i appreciate all the input...but its still a tough call.
i wont do anything until the spring at the earliest.
that buys me a couple of months to think.

i also have never driven a new boxster or boxster s.
test drives will be a big help in making a pic.
either new boxster,or c.p.o. 911.

i noticed no comments on my concerns about the cab top on the 997.
ive noticed in 911s, not on boxsters ,but i havent been looking at many boxsters.
the wrinkles i understand.i read dont store the car with the top down.i was more concerned about the side panels showing a discoloration,or staining,possibly caused by wear or heat.i really dont know. but i have seen it often enough and on late model cars to be concerned.the tops on current 911 and boxster appear to be updated and im assuming improved. does anyone have any experience with the previous generation cab tops,and can identify the cause,or prevention?


a couple of other questions,it noticed the boxster s is mentioned more then the base.
aside from the increase in h.p.,what is it about the s that makes the bump in base price of around $12,000. worth making that leap? id ecspecially like to hear from those who test drove both models prior to purchase.

also much of what i read in auto magazines seems to give much more exposure and praise to the cayman,over the boxster. its not that they are critical of the boxster,i just see the cayman getting the bulk of the attention over the boxster. with the exception of coupe, versus cab,what if anything does the cayman do better then the boxster,and vice versa?

 

$75K gets you a very nice new Cayman S, but won't touch a base 911.

Here's a $71K build for a Cayman S:
http://www.porsche.com/microsite/porsche-code/?c=PE6VVWR1

It leaves room if you want to add a couple of things for comfort, but this already includes PASM, Sport Chrono, Sport Seats Plus, and CDR Plus Audio (Bose isn't worth the additional $$$ IMO, and Burmester knocks you out of the $75K range).

 

The comment about convertible vs metal roof bears some truth. During the eight years of owning the Boxster, I think most of the time I had the roof up. Had I have to do it again, I would go for a Cayman. While 911s are nice, I never could justify the extra money.

In the end, it is a personal decision.