I'm trying to decide between a '04 Boxster S and an '02-'03 996 cab. I know, very different cars, but I drove both today and was very impressed with each car's strengths. [Thanks, Alfie of IRA Porsche! Very knowledgeable salesman too!]

One thing I was wondering about is how much an issue is the mid engine as far as possibly being too hard to access.

From what I was told, the top has to be opened part way and the seats moved in order to open the engine compartment. If that's true, then I guess if you get a hard top, it would have to be removed first too.

Can you add any comments to this? I undrestand that oil can be checked and added without opening the engine compartment.

When and why (if ever) have you had to open the engine compartment?

I know, if I end up getting one, I'll open it up just to LOOK at the engine! Heck, I'll probably take photos of it!

Charlie

 

You can't go wrong with either, but I'm a big Boxster fan! All basic checks/fluids are carried out w/o opening the engine compartment. Not 'till you need to change the air filter or belts/sparkplugs/hoses/etc. does the engine "lid" need to come off - oil access is from below. I won't go over the process here (do a search on how to), but I can, without trying too hard, open & close the engine cover in less than 90 seconds (I've been timed). Piece o'cake, IMO.
Good driving,
J

 

Very easy to access the engine, I do it all the time. Its all in the manual.

 

Well, not all fluids Jeff. To fill/check the power steering fluid the top access cover needs to come off.

There are two access panels to get to the engine. One from the top, which you've already mentioned. The other from behind the seats. I haven't opened that one yet. But I did get a good scolding from my dealer because they had to remove my Sparco seat to open it. Oh well, better them than me.

 

True, but PS fluid need not be checked often. I liked your comment @ seats - I've see guys in the shop get pretty creative when it comes to removing aftermarket seats (sometimes they even get them back in correctly!!!! :-))
J
PS - great pic! I always enjoy seeing Boxsters on the track!

 

Here's mine on the track:

 

Jeff, you're right. You should never need to check the power steering fluid. That'll be taken care of during the scheduled services. I'm just a little sore since I have recently been having power steering issues.

I made sure and double check my seat before I went out on the track the next time. No sense in taking any chances.

I like that pic too. I dont have any in digital form with my new wheels on. But as soon as I get one I'll be updating my avatar.

Nice pic Steve, which track is that?

 

It's Midamerica Motorplex in Pacific Junction, IA. Here's a panoramic photo of the track (on a really crummy day):



And here's a picture of my 911SC on the same track:

 

Get the new Boxster, Who knows what the 3 year old 911 has been through.

 

That's just what I did! I ordered a '04 Boxster S Anniversary Model. Hope to have it by April.

Charlie

 

Good choice, What is special about Anniversary Model ?
I drove a new 911 before buying mine, I think the Boxster is a lot more fun to drive. It seems to handle better. and the S is very close in performance and almost half the price.

 

I accessed my engine this afternoon. Takes about 5 minutes to go through the procedure.

Congrats on the anniversary edition order - that is going to be nice! Did you get the cocoa interior and top?

 

Yes I got the cocoa brown. I saw some photos at the dealer and they look awesome. Here's a couple of links, one from Porsche and another has the same photos the dealer had.

Porsche's web site

cocoa interior photo

If you click on the small photos at the 2nd link, you'll see a large photo.

Thanks,
Charlie

 

Steve,
Great pics!!!
Net - sorry to hear @ your car's troubles.... but glad you're heading back out there!
J