michael_portnoy

I'm a long-time (13 years) owner of a red 1985.5 944 and I'm thinking about getting something newer, something with POWER LOCKS (as my wife always points out), maybe a Boxster.

When I bought my 944, there was a lot of debate about turbo vs. NA vs. 968. I survived the experience and have been happy with my 944.

I have no data on Boxsters, though. What is the main difference between an "S" and "non-S" model? Did Boxsters have a major design change similar to the pre-1985.5/post-1985.5 changes in the 944 line?

A pointer to an FAQ or equivalent will be appreciated. (Especially since I'm heading out today to test drive one of these critters.)

Thanks!

mooty

major redesign in box came in 2000 when engine bumped from 190+ to 217, also S came out at 250hp. stylistically, 2003 got a face lift with different front/rear end and glass rear window with small hp increase but louder exhasut and stiffer susp. i had an S b/c to me i can tell the pwr difference is signifcant, espeically if you track the car. some would disagree. it's a big diff. in price $9k, so test both and if you can't tell the diff. stay with the non S and save some money.

Dwayne Williams

I've got an 1986 944 turbo and I'm in the middle of buying a Boxster S. If you can swing it, I'd really recommend the S. I've driven both and the extra power makes a big difference. I'm used to driving a slightly modified 944 turbo, so while the regular Boxster is still a blast to drive it just didn't have enough get up and go for my taste - hence the S. S is going to be more expensive so you need to drive both and then decide.

Sean

I hate to give the stock answer, but here is the stock answer: if you can afford it, get the S.

The S has goodies in addition to power. I honestly can't remember all of these options, but in 2000 they included the upgraded suspension, brakes from the 996, and the 6-speed 996 tranny. There was other stuff too (lined convertible top, and dual tip exhaust).

If you total up all the extra goodies, it's probably cheaper to get the S rather than upgrade a 2.5 or 2.7. Plus, there's the main draw of the extra power.

craigg

Sssssssss!

Ghost Rider

Satisfaction begins with "S"

Wachuko

Get an S. More hp, 6 Speed, better brakes, improved suspension, etc...

VMac

Simple Answer: how many people have you heard of either a) moving from and S to a base, or b)regretting the S purchase over the base.

Enzo's Nightmare

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana,Tahoma,Helvetica">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana,Tahoma,Helvetica">Originally posted by VMac:
<strong>Simple Answer: how many people have you heard of either a) moving from and S to a base, or b)regretting the S purchase over the base.</strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana,Tahoma,Helvetica">Sounds more like a question. Welcome to the Rennlist.

RJT

My only comment here, because I've owned both cars, a 85.5 944 and a 01 Boxster, would a comfort issue. I say this ONLY because I am 6'4" and had much more leg and arm room in the 944. The 944 seats had alot more fore and aft movement than the Boxster. I was still cramped when the Boxster's seat's were all the way back. I didn't really notice the discomfort until we went on a trip and after a couple of hours I felt pretty confined! We sold the 986 and bought a 993 C2S. Of course if you're not as tall as I am.......you can disregard all of this!!
Cheers to All...
Robert
97 C2S
65 356 euro C
previous:
01 986
74 911
85.5 944
70 914 6
66 911

Ray S

I have driven all three cars. Both the 986 and the 986S will provide a significant performance leap from a NA 944. The S does have an extra cog, upgraded brakes, and 33 more hp than the "regular" 986 (you feel it mostly in the "midrange"). The real question is.......is that enough to justify an extra 10K?

For some yes.....others no, but both will corner like a dream and are very satisfying to drive.

sweanders

Ray:

Maybe you should rezise that avatar of yours? <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="wink.gif" />
Lovely car btw, yours?

Dwayne Williams

Finally got all the paperwork in order and have had my S for a couple of days now. Love this car - definitely recommend the S.

boxsterboxsterS

i am also 6'4" like RJT 993 but i have to say in the driver seat of a 86 944 and a 03 S have the same amount of room. its the passenger seats that are different

MM951

Dwanye, how does your Modded 951 compare to the s?