I have had both, a 996 C2 Coupe and a 986S. My times in DE's and AX's were superior in the Boxster S. The mid-engine design makes the handling simply outstanding.

That said, I can't wait for the spring AX season to see how the 4S does.

 

spec boxster's run the same times as 3.4 l 996's

 

For a dedicated track car you may want to consider a used Lotus Elise.

 

I'd skip both and get a 993 track car, plenty already completed and ready to go for cheap
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Porsc...#ht_615wt_1309

I am getting something like this soon. When you see these "cheap" cars pass 997TT at Road America, you just have to smile.

 

or this
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Cars-...ht_1512wt_1309

 

$40K isn't really "cheap." And a fully prepped race car passing a street car (even a really fast street car) really isn't anything to smile about. Apples to oranges and all that.

And open session / DE / Time trials, etc aren't for the big ego "I need to pass everybody" type. It's about bettering yourself, not counting how many people you get by.

-td

 

How about a race ready 914? I understand they are comparatively cheap to maintain and upgrade and parts are readily available.

 

What are your goals? What do you want to accomplish? Weekend kicks and grins, develop driving skills, first in class, top time of the day, regional hot shoe, national championship, want Lewis Hamilton's job?

What tracks do you want to run? Big tracks, tight tracks, ovals?
Who do you want to run with? Viper/ Z06/GT3, 986/996, Miata Spec racers etc.
I will admit I have been bitten by the track bug. I have been driving a 98 Boxster (201hp) for two years in street stock class. I can't hang with the HP cars at Fontana, Big Willow, or Buttonwillow 13 (too much straightaway). Strictly class racing there. At Streets or Laguna Seca it's a little different story. I do find a little twisted pleasure in driving around cars with twice the HP there. Not many 996/997 will drive around me at Streets. Lots of other fast Boxsters in SoCal.
The most competitive ride out there right now if you want to hone your driving skills is a Kart. In a Porsche it is either 944spec, Boxster spec. or GT3 Cup cars. This is where the action is. You can track anything. Just decide what you want out of it first...then go shopping.

 

I vote boxster. Engine replacement costs are not bad and the car is very capable. We have a 98 that was picked up with a blown motor and now it is ready to go. The 2.5L has a little to be desired, but a great momentum car!

Good luck with your decision!