Diamond Dave

Thinking of going newer Boxster. Same options that I have now. just looking for more juice . Is the 4 banger w turbo going to be that much better ? OR...Should I wait for 981 S ? TIA

absoluteczech

If you all you just want is more power the 4cyl turbo will definitely feel quicker as the turbo will give it more torque low down as well , but also has the option of a tune which can easily add power since it's turbo.I mean stock for stock its 40hp more. You're going to feel that difference immediately.
I will say, i'd rather own a flat 6 though

thecajunboy

Geez, have fun with that decision. 981S prices will likely stay parked where they are, or possibly go even higher. I'm assuming 718 base will continue to depreciate some. I've been slowly realizing that my hunt for the right 981S will never produce what I'm looking for.

zstokes

Does sound matter to you? If it does, the choice is 981 and it's not close, IMO.

Jawnathin

Both are great cars. The 718 and 981 engines have different personalities, I suggest driving both to see which you prefer.

michaelscain

Both cars have very different personalities due to the engine design.

Power comes in very low down in the 718, however will have noticeable turbo lag, but a lot more power from 4 pot turbo comparable performance with the 981S, engine sound will however be poor and non musical, satnav system and tech is more advanced, prices are going down probably due to new flat 6 4.0L GTS on the market.
You will need to rev the 981 high to get the power, however will have instant throttle response, a lot less power, spine tingling exciting sound from the flat 6 engine, outdated tech, prices have level off now.

both are great cars,

Noah Fect

In the short term, 981 prices are not going to suffer due to the new GTS 4.0's appearance on the market. The 4.0 is not only far more expensive than the 981GTS was when new, never mind the ones on the used market, but it is also undergoing some major delivery pains.

Between the engine recall and the resulting disruption to production schedules, hundreds of 718 GTS/GT4/Spyder buyers won't see their cars for several months. At least a few of them are going to be shopping for 981 S/GTS cars to drive in the meantime.

edmaverik

Both models will have their pros and cons that you must love and can sleep happily before your purchase. Personally, I loved the 2.7L flat6 when I test drove mine and purchased it afterwards. My salesperson suggested that I test drive the S, but I politely declined as I was replacing my Miata ND and the 2.7 base was perfect for me. Therefore, I would say it critical to find what checks off your needs with the 981 or the 718 that makes you satisfied.

Fullyield

FYI - Turbo in 718 S is different from turbo in 718 Base. It is an individual decision. I would find a nice 981 S but that is just my opinion.

Diamond Dave

I do Love the 6cyl sound for sure.

Diamond Dave

I agree, going today.

KrisA

While this isn't a direct comparison being about GTS versions of Cayman's rather than base versions of Boxster's it may still be interesting to you.


As others have said give both cars a drive, if you can, and see which one you like better. Being able to drive a 981 might be a bit of a challenge as it sounds like when they go up for sale they disappear pretty quick. Either way, I'm sure you'll love whatever you end up with and have fun finding the right one.

Diamond Dave

I have a 981 now , just looking for more juice

Tommy L Garage

A 718 S is ballpark similar to 981S in terms of price

I wanted to get a 718 first. Went to the dealer...the dealer drove it to me to have for it for a test drive. As he drove by me I said nope. Not gonna drive a car which sounds this bad (already have an f80 M3 which doesn’t sound too good). 981 it was!

solo118

If I was purchasing and had the choice, I would choose the 981. Flat 6 will sound better, I honestly do not care for extra 40hp. Very reliable car, and looks amazing even though it is creeping on almost 10 years since it was introduced.

If I was buying new I would definitely have no problem with the 718 though. Perfectly fine, and in sport mode it pops and burbles like nobody's business. Some might not like that though.