I've seen many low to average mileage '00 Boxsters for much less than $30K; more like $25-26K. I don't know what dealerships would sell an '04 S2K for $30K or under. Around here, most new S2K's are still being asked for $35-39K, but with negotiations of course.

Edit: Oops! I was talking about the base Boxster while you guys are talking about the S model. But still, $38K for a 4 yr-old Boxster is way too much IMO.

Oh, one more thing, I've driven the base Boxster. It was pretty fun and nice, but didn't impress me too much. I didn't go "WOW!" like the first time I drove an S2K. And that's why I bought an S2K over a Boxster, which was also one of my choices. However, I haven't driven a Boxster S yet, I bet it's much better than the base model.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by wantone
How does a $110 oil change sound to you?

 

My research on various Porsche forums, eBay, and autotrader.com doesn't support that assertion. Realistic asking prices for '00 Boxster S's range from $36k to $42k, depending on mileage and options. Lots of deluded owners ask for a lot more than $40k, and a few ask for $35k or less, but that range is where most cars live.

[QUOTE]I've driven the base Boxster.

 

No flames here, but in my opinion the only car that porche makes that "IS" worth praising is the 911 carrera. If I have the money its carrera or no porche for me. No halfway but then again, thats just me..

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Mark_12345
Don't get me wrong, the S2000 is a sweet machine but it still a Honda.

 

If you plan on keeping the car for a long time, get the Boxster S, if you are only going to keep it for a couple of years and then get ride of it get the MY04 S2000.

I got to admit though, the Boxter has the best lines on any car out there. Every time I see a Boxter, I always catch myself staring at the Boxster, cause it is just a piece of art. That shape is going to be timeless. The only negative to getting a Boxster, if you live in California, they are everywhere, you just don't see that many S2000 as you would Boxster's.

Even with all this said, I myself am getting an MY04 S2000. Good luck with your decision, you can't go wrong with either choice.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by forsaken
No flames here, but in my opinion the only car that porche makes that "IS" worth praising is the 911 carrera. If I have the money its carrera or no porche for me. No halfway but

 

If you believe that the cars are approximately equivalent performance wise; if you like the look of each the same, you will probably find that you will loose LESS money with the Boxster. The depreciation on the Boxster will be less than it will be on the S because its already a used vehicle. If buying used isnt an issue, this is a good decision helper.

I'd be hard pressed to ante up for a new Boxster S given that I believe the S2000 is as good a car (for what Im looking for) for much less, but if the price were about the same you would see me driving to work each day in a Boxster S.

Id figure out the cost per year for each, including depreciation and servicing and insurance, etc... and then go with whatever your gut tells you.

 

I really don't think any of us can answer this question for you. They are both fantastic cars (regardless of what anyone here says about the Porsche), and I think you need to drive both to decide. I'd say somthing in the neighborhood of $38K is a good price for 4500 miles. That's about a $20K loss for the seller. Also, contrary to what was said above, the Boxster would be better if you only plan on keeping it for a short while since it has already taken its major depreciation hit. Obviously, the maintenance will be higher on the Porsche, but you already know that. I, personally, couldn't care less about image, brand, chicks, etc., so I think it just comes down to which feels better. Wring 'em both out and decide.

 

actually, the s2000 has a better residual value than the boxsterS. according to ALG, after 60 months the s2000 retains 47% of its value while the porsche only retains 37% of its value.

in my opinion, if your friend needs help, buy his car. if he doesnt, buy a Lotus Elise.