How much more is an S worth?
#1
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How much more is an S worth?
I have been contemplating a 986 for a little while now, and I have noticed that the S cars are commanding significantly more. 5 to 10 thousand more than similarly equipped base models.
Is the difference really that significant? 5 grand is a set of H&R Coilovers and a good set of aftermarket wheels and tires.
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
Is the difference really that significant? 5 grand is a set of H&R Coilovers and a good set of aftermarket wheels and tires.
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
#2
Skunk Whisperer
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10 grand won't get you a bigger motor, bigger brakes and upgraded suspension. Not even close.
If you are wanting the performance an S car will give you, the purchase premium is well worth it.
Plus, you get that S on the trunk.
If you are wanting the performance an S car will give you, the purchase premium is well worth it.
Plus, you get that S on the trunk.
#3
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Ten Grand will get you a TPC turbo kit (maniacal laugh), and another 5K will get you Coilovers (I wouldn't be able to leave the S suspension alone anyway, so I consider this sunk cost), and a decent BBK.
The S badge is like 30 bucks.
If I did end up doing all of that, it wouldn't be that far away from a stripped interior, 996 RSR bumpers and flares, a hardtop, and 13 inch wide slicks...(maniacal laugh, maniacal laugh)
The S badge is like 30 bucks.
If I did end up doing all of that, it wouldn't be that far away from a stripped interior, 996 RSR bumpers and flares, a hardtop, and 13 inch wide slicks...(maniacal laugh, maniacal laugh)
#4
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Sounds like you have your mind already set on modding whatever you get, so it becomes a question of were do you want to start. If turbo punch is you bag, then go for it.
Oh, the S on the trunk is what really makes it go fast
Oh, the S on the trunk is what really makes it go fast
#5
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If I could find a particularly nice and well cared for S, I might jump up for the price, and keep it relatively stock. I can't personally tell the difference power-wise (It's only 30ish horsepower, and my butt dyno isn't that finely tuned). If I were going to go hog wild, I might just start with a base model though...
#6
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I have been contemplating a 986 for a little while now, and I have noticed that the S cars are commanding significantly more. 5 to 10 thousand more than similarly equipped base models. Is the difference really that significant? 5 grand is a set of H&R Coilovers and a good set of aftermarket wheels and tires.
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
#7
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#8
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There is no replacement for displacement, it costs $10K to install a larger engine or turbo so why not get the S so your investment can be recovered at resale time + you get the bigger brakes & improved rear suspension. If you want to experience the next step up come drive my 3.6 2000 S
#10
I have been contemplating a 986 for a little while now, and I have noticed that the S cars are commanding significantly more. 5 to 10 thousand more than similarly equipped base models.
Is the difference really that significant? 5 grand is a set of H&R Coilovers and a good set of aftermarket wheels and tires.
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
Is the difference really that significant? 5 grand is a set of H&R Coilovers and a good set of aftermarket wheels and tires.
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
Brad,
Looks like we live in the same area. I have a 2000 Boxster S, (as well as a 996 turbo X50 (Tip) and a 944 Turbo S). When we started looking for a Boxster in 2001, we drove a base and an S back to back, and the overall feel of the S was much better than the base (similar years and mileage). Porsche continues to upgrade their cars year after year, and a modern 987 base would probably dust my 2000 S. So, I would suggest that you buy an S and start with the best possible platform. If the mod bug still bites you, you'll be a bit further ahead. If you decide not to mod, you will still be ahead.
Just my .02
#12
The S has bigger brakes on the front and back and also two radiators if I'm not mistaken. Dual exhaust tip which isn't a biggie but I think is cool. But the Torque!!!
#13
I have been contemplating a 986 for a little while now, and I have noticed that the S cars are commanding significantly more. 5 to 10 thousand more than similarly equipped base models.
Is the difference really that significant? 5 grand is a set of H&R Coilovers and a good set of aftermarket wheels and tires.
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
Is the difference really that significant? 5 grand is a set of H&R Coilovers and a good set of aftermarket wheels and tires.
Would I be happier with a modified base model than a stock S? I think I might be...
Talk to me...
2001 Orient Red Metallic Boxster
#14
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Just to clarify, I am aware of the differences between a base Boxster and an S. I know why one is better than the other.
The question is... Is a base Boxster with a big brake kit, bigger wheels and tires, a coilover kit, and a performance exhaust still worse than a Boxster S?
Is 30 horsepower really worth ten grand?
The question is... Is a base Boxster with a big brake kit, bigger wheels and tires, a coilover kit, and a performance exhaust still worse than a Boxster S?
Is 30 horsepower really worth ten grand?
#15
30hp isn't worth 10K... but in the used market, I don't think say, a 2000 base and a 2000S have a 10K price delta anymore, given similar condition vehicles.
I regularly beat "s" models with my base 2000 at AX and since it was designation delete, many at the track assumed it an "S" since, well, "how could a base boxster be so fast"
I regularly beat "s" models with my base 2000 at AX and since it was designation delete, many at the track assumed it an "S" since, well, "how could a base boxster be so fast"