I am thinking of getting an early 97-98 lower mileage Boxster. For the same price, I can get a 2001-2002 Honda S2000. So, in terms of performance, reliability, cost of repairs, looks, and "headaches", which one is the better car.

I have done researches on both, but still undecided.

Thanks,

John

 

They are both "nice" cars. I think deep down you're probably pulling for one or the other already, it depends on your style.

Boxster = German class.
S2000 = Japanese FUN.

I personally avoided Boxsters because I felt like that's what people drove to prove they were high class, and not because they were into sports cars.

 

Its been covered befor, here ya go

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.ph...&f=73&t=289174

The older Boxter had engine problems, I think It was the crank would fail.

If anything go for a new boxter, I think 2000+ is when they fixed that engine problem.

You can also get the M3/Z3 for about the same price.

 

You need to drive both.

Weight is about the same, but the S2000 has a decided hp advantage over the 2.5 986. Puttering around town the 986 will feel a little stronger due to it's torque advantage but the S2000 is ultimately quicker.

Handling - the 986 is more balanced and less "snappish" in my opinion. However, the S2000 feels lighter and more direct.

Steering feel is better on the Boxster, but the shift action on the S2000 is far superior (my opinion).

Brakes - bigger is better and the Boxster has 4 piston monoblocs and internally vented disks on all 4 corners. They are probably better for track work, but in driving the S2000 it's brakes are quite capable.

Maint. - The S2000 is newer and cheaper to service. Some early '97 Boxsters had airbag warning light issues, and all Porsche M96 motors (the 2.5 included) are somewhat prone to Rear Main Seal leaks. Generally, a small seeping leak that will run around $800 if you decide to fix by replacing the seal. (note stay away from '99 Boxsters as some of these cars had problems with slipped sleeves, additionally, if you can afford it, the 2000+ cars with the 2.7 motors had many nice improvements)

Looks - very subjective. Both look great, your personal opinion will dictate which you like better.

Room - Boxster is roomier and the twin trunks provide more luggage space. However, neither car is super practical.

Drive both and buy the one you love. Good luck....

 

When Tom Cruise said in Risky Business in 1983: "Porche.. there is no substitute", he was right.. maybe.
But after 1999/2000 he was definitly wrong.
You can guess why , don't you?

Quote from Richard Hammond (Top Gear)
"The first thing a Boxter owner will tell you is: I've got a Boxter because I can't afford a 911."

 

I can tell that you are highly informed on the matter. Especially since you can't even spell Porsche or Boxster.....

 

I really liked the Boxster until I sat in one. It didn't feel right to me, I can't pinpoint why... but I just didn't like it. Granted, I've never driven a Boxster, but in sitting in it something just was off. Whereas the S2000 and the Miata both felt right.

Again I can't pinpoint the exact reason...

Ironically enough, I felt the same way in my friends 944 Turbo which I have driven quite extensively. Just wasn't right.

 

I guess he was also right when he said that depression is not a real disease.

 

...well, Miatas don't feel right to me either, but that's mainly because my head touches the top, I can't wrap my leg around the steering wheel to reach the brakes, and my head smacks the mad dog rollbar on my budies every time he drops the clutch at a stoplight

 

Isn't routine maintenance on the Boxster significantly more expensive?

(Repost) To help with your decision.