So I test drove a couple of pre-owned 2009 Turbo Cabriolets today, and then test drove a 2011 Carrera S Cabriolet, all 6 speed manual. Of course, I liked all of the cars -- what isn't there to like!

I am trying to decide which way to go -- the car will be a weekend play car, which I plan to hold for at least 3-4 years. The 2009 Turbo is about $10,000 more than the 2011 Carrera S and about $20,000 more than a low mileage 2009 Carrera S. The 2011 Carrera S would come with a four-year certified warranty, while the two 2009s would come with a two-year warranty. Whichever car I buy will have low mileage and be in great condition.

How many of you considered buying a used 6 speed Turbo Cabriolet, but in the end went with a used Carrera S Cabriolet, and vice-versa? What was your reasoning in both scenarios? I am a bit torn and confused as to which way to go. Thanks.

 

If you want to go fast as hell then get the turbo. If you want to go slightly slower than fast as hell then get the s. Not sure of your question. The turbo may run a higher risk of more maintenance. Osts but thats the price you pay

If you are worried about costs then get the S. You tracking this thing?

 

No I don't plan to track it. Both cars are quite fast, but they have different feels to them; that's what I'm struggling with, as I want to get the car that will bring the biggest smile to my face. Just curious what others have thought if in a similar weekend car situation.

 

When I test drove cars I liked the power of the turbo but not how heavy it felt.

The naturally aspirated car felt more nimble. More fun. Its power is more than enough for me.

 

How many tickets have you gotten in the past five years? Let that tell you.

 

My valentine one has saved my butt multiple times!

 

Given what you said about the Carrera being fast enough then I'd go that route. The happy turbo people seem to know it when they drive and never look back, or something like that.

 

Biggest determining factor for yours truly?

Price.

The End.

 

If that is the case, then you would lean towards the low mileage 2009 Carrera S Cabriolet?

 

Get a Turbo coupe if you like. If I wanted a cab, I would get a new Boxster. Or at least give it a drive.

 

Yes, I started out thinking that I wanted a new Boxster S and test drove it quite a bit. But I found it a little underpowered relative to the Carrera S. I live in Texas and therefore want to get a Cabriolet.

 

Maybe the AWD of the turbo gave you that preceived heaviness

I'm guessing the AWD of the 4 S would probably feel heavier than the turbo

 

You got it. Front end felt heavier.

If I were in the market for a cab I'd surely check out the new Boxster. It appears to be a fantastic car. One that I look forward to driving at some point.

I would like a 993TT someday though ...

 

Drove a new non-S Boxster last time I was in Dallas and thought it was... ok.. Don't get me wrong - it's a great car but it just didn't grab me. I was very happy to get home and fire up the TT.

The other problem I had with the Boxster was the build quality on the dash. The leather was not nice and smooth, instead rippled in places and just not high quality. it's the only Porsche I've ever seen this on. Is Porsche quality now slipping down to 'consumer grade'?

This is probably a discussion for a separate thread...

Joel

 

I've got a 2009 Carrera S Cab. I bought it instead of a Turbo Coupe. I have no regrets.