Originally Posted by M3Armand

Having owned both Boxster S and Z4, the Z4 is much better as a daily driver. If you want to carve the road with surgical precision, then there's no contest as the Boxster S rules. However, the interior feels tight compared to the Z4. And the daily driving amenities of the Z4 is much better than the Boxster (killer stereo, heated seats, ingress/egress, interior storage, low end torque, better engine response, much more quiet on the highway, better climate controls, faster power top, etc.). I suggest you look into the Z4 3.0 si with 255 hp. When you test drive it, consider the daily driving aspects of it (lighter steering when sport button turned OFF - make parking and tooling around nice and easy, killer stereo, better conversation with wife/s.o. when driving at highway speeds, better low end torque, better sounding engine at low rpms, etc.).

But for the superior driving dynamics, the Boxster S wins out: better brakes, better clutch feel, better steering (although stiff for grocery getting), better fitting seats (compared to the standard Z4 seats, the M seats are awesome, however). At higher rpms (past 4k), the engine comes alive and the engine sound completely changes - sounds like a train that's not gonna stop - very addicting. But I realize that in daily driving around town, I'm rarely past 4k. The Boxster S feels like a slug compared to my old 225 hp Z4 3.0i. The Boxster S has much better luggage space also.

Originally Posted by Mad_Hun

Hi everyone,

I'm in the process of choosing between the above named cars, and I wanted to get your thoughts. I've been a car enthusiast most of my life, and finally find myself in a place where I can afford a legit sports car! Brief synopsis of what I'm looking for: daily driver, but only to be driven about 8 miles a day on weekdays and for weekend road trips <250 miles, some autocrossing. My one problem is that I'm 6'4" and fit is proving to be a problem.

My budget tops out at around $50k, and I'd like to be somewhat below that, so unfortunately a 987 Boxster S seems out of the running. I test drove an 03 986 S, and was quite disappointed by the space and the considerable squeaks and rattles. Just to be specific, in regards to space, my knee was having problems clearing the wheel upon releasing the clutch and my head was rubbing the headliner (it had the hardtop on). So, I'm now considering a 987 base Boxster, as it's not too far down on power versus the 03 S and I'm hoping the greater adjustability of the steering wheel will afford me a little more clearance. Also, I know the 987 is considerably stiffer than the last gen, so I'm assuming the squeaks and rattles would be obviated. Does anyone my height drive a 987? How's the fit?

I also tested an SLK350. I liked it very much: tight structure, good ride, quiet, excellent quality, impressive power (especially midrange) and good grip. Most importantly, I fit beautifully. I had ample head and leg room, and actually had to scoot the seat up a little. Alas, the steering was a little wooden, and it didn't have that instantaneous go-kart feel / response. Thus, I think it would make an excellent daily driver, but I question its autocrossing prowess.

Finally, I've managed to drive an S2000. I loved the handling and steering. Response was immediate and crisp. Power wasn't bad, obviously it's not a torque-monster, but I can live with that. Room was tight, but I don't care much about width as I'm fairly thin. Leg room was just acceptable. My leg doesn't totally clear the wheel upon releasing the clutch, but it was still better than the 986. Head room was close. Basically, I like this car and I love the price, but I'm just wondering whether I can live with it as a daily driver. But it would be fun to auto-x!

Still waiting to drive the Z4, although I've read that the steering isn't wonderful and the ride is harsh. I'm not a fan of run-flats.

I realize this is a Porsche board, so obviously I'm going to get somewhat biased responses, but I'm hoping to get your feedback on whether someone my size lives with a 987 daily, and if you auto-x or track the car, how a base 987 stands up against the other cars I've named here.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by Mad_Hun

Well, thanks for all your advice. I actually put a deposit down the other night . . . on an 06 Z4 3.0si!!

I agree that ultimately the 987S is the superior sports car, but for me the fit was too tight. I guess my legs are simply too long. In contrast, I had ample leg and head room in the Z4. That being said, I think I could have tolerated the fit in the 987, but the price difference is too large. BMW has some serious incentives to move the last of the 06s, and when the dealer threw out a number out for me, I was honestly shocked - about 20% off of sticker! That, combined with BMW's 4 years of maintenance made it a deal I couldn't refuse.

Perhaps the next gen Boxster will gain another inch or two in legroom, and then I'll ante up for it. But once again, thanks for your help!

Originally Posted by webnuts4u2

I didn't like the Z4, too rough, not very refined. The 350Z was ok but I felt like I was sitting too low. The S2000 was ok, had to keep it wound up though. It's certainly less expensive. At the end of the day, Porsche, there is no substitute. Good luck, it's fun just test driving.

Originally Posted by Michael Cain

BWM has the M Z4, when is Porsche going launch the killer Boxster S Turbo. 480BHP Boxster Turbo S (borrowed from the 997 Turbo) would end the war with BMW once and for all. All Porsche has to do it press the production red button.

Originally Posted by ELUSIVE

Honestly I don't think that they need to. Even the M Z4 hasn't been able to beat the Boxster S in any of the magazine comparo's. The 987 is the superior car in just about every catagory but hp, but the 987 makes it up in other ways. I know of a ton of people that go from BMW to Porsche, but not many that do the opposite.

Porsche, there absolutely is no substitute!