I am researching S2000 vs Boxster (base) vs 350Z. I wanted to get the correct skidpad figures for these cars but each site has some different figure. What are the accurate figures, thanks.

S2000: .89g
Boxster: .94g
350Z Track: .91g

 

each magazine has varying figures, but for the S2000, I've seen anywhere from .91 the lowest to .94 the highest, and the Boxster should be abotu the same, withe the 350 being anywhere from .85 to .89.

The figures you have above are not precise at all...

 

I second DJSang. There are no such thing as "correct" #'s.

You say you are "researching". With intent to buy? Then I implore you to ignore these numbers. They really mean very, very little. Especially when it comes to driver enjoyment. Same goes for slalom and accel numbers. And all will show variations.

But if you must...
I can contribute the following #'s from different issues of AutoWeek:
0.92 for S2000 and Boxster S.
0.86 Z (Track)
Latest C&D:
0.87 S2000
0.86 Z (touring)
Sept 2000 R&T
0.93 Boxster S
0.90 S2000

 

thanks! yep, I have decided to buy a *real* sports car. Being a longtime Honda guy (2 Accords, 1 current Acura TLS) I am leaning towards the S2K. But I just wanted to do my homework and make sure that I am not overlooking the others like the 350Z and Boxster. I want something that is maximum fun to drive in the twisties.

 

I say, wait until the 350Z convertible comes out. But if you can afford all three cars brand new, I would get a slightly used Boxter S for the upper $30's. I believe that it will hold it's value longer in the long run and has a much more enjoyable engine. Also, there is a little more room in the interior. Plus there's the exotic car factor that is involved. The interior is a plus over the three and there is a load of torque to play with.

 

Boxster S has a more enjoyable engine than an S2000? I think that I would disagree with that.

First off, yes, its more flexible. But what I enjoy most about the S2000 is that it screams like nothing else on the road. That 9000 rpm redline was a prime reason I got an S2000. Also, while it is clearly less exciting below VTEC than a Boxster S is, that transition is something else. Perhaps the inadequacy of one magnifies the glory of the other but you dont have to be below 6000 rpm if you dont want to be. The transition puts a smile on my face each and every time.

And Boxsters/Porsches exotic? Ive got a hundred of them on my street. I see at least 40 of them a day, even in the winter. I am lucky if I see another S2000 during any week.

I dont disagree with the decision of the Boxster S over the S2000 (although that was not my choice), but I personally cant relate to any of the reasons youve provided.

 

The 350 Z convertible will just be a heavier 350 Z, which is already a pretty heavy car. I wouldn't consider it if you're looking for a true sports car.

 

That Boxster engine is NOT enjoyable to look at - and some of us need to do that all the time. I drove both, and the S2000 was IT for me -engine, transmission & gearshift, exhaust sound, engine sound, the minimalistic, somewhat confining cockpit, can't think of much it is missing except for that Nav system Rick is working on. The S was by far the most exciting car for me to drive. I am sure that one of the 3 will fit and drive much better for you and you won't have a problem deciding. I like all 3 ... but I have an S.

 

I have a comment on skip pad g's vs. g's pulled around on a track.

Here is a scenario:

Say the g's posted below are correct:

S2000: .89g
Boxster: .94g
350Z Track: .91g

Now take each car into the same corner. Will you find that each pulls the same g's? No, you have to look at how the car is setup (suspension/body roll) and its weight. I know this is an oversimplification but lets continue. From what I have seen the S2000 takes corners with less strain than the others listed. Lets take speed as an equal in this case on one corner. You hit S2000 = .88g's, Boxter = .91 g's and the 350z = .92g's. While the 350z's thresh hold is higher the corner taken would be more difficult than when either driving the boxter or the S2000. This is an exaggeration of what happens but I think you see my point. While it is nice to know the maximum g's obtained on a skid pad it does not exactly translate into an easier car to hold the road in a track situation.

Konrad

 

If you're looking for a test to help you determine this, you may want to concentrate on the slalom test rather than the skidpad. It is a better measure of tranistions or "twistie-ability."Remember, these are only comparable when from the same source (and sometimes not even then.)