Bag of potential 981 Boxster S newbie Q’s
Discussion
Hi - first post to the Porsche clan in PH.
Always read good things in Evo about the Boxster and interested in buying one.
Previous cars are V8 Vantages. Loved the looks, but it was the sound, steering feel and build quality that most impressed.
I’ve read all the stories about how the 981 electric PAS was not great. I haven’t driven one yet, so I expect it’s relative and fine. However, has any company made an upgrade kit? I would imagine that, hardware-wise, the GT4 and 718 models could lend bits. I realise it’s unlikely to be that simple, but worth an ask.
The question of sound will be more divisive. I expect to be run out of town when I say boxer 6 cylinder Porsche models have never sounded great below ten-tenths. Rattly-sounding, even. I’m not after sheer volume, but any popular enhancements that work at same engine speeds? The low mile, manual, examples I see don’t have that many options added, so perhaps I really need to seek a certain exhaust spec?
Did any come with Apple CarPlay as standard before 2016?
Since the 2012 launch, did they all have Bluetooth streaming and/or music over USB?
Finally, as per the Vantage, is everyone going to say I should fit PS4S tyres? I’m actually wanting higher profile wheels and passive suspension to drive mainly B roads.
Sorry for the overload, but any pointers appreciated!
Always read good things in Evo about the Boxster and interested in buying one.
Previous cars are V8 Vantages. Loved the looks, but it was the sound, steering feel and build quality that most impressed.
I’ve read all the stories about how the 981 electric PAS was not great. I haven’t driven one yet, so I expect it’s relative and fine. However, has any company made an upgrade kit? I would imagine that, hardware-wise, the GT4 and 718 models could lend bits. I realise it’s unlikely to be that simple, but worth an ask.
The question of sound will be more divisive. I expect to be run out of town when I say boxer 6 cylinder Porsche models have never sounded great below ten-tenths. Rattly-sounding, even. I’m not after sheer volume, but any popular enhancements that work at same engine speeds? The low mile, manual, examples I see don’t have that many options added, so perhaps I really need to seek a certain exhaust spec?
Did any come with Apple CarPlay as standard before 2016?
Since the 2012 launch, did they all have Bluetooth streaming and/or music over USB?
Finally, as per the Vantage, is everyone going to say I should fit PS4S tyres? I’m actually wanting higher profile wheels and passive suspension to drive mainly B roads.
Sorry for the overload, but any pointers appreciated!
nickv8 said:
Hi - first post to the Porsche clan in PH.
Always read good things in Evo about the Boxster and interested in buying one.
Previous cars are V8 Vantages. Loved the looks, but it was the sound, steering feel and build quality that most impressed.
I’ve read all the stories about how the 981 electric PAS was not great. I haven’t driven one yet, so I expect it’s relative and fine. However, has any company made an upgrade kit? I would imagine that, hardware-wise, the GT4 and 718 models could lend bits. I realise it’s unlikely to be that simple, but worth an ask.
The question of sound will be more divisive. I expect to be run out of town when I say boxer 6 cylinder Porsche models have never sounded great below ten-tenths. Rattly-sounding, even. I’m not after sheer volume, but any popular enhancements that work at same engine speeds? The low mile, manual, examples I see don’t have that many options added, so perhaps I really need to seek a certain exhaust spec?
Did any come with Apple CarPlay as standard before 2016?
Since the 2012 launch, did they all have Bluetooth streaming and/or music over USB?
Finally, as per the Vantage, is everyone going to say I should fit PS4S tyres? I’m actually wanting higher profile wheels and passive suspension to drive mainly B roads.
Sorry for the overload, but any pointers appreciated!
Another newbie hear with a 981 spyder, I’ve been doing some research on improving steering feel, there doesn’t seem to be a solution, mine had what was described a fast road geo before I picked it up, I gave the settings to a local specialist who described them as a bit conservative, he is adjusting next week, I’m hoping that it might generate a bit of feel (no issues with the steering apart from that)Always read good things in Evo about the Boxster and interested in buying one.
Previous cars are V8 Vantages. Loved the looks, but it was the sound, steering feel and build quality that most impressed.
I’ve read all the stories about how the 981 electric PAS was not great. I haven’t driven one yet, so I expect it’s relative and fine. However, has any company made an upgrade kit? I would imagine that, hardware-wise, the GT4 and 718 models could lend bits. I realise it’s unlikely to be that simple, but worth an ask.
The question of sound will be more divisive. I expect to be run out of town when I say boxer 6 cylinder Porsche models have never sounded great below ten-tenths. Rattly-sounding, even. I’m not after sheer volume, but any popular enhancements that work at same engine speeds? The low mile, manual, examples I see don’t have that many options added, so perhaps I really need to seek a certain exhaust spec?
Did any come with Apple CarPlay as standard before 2016?
Since the 2012 launch, did they all have Bluetooth streaming and/or music over USB?
Finally, as per the Vantage, is everyone going to say I should fit PS4S tyres? I’m actually wanting higher profile wheels and passive suspension to drive mainly B roads.
Sorry for the overload, but any pointers appreciated!
Mine is on 20” rims (PS4S) and although ride is pretty good I will downsize to 19” rims, from experience (M3 and Monaro) both were much more composed on poor road surfaces with smaller wheels.
Sorry, can’t help with the other queries.
G
In my view - for context - whilst the 981 steering isn't as feelsome and interactive as my old 997 C2S, it's still a damn sight better than any of my old M3s and current m140i. So it's all relative. I would never say it's bad, it's just not as great as the Porsche racks of old.
I certainly wouldn't be throwing any money at it - personally speaking!
Engine / exhaust note sounds epic in a 981 GTS.....!! Depends what you like I guess
I certainly wouldn't be throwing any money at it - personally speaking!
Engine / exhaust note sounds epic in a 981 GTS.....!! Depends what you like I guess
nickv8 said:
The question of sound will be more divisive. I expect to be run out of town when I say boxer 6 cylinder Porsche models have never sounded great below ten-tenths. Rattly-sounding, even. I’m not after sheer volume, but any popular enhancements that work at same engine speeds? The low mile, manual, examples I see don’t have that many options added, so perhaps I really need to seek a certain exhaust spec?
The factory fit option of Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE) is what you want to look out for. It can be retro-fitted by an OPC, so it's worth asking for it to be added to the deal if you're buying an OPC car.nickv8 said:
Did any come with Apple CarPlay as standard before 2016?
Apply CarPlay only appeared in Caysters with the 718 series.nickv8 said:
Since the 2012 launch, did they all have Bluetooth streaming and/or music over USB?
For Bluetooth you'd need a car with the optional telephone connection.For USB, you'll need a car with the optional upgraded PCM system so either Sat Nav or the CDR Plus audio headunit.
Mate of mine had one of the first baby Vantages. Looked gorgeous and sound nice, but for me I was surprised it wasn't more of an event like the old big Vantage sound (what I grew up with). For me (and my mate), it was a more muted grown up v8 like a quiet Jag rather than the F-Type SVR. I still had my (very last UK registered) UK Supra Turbo MKIII. Contrary to what many might think who hadn't owned a good one, it was one of the best cars I ever had - a superb GT with plenty of power and torque and stunning build / luxury. I replaced it with a brand new 328 Sport in 1999 and that was a big disappointment re noise, comfort, handling (yes really), build quality. I know this is a roundabout way of getting to the point, but the baby Vantage felt very much like driving the Supra - not a sports car, rather a very up market solid fast GT.
My last car (sold circa Feb this year) was a Dec 2012 Boxster 981s. It was my first Porsche and until my Dad bought a late 987s 6 months before, I had no interest in Porsche. On my first trip out with my Dad, he let me have the keys for a return drive and I opened her up - from 4,500 rpm to 7,600 the 3.4s screams like a very melodic banshee. It is totally different from a V8 or indeed the Supra straight 6, but it is stunning and quite an event. My car didn't have PSE so didn't have much of a soundtrack below 3-4k, but I would just take it out on fast country roads to hear that sound and you never get bored of it.
In July this year I took delivery of a GTS4. Looks similar, but character and sound couldn't be more different. It has PSE so is fun and growly to 2000 rpm when poodling around (still a kid at heart), but when you get over 4k rpm she growls and roars - very angry. I had to wait 3 months and 2000 miles to try that and initially I missed the 981s sound. Now I like it just as much and may ultimately prefer it, but in all honesty, the 981s to many will always be the best flat 6 sound.
All very personal, but don't compare with a v8, straight six or a 12, try it a few times and I'm sure you'll know exactly what I mean.
Both of the Boxster are true sports cars (in my mind, far more so than (yes, people will hate me) the overweight big bottomed 911s). The 981s was the first electric steering I had and whilst I'm not as experienced as many on this site, I quite liked it. The GTS4 is better - more direct and faster some how with plenty of feeling but some used to Lotus still don't rate it. That will be a binary decision for you - but if it is a Sports car rather than a GT you're after, I'd be surprised if the 981s or GTS won't have you smiling for years.
My last car (sold circa Feb this year) was a Dec 2012 Boxster 981s. It was my first Porsche and until my Dad bought a late 987s 6 months before, I had no interest in Porsche. On my first trip out with my Dad, he let me have the keys for a return drive and I opened her up - from 4,500 rpm to 7,600 the 3.4s screams like a very melodic banshee. It is totally different from a V8 or indeed the Supra straight 6, but it is stunning and quite an event. My car didn't have PSE so didn't have much of a soundtrack below 3-4k, but I would just take it out on fast country roads to hear that sound and you never get bored of it.
In July this year I took delivery of a GTS4. Looks similar, but character and sound couldn't be more different. It has PSE so is fun and growly to 2000 rpm when poodling around (still a kid at heart), but when you get over 4k rpm she growls and roars - very angry. I had to wait 3 months and 2000 miles to try that and initially I missed the 981s sound. Now I like it just as much and may ultimately prefer it, but in all honesty, the 981s to many will always be the best flat 6 sound.
All very personal, but don't compare with a v8, straight six or a 12, try it a few times and I'm sure you'll know exactly what I mean.
Both of the Boxster are true sports cars (in my mind, far more so than (yes, people will hate me) the overweight big bottomed 911s). The 981s was the first electric steering I had and whilst I'm not as experienced as many on this site, I quite liked it. The GTS4 is better - more direct and faster some how with plenty of feeling but some used to Lotus still don't rate it. That will be a binary decision for you - but if it is a Sports car rather than a GT you're after, I'd be surprised if the 981s or GTS won't have you smiling for years.
Thanks a lot for the great feedback. It’s always proved to be a useful place when over on the AM side and real nice to find help here too. Appreciated!
Surprises me that the USB and Bluetooth bits were options at that price point. So I’d better check. It’s not my primary reason to buy, of course, but I always find small things like that allow you to make fuller use of the car.
I fully get what’s being said regarding steering feel and sound (thanks pgamble for your thoughts). It’s always going to be different and I’d go into it with an open mind. The V8 Vantage is as much GT as sports car and pulls massively in the heart strings. But I also felt too cautious to use it to its fullest, whereas the Boxster could be more adventurous. Let’s face it... it’s still a Porsche which is never going to be a bad starting point! I have huge respect for their engineering and continuous development.
Two last questions, if you don’t mind:
I am looking at a low mileage 2012 Boxster S with little options but from a specialist. Should be nearly as-new for the age and being just under £35k seems good enough value. Is it worth stretching to a GTS? What’s the benefit? I won’t notice 10bhp. May as well eat less pork pies.
Any recommended service specialists in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire or Worcestershire?
Thanks again!
Surprises me that the USB and Bluetooth bits were options at that price point. So I’d better check. It’s not my primary reason to buy, of course, but I always find small things like that allow you to make fuller use of the car.
I fully get what’s being said regarding steering feel and sound (thanks pgamble for your thoughts). It’s always going to be different and I’d go into it with an open mind. The V8 Vantage is as much GT as sports car and pulls massively in the heart strings. But I also felt too cautious to use it to its fullest, whereas the Boxster could be more adventurous. Let’s face it... it’s still a Porsche which is never going to be a bad starting point! I have huge respect for their engineering and continuous development.
Two last questions, if you don’t mind:
I am looking at a low mileage 2012 Boxster S with little options but from a specialist. Should be nearly as-new for the age and being just under £35k seems good enough value. Is it worth stretching to a GTS? What’s the benefit? I won’t notice 10bhp. May as well eat less pork pies.
Any recommended service specialists in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire or Worcestershire?
Thanks again!
nickv8 said:
I am looking at a low mileage 2012 Boxster S with little options but from a specialist. Should be nearly as-new for the age and being just under £35k seems good enough value. Is it worth stretching to a GTS? What’s the benefit? I won’t notice 10bhp. May as well eat less pork pies.
Any recommended service specialists in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire or Worcestershire?
Thanks again!
Have you a link to this car?Any recommended service specialists in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire or Worcestershire?
Thanks again!
As mentioned, I wouldn’t discount the ride on 20 inch wheels with PASM. I find it very compliant, for a sports car.
My 981 has P-Zeros which I’ll be changing to Michelin PS4S because I’ve found the Pirellis a bit wanting in the wet (though not as bad as some here will tell you - perhaps because I don’t drive like a scolded cat on the road). The Michelins are also known to improve ride quality a bit and reduce tyre roar a fair bit.
The steering is great, but lacks feel. Massively over-egged issue for 99.9% of drivers.
Personally I don’t see the value in a GTS in isolation; it’s a power increase that you won’t notice and a couple of options. That said, consensus suggests they’re going to hold their value better. Will be interesting to see how that plays out, as 981 prices have been fairly robust for a while.
My 981 has P-Zeros which I’ll be changing to Michelin PS4S because I’ve found the Pirellis a bit wanting in the wet (though not as bad as some here will tell you - perhaps because I don’t drive like a scolded cat on the road). The Michelins are also known to improve ride quality a bit and reduce tyre roar a fair bit.
The steering is great, but lacks feel. Massively over-egged issue for 99.9% of drivers.
Personally I don’t see the value in a GTS in isolation; it’s a power increase that you won’t notice and a couple of options. That said, consensus suggests they’re going to hold their value better. Will be interesting to see how that plays out, as 981 prices have been fairly robust for a while.
Edited by Royal Jelly on Wednesday 25th November 08:00
Royal Jelly said:
The steering is great, but lacks feel. Massively over-egged issue for 99.9% of drivers.
Does it take effort to spew this sort of bEdited by Royal Jelly on Wednesday 25th November 08:00
ks into the forum or do you need to work at it ? This point particularly is nonsense.If you're a 981 owner you won't ever have an issue with the steering because "it is the perfect car". As such your opinion is probably best disregarded. Anyone else who is a little more objective or actually admits to having driven any other car would find the difference quite noticeable.
Lexington59 said:
Does it take effort to spew this sort of bks into the forum or do you need to work at it ? This point particularly is nonsense.
If you're a 981 owner you won't ever have an issue with the steering because "it is the perfect car". As such your opinion is probably best disregarded. Anyone else who is a little more objective or actually admits to having driven any other car would find the difference quite noticeable.
Charming, as ever. ks into the forum or do you need to work at it ? This point particularly is nonsense.If you're a 981 owner you won't ever have an issue with the steering because "it is the perfect car". As such your opinion is probably best disregarded. Anyone else who is a little more objective or actually admits to having driven any other car would find the difference quite noticeable.
If someone wants my opinion (by default, the OP did ask), I’ll give it to them.
If he wants a comparison to all the other cars I’ve owned and driven, I’ll be very happy to oblige there, too.
It’s interesting to note that those who make the most noise about the 981 EPAS are chippy little 987 owners. Probably because the hydraulic feel in the 987 is better than the 981’s EPAS, so it’s probably a projection of insecurity to belittle the newer car which is superior in every other way.
Royal Jelly said:
Charming, as ever.
If someone wants my opinion (by default, the OP did ask), I’ll give it to them.
If he wants a comparison to all the other cars I’ve owned and driven, I’ll be very happy to oblige there, too.
It’s interesting to note that those who make the most noise about the 981 EPAS are chippy little 987 owners. Probably because the hydraulic feel in the 987 is better than the 981’s EPAS, so it’s probably a projection of insecurity to belittle the newer car which is superior in every other way.
Chippy ex Lotus owner here, if you have driven something with decent steering the EPAS on the 981 is lacking feedback, fact.If someone wants my opinion (by default, the OP did ask), I’ll give it to them.
If he wants a comparison to all the other cars I’ve owned and driven, I’ll be very happy to oblige there, too.
It’s interesting to note that those who make the most noise about the 981 EPAS are chippy little 987 owners. Probably because the hydraulic feel in the 987 is better than the 981’s EPAS, so it’s probably a projection of insecurity to belittle the newer car which is superior in every other way.
If it bothers you is another issue.
gareth h said:
Chippy ex Lotus owner here, if you have driven something with decent steering the EPAS on the 981 is lacking feedback, fact.
If it bothers you is another issue.
Steering and steering feel are not the same thing. A point lost on many of the sheep. I’ve never said the steering feel is good. It is lacking. For road use, it is fine. The steering precision and weight are excellent for all but the ham-fisted. It’s not an Atom, so isn’t going to feel like one. It’s a comfortable, every day, road-focussed sports car. If it bothers you is another issue.
Coming from an Aston, I’m guessing the OP is not necessarily expecting to be able to count the legs of the insects under the front left on a roundabout. If someone needs that level of steering feel to make good progress on an enjoyable B road, it probably speaks more about them as a driver.
Edited by Royal Jelly on Wednesday 25th November 09:06
to the OP, I have had a 981 Cayman GTS, 981 Spyder, Lotus Evora and now in a Aston v8 Vantage amr (the NA, not the current vantage). Not saying this for willy waving, just as at seems you are getting some conflicting answers above, and it seems you are doing my path, but in reverse!
So, lets get the negative stuff out of the way first: the steering feel on the 981 generation cars is almost non-existent, and there isnt much you can do with it. That isnt really a problem as they steering is still extremely precise, it just doesnt feel alive like it does in the aston (lotus is a whole different league). The GTS badged are great cars, but avoid the sports suspension - stick to the PASM. the spyder comes standard with the sports suspension that was an option for the GTS, and the ride is quite frankly terrible. the ride on the PASM in the GTS is fine - not as nice as the aston mind you, but still fine (again, the lotus is in a totally different league).
Positives: the 981 engines are wonderful wonderful things. very responsive, sound great, and love to rev! The benefit of a GTS is that they came standard with Sports Chrono, which means the car has a "sports plus" button giving you rev matching on the downshifts. yes yes, no doubt someone is going to call that against the ethos of getting a manual car in the first place, but it works really really well, and when you are truly pushing on a track or a road, having the rev match feature is handy! It also makes some wicked crackles and burbles on the downshifts. The aston engine is equally as special, just in a different way as you know. a GTS also usually comes with the GTS interior pack which really lifts the interior of the porsche, but i am not sure how much you care about that.
one final point: be prepared to be hated on the road when in the porsche. the difference between being in a lotus/aston and then in a porsche is shocking... unfortunately not something you can control.
So, lets get the negative stuff out of the way first: the steering feel on the 981 generation cars is almost non-existent, and there isnt much you can do with it. That isnt really a problem as they steering is still extremely precise, it just doesnt feel alive like it does in the aston (lotus is a whole different league). The GTS badged are great cars, but avoid the sports suspension - stick to the PASM. the spyder comes standard with the sports suspension that was an option for the GTS, and the ride is quite frankly terrible. the ride on the PASM in the GTS is fine - not as nice as the aston mind you, but still fine (again, the lotus is in a totally different league).
Positives: the 981 engines are wonderful wonderful things. very responsive, sound great, and love to rev! The benefit of a GTS is that they came standard with Sports Chrono, which means the car has a "sports plus" button giving you rev matching on the downshifts. yes yes, no doubt someone is going to call that against the ethos of getting a manual car in the first place, but it works really really well, and when you are truly pushing on a track or a road, having the rev match feature is handy! It also makes some wicked crackles and burbles on the downshifts. The aston engine is equally as special, just in a different way as you know. a GTS also usually comes with the GTS interior pack which really lifts the interior of the porsche, but i am not sure how much you care about that.
one final point: be prepared to be hated on the road when in the porsche. the difference between being in a lotus/aston and then in a porsche is shocking... unfortunately not something you can control.
Agree with most of that, apart from the comment re sports suspension..
I have a GTS with X73 sports suspension and even with SC + mode engaged, it is not harsh at all, apart from on the worst roads. Yes it’s stiffer than the PASM equipped cars, but the pay off is worth it.
The handling is brilliant, the car feels amazingly planted and confidence inspiring.
Everyone’s different, for me it makes the car more exciting.
I have a GTS with X73 sports suspension and even with SC + mode engaged, it is not harsh at all, apart from on the worst roads. Yes it’s stiffer than the PASM equipped cars, but the pay off is worth it.
The handling is brilliant, the car feels amazingly planted and confidence inspiring.
Everyone’s different, for me it makes the car more exciting.
mr pg said:
Have you a link to this car?
Sure!https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202011116...
There's one in a very similar spec relatively nearby at a MD with 20" alloys and a black interior:
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202011105...
Whilst red seems to be a bit of a theme a the moment (not complaining - I'm looking for a non-monochrome car):
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202011196...
Royal Jelly said:
As mentioned, I wouldn’t discount the ride on 20 inch wheels with PASM. I find it very compliant, for a sports car.
My 981 has P-Zeros which I’ll be changing to Michelin PS4S because I’ve found the Pirellis a bit wanting in the wet (though not as bad as some here will tell you - perhaps because I don’t drive like a scolded cat on the road). The Michelins are also known to improve ride quality a bit and reduce tyre roar a fair bit.
The steering is great, but lacks feel. Massively over-egged issue for 99.9% of drivers.
Personally I don’t see the value in a GTS in isolation; it’s a power increase that you won’t notice and a couple of options. That said, consensus suggests they’re going to hold their value better. Will be interesting to see how that plays out, as 981 prices have been fairly robust for a while.
Cheers for that. I can see the GTS is stronger on price still, naturally, as it was when new. I'm more looking at this purchase as something to enjoy driving rather than any sort of investment - that's a hiding to nowhere for 99% of cars, IMHO My 981 has P-Zeros which I’ll be changing to Michelin PS4S because I’ve found the Pirellis a bit wanting in the wet (though not as bad as some here will tell you - perhaps because I don’t drive like a scolded cat on the road). The Michelins are also known to improve ride quality a bit and reduce tyre roar a fair bit.
The steering is great, but lacks feel. Massively over-egged issue for 99.9% of drivers.
Personally I don’t see the value in a GTS in isolation; it’s a power increase that you won’t notice and a couple of options. That said, consensus suggests they’re going to hold their value better. Will be interesting to see how that plays out, as 981 prices have been fairly robust for a while.
Lexington59 said:
Royal Jelly said:
The steering is great, but lacks feel. Massively over-egged issue for 99.9% of drivers.
Does it take effort to spew this sort of bks into the forum or do you need to work at it ? This point particularly is nonsense.If you're a 981 owner you won't ever have an issue with the steering because "it is the perfect car". As such your opinion is probably best disregarded. Anyone else who is a little more objective or actually admits to having driven any other car would find the difference quite noticeable.
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