I'm sure some on here have made the move from S2000 to 986 Boxster S (the old one not the new version released in 2005). Any unbiased views on how it has gone, problems with the Porsche, good points etc. Particularly interested if you feel the 986 gives a more involving drive. Thanks.

 

I think wadswoaj moved from an S to a Boxster

 

Others:

Mole
Matt555

 

It's more sorted, as to whether it's a more rewarding drive, I'd say it wasn't. It doesn't feel as exciting to drive as the S2000. It's a good car, and given an equal driver, I'd say it would probably be the quicker car, but you'd probably have more fun in the S2000.

That was the impression I got from my test drive.

 

Huw, you want to speak ot Mark Neale when he is back in the office - he investigated them at great length before going for a 3 litre Z4. There was an oil-related issue which he is aware of which I also believe affects the 996.

 

Iv driven both iterations of the Boxster quite extensively including of course my own S2000, in terms of driver involvement and the fun to be had from lively RWD dynamics I would say the S2000 wins hands down, however if we are talking in terms of which car I would have, the S2000 would come second to the 987 im afraid, the sheer grunt of the new Boxster is utterly addictive even if the chassis is somewhat TOO competant... The 986 left me wanting more in both 2.8 and in S form im afraid, I wouldnt make the change unless the S threw me backwards through a hedge one day as it does feel far more planted in winter conditions.

 

Yep there is a problem with the Rear Main Seal on the 986 and 996, some dealers fix for free others not, loads of info on it on the Porsche forums. There were some issues with early 2.5 having cracked cylinder liners, some of the suspension is aluminium so a hard knock can put out the geo or do damage, wheel bearings can go on hard driven ones, and the 3.2

 

Thanks for all the replies. I am aware of the RMS issues which is why I've stuck with my air cooled 911 and not changed it for a 996 so far, but the boxster does appeal. RMS does seem the boxster's problem but from what I read cars are either affected or not so buying a used one that's not had a problem is the safest way rather than buying one that's had it and been repaired. I've got a day off this week and will pop up to an OPC to look at a couple as I'll buy from an OPC if I do. Only thing I'm decided on is I wouldn't buy a Z4!

 

I'd only go for a 986 Boxster S, as opposed to the 2.5 or 2.7 models, as in terms of performance it's a step backwards. To be honest even the Boxster S isn't much faster in a straight line either. The only moticable advantage you'll get is dynamically which I don't think anyone will dispute.

Personally I'd like to hold off for a while till 2nd hand values of the new Boxster S come down a bit and go for one of them. They're far quicker, and handle a lot better. Plus they look cooler.

 

C7BLE drove a Box back to back with his 2001 S2000, and he really liked the dynamics.

It must have been good, because he hates german cars with enormous passion for some reason.