and the gearing is ruining that.
@@TheSmokingTire And California as well. IMO they should offer one trim with a quiet exhaust and short gearing similar to how Mazda does it with the Miata. Especially since it is much easier to change the exhaust than the gearbox.
@@Mamo878 perhaps they could solve it but it makes no business sense. It's only one of the transmissions on a subset of the trims (GTS, Spyder) of their worst selling model that will be killed off in 2 - 3 years due to emissions regulations. But yes it would be nice. Fortunately Porsche still offers far more enthusiasts options than any other OEM. LIke developing a bespoke 4.0L for this car. BMW M doesn't even make a single bespoke trans or engine for their entire lineup anymore.
@@jtland4842 I really don't think it's a noise issue. I think it's probably a cost issue. Cousin company Lamborghini after all doesn't seem to have any noise issues with their NA cars.
Also, ALL of these are great track cars. Stating that you need a Spyder or GT4 for the track ... it is a rare driver that will be able to drive the T or the GTS at more than 7/10s on the track. (we own/drive a variety of 718s and 911s on the track)
In September 2020 I painted the alloys for my year 2000 Silver Boxster "satin poly gold" being satin aurum. A few months later, the Boxster 25 appeared!
I'd love to see the 718 S or 2.5L GTS depreciate a bit more.... those are the real rocket ships of the 718 lineup. The flat 6's are outrageously overpriced at the moment.
They'll always be "overpriced" because they are way way way more special cars. They may seem similar on the paper, but it's a lot more emotional experience (+ the rear looks much better).
@@MrRandomTwat Better acoustics. It's still a castrated version of the 2nd most special Cayman engine. Don't get me wrong, if allocations are available in 2023 without an ADM, I'm buying one. If not, I'll save my money and go for a used S or 4 cyl GTS, or a used 911.
@@ChewyHighHAD You think the 3.8L was a superior engine to the current 4L? I definitely don't think so, the 981 sounded better, but that is due to current noise regulations. The 4L is the better engine in itself. I think the 2.5L or even the 2L Caymans are great sportscars, but I think most Porsche buyers want that "special feeling" that is hard to get with a small displacement turbo engine. The chassis and speed are both great, but the engine feel is too usual as small displacement turbo engines are basically in every car. The fact that the engine is behind helps, but a big engine just amplifies the experience a lot. I hope you find the right car! I'm from Europe by the way and ADMs are not allowed here, so I feel for you guys in the U.S.
@@MrRandomTwat I believe the 4L to be superior to the 3.8L of the 981. But the best 4L engine is the GT3 engine they put in the GT4RS. 2nd best engine is the 4L they put in the 718 GT4 and GTS, though slightly lower revving in the GTS 4.0. Thanks for the well-wishes tho! I didn't know that ADMs were banned in Europe--I wish it was that way in the states. I'm hopeful the pricing craze dies down before the hybrid/electric Cayman takes over. I'm sure ill be driving an electric vehicle 10 years from now, but I want to own at least 1 special ICE car in my lifetime!
I kinda agree with you, the 718 2.5L GTS is a hidden gem and sold in very low numbers, the new 4.0L GTS has already sold twice as many units and will continue to build on that figure. Speculators have been eating up some of the early 718 4.0L inventory, but the price ceiling seems to be bouncing back now as Fall approaches.
If I could get the 25th Anniversary for what they ask for it, which is around 2k more than a GTS with the same options, that’s the one I’d get. I love the silver on red, and you get a car that’ll appreciate/hold value.
I love this format … covering the history by driving all the model. One bug-bear though: In the uk at least, the price of the spyder and 25th anniversary are completely irrelevant - you simply can’t buy one unless you have a very special relationship with the dealer… if you’re going to consider the price it’d better if you told us the pre-owned market value!
Great review Zach! Full disclosure, I’ve ordered a GTS 4.0 with PDK to replace my 991.2 Cabriolet (which has been a great car). Couldn’t get a Spyder or 25 Anniversary version here in Australia as they have all sold out. In any case, I think the GTS is the Goldilocks version.
Thanks for the excellent reviews! Note - no 718 has double wishbone fronts, not even the GT4 RS. It's only the 992 GT3. 15:32 EDIT maybe it was just a weird edit, you later say Mac struts at 19:03. Never mind :)
I meant to say that some of the cars have the same subframes as the GT3, but not the same control arms. I could have been more clear with my language. - ZK
Loved my 986 S until I got oil in the coolant and it became worth $2k in parts and no longer $15k…. And the bill to repair the motor was “$10k of when we take it apart we find out it’s not one of four things that completely destroy the engine and require a new block… or heads, or liners….”
For just test driving a long 2nd gear may be boring, but for daily driving you can leave the car mostly (speed limits and city traffic) in the second gear and did not have to shift constantly.
For daily driving you use all the gears (especially in the PDK). Nobody likes it if you are revving your car in city traffic and making a lot of noise.
Great compilation video. If I could only have one of these sportscars I would pick the Spyder. After driving a 2000 Boxster base for 20 years I decided to purchase both the 2018 Boxster GTS PDK with sport Tex seats, and the future classic 2006 Cayman S manual short shifter PASM PCCB and more. Very happy with my choices. All for less cost than similar spec Spyder and buttresses I do admire.
@@1ROCKY89 so great. I can’t put it into words. The Spyder is SO HARD TO GET, but after a week of searching, the original dealer that sold me my 99 Boxster threw me a bone. A Spyder allocation became available on my 53 birthday. Incredible story!
@@1ROCKY89 yeah. It is such a crazy story that no one believes me. Typically takes a year, if you can get one at all. But so excited to get the Spyder soon. Yeah, I guess 77 is the next time…. Hahahaha
Just giving my own opinion for what I value and the twisty country roads that I drive on. If the Corvette was 600-700lbs lighter and offered a manual gearbox then I think that'd be a real competitor. However, with the drastic weight difference and no manual option I don't consider the Corvette and the Boxster as true competitors. I would love for other manufactures to offer what Porsche does, a small, lightweight, manual transmission, handling focused car with good power. It seems none do. I'd even consider an MX-5 with another 100 horsepower. So many cars now are very heavy and compensate with power. It seems like the GTS and up give you everything, lightweight handling and power with a manual transmission.
Jack, if you really enjoyed driving the 718 Spyder, you should drive a 981 Spyder....I tell you the exhaust note on that thing is intoxicating and 718 Spyder is no contest. But also drive the 987, it's slower, doesn't sound the best, but the pure driving experience is hard to beat.
The 981 Spyder is about 300 pounds lighter than the 718 Spyder keeping in the true Spyder theme and has a great sound second to none.. Plus it was a limited production making it worth more down the road ;-)
I’d take the Boxster GTS 4.0 w/pdk… I know, I know, sac religious to take the PDK over the 6-spd. However Porsche manual gearboxes just aren’t as fun to use unless you’re dropping big 💰on a GT product…
Zach, did you really just go to Snake and was surprised road was closed? We feel your pain :( (OG Smoking Tire was often filmed at The Snake but the road was closed for years now)
@@TheSmokingTire Thanks for reply, love your vids and you can really drive now compared to when you started! Yea snake been closed for like 3 years now. Too many people have crashed and maybe that's why. The official reason is that there is a "planned roadwork" that's low priority. City have asked people who live there and they said they don't mind if the road is closed, which is a heartbreak for us car enthusiasts :( (Snake people go to either Stunt Rd or little tujunga now)
Most do, but they use the more advanced and sophisticated MRC, which is superior to any of the other "active" suspension systems out there. Ford, GM, Audi, VW, Ferrari, Lamborghini all use MRC. Porsche PASM, BMW (whatever they call it) are older systems and not nearly as fast acting. I just got out of an SS 1LE with mag. ride into my 2022 PDK GT4 and I will tell you now that the SS 1LE is much more composed above 90MPH than PASM. So much so, that I am swapping my GT4 PASM for MCS 2-way remote coilovers.
My one comment on this video is that everyone looking at a new or current gen boxter/cayman really should check out the older generations of Boxter/Cayman as well as the new and older Miatas as well as the new Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT86. Very likely you will find everything you want in a sports car while spending tens of thousands of dollars less. Seriously the new Miata and GT86 are decently powerful now especially when you take the weight of the cars into account. The Miata is 700 pounds lighter than the Boxter, so the Power loss isn't nearly as much as it seams.
First of,love your stuff and have been following for years. Would love if you could do a tuned,like the one from you when you were on drive. But a light one,so stage 1,2,3 between 2500 usd up to 15-20 grand! I would love if you could do that from some local shops,nothing crazy but more an everymans tuning stuff
The 997 is over ten years older, and especially the interior shows. If you drive a 981 or 718 back to back to a 997, you will realise the 997's age. Yes, it looks more classic on the outside (and for snobs, yes it's a 'real' 911), but if you want a modern car with great driving characteristics, a younger generation Boxster/Cayman is better than the older 911's.
I like the content, and I've been literally waiting on a list for 9 months with my local dealer for a gts 4.0 That said, the audio is desynced for me starting about halfway through the video, pretty distracting.
corvettes don’t necessarily have a chevy badge they do have a chevy logo inside the corvette badge but the corvette has its own badge and a very small chevy badge in the logo but that’s just me 🤷🏾♂️
I love the Boxster and Cayman, but I do think they are in need of a redesign. This design has been going on for what...10 years now? And before ya'll get upset at me saying the 981 and the 718 are different, yes, they are, but they look practically the same in design.
@@TheSmokingTire Incorrect. It has exactly the same front control arms as the GT3. But it's the 991 GT3, not the 992 GT3 ist shares parts with, hence no double wishbones.
18:14 Does the "frunk" have a odd panel gap on the passenger side. Or unintentionally released/ just a shadow? I think the Boxster should be their flagship. ✌
The Sypder has the front of the 911 GT3 with the extra air duct/outlet. The light in the video makes it look as if the air duct on the passenger side is indeed larger, but off course it's not.
Just about to get a 4.0 manual GTS and I was offered a new Spyder which I am going to turn down.. because ground clearance is terrible and hood is a silly gimmick and besides the GTS is all I need for a road car.
Which Boxster (or Cayman) would you get?
In a recent podcast Matt seemed to have an issue with the 986 Boxster, for someone already in the market for an older/cheaper one ($15-20k) would I be better off with a 986 Boxster S or a 987 base? I know the 987 has a better interior, but I don't know if there is a big difference dynamically and really didn't think about it until Matt disparaged the 986.
the mark 5 supra
Probably the GTS 4.0. It offers a lot and it's not "special" enough like the Spyder or 25th anniversary for dealerships to try and get ADM. The T looks like a great car but, the 2.0T for $70k+ is not a good value. You've REALLY gotta want a porsche boxster to pay that when, there's so many great (I'd say better) offerings in that price range.
GT4RS
Own a 2021 Gentien Blue Spyder. Had a 981 Spyder years ago. Love the look and the top is quick to put up/down when you get used to it.
The spiders just look so good. Those humps at the back really transform the car honestly
I have a base 718 and love it. I bought it for several reasons. Two seats, convertible, fuel economy, trunk space, solid build quality and of course handling. I don't need a lot of power since most of my driving is on tight, winding roads. 300 hp is enough for fun and for fuel efficient road trips. Perfect for me.
Come on let's be real, a Porsche Boxster is all the sportscar you'll ever need. I'd love any GTS with a manual.
I need the 911 cab backseat … kids! When they are gone, back to Boxster.
Yeah, I'd just be happy with 1st or 2nd gen 986/987 Plus I like my eggs runny. 🍳🍳
That's actually the 911, but nice try.
@@4esttube 911 is for insecure people who think people will think less of you if you have a Boxster and not a 911.
I own 6 v8s and just got my first 986 boxter s and I have to admit I am impressed. The feel is great
It's not the badge...it's the feel, the manual, the light weight. All of these drastically change the driving characteristics. 718 buyers are not Corvette buyers.
I have 987 3.4L Boxstere S and very happy with this analogue sports car. My dream would be 981 Spyder or Boxster GTS in the future. Can't beat the sound of 3.4L flat six.
Agreed! I personally think the 987.2 3.4L is one of the best flat 6 engine sounds out there. For the price and non GT badge.
I believe the 981 Spyder has the 3.8L flat six
Spyder is the special car. It looks exotic and has the best engine and suspension for a drivers car.
Boxsters and Caymans tug my heartstrings more than most 911s these days, I like the size, packaging, and price points more. While I'd never kick a flat-6 out of bed the flat-4 keeps growing on me too, slowly but surely. The T is a really nice package if you can't pony up for a GTS! Those are the two I like the most these days.
Better yet, get older model Flat 6. Best of both worlds.
Excellent production and great job. As an owner of a 992 911 and a 981 Boxster S, the Boxster continues to impress and always puts a big smile on our face.
The Spyder. April 6 delivery date. Guards red, bucket seats and 6 speed manual. It’s going to be a long winter!
Yeah, but Spring will be that much sweeter once you get it!
I’d expect closer to June. You can’t get anything at the dealers right now!
I am quite envious sir. Congrats.
I have had 3 911's and now I have the 2020 Spyder in GT Silver...this car is everything I want in a roadster.
The Spyder is the top of the tree for a good reason. To be fair .I haven’t driven all of the iterations but I think you need to chose the one that fits you best - commuter car, weekender, financials, roof, looks, etc. I think the reviewer demonstrated that you can’t go wrong with any of them. I love my gentian blue Spyder and I owned a Ferrari 360 manual before it. Another brilliant drivers car. So yes the Spyder, mines a manual, is quite an impressive drive - a real drivers car. Not a lot of gadgets, just driver focussed. I don’t think technically Porsche label the Spyder a Boxster. I remember the joke “It is not a Ferrari, it’s a Dino”. I can see the T-Shirts now “It’s not a Boxster, it’s a Spyder.” 😊 Thanks for the review - enjoyed the nuance difference between all of them.
The new Corvette is a great deal, but there's something great about the Boxster / Cayman that I can't explain.
Manual transmission as an option is nice compared to the Vette
Rent them both to make the decision!
@@jowarrior you would be surprised at how many on the Boxster websites owned Vettes.
Mmmh yu know that the corvette's competitors is the 911 not the boxster/cayman
I really like the Boxster S, seems like a cool sweet spot... Not to mention pipes and a tune can put that 2.5T into the 420-440whp range. Boost baby!
True!
Damn. 400+ wheel would be killer in this platform. What a sleeper.
I don't know if I'd ever tune a Porsche personally. Maybe a Macan.
True but the sound is lacking
@@bmx687 if you put a catless downpipe and cat back and intake system on it with a tune...youll have plenty of power as well as a great sound coming from the rear...
Excellent job articulating the similarities and differences between the models!
-
Although I don’t need the power, based on the look and sounds, I would pony up the coin and choose the Spyder version of these variants.
Worth mentioning, I have driven all drivetrains in either Cayman and Boxster models.
Also worth mentioning, I currently own a 981B with many enthusiast options found on the T. After driving the newer 982s in all trim levels, I decided to keep mine because it is still so satisfying to drive. It’s fun to drive a slower car fast, as many enthusiasts understand!
Thanks for the insights!
Not to mention I think you got goldilocks! Flat six sound but also not TOO much car for the street! Cheers!
I’ve been hunting the last 12 months for a 987 Cayman S in the spec I want but they’re getting harder to come by- especially this summer when the prices jumped for everything. Lots of base 2.7s around but i reaaaally want that 3.4
Great review for people shopping for a Boxster. Boxsters in general are just fun, even the older 986s.
These are all amazing cars! I went with the Cayman GTS 4.0, which is perfect for me. Yes, the gearing could be better but even despite that, I can’t think of a better sports car at this price point. The Corvette may have better performance numbers but it does not look as good, in my opinion and it is not a Porsche, like you said. That 25th anniversary Boxster is the best looking soft top on the road and has the performance to match! These cars are great on their own and should no longer be considered second to a 911.
A GTS 4.0 here in Oz will be a direct rival to the Lotus Emira. That’s a helluva a choice! (And also the corvette which will be as rare as hens teeth here). I love having a convertible and that engine is hard to walk by but the Lotus has a bit more cachet in my eyes especially with the supercar styling… anyway I’m off to auction my children. Great vid Zack as always👍
Yea the lotus looks so good
718 Cayman base model, with all the performance options, sports design package, 20 inch Carrera s wheels….. That’s my dream daily when I make it.
Consider the 981 Cayman Base. It has the sweet 2.7 N/A flat-6 and is a lot more affordable, and more reliable. Best car I ever owned!
Ultimate best bang... 2007 Cayman base in Cobalt blue w manual and Turbo S wheels.
Those humps changes every thing. A must have.😮
I’m pretty happy with my 981 Boxster S in manual and X73 suspension. Plenty of power for having loads of fun on the twisties.
Nice boxster review ..way to go Zack. Best value would be a preowned 718 ..then a quick tune to get 400 hp when warranty expires...3000 pounds 400 hp...(with tune)
Honestly, I’d have the T with short shifter manual over the GTS where you get one gear change before losing your license. It might not sound as good, but it would be the more involving drive. PDK? I’d go with the GTS then.
Well done putting this together Zach, I’m sure it was challenging to remember which boxter has what specs! Great video, love all the work you guys do!
Great video! There isn't a day that doesn't go by where I miss my 02' Boxster S. I can only imagine what this new generation of Boxsters are capable of ... screw imagining, time to start shopping for another Boxster!
agreed the '02 Boxster S is so much fun to drive.
Great review of the Boxster range. I have a new Boxster 4.0 GTS PDK and it is a dream. I have previously owned the 981 GTS 3.4 PDK and a 981 S PDK and a 987 S, this is by far the best Boxster for me to date. Yes I have the PDK gearbox similar to my others but it shaves a full 0.5sec off the 0-100kph or 0-62mph in old money. You don't get the lovely pops and bangs like the 981 GTS 3.4, I've tried! But you do get a fantastic engine note throughout and its quicker in PDK form than the Spyder. In the UK where it rains...the Spyder Roof is completely impractical particularly when the others sort themselves out in 9.5 secs up to 30mph. Love the saviour of Porsche!
Great breakdown! This is a must watch before buying. I prefer the GTS 4.0 I can’t get around buying a 4 cylinder at 70k but that’s just me 🤷🏻♂️
Original Cayman may be most beautiful Porsche since 993 or 550 Spyder.
I feel like the cayman T should've came with the 2.7 liter for those who don't want a turbo and can't afford the 4.0 model
Unfortunately it would have been too expensive due to emissions regulations in Europe. For example. The Base Boxster starts at a whopping €92.200 in my country (Netherlands), that's $104.000 !!! For a base! (Yes I know, incredible prices, but that's due to taxes making ICE cars with high emissions more and more expensive to promote EV's)
Personally I think the original Boxsters have aged very well and these new ones are incredible. I cant believe you can get one with a 4.0 in it.
The boxster is quickly becoming much more desirable. It really is the more fun car to drive over the 911. The 986 or 987 boxster and the Honda S2000 are the absolute most enjoyable analog drivers cars that u can drive. I highly recommend any generation boxster base model to top model you literally can’t wipe the grin off your face while driving. Porsche nailed it perfectly when they designed and started building the boxster. If you ever get a chance to drive one u will have to have one they are that awesome
Even that GTS 4.0 is way too fast for the street (even with the long gears). The older cars are probably more fun on the street.
100% truth right here. If you're a driver, and not a highway pull hero, 300ish HP is the sweet spot on the street and 400HP is really the exploitable limit. Of all the boxsters the best one for the street is the 987 Boxster spyder. But seeing as I'm poor, and have a short attention span for the bikini top, I have a Boxster S with cayman R suspension. done.
that's a shame. what's the top speed in 2nd gear for the GTS 4.0??
I believe, JMHO, that the reason the boxster sales, as a % of the market, are increasing is MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. The other companies have stopped offererring, so that leaves the 718 the only choice.
Porsche needs to fix the tall gearing problem. It’s insane that you can get to 80+ mph in 2nd gear. These cars would be both more fun and quicker if you could redline more than once on the road without breaking the law. The manual transmission is the main thing that the Boxster/Cayman has going for it over the C8 vette, and the gearing is ruining that.
They would fail sound tests in Europe if they shortened the ratios, which is a bummer, because they would be magical.
@@TheSmokingTire
C'mon, Porsche engineers must be smart enough to make an exhaust that can pass noise tests and also have a louder Sport option.
@@TheSmokingTire And California as well. IMO they should offer one trim with a quiet exhaust and short gearing similar to how Mazda does it with the Miata. Especially since it is much easier to change the exhaust than the gearbox.
@@Mamo878 perhaps they could solve it but it makes no business sense. It's only one of the transmissions on a subset of the trims (GTS, Spyder) of their worst selling model that will be killed off in 2 - 3 years due to emissions regulations.
But yes it would be nice. Fortunately Porsche still offers far more enthusiasts options than any other OEM. LIke developing a bespoke 4.0L for this car. BMW M doesn't even make a single bespoke trans or engine for their entire lineup anymore.
@@jtland4842
I really don't think it's a noise issue. I think it's probably a cost issue.
Cousin company Lamborghini after all doesn't seem to have any noise issues with their NA cars.
Also, ALL of these are great track cars. Stating that you need a Spyder or GT4 for the track ... it is a rare driver that will be able to drive the T or the GTS at more than 7/10s on the track.
(we own/drive a variety of 718s and 911s on the track)
indeed, on the track it's more about the tires than the basic power specs.
In September 2020 I painted the alloys for my year 2000 Silver Boxster "satin poly gold" being satin aurum. A few months later, the Boxster 25 appeared!
25years love it
I'd love to see the 718 S or 2.5L GTS depreciate a bit more.... those are the real rocket ships of the 718 lineup. The flat 6's are outrageously overpriced at the moment.
They'll always be "overpriced" because they are way way way more special cars. They may seem similar on the paper, but it's a lot more emotional experience (+ the rear looks much better).
@@MrRandomTwat Better acoustics. It's still a castrated version of the 2nd most special Cayman engine. Don't get me wrong, if allocations are available in 2023 without an ADM, I'm buying one. If not, I'll save my money and go for a used S or 4 cyl GTS, or a used 911.
@@ChewyHighHAD You think the 3.8L was a superior engine to the current 4L? I definitely don't think so, the 981 sounded better, but that is due to current noise regulations. The 4L is the better engine in itself.
I think the 2.5L or even the 2L Caymans are great sportscars, but I think most Porsche buyers want that "special feeling" that is hard to get with a small displacement turbo engine. The chassis and speed are both great, but the engine feel is too usual as small displacement turbo engines are basically in every car. The fact that the engine is behind helps, but a big engine just amplifies the experience a lot.
I hope you find the right car! I'm from Europe by the way and ADMs are not allowed here, so I feel for you guys in the U.S.
@@MrRandomTwat I believe the 4L to be superior to the 3.8L of the 981. But the best 4L engine is the GT3 engine they put in the GT4RS. 2nd best engine is the 4L they put in the 718 GT4 and GTS, though slightly lower revving in the GTS 4.0.
Thanks for the well-wishes tho! I didn't know that ADMs were banned in Europe--I wish it was that way in the states. I'm hopeful the pricing craze dies down before the hybrid/electric Cayman takes over. I'm sure ill be driving an electric vehicle 10 years from now, but I want to own at least 1 special ICE car in my lifetime!
I kinda agree with you, the 718 2.5L GTS is a hidden gem and sold in very low numbers, the new 4.0L GTS has already sold twice as many units and will continue to build on that figure. Speculators have been eating up some of the early 718 4.0L inventory, but the price ceiling seems to be bouncing back now as Fall approaches.
If I could get the 25th Anniversary for what they ask for it, which is around 2k more than a GTS with the same options, that’s the one I’d get. I love the silver on red, and you get a car that’ll appreciate/hold value.
I love this format … covering the history by driving all the model. One bug-bear though: In the uk at least, the price of the spyder and 25th anniversary are completely irrelevant - you simply can’t buy one unless you have a very special relationship with the dealer… if you’re going to consider the price it’d better if you told us the pre-owned market value!
This is a great Zach video appreciate the content.
Great review Zach!
Full disclosure, I’ve ordered a GTS 4.0 with PDK to replace my 991.2 Cabriolet (which has been a great car).
Couldn’t get a Spyder or 25 Anniversary version here in Australia as they have all sold out. In any case, I think the GTS is the Goldilocks version.
Thanks for the excellent reviews! Note - no 718 has double wishbone fronts, not even the GT4 RS. It's only the 992 GT3. 15:32 EDIT maybe it was just a weird edit, you later say Mac struts at 19:03. Never mind :)
I meant to say that some of the cars have the same subframes as the GT3, but not the same control arms. I could have been more clear with my language. - ZK
@@TheSmokingTire also with the pdk, the gts and the gt4 are 0-60 in 3.6-3.8
Loved my 986 S until I got oil in the coolant and it became worth $2k in parts and no longer $15k…. And the bill to repair the motor was “$10k of when we take it apart we find out it’s not one of four things that completely destroy the engine and require a new block… or heads, or liners….”
I spent the day driving a boxster gts 4.0 with pdk. It's the best car I have ever driven.
For just test driving a long 2nd gear may be boring, but for daily driving you can leave the car mostly (speed limits and city traffic) in the second gear and did not have to shift constantly.
For daily driving you use all the gears (especially in the PDK). Nobody likes it if you are revving your car in city traffic and making a lot of noise.
If this is anything like the older cars you can just order the shorter shift kit from Porsche parts and swap it out.
Great compilation video. If I could only have one of these sportscars I would pick the Spyder. After driving a 2000 Boxster base for 20 years I decided to purchase both the 2018 Boxster GTS PDK with sport Tex seats, and the future classic 2006 Cayman S manual short shifter PASM PCCB and more. Very happy with my choices. All for less cost than similar spec Spyder and buttresses I do admire.
I drove a base Boxster for 24 years, and picking up my Spyder in November. I’m so excited….
@@TGCREken Well that’s a good feeling isn’t it damn right!
@@1ROCKY89 so great. I can’t put it into words. The Spyder is SO HARD TO GET, but after a week of searching, the original dealer that sold me my 99 Boxster threw me a bone. A Spyder allocation became available on my 53 birthday. Incredible story!
@@TGCREken Jesus I didn’t expect the story to get any bettter that’s awesome! If you do it again in 24 years you’ll only be 77!! :)
@@1ROCKY89 yeah. It is such a crazy story that no one believes me. Typically takes a year, if you can get one at all. But so excited to get the Spyder soon. Yeah, I guess 77 is the next time…. Hahahaha
Since they're allowing you guys to drive the 718's back to back, does this mean they're going to do the same with the 911's? 🧐
Hey Porsche! This guy has a good idea!
This was really well done. Put me down for a Spyder, please.
30+ min video and you don’t even sum up your thoughts at the end??
Just giving my own opinion for what I value and the twisty country roads that I drive on. If the Corvette was 600-700lbs lighter and offered a manual gearbox then I think that'd be a real competitor. However, with the drastic weight difference and no manual option I don't consider the Corvette and the Boxster as true competitors. I would love for other manufactures to offer what Porsche does, a small, lightweight, manual transmission, handling focused car with good power. It seems none do. I'd even consider an MX-5 with another 100 horsepower. So many cars now are very heavy and compensate with power. It seems like the GTS and up give you everything, lightweight handling and power with a manual transmission.
Boxster GTS 4.0 Manual please.
Jack, if you really enjoyed driving the 718 Spyder, you should drive a 981 Spyder....I tell you the exhaust note on that thing is intoxicating and 718 Spyder is no contest. But also drive the 987, it's slower, doesn't sound the best, but the pure driving experience is hard to beat.
Just update the rear muffler and 718 is far better than 981 that has mid range rpm no power. I had 981 GT4 and now 718 Spyder, 😉
The 981 Spyder is about 300 pounds lighter than the 718 Spyder keeping in the true Spyder theme and has a great sound second to none.. Plus it was a limited production making it worth more down the road ;-)
Thanks Zack! Great video man 👍
Super informative and enjoyable, The force is strong with Klapman
I’d take the Boxster GTS 4.0 w/pdk…
I know, I know, sac religious to take the PDK over the 6-spd. However Porsche manual gearboxes just aren’t as fun to use unless you’re dropping big 💰on a GT product…
Love my 718 GTS, just picked it up
Zach, did you really just go to Snake and was surprised road was closed? We feel your pain :(
(OG Smoking Tire was often filmed at The Snake but the road was closed for years now)
I didn't know it had been closed, no.
@@TheSmokingTire Thanks for reply, love your vids and you can really drive now compared to when you started!
Yea snake been closed for like 3 years now. Too many people have crashed and maybe that's why.
The official reason is that there is a "planned roadwork" that's low priority. City have asked people who live there and they said they don't mind if the road is closed, which is a heartbreak for us car enthusiasts :(
(Snake people go to either Stunt Rd or little tujunga now)
How nice when a sports car company could increase profits by making a and not an SUV.
Adjustable suspension makes all the difference, I wish more manufacturers used it.
Most do, but they use the more advanced and sophisticated MRC, which is superior to any of the other "active" suspension systems out there.
Ford, GM, Audi, VW, Ferrari, Lamborghini all use MRC. Porsche PASM, BMW (whatever they call it) are older systems and not nearly as fast acting.
I just got out of an SS 1LE with mag. ride into my 2022 PDK GT4 and I will tell you now that the SS 1LE is much more composed above 90MPH than PASM. So much so, that I am swapping my GT4 PASM for MCS 2-way remote coilovers.
My one comment on this video is that everyone looking at a new or current gen boxter/cayman really should check out the older generations of Boxter/Cayman as well as the new and older Miatas as well as the new Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT86. Very likely you will find everything you want in a sports car while spending tens of thousands of dollars less. Seriously the new Miata and GT86 are decently powerful now especially when you take the weight of the cars into account. The Miata is 700 pounds lighter than the Boxter, so the Power loss isn't nearly as much as it seams.
It's called a BoxSter, not Boxter. It's a composition of the words 'Boxer' (the engine) and 'Roadster'.
I'd rather wait in line for a Boxster GTS, because there's no other choices out there with a flat 6, period! :)
waiting for Cayman GT4RS
The C8 is an enormous car. If someone values a nimble sports car, they don’t want the corvette
First of,love your stuff and have been following for years.
Would love if you could do a tuned,like the one from you when you were on drive.
But a light one,so stage 1,2,3 between 2500 usd up to 15-20 grand!
I would love if you could do that from some local shops,nothing crazy but more an everymans tuning stuff
My boys C8 came out over $90k w only a few options. I'll take the Boxster 4.0 any day. That being said, for that price I'd take a low mileage 997.
The 997 is over ten years older, and especially the interior shows. If you drive a 981 or 718 back to back to a 997, you will realise the 997's age. Yes, it looks more classic on the outside (and for snobs, yes it's a 'real' 911), but if you want a modern car with great driving characteristics, a younger generation Boxster/Cayman is better than the older 911's.
I like the content, and I've been literally waiting on a list for 9 months with my local dealer for a gts 4.0
That said, the audio is desynced for me starting about halfway through the video, pretty distracting.
The wheel base of boxster is actually longer than 911. I was surprised when I found out when reading new gt3 spec
Indeed, the difference is 25mm. Not a lot, but probably necessary to be able fit the engine in the middle.
Nice video comparison
Zach, that was a great review!
corvettes don’t necessarily have a chevy badge they do have a chevy logo inside the corvette badge but the corvette has its own badge and a very small chevy badge in the logo but that’s just me 🤷🏾♂️
Ahh - the Boxster Spyder & GT4 does not have double wishbone suspension Zach. Only the 992 GT3 does
don’t need the history, we all know, don’t need facts, we all know those as well. We need how it feels, bring it to life.
Thanks for these awesome videos
Wearing a t-shirt with your protein powder company on it...roooofl
GTS 4.0 is an autocross cheat code and a problem at any track. I'll take delivery in 2023.
I would sell a kidney for a 987 or 718 Spyder. I use to have a 986 and man was that thing fun after you mod it.
I love the Boxster and Cayman, but I do think they are in need of a redesign. This design has been going on for what...10 years now? And before ya'll get upset at me saying the 981 and the 718 are different, yes, they are, but they look practically the same in design.
Spyder doesn't have double wishbone suspension, does it? Zach said it did.
No it doesn't. It has same front axle and brakes as the GT3 but not the same control arms. - ZK
@@TheSmokingTire Incorrect. It has exactly the same front control arms as the GT3. But it's the 991 GT3, not the 992 GT3 ist shares parts with, hence no double wishbones.
Did you just say that a $75,000 4 cylinder engine found in the Boxster T is a good deal???
spyder do in this sept
Nice review
My dad has an 02 boxster. I would like a video of if a newer 6 cyl one is worth the extra money.
the new 6 cylinder ones are crazy expensive. I would recommend you get a 981 boxter/cayman if the 6 cylinder is something that matters to you.
@@jtland4842 Or even a 986.2 (with the more modern and reliable DFI engine).
Wonder how long the allocation list is?
18:14 Does the "frunk" have a odd panel gap on the passenger side. Or unintentionally released/ just a shadow? I think the Boxster should be their flagship. ✌
The Sypder has the front of the 911 GT3 with the extra air duct/outlet. The light in the video makes it look as if the air duct on the passenger side is indeed larger, but off course it's not.
I wish I could thumbs up once per view, I've watched this several times now :)
Just about to get a 4.0 manual GTS and I was offered a new Spyder which I am going to turn down.. because ground clearance is terrible and hood is a silly gimmick and besides the GTS is all I need for a road car.
I love my Z4 m40i
Correction, ceramics are not great for track days. Verified by Porsche.
Unlike the C8, however, all of these are offered with manual transmissions and will retain their value better than any GM product ever could.
Does PDK help the gear ratios for the 4.0?
It does not, or it does to a very insignificant amount.
It does, it’s a bit shorter and also you‘ll use 1st more often.
Good luck trying to get a spyder or GT4. Almost impossible
4:56 The 718 isn't the "lesser version" of the Boxster...
Of the 4 cars I was driving that day, The 718 T was the least expensive and least powerful.
SEVEN-ONE-EIGHTEEN?!? 7118?!?
Will the sonic toothbrush clean my balls? I’m obsessed with ball care…
71$k!!!! U FUCKING KIDDING ME!!!!
71$k!!!! 71$k!!!!
Flat 6 FTW! Period.
Ya but corvette doesn’t come in manual.