Both Caymen and Boxster are missing a limited slip differential.
Even the R doesn't have one, just so it doesn't do circles around the more expensive 911.

The Boxster does feel more balanced, both are amazing cars just now that you had both you can prioritize what more important to you.

 

keep the TTS, also get a Boxster S

 

My experience with driving different Porsche models is really limited so I appreciate the advice and words of wisdom. My previous two cars were NA (Mustang Cobra SC and a C6 Vette) so I knew I needed to change my expectations. The comments about the TTS being 4 wheel drive probably makes the biggest difference in how the car feels to me. Sounds like I at least need to drive a GT3, but I am committed to to Cabs... both in wine and sport cars A Boxster with more power would likely be my ideal car. The Spyder would be great, but taking several minutes to drop the top is a little crazy for a DD.

When I've asked my Porsche shop about suspension mods, the response I get is that all of them make the ride more harsh. For a DD that will see little to no track action, I certainly don't want a more harsh ride. Are they correct in telling me this? Are there other options?

Thanks again for all the help.

 

I have a friend that shares your experience. He strongly prefers his former Boxster S to his later 911. I prefer the turbo to the Boxster S.

 

I've just had a 2011 Boxter s while my 996t was being serviced.What a great little car. I think it is the best handling car i've ever driven, having said that within 5 mins of getting in it I could drive it at 100% so there was nothing to learn from it, no challenge.

On the other hand im still learning about my 996t after a year. Making it slide with the PSM off is a real challenge but also very rewarding, I can't just throw it at a corner without thinking like you can with the Boxter. For some that would be a bad thing but for me its a plus.

 

Even though I'm no suspension expert, this guy didn't know what he was talking about. I have PSS10s and even the firmest setting is more DDable than stock. I just couldn't take the bouncyness of the stock suspension.

 

Drive what you like, and to hell with what others think. Everyones idea of their perfect car is different. If you go to the new Boxster and hate it, then sell it and get another 911. Easy as that.

 

I'm going to look into the suspension mods.

I also thank you all for giving me the right expectation to have for this car. Appreciate the advice.

 

Neither does the 996TT

 

I know. Only the X51 has I believe. And anyway the 997TT, GT variant have a limited slip (optional on the Turbo).
Not the Cayman Boxster or 996TT have an LSD. With an LSD a Cayman S will be the same or faster and handle better than a Carrera/ Carrera S on a track.

I think it is so stupid that not ALL the 911 range comes with an LSD, while a Mazda MX-5 or a Nissan 370Z comes with a limited slip standard.

 

You most certainly aren't nuts. I absolutely love my 996tt, but in terms of just pure driving pleasure, from throttle response, to handling, engine noise, and overall "feel," I'd have to say my old 986 boxster s was more "fun." True, it was underpowered, but something about it just felt good to drive. I have the same feeling when I drive well sorted e36 m3's (my current daily)...they are not going to blow anyone's door off, but they are just charismatic. That is how I have always described my old boxster s--Charismatic. They are just plain fun to drive. That's not to say the turbo is not fun to drive, it is. But it is more work to get the same kind of rush, its more laggy, its heavier, etc... And, I'm on pss9's and rs motor mounts, so its not like I'm on the cushy stock suspension.

I think the main problem with the Turbo (for me) is that the area where it REALLY shines is an are where I don't frequently go (top end pull, track days, high speed sprints over 70mph...). This is where the boxster just fell flat on its face. Yes, my car will annihilate almost anything at high speeds, but that is just not how I drive. And, at lower speeds and lower rpms, the car is just not as charisamtic as many n/a porsches. If I push my car hard in second gear, for example, unless I'm on a freeway on ramp I'm going to be breaking the law something fierce! Again, not knocking the TT, I own one for many reasons (not the least of which is the fact that its just a bad as_ looking car!).

If I had to choose just one porsche to live with for the rest of my days, it would be the turbo hands down, but that's not to say I would not enjoy immensely another boxster s!

 

I know newer Caymans have had LSDs as an option, not sure about the Boxsters.

 

I think you captured my feelings perfectly. I completely agree. The TTS is a rush every time I get on the interstate - in fact I go out of my way to take a freeway home. I've always said the TTS isn't "happy" until it's going over 80. But it is VERY happy at those speeds!

 

My Boxster S was more fun in backroads than my 600whp turbo, so I completely understand where you are coming from. The Turbo will never feel like the boxster at all. Do a good tune, light coilovers and you will love the car.