Original Boxster S or a facelift 2.7?

[davidpn]

Hello. Have been an on and off reader of PistonHeads over the last couple of years but this is my first post.

I have had a couple of Mk2 Golf GTIs, a V6 4Motion, an Alfa GTV and a Lotus Elise over the years and the time has finally come to dip my toe in the Porsche pool. In an ideal world it would be a 911 but I have thought about it extensively and I'm going hold back for now and go with a Boxster. The lower running costs are a factor for the next year or two and there's plenty of time for a 911 (I've just turned 30).

I was originally looking at a Boxster S (for the usual reasons) but my budget (£22k-£23k) will also allow for a 2.7 facelift model. So basically I am after your advice: do I follow my heart (3.2) or my head (facelift 2.7)? Will a glass screen and prettier lights make up for 500cc? Also, were there any engine upgrades on the facelift model or was it purely cosmetic?

Your help much appreciated.

[abarber]

Facelift models also had a slight power hike, something like 8bhp. Can't remember exactly.

[DucatiGary]

22-23k will get you a 993 or an early 996.

why settle for second best?

edited to add spelling mistakes

>> Edited by DucatiGary on Friday 17th February 18:24

[johnny senna]

If I was you I would look for a cheap looking face lift 3.2 S and then bid 'em in the bollox. People get desparate to sell, I'm telling you. I was in this position a year or so ago when I needed to sell my S in a hurry. I ended up losing the car for trade money. I would be cheeky and simply bid people 2 grand under what they are asking. This will get you a facelift S for 24K or less I am sure of it.

www.pistonheads.com/sales/64397.htm

www.pistonheads.com/sales/50083.htm

And yes, the facelift S had 260 BHP up from 252 BHP of the plastic rear windowed car.

And you don't need a 993/964 either, the Boxster S is THE sublime road car. I was out in my 993 RS today for the hell of it, but most roads would have been better in a Boxster S.

[Don]

Sadly I fear you may even get a facelift S for the money.

Not mine. I wouldn't part with it. But there are utter bargains around at £25K!

[ChrisW.]

I agree 100% with Johnny Senna.

But if you are in the mood for a taste of 993RS, a boxster will not do that.

Facelift. + varioram peakiness, better sound, more coherent front end design, glass rear window (yes it does make a difference, particularly when you need the heated rear screen that comes with it), and generally tidied for an extra £2k. Did I mention more power ?

Mine is up for £25k + and it is wonderful --- and I am lucky enough to have a GT3MkII for when I am in the mood.

Have also owned a Boxster S pre-faclift, and IMO the facelift is well worth the extra.

Somebody will be desperate and I am sure that £24k is achievable, but mine costs a little more.

'Wonder why I am seeling it ? Damn !