I went the other way 2 years ago. Sold a 996 and bought a ND MX5. I feel that I can afford to drive the Mazda more "robustly" than the Porsche. I have never regretted the decision. Thanks for your very balanced presentation.
@@1anre The 996, 986, 997.1, and 987.1 engines have issues with IMS bearing failure (especially when the car isn't driven often), and the rear main seal. Some also have had issues with bore scoring.
@PETERFRITZPHOTO damn. And not many of us can fork out funds for a 718 GT4RS. Guess it's the ND2 or the coming ND3 for us as a 2nd fun car then as this can be a mature man's single and only car with family responsibilities etc
This is one of the best car videos I’ve ever seen, you captured the emotionality of cars differently to all the noise coming from other UA-cam creators. This felt much more personal and genuine on a different level.
Selling my (second) Miata was the worst mistake I’ve ever made. I’ll be owning a third and (someday) a boxster or cayman of some sort. This video captures that emotional attachment well. This guy “gets it”
In 2018 I considered selling my ‘16 ND GT manual and purchase a base ‘13 Cayman with 30k miles. For whatever reason I was underwhelmed. Maybe I was expecting to be completely blown away by the difference, maybe expecting an out of body experience. It was imo marginally better. Before my ND I had owned several S2000s. I wasn’t sure the Porsche equaled any of those. So I kept the ND and now own a ‘21 ND RF Club BBS….and couldn’t be happier. With its GoodWin Racing SSST exhaust and some tasteful ascetic mods it may be my favorite sports car ever, more than my early Mach1, Vette, Supra, 300ZX, afore mentioned S2000s and 6 Miatas starting with an NB SE BRG in 2001. So glad you’ve fulfilled a lifelong dream in owning a Boxster. And your video was so well made!
Truth people hype up Porsches soooo much then you finally drive one expecting a jaw dropping experience and only get......a car! This happened to me, over the course of 3 years a build a 3.2 backdate 79 911 with all the best parts. I couldn't wait to drive the thing after all the work I had done. Well finally the day came the first big drive..... Total disappointment!!!!! I spent tons of money and time building my dream car only to realize this cars aren't that amazing, at least to me. I did drive it for about a year and it was ok nothing crazy. People loved to talk about the car when I pulled to to get gas or stop at a convenience store. Other then that I really didn't find the car that pleasing finally sold it to a guy the approached me while getting gas. Bought an NA Miata after that and loved that little car for 8yrs. Finally it got too small or I got too big lol so I sold that too. Got a 986s nice car fun to drive and fairly inexpensive I'll have this until I find time to rebuild the love of my life, the 77 vw rabbit I drove through college
Just bought a 2023 mx-5, and I love it. Even though I see some Porsches on the road, as a 36 yr old, I feel like a million bucks driving mine. Ssomeday I will upgrade to a Porsche, but for now, it's not in the cards. Another 2 decades of letting the wealth accumulate though, will mean it's just a matter of when, not if. Can't wait to have another 20 years of experience driving these magnificent little cars. You are a true enthusiast and your video was honest and didn't bash the MX5 or overgloat the Porsche
Good for you, Michael! The MX5 is one of the best sports cars on the planet. It has been from day one, so anyone who looks down on them has their head up their arse. You have the right idea with money - $50 invested now can easily be $500 a couple of decades later - especially in real estate.
Hey I’m picking up a white 2023 mx5 nd next week. Pre registered with 41 miles on the clock. I cannot wait and I’m 55 😂😂😂 by the way I priced up a new boxster for 71k but I still Think I have made the right choice
I own a 2006 Boxster S, manual transmission. I looked and researched many different types and models. I always can back to the Boxster and so did many auto analysts. It has been a joy to drive and own. They are special vehicles.
I recently bought a used Miata NC1, lowered it with coil overs and installed at set of aftermarket wheels with wide 245 tires. It’s been a great joy to drive. I do agree that it’s not for everyone and if you can afford to buy and maintain a Boxster then have at it. I hope you enjoy your new road passion.
Thoughtful and well presented. Over the last decade, my wife and I have owned a 981 Cayman and MX-5 ND2. I absolutely agree with you, both of them modern classics and as good as it gets in their respective classes. You mentioned the GTS 4.0, that replaced our 981 in 2021. I think that in the future, the GTS 4.0 will be looked back on as one of the high points in Porsches model history. Still have the MX-5 and that's staying.
I have an ND1 RF and added the GTS 4.0 Boxster. I was thinking "if I like Porsche a lot better and drive it for the most part, I'd get rid the of the MX5". I still have them both and drive them for different reasons. I absolutely agree both will be classic and the pinnacles of ICE sports cars.
beautiful video, so relatable, I've owned a 98" NB and now I have recently purchased a 2017 ND 2.0 sport with Recaro seats and bilstein, I can't stop driving it and looking at it.... for the money it costs it makes it the holy grail of the essential driving pleasure, and the fact that everyone, cars enthusiasts and not love it too make this little thing a joy giver for everyone, if prices and maintenance would be a little lower I'd consider a Boxster but RN the miata is a part of my soul. (fun fact, kids and old men stare it so much more often than a common Porsche, at least in my area Sicily-Italy)
For absolute cost of maintenance / insurance you can't beat a ND / ND2. Your Recaro seats in that 2017 ND sport sound great. I have a 2016 MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS package across the pond. The regular cloth seats have a hammock feel to them & long drives are comfortable journeys. I love the fact every drive feels special from other cars I've owned. Definitely the simple manual operation of the convertible is a huge factor. In the Pandemic years the car was absolutely a mood altering machine !
Here where I live Porsche is extremely rare in 30 years I have seen one 3 times on the road and all of them was the last 5 years. The most near Porsche dealer is 850km drive away.
I came to watch & defend my ND (30th Anniversary edition) against what I thought would be a biased review against a far more expensive car. Sadly, well to be fair I should say happily, this was a balanced and fair assessment and I agreed with many of the points (I’ve been looking at Boxsters for a while). The flat 6 takes the win for me but for the moment the ND stays but a little modifying awaits 😂. Cheers, Kevin.
Good on you, Kevin. And thanks for stopping by. I miss my beautiful little ND, but I’ve found new thrills in the Boxster. The hype is definitely justified.
I had a 987.2 then one of the newly launched MX-5. I liked the MX-5 but it was claustrophobic and I missed the Boxster. So this year I sold it and bought a 981. Before my first Boxster, I used to think my BMW M3 convertible was the best car I had ever driven. Nothing beats a Boxster for me - and I have driven a 911.
Good for you, Bob! I have to agree - the cabin in the MX5 really is quite claustrophobic, especially roof-up. And noisy, too. The internal dimensions of the 981 feel just right. Thanks for dropping by.
Thank you for discussing this aspect of Porsche selection! You kept it simple and it’s a video I will refer back to this as I am now in a similar situation! Thank you for doing this. Well done!
This is great because I just got rid of my Porsche and got an nd2 rf club. Blew my mind when it went 0-60 in 5.6 seconds. I loved my Porsche but, I’m a driver to my core. Once I drove the nd2 I didn’t need any coaxing. Easiest trade-in of my life. Love driving my tiny Aston miatin lol. The only car that comes close to making me not miss my motorcycles so much in the winter.
I really enjoyed my ND1, and as a bike rider, it was a great alternative. A much safer one, too. I'd love to try the ND2 - it seems to be the peak MX5. The ND platform was just a little small for me - especially in terms luggage capacity when I visited my dad in the mountains with camera gear and personal items for me and my son.
I went from a 981 base Boxster to a ND2 Miata. The boxster is better in every area except one. Running cost. I wanted a trackday/street car and Miata fits the budget I have for this hobby. That being said, I'll probably get a 981 S in the future. The boxster is just such a good car.
Really great video man! I actually was deciding between a Boxster and a Miata when I was looking for my first fun car. (Among other options) I ended up with the Miata because it felt more personal, more raw, and it has more aftermarket support. But like you said, sports cars are emotional purchases. I really was taken back to when I first got my car, that joyful feeling of walking up to it. I share that even now. To those looking for a fun car, I hope you can enjoy that emotional joy with us!
had both Cayman and Boxster but keep coming back to the Miatas. Prosche are definitely more refined with nice power to ratio providing more thrilling rides. but the charm of the Miata is down to earth experience of a typical roaster and super easy and cheap to own and drive at almost the half cost of a Boxster S. with a current markup on GT4, I can buy a collection of new NDs in all six colors :-)
I totally get it, Johnny, and I may well buy another someday. I would love a mint NA as a time capsule machine, but sadly, I have no more garage space!
What a loving expérience !! I have bought one MX 5 one month ago and I enjoy it very much and it's an Amazing car. The sound is good and nice. Thé choice beetween miata and Boxster was difficult for me. It's the cost decided it. Love from France ❤
I purchased with a lot of effort in 2013 the 981 S... I treated it like a babe and I loved the sound and the elegant interior since the first time. The air intake on the side are amazing and made this car unique and recognizable in the market...after 10 years I still love it...Your review is amazing!
Great video. I have slightly different perspective. I am car buff too, I owned one the first NA Mazdas to arrive in Australia in late 1989, fun , brilliant car, and I now own a 2022 ND2 GT soft top. Along the way and years ago, I also owned two late model Porsche 911's. I owned a 1975 911 Sportmatic Targa then in 1988 I bought a 2 year old 3.0 litre Carrera Targa. Both great cars and the Porsches were wonderful, but I am deliriously happy with my ND2 MX-5. I would not go back to a Porsche, I grew tired of comments I received, and he envy, and the occasional bit of vandalism. If I had tradesman coming over I would park the car around the corner knowing I'd be charged a 'Porsche Owner's Tax'. Visitors would say 'Oh, you have a Porsche..." and not in a nice way. I was often concerned where I parked it, not to mention the substantial cost of ownership such as insurance and service costs. It's one thing to buy a Porsche, it's another to own and maintain one. It became a liability. Police are more interested in Porsche's too, ands I speak from experience. Also, I would not buy an older Porsche like the 2013 model unless I had deep pockets and was willing to pay to keep an older car like that on the road. My MX-5 makes people smile, and wave, It doesn't not cause envy, possibly just a little pity. ;-). Sure it's not as fast, or as well fitted out, but it is 300kg (600lbs), thats' three chunky adult's worth lighter than the Porsche so the latter needs more power. I think the Boxster is great car, well engineered etc, and is the only true rival to the humbler MX-5. In any case, enjoy the Porsche, but I'm just wondering if one day you'll be back in an MX-5!
I loved my little NA, and the ND almost as much (mainly because I had the NA when I was young and single!). I only use my Boxster for fun drives to my dad's house in the mountains, or my mum's house down the coast. I hardly ever use it in heavy traffic, and I don't commute because I've worked from home for over 20 years. So in terms of maintenance, I'm fine with Porsche's fixed price servicing ($795 for annual, $1,500 for intermediate, and $2,200 for major). My last major service on my Mitsibishi 4WD was $3,500. In terms of people's opinions - that hasn't bothered me one iota since I made that conscious choice 15 years ago. I truly believe that what others think of me is none of my business. I might get an MX5 again someday - but I'll probably have a Porsche, too. 🙂
Let me summarize my many thoughts on this topic. Granted this is all my opinion. Best car I have ever driven on track was a 981 Cayman GTS PDK. The precision of this car far exceeded my capability. This car is still my benchmark when testing other cars and in my opinion one of the best cars ever made. I owned a 1999 Mazda Miata (MX-5) 5 speed manual (one of the best manual) with the lsd and a hard dog roll bar. This car was fun at any speed, lightweight (2,299lbs) and the hydraulic steering gave me all the road texture I could ever want. My conclusion is buy what you can afford and Just Drive. Cheers and it was a great video.
Couldn’t agree more, mate. My shitty Holden Gemini with cheap-arse add-ons gave me HUGE joy in the 80’s. Everything is relative. By all means strive; but enjoy what you have in the moment. 👊
@@peterfritzphotoIf you want a great mountain road to take a fun car on come over for a visit. I live at the base of Pikes Peak here is Colorado Springs, lots of twisty mountain roads.
I did pretty much the same thing you did for the same reason: I went from a lowered NC with a redone suspension (Ohlins all around, beefier anti-sway bars and custom wheels and alignment) to a 2013 Boxster S because I always wanted a Porsche. While the Miata was terrific, especially as modded (the thing cornered flat and gave its little heart every time I had it on a twisty road, handling like a go cart), in comparison to the Boxster it was a toy while the Boxster is a real car. The Mazda’s a/c couldn’t keep up with the heat with the top down and windows up. The Boxster’s a/c handles it fine. The Mazda was no fun to drive when it got colder or with the top up, which really impeded blind spot vision and made the interior uncomfortably loud. The Boxtser is quiet with the top up and although rear visibility isn’t great through the small rear window, the sides of the car are fine. And my Boxster also has a stick (I see you opted for PDK), which is almost as fun as the MIata’s, a very close second. It is just a much more refined experience that I get to use much more of the time than I could my Miata, and viscerally, nothing feels or sounds like a flat 6 engine that revs like a Porsche. Keep enjoying your Porsche. Spot on reporting.
Peter, thank you for a thoughtful and fair review. I purchased an ND1 Club MT while also considering Porsches. Then I realized that if I didn't buy a Mazda and go on with Porsche, I would potentially never buy a Miata. Never regretted. In my imagination, an MX5 and an older 911 coupe like 997.2 is an ideal combination.
Thanks very much, Igor. I love the MX5 so much, I’ll probably buy another one someday. Only this time, I’ll have a Porsche, too - just like you’re planning. 👍
Back many years ago, my mum used to own a 2001 Boxster and whenever I drove it around corners it was extremely confidence inspiring and felt super planted. I used to drive riced up Honda's with aftermarket turbos and the like so way faster cars with loads of mods, but none felt as planted.
I love the Boxster and I've thought about upgrading from my S2000 several times. Twenty years on, I still have the S2000, but the next car in line has always been the Boxster.
I feel you Peter. Had a perfect 1.6 NA that I turboed it, and upgraded it from the ground up for the last 10 years. Sold it two weeks ago. Two years ago bought an ND2 30 anniversary RF, I am having a blast with it. Also two years ago bought an 2001 986S, never felt connected to that car, sold it in two months of ownership. Before the Miata NA I’ve had a Porsche 993 Carrera for 5 years, really loved that feeling. And that wasn’t my first impression with a 911, on my younger years I had an 1976 911 2.7S. Now I’m thinking in selling my ND for my forever car, an 718 Boxster. Thanks for the video, it is really inspiring.
I own a 2018 MX-5 Club. I have driven a 996 911 & 981 Boxter, and a 718 Cayman GTS. I was going to buy a Boxter until I drove the 981. It just feels so heavy and sterile compared to my MX-5.
I know what you mean - it’s a different kind of machine, with a lot more heft. I actually appreciate that on long drives when there are extended freeway or country road stretches before getting to the winding sections. The steering ratio is also quite a bit slower than the MX5, so that certainly contributes to the heavier feel. For where it excels, nothing beats the MX5. It’s brilliant.
Great video Peter! Like yourself i always wanted to have a Porsche in the garage, back in 2014 i purchased my first one, which was a 2003 Boxster S, loved the car, but i wanted more, purchased a 2007 Boxster S in 2017 and in 2020 i purchased a 2015 Boxster GTS. Every time i moved up in modelyear i experienced a refinement in ride and more power. Certainly the 2015 GTS is a very special car, but recently I placed the order for a 2024 Boxster GTS 4.0 and this fulfilled my long term dream of buying a new Porsche and taking delivery in Germany. Delivery will be summer 2024 ( this is what i requested, will see what i get) and winding her out for once on the autobahn will hopefully be the experience i have longed for. The missus will go with me and we will take two weeks in Germany, switzerland and Austria. Afterwards it will be shipped to Canada, where i will enjoy it for many more years. By the way, GT silver on Bordeaux red leather with manual gearbox, 911 turbo style wheels to complete the package. 😊
Remember, when you pick up that GTS in Germany, that you can rent laps on the Nürburgring for very little money. I lived in Germany for years, plus trips there for both work and pleasure before and after my assignment there. And I can tell you that Americans get more excited about the Autobahn than they should. Now, taking a sports car on the "B" highways through the mountains is more what sports cars are all about. Just don't miss your chance to take your GTS on the Nürburgring. You will regret not doing it.
Great video! My thoughts exactly for the start of the vid, agreed with everything. I just haven't replaced my NC with the Boxster just yet , lol! Only the reliability remains to be seen between the two.
That's why I went from an MX-5 to an Elise. I like the flat 6 sound but it doesn't give me the fizz (to use a James May term), but in terms of feel there's not much that surpasses a Lotus.
@@peterfritzphotothe Elise is an experience. I thought my NB was a go kart until I drove an Elise. But unless you're young, it is not an only car. When I came to selling my NB I considered a 987 S or 981 non-S, a ND RF GT, and eventually the Elise S. I figured I'd buy the Elise while I could still climb over its ridiculous sills, and eventually sell it and buy a Boxster. If you can get your hands on one on a nice day on a winding road I'd suggest it. But also consider what it would be like to live with it every day and drive it inter state before you wish you'd bought one janread of the Porsche....
I agree to most of this, but I went in the other direction. From having a (fantastic) 2014 3.4 Boxster S for 7 years to a 30th anniversary 2019 MX-5. Everything is cheaper, and almost as fun. The PDK gearbox started to trouble, and that scared me, 😟 so I sold it to a Porsche mechanic. It had just over 50tkm when it happened. The MX-5 is bullitproof. No worries there.😊
That's also partially true. Some ND MX5 owners have done through three gearboxes, so they're not entirely bulletproof. I even spoke to Mazda Australia about it, to check their stance on warranty claims for gearboxes after the warranty expires, and they acknowledged there'd been a number of them that had blown second gear.
I love the Porsche Boxster. I look forward to hearing about your experience with maintenance and repairs in a year or two. Though you did get one with low mileage, so perhaps that will keep costs down. I currently own another VAG product and love it... but the cost of repairs and maintenance is tough when I look around and see some friends with things like Mazdas and Lexuses. Of course, my car now has nearly 200k miles (bought it at 69k). It's in great condition, but I feel it's time - there's that emotion - for something newer and sexier. It's still cheaper to keep my current car despite the additional repairs.
I hear you. I owned 10 Mercedes Benzes in a row, and became tired of the costly maintenance and repairs. I then bought a few Japanese cars (Pajero, MX5, Elgrand, and Outlander), and enjoyed their low running costs. But two of them were new, and the other two had very low kms, so I guess that was a given. I still have the Outlander, and it has fixed price servicing for 10 years, totalling about $3k over that decade. My last service on the Mitsubishi Pajero was $3,500! Porsche Australia offers fixed price servicing - from $795 for the annual maintenance, to $2,200 for the major service. I’m fine with those numbers.
A great comparison. We had an mx5 NB for 10 years, a 911SC, a 944, a boxster 987.1 and now like you a base 981 but manual. I love Porsche and the boxster is the best to own in the real world. The 981 is everything you say it is, so accomplished, honed to perfection. I thought it was the perfect sports car. But then i bought a Lotus Elise, im on my 2nd one and when i just want to go for a drive, i always take the Elise, its fun, its pure, its involving and all at legal speeds.everyrhing i want from a sports car. If i want the same involvement from the 981 I'll be going so fast I'll lose my licence. I never thought id say this but ill keep the Lotus as my sports car, sell the 981 and buy a used mx5 as the daily drive. I'm so lucky to have the choices. Thanks for a wonderful video.
That’s quite the history there, Nick. I must admit, I’m ignorant in the ways of the Elise. Despite reading enough about them to choke a donkey, I’ve never driven one. Hell, the last Lotus I drove was an Esprit! I’d love to experience the Elise, and while I’m at it, the Evora and the Emira. Thanks for dropping in, Nick, and for the kind words.
It's interesting that I saw this post. I once owned a Lotus Elise back in 2019 and sold it, my biggest regret (I only paid $23k for it and sold it for the same price...dammit!). I am now on the hunt for something that excites me, and the Boxster is on my list. Ironically, I bought a 987.1 S but in my opinion it wasn't that exciting, so I ended up selling that. Fast forward a year and I bought an NC MX-5 but with the BBR 200 kit, and BOY was that an incredible machine. Still, my mind wandered back to the Lotus, and it still does. I am now debating between a 981 Boxster S, the Lotus Elise, or an Alfa Romeo 4C, although the Alfa is hard to find in my budget (under 50k).
@@Element_y What a delightful dilemma. See if you can get a drive in a 981. I drove a 987.1 a few years back, and it didn’t give me the same feeling as the 981. That said, I haven’t driven an Elise. I imagine it’s a very different driving experience to any Boxster.
I own a 981 a nc miata and nb miata. The 2015 nc miata interior is still solid yet simple and plain. The 2014 981 cayman is beautiful but the window switch has popped out, headliner has failed, and door cards are warping. Both are garaged. Also cant rev out the 981 nearly as much because of the insanely long gearing like you can a Miata. Different cars both fun in their own ways.
2 of my friends had engines broken on Porsche Boxsters. My mx5 is 22 years old and run perfectly…it is more en essential car but was built with reliability as purpose too,in addition to fun😊
It’s likely they were pre-2009 cars, Olivier, which had IMS bearing issues. This affected Boxster, Cayman and 911. The IMS bearing was redesigned for 2009 onward, and they’ve been bulletproof ever since. The MX5 was bulletproof from day one. Mind you, quite a few ND MX5s suffered manual gearbox failure on second gear. Some owners went through three gearboxes.
@@peterfritzphotowhy are affordable but well built and reliable sports cars and sporty cars like the civic si and integras called shitboxes when they are better built and last longer and can even make more power and perform on track with simple mods than alot of actual full on rwd sports cars but everybody calls them shitboxes anyways but not their posh brands like porshe and bmw when things go wrong at like 100k miles and the value is gone 😂 thats not a shitbox apparently ? Like both have there pros and cons but im tired of seeing how toxic people are about cars and make it a class thing even tho you can buy like 2 older running driving bmw 328's for the same price of a freaking civic 😂
@@repingers9777 I’ve never thought of them as shitboxes. I spent a few years selling them (back when the Integra VTiR, Prelude VTi, and NSX were new), and I loved Honda’s cars.
@@peterfritzphoto haha i have a 220k mile 2001 prelude type sh and actually out of all hondas after having mine for 2 years i can call it a shitbox 🤣 but its still indestructible, gearbox still perfect and the engine refuses to die even tho ive misshifted to 11,000 rpm one time still revs to 8000 and makes most of that 200hp it had new. Unfortunately letting it sit in oregon it had a mold issue from a water leak that messed up the otherwise great interior car my fault for negligence.
@@peterfritzphotofrom a specific build in 2009, the IMS bearing was completely removed from the motor design in the boxster, cayman and 911 997 base and S models Interestingly, it was rare, almost non existent for a 986 or 987 2.7 to experience either ims or bore scoring failures. I enjoyed your video very much. I had an 89 MX5 for 10 years. It saw me through some tough years as well. I had a 987.1 cayman which I loved. I also agree the 981 is a huge step forward particularly in compliance and interior quality. I agree the 4.0 GTS looks great on paper. Not sure we have roads for it with that gearing in Australia. Depends where you live I guess. Great to see you enjoying your cars!
EXCELLENT video. 10/10. THANK YOU for your views and comments. THANK YOU for keeping it REAL. No bull crap. No stupid background music.! Very Much APPRECIATED. (I must review these '987.1 Boxster's'!!! Got me thinking!!!) Thanks again. Regards sir.
You can’t deny the appeal of the MX5 with over 1 million sold across the various generations. It was a brave thing that Mazda did when accessible 2 seat roadsters from other manufacturers were few and far between. It’s also interesting that Porsche took 2 generations of Boxster development before the well-known engine issues were addressed, whereas the MX5 was right from the time it hit the market. Having said that, the Boxster is brilliantly engineered (with fewer cost constraints) and very practical for touring with the 2 generous luggage compartments, clear advantages over the MX5. Although an intangible thing, you get a sense of its heritage from decades of involvement in virtually every kind of motorsport too. BTW, what is the EVE (?) logo on the glove compartment and the side of your car?
Yep - the MX5 is a brilliant car. I’ve love to buy an original, unmolested NA one day - perhaps one of the examples so many first-release buyers parked in mothballs. As for EVE, my daughters wanted to name the car, so it’s named after the cute white space robot in the movie, WALL-E. 😉
Great video. Would’ve loved to hear some cost of ownership figures as well such as insurance and yearly service / maintenance comparisons. I’d imagine theres a night and day difference there. Also would’ve been great to hear your thoughts on daily drivability. Victorian here btw. Own an MX5 ND2 RF at the moment but the dream is to own a 718 or ideally the 911 GTS someday
Hi, mate. The insurance on the MX5 - with all modifications noted - was about $900 with Enthusiast Insurance. The Boxster is, surprisingly, about the same cost with AAMI. The Boxster has had one annual service ($900), and one gearbox and diff oil change plus drive belt replacement ($1300 total) - both at Porsche Centre Melbourne on Victoria St. I didn’t daily drive either car. I work from home, and have a Mitsubishi Outlander for family duties. 👍
Upgrading?? I'm certain it is NOT - not for me, it was not. I owned a Boxster for two years. I was the owner before of two MX-5s (NB, NC) No problems or issues with the Boxster. It just didn't put a smile on my face in spite, that it went like stink. I went BACK to the MX-5 and... I'm HAPPY - again. BTW: They were all manual tranny - including my current MX-5.
When my 2005 987 5-speed hit 90 K , living with the IMS BEARING FEAR and needing new $$$ brake rotors, I sold it in 2019. I bought a new MX-5 ND2 with the Bimbro Racaro option. The MX makes more smiles when thrashing in the mountains but, not so much elsewhere. Now that I am 75, and slowing down a bit, it’s time for another 6-cylinder Boxster. PDK this time.
Great vid as always, but I think the word "upgrade" might trigger more than a few people - as it implies the Boxster is just a better version of the MX-5 in every way, which having seen the vid and heard you discuss steering, I'm don't believe even you think that to be the case. I can read between the lines and understand it was an "upgrade" for you, in that the Boxster offers more of what you're seeking in a sports car - solidity, emotion, and "specialness" - but I don't think most viewers are going to be able to get that without jumping to a knee jerk angry response. Hope I'm wrong. As a 992 911 owner, I absolutely agree with your conclusions on the Boxster/Cayman. As a pure drivers car, the 981/982(718) Boxster/Cayman is absolutely a step up from an MX5 in most ways, and is definitely superior to a new 911 - which I think has given up on being a pure drivers car for the road, and instead uses complexity in engineering (RAS, PDCC, etc.) and sheer performance to compete with supercars beyond it's price point. You've driven a C2S like mine, so you know how needlessly, unusably fast they are anywhere outside a racetrack. Older 911s are more of an apples to apples comparison with the Boxster/Cayman - but then, not on value - which the Boxster/Cayman wins again. It's very hard for anyone who's driven the cars you have and knows the Aussie market to claim you've made the wrong choice.
Hey, Sasha - thanks for the comprehensive and generous contribution. You might be right regarding people’s response, but as always, these are my own personal feelings based on my own circumstances and experiences. I agree with your sentiments around the current crop of 991’s. I adore it, and would love to park a GT3 Touring in my garage - mostly for that incredible engine, and it’s iconic looks. But as you stated, it’s mostly overkill as a road car on Australia’s roads. Thanks for chiming in again. 👍
An upgrade depends on what your coming from and to what your going to. For this man, it was an upgrade. For someone else, a minivan may be the upgrade lol. To be fair, the miata and the porsche are two completely different cars serving two different purposes. One is intentionally a cheap, light and small convertible intended to be a toy to drive raw. Comforts and luxuries being an afterthought. The other is a GT car by definition where the luxuries and comforts were always on mind. It's still a convertible yet very light for a GT car though. Personal opinion: The miata is for those who enjoy driving and like to have that adrenaline rush from the drive without needing to go 100+ mph or floor it every time just to feel something. While the boxter is for the same crowd, but don't mind trading in some of that adrenaline rush for practicality and comfort so they can do more with the car than just take it out for the weekend.(road trips, for example)
I completely agree. I am lucky enough to have just bought a manual 2010 Cayman S. This was after going back and forward between the Porsche and a 2023 MX5 ND. There is no car that is more fun then the Miata, it is just superb but, I have wanted a Cayman since the day they came out. It is thrilling. Both are great choices but at the end of the day, for a daily driver, to not even have a glovebox was a step too far in impractical. In a few years i hope i can add a Miata as a second car and keep the Cayman as my "practical" car.
I feel you are totally missing what Mazda is intending to. You do not talk about weight difference. There is no such thing as upgrading from MX5 to Boxter. They are totally different cars with different concept. MX5 is light weight sports car. Boxster is too heavy. The only way to upgrade MX5 is to change to Lotus. (Super-upgrade is to move to Caterham.) You just like open sports cars. If you can afford Ferrari you go for Ferrari. If you cannot afford, then Porsche. I enjoy driving my MX5 and Honda S2000, but I wish they are lighter. The lighter the car is, the more fun you enjoy. I still miss my Fiat 850 spider which I used to own 3 of them. Fiat has an engine without power, but the car was very light weight. It was such a joy to drive the car.
I get your point, Hiromi, but I suspect you've missed mine. The word 'upgrade' is subjective, and it's impacted by the metrics you choose to apply. I detailed what I considered the upgrades to be - for me. They included additional interior space, lower NVH levels, more storage, and a more exciting sound. I don't presume they're relevant to you. I've driven hundreds of cars - from Ladas to Lamborghinis. I don't care for Ferraris. I appreciate Porsche engineering. I value handling and steering over horsepower. My tastes are my own, and yours are your own.
So good to see an Australian review and what a great, and retrospectively obvious, transition video that was so prevalent to so many people. Well done. I am keeping an NC Sport and selling the ND GT RS whilst waiting for the 718 GTS Cayman. Although unavoidable, when the luxury car tax is removed from the figures it is easy to see where the money goes compared to our great little MX5’s. Once loved, never forgotten.
So true, Seamus - Porsches are so much cheaper in the US and UK. And I agree with your last statement. I’d love a mint, unmolested NA, so keep as my personal time capsule. So many fond memories with that little rascal!
I loved my old NB Miata but I'm running an air cooled 911 now. I just got back from 1000 mountain miles for a dozen+ 20012-current 911's Caymans, and Boxsters and had a blast. Of course I love the new 911 and produce a grin from ear to ear after I drive one. It's delicious from every control and input. But the width and size increases are quite noticeable. I saw that many of the hardcore PCA members now that are really into driving are going for Caymans and Boxsters and the older guys that like to cruise more than drive hard are going for 911's. My narrow Carrera 3.2 can run every turn like a race car going wide and clipping the apex perfectly on the corners. All of them are great though and choice is good. As for the Miata, it's the real deal and we're lucky to have it here in 2024.
You forget to mention the reliabilty between the 2 cars. I have owned both and will never buy another porsche for its terrible reliablity and cost to repair. The Miata in my opinion is the most underratted sports car in the World for the value.
I went from an MX5 ND1 to a Cayman S and back to another MX5 ND2 after only 2 years. I've had (have) BMW M's, and even a Nissan GT-R for a few years. The Miata is just more fun on a daily basis and at reasonable speed. And it's a hoot on the track and feels almost maintenance free compared to other cars.
I totally get it. I can see myself in another MX5 again someday (I'd love a mint NA and ND2). But for now, the Boxster is delivering plenty of smiles, and the essential luggage space I need for weekends away. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I own a 1991 NA. I had 3 MX5 since i was 18. A NB1in red that was my first own car, a 1995 na 1.8 in BRG and now my smurfblue NA. Since i turned 25 this year my old dream of a porsche came back into my "daydreams" and specifficly the 987 Spyder as its the pinnacle mx5 feeling In my eyes. Soon ill be beginning my College to become a car engineer in germany and hopefully end up at porsche to come my dream a little closer.
@@SuperHaginator What a wonder start to car ownership you’ve had! I loved my NA, and would love another someday. I hope you make your dream come true and end up at Porsche. 👍
I stumbled into your site trying to decide between an MX-5 or Boxster and have thoroughly enjoyed the breadth of your car, photograph and life building content. Keep up the great work Peter!
I have had 2 manual ND Miatas (2016 grand touring & 2020 Club Brembo/BBs). I then got a manual 2013 Boxster S 981. Had it for a year, sold it, now looking for another Miata ND. I can buy whatever I want, so its not a $ issue. The Miata is just truly more fun to drive. It gets less "ooooh and ahhhh", but I don't really care about that stuff too much anymore.
I totally understand. I often drive mine to my dad's house in the mountains with my son, a bunch of camera gear, two pillows, and clothing. The MX5 just couldn't fit all that into its tiny boot. That said, I still miss mine, and I suspect another one will find its way here in the next few years.
Great vid. Loved many aspects of your presentation. I could certainly "feel" your journey. My path was similar but different: a 2002 Corvette, a 2008 Corvette, and a 2015 Corvette Stingray with the Z51 package. All wonderful vehicles from the glory days of Corvette racing here in the States. Traded the 2015 in 2023 for a BMW X5 M60i. I thought that I, at age 75, had moved past two seater sports cars. Wrong. By December of last year, and with the Porsche Boxer high on my list of possibles, my BMW Z4 M40i arrived. Great car with performance metrics equal to the 2015 Stingray, only quicker, more agile, and all the while feeling more planted. Love the Z4 M40i. Aint life grand to have such wonderful vehicles available.
I had an MX-5 NB for years but I was wanting something more refined. I assumed an ND was the logical next step but when I test drove one I was disappointed. I loved the engine and the handling was great but it was so noisy I could hardly hear myself think. I'm pretty sure there is no insulation at all in the ND. It was a little better with the top down since the top acted like a bit of an insulating layer but it was still pretty bad. So I bought a 981 and I love it. It's everything you've described. There is, however, one thing that is better about the Mazda: simplicity. The Porsche is so complex electronically that I wake up screaming from nightmares about repair costs. Well, not quite but you can't even check the oil without using the display gizmo on the dash. So I miss the ease of a car devoid of overly complicate electronics. "Progress" I guess. And the price you pay to own a brilliant sports car.
Very well said, Robert. You’re so right about the noise. I’m guessing that because the ND is more complex - and has more features - than the NB and NA, they had to shave weight in other areas, like sound insulation. I wouldn’t be too stressed about repairs on the 981; they’re very reliable. I’ve heard of ND MX5 owners going through three gearboxes! As for things like brakes, but the discs, rotors and sensors from a third party, and then get a brake specialist to install. Saves a fortune.
@@peterfritzphoto Thanks man, that makes me feel a little more confidant. I changed the oil myself and I'll be attempting the PDK fluid change this winter. I should be able to do brake pads myself and maybe fluid flush but that's as far as my backyard mechanic skills will take me. We do a have a highly rated independent Porsche shop nearby so hopefully they can help for far less than the dealer if anything complex comes up. Fingers crossed.
@@RobertSmith-bh5cv I’m sure you’ll be fine, Robert. There are many excellent videos on UA-cam about 981 maintenance, too. And remember, we don’t always get what we want, but we usually get what we expect - so expect good things! 👍
I owned and loved a 2000 NB1 special edition that I modded with exhaust, tires, wheels, and coilovers. It was incredibly lively to drive. Like you, I always dreamed of owning a Porsche, and I bought a base 2014 981 with a PDK. Unlike you, after 18 months of driving the Porsche, I missed my Miata. I replaced the Boxster with a 2022 ND2 GT. The only mod I've made is to add a Roadster Sport exhaust. I agree with every word of your description of the differences between the ND and the 981. Obviously I do not concur with your conclusion favoring the Boxster over the Miata. For me, the lightness of the Miata makes it more joyful to drive. Our family owns three cars so I can pick and choose when I drive the Miata. The Boxster is a superior GT car and perhaps superior as a high speed track car, but I didn't rely on the Boxster or the Miata for very long journeys. For pure driving joy on public roads, the Miata is my pick by a wide margin as reflected by how I voted with my dollars. In the end, however, both are sublime machines. Excellent description of these amazing cars.
Thanks for this in depth perspective, Mitch. I have to agree with you; the MX5 feels instantly alive the moment you pull out of the driveway. The Boxster requires more speed to wake up. In an urban or suburban environment, there’s fun to be had with the MX5 at any speed. The Boxster reveals its true character once speeds increase and the miles pile on. Since I only use mine for fun (I use an SUV for everything else), most drives are a 300km journey into the mountains, and often with my son and a bunch of gear for an overnight stay at my dad’s house. For that, the Boxster is ideal. Thanks for dropping in, and sharing your experience.
Easy choice - if you have the money not just to buy the Porsche, but maintain it. Buying used may lower the cost of entry, but moves you closer to the maintain this on your own money and not the warranty period. For me, the Miata RF model with a few mods, and spend the money saved on a new full frame mirrorless camera and a suite of lenses. But if I had the money, yeah, that 718 GTS looks mighty sweet!
Hi Bruce. The maintenance costs in its first year have been fine - no more, in fact, than my previous Japanese 4WD. Like all European manufacturers, Porsche charges a lot for parts, but those can be had much cheaper elsewhere.
After driving both the ND1 and the ND2 extensively in and out of track, I wanted to get an MX5 so bad. But then we had 2 babies and a 2 seater was out of the question. So I got an A45 AMG instead. I have to say that even though my A45 is waaay faster both on the road and on the track, the MX5 is hands down the better driving experience.
can I ask how you'd compare tracking the nd2 vs the nd1? I just bought an nd2 as my first fun car purchase and have always been curious. just waiting for the engine to break in before tracking it
@@coryagami6391 I didn't get to compare them back to back, so the general experience was quite similar in both cases (with the 2.0 l engine at least, I've also driven the 1.5l which really feels lackluster if you're used to faster cars). I mean you don't really feel the difference in performance if you don't drive them back to back and you're not doing timed laps. The one thing that I did notice is that you can ring the ND2 higher than the ND1 which is not only more pleasurable but can also avoid you a shift in some cases.
I owned a 2005 Porsche Boxster, had it for 10 years and now own a 2019 MX-5 Miata RF. Both are brilliant sports cars, however you can get the Miata for half the price of the Boxster and for that reason it is the clear winner. Also, maintenance for the Mazda will be far less costly than the Porsche. If money is No Object, and you have a garage to park it in, then go for the Boxster.
Everything is relative to multiple variables - and to the person buying/driving the car. For me (and others) it’s definitely worth it. For you (and others), it isn’t.
An interesting case study in behavioural economics. Once you upgrade, you'll continue to desire further upgrades due to the decoy effect. So you are bang on when you say it's emotional, not rational.
Yes, we are indeed imperfect creatures. The fact is, though, I could have purchased a much more expensive car (I always thought I wanted a 911, until I drove a 992 over 800 km of my favourite roads). I decided that that money was better off invested than placed into a car. If I was very wealthy, I may have spent more (a GTS 4.0, for example), but it becomes a state of diminishing returns.
I had an ND Miata, and currently have a 718 Boxster GTS (4 cylinder) as well as a C8 Vette. The Miata was by far the most fun to drive on public roads. Always put a smile on my face. It was like a go cart. On a track the Corvette is the clear winner, but if I want to take a drive on a nice twisty country road I take the Boxster. The Porsche and Vette are just too powerful to safely drive on public roads. More fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow.
Great vid! I did the budget reverse switch back in the ninties. I went from a 944 (which I loved) to an NA MX-5... Which I loved even more! Just waiting for the kids to leave home and hopefully, it'll be time for a Boxster. And if I can't afford it, it'll be an ND MX-5.
You are not alone. I have an heavily modified M240i as my daily, had an MX5 NC for summer fun and finally bought few months ago an 718 Boxster T just for the reason that I might be to old to drive it when I can comfortably afford it 🙂 I am over 6" so for me, it should have always been a Boxster since I never felt comfortable in the MX5. The Boxster is just the right size for me.
Having owned several mx5,s, 3 NA, 2 NB and 1 NC, all modified with either turbo or superchargers and suspension upgrades, I would think they would be the equal if not more powerful than many porsches. For example my NB with turbo put out 206 kws at the wheels and weighed just over a 1000 kgs. Cost wise I was still ahead on what porsche would cost. Reliability never had any issues and service costs to were more than half what a porches would cost.
There's no denying the MX5 is awesome. But there's also no denying that car purchasing decisions are largely emotional ones - especially when it comes to sports cars. And so comparing horsepower, weight, and maintenance costs are all fine and valid, but they are a long way from being the whole picture; they're not enough to explain why people choose the cars they choose.
Absolutely bang on with your comparison. I drive the NB2 and just bought a 986 2.5L. Still tormenting over having to sell my NB because of the lack of garage space (4 cars! 1 for the Mrs. and 3 for me). I will really miss the MX-5 gearbox. In comparison the 986's throw is really long and not as much fun going through the gears. In contrast to many of the comments that were made so far about maintenance cost being a deciding factor in choosing one over the other, I maintain all my cars myself so repair costs is a mute point from me. I did the clutch, timing, radiator, brakes etc on the NB and I am currently replacing the clutch and IMS bearing on the 986. The bearing was wornout! Disaster averted just in time.
Great to hear from you, John. Oh wow, sounds like you got lucky with the IMS bearing! My wife and I try to be fair, so she has two, and I have two! But mine are much better than hers!!
I bought a 1996 Miata new. Previous experience with a sports car was a Fiat 850 I drove in Southern California. I loved that Miata, but had always wanted a Porsche from the time my then girlfriend's father let me drive his Porsche 356 when I was in college.. My daughter was in a mishap with the Miata and sadly it was totaled (thankfully no injuries). A Porsche Boxster replaced the Miata. It was definitely an upgrade in every way you have described. I loved everything about the Porsche especially the sound of the engine when it lit off. That being said, for me, the Boxster was not that much more fun to drive than the Miata.
It's all a matter of choice. I'm German/American and owned several Porsche vehicles. After considering all factors, I recently purchased a Lexus LC500 convertible.
Oooh, now there's a favourite of mine! I've lusted after the LC ever since it was launched (that engine, the interior, the body, the precision engineering, all of it!). I find myself scanning the classifieds every few weeks, and the only cars I tend to check are the LC, the NSX, and the original LS 400 (which I owned many years ago, and still miss). Which colour did you purchase?
I've had two MX5's, we toured Europe in one of them (just great fun), they are an amazing car, but, the Boxster is in a completely different league. I’d love a Boxster.
I want to upgrade from a micra k11 (1.4 82hp) to mx-5 nd (1.5 131hp). The MX-5 has always been a dream car for me. But, Beyond that, it will be very difficult to reach. Unrealistic, nothing to even dream about. Anyway, I'm happy for you. You are lucky to have a dream car. But your true gain is to have a wonderful son !!!
I couldn't agree with you more. Nothing makes me happier than hanging out with him. The MX-5 is a worthy goal, and if you take care of it, you'll have it for life.
@@peterfritzphoto By the way, your son is very lucky to have a father like you. I hope, he grows up to be a good person like you. God bless you, your family and your porsche sir.
Just upgraded from a mark2 mx5 to a 986, i dont know about other models of mz5 or Boxters and as much as i loved my Myata, i have fallen harder for my 986 then i though i would, what a jem.
I've got a MX5 ND2, after a 2016, after a 1999, after a Lotus Elise, after an NSX. Happy to keep my ND2 now, cheap to maintain, very reliable and comfortable. Cheers
@@peterfritzphoto A 1994 year model, silver with Black roof, loved it, loved the Lotus with the Toyota engine too, but the ND2 is a better choice for me for retirement, cheap to run, reliable and convertible. Best regards to you Peter.
Little hello from France Peter : thank you so much for your testimony. I'm 49 years old and I've spend my all live since I am a child dreaming about owning a Porsche. I bought a little MX5 (NBFL) and kept it 2 years then I sold it. My daily is a Tesla Model Y and if it's a good car it's also boring to drive : no sensations... This is a good "family father car" but that's all. So I miss a funny car and I'm searching a new reasonable toy. I touhght about a Boxster but I was questionning myself about the real differences with a Miata. That's how I found your video. And you gave me the answers! In some way I could resume by : "with a Boxster, buy a peace of the Porsche legend and park it in your garage...". As I write that to you I'm in front of my morning cofee, before going to work and I think your video built one more step to the Boxster for me. A long trip to find back the real driving pleasure. Thanks for sharing your experiences and your thoughts! And the images are stuning : lovely country! Christophe
My pleasure. It's pleasant to hear such good speachs on cars. Not so usual on UA-cam. I've just watched the video on the 992 you rented and I'm gonna be late to my office by your fault... 😁@@peterfritzphoto
You could by an entirely new 4 cylinder engine for the Miata for the same cost as one Porsche Tune Up. I’m the original owner of a Red Miata MA with 375,000+ miles on it’s never replaced original engine. My daily driver is a 3rd Gen Audi TT Quattro Coupe
Thanks! I had a 987.1 Boxster for 5 years. Loved it. Considering a 987.2 Box or Cay vs a ND Miata. Currently own a CX5 and a 3, and also love them. Such a first world dilemma, but i can't decide.
My dad hit that point a few years ago he finally wanted a sports car. MX-5 and Boxster were top of the list after much research and price comparing. We test drove new MX-5's and his 6'2 body stuck out the top of that thing like a go kart. There was just no way. He ended with a 2006 Boxster S with about double the power and of course 6spd manual. It's been great. Best handling car I have ever driven! Noise is better than anything an MX-5 could dream of. Now repairs on the other hand.... !!!
They are indeed special. The pre-2009 cars do come with a couple of unique issues, though, which were all addressed when the 987/997.2 models were released. What kinds of repairs have you had?
@@peterfritzphoto The worn brake pad sensors were going off on the left side of the car because the wiring harness had gone out somehow. Porsche of Newport Beach had to pull the entire door apart and re-wire, costing around $850 USD. The shifter plastics are worn out on the inside of the housing and replacing all that would cost $500-600 from Porsche as well for OEM stuff. So yeah, as things wear out, the car is pricey. Oil changes from Porsche are $350+... he is due for a clutch soon and he's thinking it will be over $2500.
@@drewmorg. Yeah, that’s annoying. I’ve just dropped my car off to a trusted suspension specialist to have Eibach lowering springs fitted. Porsche quoted me almost $3,000 to fit them. This specialist, who’s been in business for 40 years and handles Porsche race cars, quoted $700. I also had rear brakes done by my brake specialist for $650 vs Porsche’s quote of $1,700.
@@peterfritzphotoYeah rear brakes for $1700 is just criminal... glad you found a guy! That's the nice thing about owning an out of warranty year... you can just maintain it how you want and save the money! Enjoy man. One thing that never gets old is the howl!
Cars are about emotion and objective comparisons are great but in my opinion its how they make you feel - I have a 2007 987.1 Boxster and for me it looks and feels fantastic - if anyone is considering a Boxster I would say just do it as there's one for every budget and they are all great to drive.
I just bought a MX5 ND sexond hand. I absolutely love the car. But if one day i can afford it, i would love to drive a boxster. Great cars, the convertible sports car experience is so rewarding.
97,000 miles on my 2016 Mazda MX-5. Other than converting to the Flyin' Miata Wilwood brakes front and rear no repairs needed. I've always like Boxsters, have since they first came out. I do wonder if Boxster drivers are enjoying them twice as much as MX-5 drivers, does twice the cost equal twice the enjoyment? That said, I recently bought a 2016 Jaguar F-Type 3.0S manual transmission coupe. Twice the cost of my MX-5, can't say it's twice the fun but the enjoyment is of a different type. It is wonderful to have the choices.
That's exactly how I viewed the 911 purchase proposition. In the end, I didn't think it was four times more enjoyable than a 10-year-old Boxster. If money was no object, that argument would be moot, and I'd buy a GT3 Touring. For me, personally, the Boxster has so far proven to be 150% more enjoyable than my MX-5 - but for different reasons - mainly around size, engine sound, practicality, road/wind noise, and interior ambience. It's simply different. I often see an F-Type in my neighborhood, and it always turns my head!
@@peterfritzphoto I don't recall ever actually seeing an F-Type here in New Hampshire, USA, before buying mine from a dealer 2,000 miles away in Denver. A leap of faith, an old man's folly perhaps, but at 77 I figured if not now, when? The few hundred feet from the transporter to my driveway was the first I'd ever driven one. Wonderful car, fantastic sound. My MX-5 still makes more sense on the twisty backroads I drive but there is a satisfaction to the Jag. Oh, and chicks dig it!
I take your point. But I think I´d miss my MX5. The lightness, the gearbox, and even to be able to feel like you´re doing 120 MPH when while still at legal speeds. I know it sounds stupid, but at least here in Europe you can get in really awful trouble when speeding (even if it´s just a tad, you know). I´ll probably keep my ND, and maybe add an Alpine which is also a great light little car, and much cheaper 2nd hand than a similarly aged Boxster/Cayman /718
I’ve owned and tracked a ‘16 GT4 and a ‘14 911 Turbo S. The GT4 is the same platform as the boxster. Considering the Miata the best convertible ever is way off. I’ve been in some incredible Ferraris, mclarens, and Lamborghinis that giggle at the notion of the boxster taking the top spot. If you’re comparing the boxster to the Miata at their respective price points, then you’ll need to acknowledge that the same applies when you’re looking upward. Otherwise, good video.
Thanks for your insight, Jason. Just want to clarify a few things. I said the MX5 was "the top-selling real sports car of all time", and "one of the best and most accomplished sports cars" - not 'the best convertible ever'. I also said "The Boxster is *arguably* the best *convertible sports car* ever made." I don't consider anything in the Ferrari, McLaren or Lamborghini catalogues to be sports cars. Depending on the model, they're supercars or hypercars.
Love your car videos, keep them coming. I watch a lot of Car UA-cam channels and your videos are honestly up at the top. The cinematography and emotional content of the videos make them excellent to watch. I currently own a base 718 and have owned 3 Miatas. Very common upgrade I think. I agree if you can afford it, it's a worthwhile progression.
I bought a 986 last year and had thought about an MX-5. It came down to me never havning dreamt of owning a Mazda, as good as they are. Whenever I'm driving and I see an MX-5, I never think that I wish I had bought one of those instead. I fear that if I had gone down that route, that I would be wondering if I was missing out having not bought a Boxster. They are both great cars, and there's fun to be had in each.
I currently own a 2018 911 Cab GTS with a manual as well as a ND2 2021. I’m selling both and have a Boxster GTS coming next month. It will join my 2021 Boxster Spyder in the garage. The mid-engine manual Porsches are just brilliant!
@@peterfritzphoto Spyder is Gentian blue with red top and interior. Boxster GTS coming is Guards red, black top and interior which is the same as my current ND2.
@@Closertotruth2 Oh, I love those colours; they’ll look incredible parked side by side. Gentian Blue with a red top is really unique. Thanks for sharing that.
The maintenance on the Porsche makes it a bad move. The oil change for my MX5 was $50 at the dealership. The oil change for the Porsche was $385. I imagine all of the other maintenance would follow suit. However, the Boxster is an upgrade!
Always love coming to your channel and seeing how much you enjoy driving and chatting about your cars. My NC2 is definitely the right car for right now, and though I would love to get into a base 981 like yours, it's just too far out of my reach at the moment. Hoping I can get into one down the line when I save more and can afford the higher ownership costs. Something I think is totally worth highlighting is how underrated the base 981's 2.7L is. It makes nearly 100 HP per liter and gets the manual Boxster from 0-60 MPH in around 5.5 seconds. Very impressive, but what's even more impressive is how tractable it is, how responsive it feels, and how brilliant it sounds. Higher-displacement flat-6s benefit more from power/torque down low, but they're more bass-ish and thrummy throughout the rev range while the smaller engines really howl and shriek as you wind them out, which I absolutely LOVE in this car. It's a real exotic-sounding sports car engine that makes you want to wind it out again and again just for fun, and honestly I think it's the perfect engine pairing for these cars' chassis. The NC2's 2.0L shares that rev-happy characteristic, and it sounds pretty good for what it is as well. You get a great intake resonance at around 4,000-RPM, and then the last 500 RPM at the top of the tach really scream as you approach the rev limiter. It's an excellent, bulletproof motor that knows it isn't exotic or special, but it works hard and adds character where it can. However, it simply can't hold a candle to the 2.7L in the 981 -- Just a different level of specialness. Hope you continue to enjoy yours and excited to see your next production.
I agree in many ways. For me the Boxster drives better than the 911 as well. Is it better than the Miata? Of course. Still I went the reverse way swapping my 981 for a Miata ND. And I agree once more to Peter: Not being as good as the 981, the Miata still is one of the finest sports cars I've ever driven. Having the bigger 2019 engine with 184 HP helps of course ... So really no reason to regret giving away a Boxster? Unfortunately yes. I sold my initial 987 to buy the 981. And THAT'S what I shouldn't have done. the 987 is the best modern Porsche to me, combining Stuttgart solidity with the juvenile lightness of an MX5.
I went the other way 2 years ago. Sold a 996 and bought a ND MX5. I feel that I can afford to drive the Mazda more "robustly" than the Porsche. I have never regretted the decision. Thanks for your very balanced presentation.
Many thanks, Tim. The 996 is certainly more susceptible to issues than an MX5, so that sounds like a wise move.
Why
@@1anre The 996, 986, 997.1, and 987.1 engines have issues with IMS bearing failure (especially when the car isn't driven often), and the rear main seal. Some also have had issues with bore scoring.
@PETERFRITZPHOTO damn. And not many of us can fork out funds for a 718 GT4RS.
Guess it's the ND2 or the coming ND3 for us as a 2nd fun car then as this can be a mature man's single and only car with family responsibilities etc
@@1anre So long as you don’t need much luggage space, and you fit comfortably in the ND MX5 (some don’t), it’s a very good choice.
This is one of the best car videos I’ve ever seen, you captured the emotionality of cars differently to all the noise coming from other UA-cam creators. This felt much more personal and genuine on a different level.
I really appreciate that, Sam - thank you. You've just made my day!
My thoughts/feelings, exactly - well said!
@@ScottFentonfullbe6 Thanks a lot, Scott.
Very well said !!
Selling my (second) Miata was the worst mistake I’ve ever made. I’ll be owning a third and (someday) a boxster or cayman of some sort. This video captures that emotional attachment well. This guy “gets it”
Thanks, mate. I tell you, even with this fabulous Boxster in my garage, I still miss my MX5. Such a brilliant little machine.
In 2018 I considered selling my ‘16 ND GT manual and purchase a base ‘13 Cayman with 30k miles. For whatever reason I was underwhelmed. Maybe I was expecting to be completely blown away by the difference, maybe expecting an out of body experience. It was imo marginally better. Before my ND I had owned several S2000s. I wasn’t sure the Porsche equaled any of those. So I kept the ND and now own a ‘21 ND RF Club BBS….and couldn’t be happier. With its GoodWin Racing SSST exhaust and some tasteful ascetic mods it may be my favorite sports car ever, more than my early Mach1, Vette, Supra, 300ZX, afore mentioned S2000s and 6 Miatas starting with an NB SE BRG in 2001. So glad you’ve fulfilled a lifelong dream in owning a Boxster. And your video was so well made!
Thanks, Dan. I totally understand your position. 👍
Truth people hype up Porsches soooo much then you finally drive one expecting a jaw dropping experience and only get......a car! This happened to me, over the course of 3 years a build a 3.2 backdate 79 911 with all the best parts. I couldn't wait to drive the thing after all the work I had done. Well finally the day came the first big drive..... Total disappointment!!!!! I spent tons of money and time building my dream car only to realize this cars aren't that amazing, at least to me. I did drive it for about a year and it was ok nothing crazy. People loved to talk about the car when I pulled to to get gas or stop at a convenience store. Other then that I really didn't find the car that pleasing finally sold it to a guy the approached me while getting gas. Bought an NA Miata after that and loved that little car for 8yrs. Finally it got too small or I got too big lol so I sold that too. Got a 986s nice car fun to drive and fairly inexpensive I'll have this until I find time to rebuild the love of my life, the 77 vw rabbit I drove through college
I will take the VW Thing. 😂@@silver911100
Just bought a 2023 mx-5, and I love it. Even though I see some Porsches on the road, as a 36 yr old, I feel like a million bucks driving mine. Ssomeday I will upgrade to a Porsche, but for now, it's not in the cards. Another 2 decades of letting the wealth accumulate though, will mean it's just a matter of when, not if.
Can't wait to have another 20 years of experience driving these magnificent little cars. You are a true enthusiast and your video was honest and didn't bash the MX5 or overgloat the Porsche
Good for you, Michael! The MX5 is one of the best sports cars on the planet. It has been from day one, so anyone who looks down on them has their head up their arse. You have the right idea with money - $50 invested now can easily be $500 a couple of decades later - especially in real estate.
Hey I’m picking up a white 2023 mx5 nd next week. Pre registered with 41 miles on the clock. I cannot wait and I’m 55 😂😂😂 by the way I priced up a new boxster for 71k but I still
Think I have made the right choice
I own a 2006 Boxster S, manual transmission. I looked and researched many different types and models. I always can back to the Boxster and so did many auto analysts. It has been a joy to drive and own. They are special vehicles.
Indeed. I came to the same decision over many years, and after driving hundreds of cars.
I have the same. It is sublime. There are no substitutes for mid-engine, manual 6 speed and that engine! I don't need any more power either...
I recently bought a used Miata NC1, lowered it with coil overs and installed at set of aftermarket wheels with wide 245 tires. It’s been a great joy to drive. I do agree that it’s not for everyone and if you can afford to buy and maintain a Boxster then have at it. I hope you enjoy your new road passion.
Thank you, mate. I've always liked the look of the NC - especially from the rear. And with coilovers and 245's, I imagine yours looks REALLY nice.
Thoughtful and well presented. Over the last decade, my wife and I have owned a 981 Cayman and MX-5 ND2. I absolutely agree with you, both of them modern classics and as good as it gets in their respective classes. You mentioned the GTS 4.0, that replaced our 981 in 2021. I think that in the future, the GTS 4.0 will be looked back on as one of the high points in Porsches model history. Still have the MX-5 and that's staying.
Thanks very much, Paul, and I agree - on all counts. If I had more garage space, I’d love to park a mint, stock, NA here until I croak. 😄
I have an ND1 RF and added the GTS 4.0 Boxster. I was thinking "if I like Porsche a lot better and drive it for the most part, I'd get rid the of the MX5". I still have them both and drive them for different reasons. I absolutely agree both will be classic and the pinnacles of ICE sports cars.
beautiful video, so relatable, I've owned a 98" NB and now I have recently purchased a 2017 ND 2.0 sport with Recaro seats and bilstein, I can't stop driving it and looking at it.... for the money it costs it makes it the holy grail of the essential driving pleasure, and the fact that everyone, cars enthusiasts and not love it too make this little thing a joy giver for everyone, if prices and maintenance would be a little lower I'd consider a Boxster but RN the miata is a part of my soul. (fun fact, kids and old men stare it so much more often than a common Porsche, at least in my area Sicily-Italy)
Thanks for the kind words, Elia. Yes, the MX5 is a beautiful, highly capable, non-threatening, smile-inducing car. I still miss mine.
For absolute cost of maintenance / insurance you can't beat a ND / ND2. Your Recaro seats in that 2017 ND sport sound great. I have a 2016 MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS package across the pond. The regular cloth seats have a hammock feel to them & long drives are comfortable journeys. I love the fact every drive feels special from other cars I've owned. Definitely the simple manual operation of the convertible is a huge factor. In the Pandemic years the car was absolutely a mood altering machine !
Here where I live Porsche is extremely rare in 30 years I have seen one 3 times on the road and all of them was the last 5 years. The most near Porsche dealer is 850km drive away.
I came to watch & defend my ND (30th Anniversary edition) against what I thought would be a biased review against a far more expensive car. Sadly, well to be fair I should say happily, this was a balanced and fair assessment and I agreed with many of the points (I’ve been looking at Boxsters for a while). The flat 6 takes the win for me but for the moment the ND stays but a little modifying awaits 😂. Cheers, Kevin.
Good on you, Kevin. And thanks for stopping by. I miss my beautiful little ND, but I’ve found new thrills in the Boxster. The hype is definitely justified.
I own a 1990 NA SCCA spec race car and a six speed 987.2 boxster S. The boxster amplifies everything i like the NA.
I had a 987.2 then one of the newly launched MX-5. I liked the MX-5 but it was claustrophobic and I missed the Boxster. So this year I sold it and bought a 981. Before my first Boxster, I used to think my BMW M3 convertible was the best car I had ever driven. Nothing beats a Boxster for me - and I have driven a 911.
Good for you, Bob! I have to agree - the cabin in the MX5 really is quite claustrophobic, especially roof-up. And noisy, too. The internal dimensions of the 981 feel just right. Thanks for dropping by.
Which M3 did you have?
@@clubracer6 E36 Evo.
I loved this video but what made it special and brought tears to my eyes was seeing how happy your son was and your love for him. 🥰
Oh, thank you - that's really sweet! Yes, I love my boy.
Thank you for discussing this aspect of Porsche selection! You kept it simple and it’s a video I will refer back to this as I am now in a similar situation! Thank you for doing this. Well done!
Thank you, Michael. You’re very kind.
This is great because I just got rid of my Porsche and got an nd2 rf club. Blew my mind when it went 0-60 in 5.6 seconds.
I loved my Porsche but, I’m a driver to my core. Once I drove the nd2 I didn’t need any coaxing. Easiest trade-in of my life.
Love driving my tiny Aston miatin lol. The only car that comes close to making me not miss my motorcycles so much in the winter.
I really enjoyed my ND1, and as a bike rider, it was a great alternative. A much safer one, too. I'd love to try the ND2 - it seems to be the peak MX5. The ND platform was just a little small for me - especially in terms luggage capacity when I visited my dad in the mountains with camera gear and personal items for me and my son.
I went from a 981 base Boxster to a ND2 Miata. The boxster is better in every area except one. Running cost. I wanted a trackday/street car and Miata fits the budget I have for this hobby. That being said, I'll probably get a 981 S in the future. The boxster is just such a good car.
I completely agree - especially if you’re tracking the car. The ND2 must be great with those extra kilowatts.
Really great video man! I actually was deciding between a Boxster and a Miata when I was looking for my first fun car. (Among other options) I ended up with the Miata because it felt more personal, more raw, and it has more aftermarket support. But like you said, sports cars are emotional purchases. I really was taken back to when I first got my car, that joyful feeling of walking up to it. I share that even now. To those looking for a fun car, I hope you can enjoy that emotional joy with us!
Absolutely, Zach. The MX5 is genuinely special.
It's called an MX-5, not Miata
@@PointNemo9 argument bait or did you just crawl out of your cave?
@@HARaZAC Neither. It stopped being called Miata a few years ago, it's the MX-5 now
@@PointNemo9 nice bait, it is and always has been a MX-5 Miata. 💅
Boxter/Cayman best smiles per mi/km. 981 was the only car I’ve regretted selling. Keep it forever.
I reckon I will, Brian - or at worst, exchange it for a 4-litre GTS version. 👍
Same here. Driving Miata ND for almost 9 years and considering to upgrade to Boxster. Your video convinced me.
Good on you, Andy. Thanks for watching.
had both Cayman and Boxster but keep coming back to the Miatas. Prosche are definitely more refined with nice power to ratio providing more thrilling rides. but the charm of the Miata is down to earth experience of a typical roaster and super easy and cheap to own and drive at almost the half cost of a Boxster S. with a current markup on GT4, I can buy a collection of new NDs in all six colors :-)
I totally get it, Johnny, and I may well buy another someday. I would love a mint NA as a time capsule machine, but sadly, I have no more garage space!
What a loving expérience !! I have bought one MX 5 one month ago and I enjoy it very much and it's an Amazing car. The sound is good and nice.
Thé choice beetween miata and Boxster was difficult for me. It's the cost decided it.
Love from France ❤
@@Agnes91197 Good for you, Agnes! I’m very happy for you, and wish you many years of happy memories with your new companion. Thank you for visiting. 💙
I purchased with a lot of effort in 2013 the 981 S... I treated it like a babe and I loved the sound and the elegant interior since the first time. The air intake on the side are amazing and made this car unique and recognizable in the market...after 10 years I still love it...Your review is amazing!
Thank you, Michele!
Great video. I have slightly different perspective. I am car buff too, I owned one the first NA Mazdas to arrive in Australia in late 1989, fun , brilliant car, and I now own a 2022 ND2 GT soft top. Along the way and years ago, I also owned two late model Porsche 911's. I owned a 1975 911 Sportmatic Targa then in 1988 I bought a 2 year old 3.0 litre Carrera Targa. Both great cars and the Porsches were wonderful, but I am deliriously happy with my ND2 MX-5. I would not go back to a Porsche, I grew tired of comments I received, and he envy, and the occasional bit of vandalism. If I had tradesman coming over I would park the car around the corner knowing I'd be charged a 'Porsche Owner's Tax'. Visitors would say 'Oh, you have a Porsche..." and not in a nice way. I was often concerned where I parked it, not to mention the substantial cost of ownership such as insurance and service costs. It's one thing to buy a Porsche, it's another to own and maintain one. It became a liability. Police are more interested in Porsche's too, ands I speak from experience. Also, I would not buy an older Porsche like the 2013 model unless I had deep pockets and was willing to pay to keep an older car like that on the road. My MX-5 makes people smile, and wave, It doesn't not cause envy, possibly just a little pity. ;-). Sure it's not as fast, or as well fitted out, but it is 300kg (600lbs), thats' three chunky adult's worth lighter than the Porsche so the latter needs more power. I think the Boxster is great car, well engineered etc, and is the only true rival to the humbler MX-5. In any case, enjoy the Porsche, but I'm just wondering if one day you'll be back in an MX-5!
I loved my little NA, and the ND almost as much (mainly because I had the NA when I was young and single!). I only use my Boxster for fun drives to my dad's house in the mountains, or my mum's house down the coast. I hardly ever use it in heavy traffic, and I don't commute because I've worked from home for over 20 years. So in terms of maintenance, I'm fine with Porsche's fixed price servicing ($795 for annual, $1,500 for intermediate, and $2,200 for major). My last major service on my Mitsibishi 4WD was $3,500. In terms of people's opinions - that hasn't bothered me one iota since I made that conscious choice 15 years ago. I truly believe that what others think of me is none of my business. I might get an MX5 again someday - but I'll probably have a Porsche, too. 🙂
Let me summarize my many thoughts on this topic. Granted this is all my opinion.
Best car I have ever driven on track was a 981 Cayman GTS PDK. The precision of this car far exceeded my capability. This car is still my benchmark when testing other cars and in my opinion one of the best cars ever made.
I owned a 1999 Mazda Miata (MX-5) 5 speed manual (one of the best manual) with the lsd and a hard dog roll bar. This car was fun at any speed, lightweight (2,299lbs) and the hydraulic steering gave me all the road texture I could ever want.
My conclusion is buy what you can afford and Just Drive. Cheers and it was a great video.
Couldn’t agree more, mate. My shitty Holden Gemini with cheap-arse add-ons gave me HUGE joy in the 80’s. Everything is relative. By all means strive; but enjoy what you have in the moment. 👊
@@peterfritzphotoIf you want a great mountain road to take a fun car on come over for a visit. I live at the base of Pikes Peak here is Colorado Springs, lots of twisty mountain roads.
I did pretty much the same thing you did for the same reason: I went from a lowered NC with a redone suspension (Ohlins all around, beefier anti-sway bars and custom wheels and alignment) to a 2013 Boxster S because I always wanted a Porsche. While the Miata was terrific, especially as modded (the thing cornered flat and gave its little heart every time I had it on a twisty road, handling like a go cart), in comparison to the Boxster it was a toy while the Boxster is a real car. The Mazda’s a/c couldn’t keep up with the heat with the top down and windows up. The Boxster’s a/c handles it fine. The Mazda was no fun to drive when it got colder or with the top up, which really impeded blind spot vision and made the interior uncomfortably loud. The Boxtser is quiet with the top up and although rear visibility isn’t great through the small rear window, the sides of the car are fine. And my Boxster also has a stick (I see you opted for PDK), which is almost as fun as the MIata’s, a very close second. It is just a much more refined experience that I get to use much more of the time than I could my Miata, and viscerally, nothing feels or sounds like a flat 6 engine that revs like a Porsche.
Keep enjoying your Porsche. Spot on reporting.
Jeffrey - you've filled in the blanks beautifully. Thanks for this comprehensive insight, and for your kind support.
Peter, thank you for a thoughtful and fair review. I purchased an ND1 Club MT while also considering Porsches. Then I realized that if I didn't buy a Mazda and go on with Porsche, I would potentially never buy a Miata. Never regretted. In my imagination, an MX5 and an older 911 coupe like 997.2 is an ideal combination.
Thanks very much, Igor. I love the MX5 so much, I’ll probably buy another one someday. Only this time, I’ll have a Porsche, too - just like you’re planning. 👍
I upgraded from an high mileage NB to a low mileage 986, 2 years later I still think this is the best upgrade I've ever done.
Back many years ago, my mum used to own a 2001 Boxster and whenever I drove it around corners it was extremely confidence inspiring and felt super planted. I used to drive riced up Honda's with aftermarket turbos and the like so way faster cars with loads of mods, but none felt as planted.
Haha - I haven’t heard ‘riced up’ in decades! But yes, the Boxster was a revelation right from the beginning. 👍
Another nice video with knowledge and correct observations. Very good work. Thank you Peter
Thank you, Thomas. I appreciate that.
I love the Boxster and I've thought about upgrading from my S2000 several times. Twenty years on, I still have the S2000, but the next car in line has always been the Boxster.
The S2000 is an icon. Certainly nothing wrong with keeping it forever.
I feel you Peter. Had a perfect 1.6 NA that I turboed it, and upgraded it from the ground up for the last 10 years. Sold it two weeks ago. Two years ago bought an ND2 30 anniversary RF, I am having a blast with it.
Also two years ago bought an 2001 986S, never felt connected to that car, sold it in two months of ownership.
Before the Miata NA I’ve had a Porsche 993 Carrera for 5 years, really loved that feeling. And that wasn’t my first impression with a 911, on my younger years I had an 1976 911 2.7S.
Now I’m thinking in selling my ND for my forever car, an 718 Boxster.
Thanks for the video, it is really inspiring.
Thank you, Mateo - that's quite a history. I suspect you'll be thrilled with the Boxster.
I own a 2018 MX-5 Club. I have driven a 996 911 & 981 Boxter, and a 718 Cayman GTS. I was going to buy a Boxter until I drove the 981. It just feels so heavy and sterile compared to my MX-5.
I know what you mean - it’s a different kind of machine, with a lot more heft. I actually appreciate that on long drives when there are extended freeway or country road stretches before getting to the winding sections. The steering ratio is also quite a bit slower than the MX5, so that certainly contributes to the heavier feel. For where it excels, nothing beats the MX5. It’s brilliant.
Great video Peter! Like yourself i always wanted to have a Porsche in the garage, back in 2014 i purchased my first one, which was a 2003 Boxster S, loved the car, but i wanted more, purchased a 2007 Boxster S in 2017 and in 2020 i purchased a 2015 Boxster GTS. Every time i moved up in modelyear i experienced a refinement in ride and more power. Certainly the 2015 GTS is a very special car, but recently I placed the order for a 2024 Boxster GTS 4.0 and this fulfilled my long term dream of buying a new Porsche and taking delivery in Germany. Delivery will be summer 2024 ( this is what i requested, will see what i get) and winding her out for once on the autobahn will hopefully be the experience i have longed for. The missus will go with me and we will take two weeks in Germany, switzerland and Austria. Afterwards it will be shipped to Canada, where i will enjoy it for many more years. By the way, GT silver on Bordeaux red leather with manual gearbox, 911 turbo style wheels to complete the package. 😊
Oh, wow - what a dream! And that colour combination is Boxster perfection. I’m so happy for you, Jan. Congratulations!
Good on you getting the manual. Although Porsche's PDK is outstanding...paddles are for canoes. Best to row your own. Enjoy.
Remember, when you pick up that GTS in Germany, that you can rent laps on the Nürburgring for very little money. I lived in Germany for years, plus trips there for both work and pleasure before and after my assignment there. And I can tell you that Americans get more excited about the Autobahn than they should. Now, taking a sports car on the "B" highways through the mountains is more what sports cars are all about. Just don't miss your chance to take your GTS on the Nürburgring. You will regret not doing it.
@@waynekempton7160 I’m jealous…
Great video! My thoughts exactly for the start of the vid, agreed with everything. I just haven't replaced my NC with the Boxster just yet , lol! Only the reliability remains to be seen between the two.
Indeed. We shall see. 👍
I value the sound and feel of a car most these days.
Based on sound alone the flat 6 of the 981 Cayman or Boxster is hard to beat ❤
So true. And I do, too.
That's why I went from an MX-5 to an Elise.
I like the flat 6 sound but it doesn't give me the fizz (to use a James May term), but in terms of feel there's not much that surpasses a Lotus.
@@ScathingMobile I'm sure you're right. I really must get my arse into an Elise someday.
@@ScathingMobile I have not driven an Elise yet. I'm just curious, what flat 6 have you driven to come to the James May conclusion?
@@peterfritzphotothe Elise is an experience. I thought my NB was a go kart until I drove an Elise. But unless you're young, it is not an only car.
When I came to selling my NB I considered a 987 S or 981 non-S, a ND RF GT, and eventually the Elise S. I figured I'd buy the Elise while I could still climb over its ridiculous sills, and eventually sell it and buy a Boxster.
If you can get your hands on one on a nice day on a winding road I'd suggest it. But also consider what it would be like to live with it every day and drive it inter state before you wish you'd bought one janread of the Porsche....
I agree to most of this, but I went in the other direction. From having a (fantastic) 2014 3.4 Boxster S for 7 years to a 30th anniversary 2019 MX-5. Everything is cheaper, and almost as fun. The PDK gearbox started to trouble, and that scared me, 😟 so I sold it to a Porsche mechanic. It had just over 50tkm when it happened. The MX-5 is bullitproof. No worries there.😊
That's also partially true. Some ND MX5 owners have done through three gearboxes, so they're not entirely bulletproof. I even spoke to Mazda Australia about it, to check their stance on warranty claims for gearboxes after the warranty expires, and they acknowledged there'd been a number of them that had blown second gear.
I love the Porsche Boxster. I look forward to hearing about your experience with maintenance and repairs in a year or two. Though you did get one with low mileage, so perhaps that will keep costs down. I currently own another VAG product and love it... but the cost of repairs and maintenance is tough when I look around and see some friends with things like Mazdas and Lexuses. Of course, my car now has nearly 200k miles (bought it at 69k). It's in great condition, but I feel it's time - there's that emotion - for something newer and sexier. It's still cheaper to keep my current car despite the additional repairs.
I hear you. I owned 10 Mercedes Benzes in a row, and became tired of the costly maintenance and repairs. I then bought a few Japanese cars (Pajero, MX5, Elgrand, and Outlander), and enjoyed their low running costs. But two of them were new, and the other two had very low kms, so I guess that was a given. I still have the Outlander, and it has fixed price servicing for 10 years, totalling about $3k over that decade. My last service on the Mitsubishi Pajero was $3,500! Porsche Australia offers fixed price servicing - from $795 for the annual maintenance, to $2,200 for the major service. I’m fine with those numbers.
I just went mx5 nc2 , cheap to maintain , durable and a blast on the backroads .
Good on you, Chris. I love the interior and rear-end of the NC. Very classy.
A great comparison. We had an mx5 NB for 10 years, a 911SC, a 944, a boxster 987.1 and now like you a base 981 but manual. I love Porsche and the boxster is the best to own in the real world. The 981 is everything you say it is, so accomplished, honed to perfection. I thought it was the perfect sports car. But then i bought a Lotus Elise, im on my 2nd one and when i just want to go for a drive, i always take the Elise, its fun, its pure, its involving and all at legal speeds.everyrhing i want from a sports car. If i want the same involvement from the 981 I'll be going so fast I'll lose my licence. I never thought id say this but ill keep the Lotus as my sports car, sell the 981 and buy a used mx5 as the daily drive. I'm so lucky to have the choices. Thanks for a wonderful video.
That’s quite the history there, Nick. I must admit, I’m ignorant in the ways of the Elise. Despite reading enough about them to choke a donkey, I’ve never driven one. Hell, the last Lotus I drove was an Esprit! I’d love to experience the Elise, and while I’m at it, the Evora and the Emira. Thanks for dropping in, Nick, and for the kind words.
It's interesting that I saw this post. I once owned a Lotus Elise back in 2019 and sold it, my biggest regret (I only paid $23k for it and sold it for the same price...dammit!). I am now on the hunt for something that excites me, and the Boxster is on my list. Ironically, I bought a 987.1 S but in my opinion it wasn't that exciting, so I ended up selling that. Fast forward a year and I bought an NC MX-5 but with the BBR 200 kit, and BOY was that an incredible machine. Still, my mind wandered back to the Lotus, and it still does. I am now debating between a 981 Boxster S, the Lotus Elise, or an Alfa Romeo 4C, although the Alfa is hard to find in my budget (under 50k).
@@Element_y What a delightful dilemma. See if you can get a drive in a 981. I drove a 987.1 a few years back, and it didn’t give me the same feeling as the 981. That said, I haven’t driven an Elise. I imagine it’s a very different driving experience to any Boxster.
what a full empty life you have
I own a 981 a nc miata and nb miata. The 2015 nc miata interior is still solid yet simple and plain. The 2014 981 cayman is beautiful but the window switch has popped out, headliner has failed, and door cards are warping. Both are garaged. Also cant rev out the 981 nearly as much because of the insanely long gearing like you can a Miata. Different cars both fun in their own ways.
Good observations. 👍
2 of my friends had engines broken on Porsche Boxsters. My mx5 is 22 years old and run perfectly…it is more en essential car but was built with reliability as purpose too,in addition to fun😊
It’s likely they were pre-2009 cars, Olivier, which had IMS bearing issues. This affected Boxster, Cayman and 911. The IMS bearing was redesigned for 2009 onward, and they’ve been bulletproof ever since. The MX5 was bulletproof from day one. Mind you, quite a few ND MX5s suffered manual gearbox failure on second gear. Some owners went through three gearboxes.
@@peterfritzphotowhy are affordable but well built and reliable sports cars and sporty cars like the civic si and integras called shitboxes when they are better built and last longer and can even make more power and perform on track with simple mods than alot of actual full on rwd sports cars but everybody calls them shitboxes anyways but not their posh brands like porshe and bmw when things go wrong at like 100k miles and the value is gone 😂 thats not a shitbox apparently ? Like both have there pros and cons but im tired of seeing how toxic people are about cars and make it a class thing even tho you can buy like 2 older running driving bmw 328's for the same price of a freaking civic 😂
@@repingers9777 I’ve never thought of them as shitboxes. I spent a few years selling them (back when the Integra VTiR, Prelude VTi, and NSX were new), and I loved Honda’s cars.
@@peterfritzphoto haha i have a 220k mile 2001 prelude type sh and actually out of all hondas after having mine for 2 years i can call it a shitbox 🤣
but its still indestructible, gearbox still perfect and the engine refuses to die even tho ive misshifted to 11,000 rpm one time still revs to 8000 and makes most of that 200hp it had new. Unfortunately letting it sit in oregon it had a mold issue from a water leak that messed up the otherwise great interior car my fault for negligence.
@@peterfritzphotofrom a specific build in 2009, the IMS bearing was completely removed from the motor design in the boxster, cayman and 911 997 base and S models Interestingly, it was rare, almost non existent for a 986 or 987 2.7 to experience either ims or bore scoring failures.
I enjoyed your video very much. I had an 89 MX5 for 10 years.
It saw me through some tough years as well. I had a 987.1 cayman which I loved. I also agree the 981 is a huge step forward particularly in compliance and interior quality. I agree the 4.0 GTS looks great on paper. Not sure we have roads for it with that gearing in Australia. Depends where you live I guess. Great to see you enjoying your cars!
A very balanced comparison - thankjs Peter
Many thanks, Cyrus.
Man, this is such a great sales pitch for a Boxster.
Tell Porsche to send me cars!
EXCELLENT video. 10/10.
THANK YOU for your views and comments.
THANK YOU for keeping it REAL. No bull crap. No stupid background music.!
Very Much APPRECIATED.
(I must review these '987.1 Boxster's'!!! Got me thinking!!!)
Thanks again.
Regards sir.
(Sorry, 987.2)
That’s very generous of you, Terry - thank you!
You can’t deny the appeal of the MX5 with over 1 million sold across the various generations. It was a brave thing that Mazda did when accessible 2 seat roadsters from other manufacturers were few and far between. It’s also interesting that Porsche took 2 generations of Boxster development before the well-known engine issues were addressed, whereas the MX5 was right from the time it hit the market. Having said that, the Boxster is brilliantly engineered (with fewer cost constraints) and very practical for touring with the 2 generous luggage compartments, clear advantages over the MX5. Although an intangible thing, you get a sense of its heritage from decades of involvement in virtually every kind of motorsport too.
BTW, what is the EVE (?) logo on the glove compartment and the side of your car?
Yep - the MX5 is a brilliant car. I’ve love to buy an original, unmolested NA one day - perhaps one of the examples so many first-release buyers parked in mothballs. As for EVE, my daughters wanted to name the car, so it’s named after the cute white space robot in the movie, WALL-E. 😉
Thank you for your time.
Great video. Would’ve loved to hear some cost of ownership figures as well such as insurance and yearly service / maintenance comparisons. I’d imagine theres a night and day difference there. Also would’ve been great to hear your thoughts on daily drivability. Victorian here btw. Own an MX5 ND2 RF at the moment but the dream is to own a 718 or ideally the 911 GTS someday
Hi, mate. The insurance on the MX5 - with all modifications noted - was about $900 with Enthusiast Insurance. The Boxster is, surprisingly, about the same cost with AAMI. The Boxster has had one annual service ($900), and one gearbox and diff oil change plus drive belt replacement ($1300 total) - both at Porsche Centre Melbourne on Victoria St. I didn’t daily drive either car. I work from home, and have a Mitsubishi Outlander for family duties. 👍
@@peterfritzphoto that’s great to hear. Cheers
@@CyMOTOau Anytime, mate.
Upgrading?? I'm certain it is NOT - not for me, it was not.
I owned a Boxster for two years.
I was the owner before of two MX-5s (NB, NC)
No problems or issues with the Boxster. It just didn't put a smile on my face in spite, that it went like stink.
I went BACK to the MX-5 and... I'm HAPPY - again.
BTW: They were all manual tranny - including my current MX-5.
Good for you, Victor. Upgrading is subjective. For you it wasn’t; for me it was.
Well played
When my 2005 987 5-speed hit 90 K , living with the IMS BEARING FEAR and needing new $$$ brake rotors, I sold it in 2019. I bought a new MX-5 ND2 with the Bimbro Racaro option. The MX makes more smiles when thrashing in the mountains but, not so much elsewhere. Now that I am 75, and slowing down a bit, it’s time for another 6-cylinder Boxster. PDK this time.
That’s the spirit. Just make sure you get a post-2009 model. 👍
Great vid as always, but I think the word "upgrade" might trigger more than a few people - as it implies the Boxster is just a better version of the MX-5 in every way, which having seen the vid and heard you discuss steering, I'm don't believe even you think that to be the case. I can read between the lines and understand it was an "upgrade" for you, in that the Boxster offers more of what you're seeking in a sports car - solidity, emotion, and "specialness" - but I don't think most viewers are going to be able to get that without jumping to a knee jerk angry response. Hope I'm wrong.
As a 992 911 owner, I absolutely agree with your conclusions on the Boxster/Cayman. As a pure drivers car, the 981/982(718) Boxster/Cayman is absolutely a step up from an MX5 in most ways, and is definitely superior to a new 911 - which I think has given up on being a pure drivers car for the road, and instead uses complexity in engineering (RAS, PDCC, etc.) and sheer performance to compete with supercars beyond it's price point. You've driven a C2S like mine, so you know how needlessly, unusably fast they are anywhere outside a racetrack. Older 911s are more of an apples to apples comparison with the Boxster/Cayman - but then, not on value - which the Boxster/Cayman wins again. It's very hard for anyone who's driven the cars you have and knows the Aussie market to claim you've made the wrong choice.
Hey, Sasha - thanks for the comprehensive and generous contribution. You might be right regarding people’s response, but as always, these are my own personal feelings based on my own circumstances and experiences. I agree with your sentiments around the current crop of 991’s. I adore it, and would love to park a GT3 Touring in my garage - mostly for that incredible engine, and it’s iconic looks. But as you stated, it’s mostly overkill as a road car on Australia’s roads. Thanks for chiming in again. 👍
Yes, perhaps the 997 is a better comparison to a 981 s? At least in size, althought the 997 will still be more of a raw experience
@@Jay-xr3sb Sure, but this is about selling my MX5 to get a Boxster.
An upgrade depends on what your coming from and to what your going to. For this man, it was an upgrade. For someone else, a minivan may be the upgrade lol.
To be fair, the miata and the porsche are two completely different cars serving two different purposes. One is intentionally a cheap, light and small convertible intended to be a toy to drive raw. Comforts and luxuries being an afterthought. The other is a GT car by definition where the luxuries and comforts were always on mind. It's still a convertible yet very light for a GT car though.
Personal opinion: The miata is for those who enjoy driving and like to have that adrenaline rush from the drive without needing to go 100+ mph or floor it every time just to feel something. While the boxter is for the same crowd, but don't mind trading in some of that adrenaline rush for practicality and comfort so they can do more with the car than just take it out for the weekend.(road trips, for example)
@@peterfritzphoto I understand, just replying to the OP on 991 comparisons he was making, 911 was also referenced by you
I completely agree. I am lucky enough to have just bought a manual 2010 Cayman S. This was after going back and forward between the Porsche and a 2023 MX5 ND. There is no car that is more fun then the Miata, it is just superb but, I have wanted a Cayman since the day they came out. It is thrilling. Both are great choices but at the end of the day, for a daily driver, to not even have a glovebox was a step too far in impractical. In a few years i hope i can add a Miata as a second car and keep the Cayman as my "practical" car.
Sounds perfect, Jonathan. I'd like to do the same!
I feel you are totally missing what Mazda is intending to. You do not talk about weight difference. There is no such thing as upgrading from MX5 to Boxter. They are totally different cars with different concept. MX5 is light weight sports car. Boxster is too heavy. The only way to upgrade MX5 is to change to Lotus. (Super-upgrade is to move to Caterham.) You just like open sports cars. If you can afford Ferrari you go for Ferrari. If you cannot afford, then Porsche. I enjoy driving my MX5 and Honda S2000, but I wish they are lighter. The lighter the car is, the more fun you enjoy. I still miss my Fiat 850 spider which I used to own 3 of them. Fiat has an engine without power, but the car was very light weight. It was such a joy to drive the car.
I get your point, Hiromi, but I suspect you've missed mine. The word 'upgrade' is subjective, and it's impacted by the metrics you choose to apply. I detailed what I considered the upgrades to be - for me. They included additional interior space, lower NVH levels, more storage, and a more exciting sound. I don't presume they're relevant to you. I've driven hundreds of cars - from Ladas to Lamborghinis. I don't care for Ferraris. I appreciate Porsche engineering. I value handling and steering over horsepower. My tastes are my own, and yours are your own.
I love these base model Porsche videos. Base Porsches are all you need to really enjoy them on the streets.
100%. More power is occasionally exciting, most mostly unusable. And a danger to your license!
So good to see an Australian review and what a great, and retrospectively obvious, transition video that was so prevalent to so many people. Well done. I am keeping an NC Sport and selling the ND GT RS whilst waiting for the 718 GTS Cayman. Although unavoidable, when the luxury car tax is removed from the figures it is easy to see where the money goes compared to our great little MX5’s. Once loved, never forgotten.
So true, Seamus - Porsches are so much cheaper in the US and UK. And I agree with your last statement. I’d love a mint, unmolested NA, so keep as my personal time capsule. So many fond memories with that little rascal!
I loved my old NB Miata but I'm running an air cooled 911 now. I just got back from 1000 mountain miles for a dozen+ 20012-current 911's Caymans, and Boxsters and had a blast. Of course I love the new 911 and produce a grin from ear to ear after I drive one. It's delicious from every control and input. But the width and size increases are quite noticeable. I saw that many of the hardcore PCA members now that are really into driving are going for Caymans and Boxsters and the older guys that like to cruise more than drive hard are going for 911's. My narrow Carrera 3.2 can run every turn like a race car going wide and clipping the apex perfectly on the corners. All of them are great though and choice is good. As for the Miata, it's the real deal and we're lucky to have it here in 2024.
@@3.2Carrera There’s more wisdom per syllable in this comment than many UA-cam videos! I couldn’t agree more with everything you just said. 👍
You forget to mention the reliabilty between the 2 cars. I have owned both and will never buy another porsche for its terrible reliablity and cost to repair. The Miata in my opinion is the most underratted sports car in the World for the value.
Hi Edward. What year and model was your Porsche?
I went from an MX5 ND1 to a Cayman S and back to another MX5 ND2 after only 2 years. I've had (have) BMW M's, and even a Nissan GT-R for a few years. The Miata is just more fun on a daily basis and at reasonable speed. And it's a hoot on the track and feels almost maintenance free compared to other cars.
I totally get it. I can see myself in another MX5 again someday (I'd love a mint NA and ND2). But for now, the Boxster is delivering plenty of smiles, and the essential luggage space I need for weekends away. Thanks for watching and commenting.
You misspelled downgrading in the title
For you, perhaps. Not me.
I own a 1991 NA. I had 3 MX5 since i was 18. A NB1in red that was my first own car, a 1995 na 1.8 in BRG and now my smurfblue NA. Since i turned 25 this year my old dream of a porsche came back into my "daydreams" and specifficly the 987 Spyder as its the pinnacle mx5 feeling In my eyes. Soon ill be beginning my College to become a car engineer in germany and hopefully end up at porsche to come my dream a little closer.
@@SuperHaginator What a wonder start to car ownership you’ve had! I loved my NA, and would love another someday. I hope you make your dream come true and end up at Porsche. 👍
There's no such thing as upgrading from an MX-5.
Depends on the meaning you attach to the word 'upgrade'. It means different things to me in my 50's vs my 20's.
I stumbled into your site trying to decide between an MX-5 or Boxster and have thoroughly enjoyed the breadth of your car, photograph and life building content. Keep up the great work Peter!
Thank you, John!
I have had 2 manual ND Miatas (2016 grand touring & 2020 Club Brembo/BBs). I then got a manual 2013 Boxster S 981. Had it for a year, sold it, now looking for another Miata ND. I can buy whatever I want, so its not a $ issue. The Miata is just truly more fun to drive. It gets less "ooooh and ahhhh", but I don't really care about that stuff too much anymore.
I totally understand. I often drive mine to my dad's house in the mountains with my son, a bunch of camera gear, two pillows, and clothing. The MX5 just couldn't fit all that into its tiny boot. That said, I still miss mine, and I suspect another one will find its way here in the next few years.
Great vid. Loved many aspects of your presentation. I could certainly "feel" your journey.
My path was similar but different: a 2002 Corvette, a 2008 Corvette, and a 2015 Corvette Stingray with the Z51 package. All wonderful vehicles from the glory days of Corvette racing here in the States. Traded the 2015 in 2023 for a BMW X5 M60i. I thought that I, at age 75, had moved past two seater sports cars. Wrong. By December of last year, and with the Porsche Boxer high on my list of possibles, my BMW Z4 M40i arrived. Great car with performance metrics equal to the 2015 Stingray, only quicker, more agile, and all the while feeling more planted. Love the Z4 M40i. Aint life grand to have such wonderful vehicles available.
So true. We’re spoiled rotten these days!
987.2 is a dream. 2.9litre base with pdk and sport exhaust and sports chrono. Will be a classic and hard to get soon.
I had an MX-5 NB for years but I was wanting something more refined. I assumed an ND was the logical next step but when I test drove one I was disappointed. I loved the engine and the handling was great but it was so noisy I could hardly hear myself think. I'm pretty sure there is no insulation at all in the ND. It was a little better with the top down since the top acted like a bit of an insulating layer but it was still pretty bad. So I bought a 981 and I love it. It's everything you've described. There is, however, one thing that is better about the Mazda: simplicity. The Porsche is so complex electronically that I wake up screaming from nightmares about repair costs. Well, not quite but you can't even check the oil without using the display gizmo on the dash. So I miss the ease of a car devoid of overly complicate electronics. "Progress" I guess. And the price you pay to own a brilliant sports car.
Very well said, Robert. You’re so right about the noise. I’m guessing that because the ND is more complex - and has more features - than the NB and NA, they had to shave weight in other areas, like sound insulation. I wouldn’t be too stressed about repairs on the 981; they’re very reliable. I’ve heard of ND MX5 owners going through three gearboxes! As for things like brakes, but the discs, rotors and sensors from a third party, and then get a brake specialist to install. Saves a fortune.
@@peterfritzphoto Thanks man, that makes me feel a little more confidant. I changed the oil myself and I'll be attempting the PDK fluid change this winter. I should be able to do brake pads myself and maybe fluid flush but that's as far as my backyard mechanic skills will take me. We do a have a highly rated independent Porsche shop nearby so hopefully they can help for far less than the dealer if anything complex comes up. Fingers crossed.
@@RobertSmith-bh5cv I’m sure you’ll be fine, Robert. There are many excellent videos on UA-cam about 981 maintenance, too. And remember, we don’t always get what we want, but we usually get what we expect - so expect good things! 👍
I owned and loved a 2000 NB1 special edition that I modded with exhaust, tires, wheels, and coilovers. It was incredibly lively to drive. Like you, I always dreamed of owning a Porsche, and I bought a base 2014 981 with a PDK. Unlike you, after 18 months of driving the Porsche, I missed my Miata. I replaced the Boxster with a 2022 ND2 GT. The only mod I've made is to add a Roadster Sport exhaust. I agree with every word of your description of the differences between the ND and the 981. Obviously I do not concur with your conclusion favoring the Boxster over the Miata. For me, the lightness of the Miata makes it more joyful to drive. Our family owns three cars so I can pick and choose when I drive the Miata. The Boxster is a superior GT car and perhaps superior as a high speed track car, but I didn't rely on the Boxster or the Miata for very long journeys. For pure driving joy on public roads, the Miata is my pick by a wide margin as reflected by how I voted with my dollars. In the end, however, both are sublime machines. Excellent description of these amazing cars.
Thanks for this in depth perspective, Mitch. I have to agree with you; the MX5 feels instantly alive the moment you pull out of the driveway. The Boxster requires more speed to wake up. In an urban or suburban environment, there’s fun to be had with the MX5 at any speed. The Boxster reveals its true character once speeds increase and the miles pile on. Since I only use mine for fun (I use an SUV for everything else), most drives are a 300km journey into the mountains, and often with my son and a bunch of gear for an overnight stay at my dad’s house. For that, the Boxster is ideal. Thanks for dropping in, and sharing your experience.
Easy choice - if you have the money not just to buy the Porsche, but maintain it. Buying used may lower the cost of entry, but moves you closer to the maintain this on your own money and not the warranty period. For me, the Miata RF model with a few mods, and spend the money saved on a new full frame mirrorless camera and a suite of lenses. But if I had the money, yeah, that 718 GTS looks mighty sweet!
Hi Bruce. The maintenance costs in its first year have been fine - no more, in fact, than my previous Japanese 4WD. Like all European manufacturers, Porsche charges a lot for parts, but those can be had much cheaper elsewhere.
After driving both the ND1 and the ND2 extensively in and out of track, I wanted to get an MX5 so bad. But then we had 2 babies and a 2 seater was out of the question. So I got an A45 AMG instead. I have to say that even though my A45 is waaay faster both on the road and on the track, the MX5 is hands down the better driving experience.
Yes, there’s something very special about the MX5. It’s a formula that no one in the last 30 years has equaled.
can I ask how you'd compare tracking the nd2 vs the nd1? I just bought an nd2 as my first fun car purchase and have always been curious. just waiting for the engine to break in before tracking it
@@coryagami6391 I didn't get to compare them back to back, so the general experience was quite similar in both cases (with the 2.0 l engine at least, I've also driven the 1.5l which really feels lackluster if you're used to faster cars). I mean you don't really feel the difference in performance if you don't drive them back to back and you're not doing timed laps. The one thing that I did notice is that you can ring the ND2 higher than the ND1 which is not only more pleasurable but can also avoid you a shift in some cases.
Great essay.
@@zacharyzoet3046 Thanks, Zach.
Indeed Zach!
I owned a 2005 Porsche Boxster, had it for 10 years and now own a 2019 MX-5 Miata RF.
Both are brilliant sports cars, however you can get the Miata for half the price of the Boxster and for that reason it is the clear winner.
Also, maintenance for the Mazda will be far less costly than the Porsche.
If money is No Object, and you have a garage to park it in, then go for the Boxster.
Everything is relative to multiple variables - and to the person buying/driving the car. For me (and others) it’s definitely worth it. For you (and others), it isn’t.
I upgraded from an ND2 rf club bbs pkg to a cayman gts 4.0.
The 1 thing most cars can replace is the weight the nd2 had.
The ND is certainly very light. Enjoying the Cayman?
@@peterfritzphotoyeah i love the cayman.
An interesting case study in behavioural economics. Once you upgrade, you'll continue to desire further upgrades due to the decoy effect. So you are bang on when you say it's emotional, not rational.
Yes, we are indeed imperfect creatures. The fact is, though, I could have purchased a much more expensive car (I always thought I wanted a 911, until I drove a 992 over 800 km of my favourite roads). I decided that that money was better off invested than placed into a car. If I was very wealthy, I may have spent more (a GTS 4.0, for example), but it becomes a state of diminishing returns.
I had an ND Miata, and currently have a 718 Boxster GTS (4 cylinder) as well as a C8 Vette. The Miata was by far the most fun to drive on public roads. Always put a smile on my face. It was like a go cart. On a track the Corvette is the clear winner, but if I want to take a drive on a nice twisty country road I take the Boxster. The Porsche and Vette are just too powerful to safely drive on public roads. More fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow.
Very true.
Great vid!
I did the budget reverse switch back in the ninties. I went from a 944 (which I loved) to an NA MX-5... Which I loved even more! Just waiting for the kids to leave home and hopefully, it'll be time for a Boxster. And if I can't afford it, it'll be an ND MX-5.
Thank you, Valisk. The 944 was a brilliant car - I drove quite a few of them (and later, a few 968s). Thanks for dropping by.
You are not alone. I have an heavily modified M240i as my daily, had an MX5 NC for summer fun and finally bought few months ago an 718 Boxster T just for the reason that I might be to old to drive it when I can comfortably afford it 🙂
I am over 6" so for me, it should have always been a Boxster since I never felt comfortable in the MX5. The Boxster is just the right size for me.
Having owned several mx5,s, 3 NA, 2 NB and 1 NC, all modified with either turbo or superchargers and suspension upgrades, I would think they would be the equal if not more powerful than many porsches. For example my NB with turbo put out 206 kws at the wheels and weighed just over a 1000 kgs. Cost wise I was still ahead on what porsche would cost.
Reliability never had any issues and service costs to were more than half what a porches would cost.
There's no denying the MX5 is awesome. But there's also no denying that car purchasing decisions are largely emotional ones - especially when it comes to sports cars. And so comparing horsepower, weight, and maintenance costs are all fine and valid, but they are a long way from being the whole picture; they're not enough to explain why people choose the cars they choose.
Absolutely bang on with your comparison. I drive the NB2 and just bought a 986 2.5L. Still tormenting over having to sell my NB because of the lack of garage space (4 cars! 1 for the Mrs. and 3 for me). I will really miss the MX-5 gearbox. In comparison the 986's throw is really long and not as much fun going through the gears. In contrast to many of the comments that were made so far about maintenance cost being a deciding factor in choosing one over the other, I maintain all my cars myself so repair costs is a mute point from me. I did the clutch, timing, radiator, brakes etc on the NB and I am currently replacing the clutch and IMS bearing on the 986. The bearing was wornout! Disaster averted just in time.
Great to hear from you, John. Oh wow, sounds like you got lucky with the IMS bearing! My wife and I try to be fair, so she has two, and I have two! But mine are much better than hers!!
I bought a 1996 Miata new. Previous experience with a sports car was a Fiat 850 I drove in Southern California. I loved that Miata, but had always wanted a Porsche from the time my then girlfriend's father let me drive his Porsche 356 when I was in college.. My daughter was in a mishap with the Miata and sadly it was totaled (thankfully no injuries). A Porsche Boxster replaced the Miata. It was definitely an upgrade in every way you have described. I loved everything about the Porsche especially the sound of the engine when it lit off. That being said, for me, the Boxster was not that much more fun to drive than the Miata.
I completely agree with you, William. 👍
It's all a matter of choice. I'm German/American and owned several Porsche vehicles. After considering all factors, I recently purchased a Lexus LC500 convertible.
Oooh, now there's a favourite of mine! I've lusted after the LC ever since it was launched (that engine, the interior, the body, the precision engineering, all of it!). I find myself scanning the classifieds every few weeks, and the only cars I tend to check are the LC, the NSX, and the original LS 400 (which I owned many years ago, and still miss). Which colour did you purchase?
I've had two MX5's, we toured Europe in one of them (just great fun), they are an amazing car, but, the Boxster is in a completely different league. I’d love a Boxster.
You’d definitely appreciate the extra luggage space! I reckon both cars fulfil their remit to perfection.
@@peterfritzphoto Packing for two weeks was definitely an art form, but great fun!
@@bsimpson6204 I bet!
Great video. I currently own an AP1 S2000 and hope down the road I can upgrade it to a 981.2 Cayman or Boxster.
Thanks, mate. Great goal!
I want to upgrade from a micra k11 (1.4 82hp) to mx-5 nd (1.5 131hp).
The MX-5 has always been a dream car for me.
But,
Beyond that, it will be very difficult to reach. Unrealistic, nothing to even dream about.
Anyway, I'm happy for you.
You are lucky to have a dream car.
But your true gain is to have a wonderful son !!!
I couldn't agree with you more. Nothing makes me happier than hanging out with him. The MX-5 is a worthy goal, and if you take care of it, you'll have it for life.
@@peterfritzphoto By the way, your son is very lucky to have a father like you.
I hope, he grows up to be a good person like you.
God bless you, your family and your porsche sir.
@@xxlalbatross3287 That's the nicest thing you could say - thank you!
@@peterfritzphoto 👍😊
Just upgraded from a mark2 mx5 to a 986, i dont know about other models of mz5 or Boxters and as much as i loved my Myata, i have fallen harder for my 986 then i though i would, what a jem.
@@bruniau That’s what I hear often. I haven’t driven a 986, but I’ve seen plenty of people rave about them.
I've got a MX5 ND2, after a 2016, after a 1999, after a Lotus Elise, after an NSX. Happy to keep my ND2 now, cheap to maintain, very reliable and comfortable. Cheers
Good for you, François. Which NSX model did you have, and why did you sell it? The early NSX is my all-time favourite sports car.
@@peterfritzphoto A 1994 year model, silver with Black roof, loved it, loved the Lotus with the Toyota engine too, but the ND2 is a better choice for me for retirement, cheap to run, reliable and convertible. Best regards to you Peter.
@@francoisvola3611 And to you, Francois. All the best to you. 👍
Little hello from France Peter : thank you so much for your testimony. I'm 49 years old and I've spend my all live since I am a child dreaming about owning a Porsche. I bought a little MX5 (NBFL) and kept it 2 years then I sold it. My daily is a Tesla Model Y and if it's a good car it's also boring to drive : no sensations... This is a good "family father car" but that's all. So I miss a funny car and I'm searching a new reasonable toy. I touhght about a Boxster but I was questionning myself about the real differences with a Miata. That's how I found your video. And you gave me the answers! In some way I could resume by : "with a Boxster, buy a peace of the Porsche legend and park it in your garage...". As I write that to you I'm in front of my morning cofee, before going to work and I think your video built one more step to the Boxster for me. A long trip to find back the real driving pleasure. Thanks for sharing your experiences and your thoughts! And the images are stuning : lovely country! Christophe
Thank you, Christophe! So nice to hear from you all the way over there in France. 🇫🇷
My pleasure. It's pleasant to hear such good speachs on cars. Not so usual on UA-cam. I've just watched the video on the 992 you rented and I'm gonna be late to my office by your fault... 😁@@peterfritzphoto
@@sterfield Haha!! Sorry!
You could by an entirely new 4 cylinder engine for the Miata for the same cost as one Porsche Tune Up. I’m the original owner of a Red Miata MA with 375,000+ miles on it’s never replaced original engine. My daily driver is a 3rd Gen Audi TT Quattro Coupe
What would I do with two Miata engines?
Thanks! I had a 987.1 Boxster for 5 years. Loved it. Considering a 987.2 Box or Cay vs a ND Miata. Currently own a CX5 and a 3, and also love them. Such a first world dilemma, but i can't decide.
True indeed!! The ND is brilliant, but it’s smaller, tighter, less practical, and less melodious than the Boxster.
My dad hit that point a few years ago he finally wanted a sports car. MX-5 and Boxster were top of the list after much research and price comparing. We test drove new MX-5's and his 6'2 body stuck out the top of that thing like a go kart. There was just no way. He ended with a 2006 Boxster S with about double the power and of course 6spd manual. It's been great. Best handling car I have ever driven! Noise is better than anything an MX-5 could dream of. Now repairs on the other hand.... !!!
They are indeed special. The pre-2009 cars do come with a couple of unique issues, though, which were all addressed when the 987/997.2 models were released. What kinds of repairs have you had?
@@peterfritzphoto The worn brake pad sensors were going off on the left side of the car because the wiring harness had gone out somehow. Porsche of Newport Beach had to pull the entire door apart and re-wire, costing around $850 USD. The shifter plastics are worn out on the inside of the housing and replacing all that would cost $500-600 from Porsche as well for OEM stuff. So yeah, as things wear out, the car is pricey. Oil changes from Porsche are $350+... he is due for a clutch soon and he's thinking it will be over $2500.
@@drewmorg. Yeah, that’s annoying. I’ve just dropped my car off to a trusted suspension specialist to have Eibach lowering springs fitted. Porsche quoted me almost $3,000 to fit them. This specialist, who’s been in business for 40 years and handles Porsche race cars, quoted $700. I also had rear brakes done by my brake specialist for $650 vs Porsche’s quote of $1,700.
@@peterfritzphotoYeah rear brakes for $1700 is just criminal... glad you found a guy! That's the nice thing about owning an out of warranty year... you can just maintain it how you want and save the money! Enjoy man. One thing that never gets old is the howl!
@@drewmorg. 100%!
Cars are about emotion and objective comparisons are great but in my opinion its how they make you feel - I have a 2007 987.1 Boxster and for me it looks and feels fantastic - if anyone is considering a Boxster I would say just do it as there's one for every budget and they are all great to drive.
Excellent advice, Mark.
I just bought a MX5 ND sexond hand. I absolutely love the car. But if one day i can afford it, i would love to drive a boxster. Great cars, the convertible sports car experience is so rewarding.
As far as convertible sports cars go (for people who love to drive their cars), these two are equal #1 in my book. Enjoy!
97,000 miles on my 2016 Mazda MX-5. Other than converting to the Flyin' Miata Wilwood brakes front and rear no repairs needed. I've always like Boxsters, have since they first came out. I do wonder if Boxster drivers are enjoying them twice as much as MX-5 drivers, does twice the cost equal twice the enjoyment? That said, I recently bought a 2016 Jaguar F-Type 3.0S manual transmission coupe. Twice the cost of my MX-5, can't say it's twice the fun but the enjoyment is of a different type. It is wonderful to have the choices.
That's exactly how I viewed the 911 purchase proposition. In the end, I didn't think it was four times more enjoyable than a 10-year-old Boxster. If money was no object, that argument would be moot, and I'd buy a GT3 Touring. For me, personally, the Boxster has so far proven to be 150% more enjoyable than my MX-5 - but for different reasons - mainly around size, engine sound, practicality, road/wind noise, and interior ambience. It's simply different. I often see an F-Type in my neighborhood, and it always turns my head!
@@peterfritzphoto I don't recall ever actually seeing an F-Type here in New Hampshire, USA, before buying mine from a dealer 2,000 miles away in Denver. A leap of faith, an old man's folly perhaps, but at 77 I figured if not now, when? The few hundred feet from the transporter to my driveway was the first I'd ever driven one. Wonderful car, fantastic sound. My MX-5 still makes more sense on the twisty backroads I drive but there is a satisfaction to the Jag. Oh, and chicks dig it!
@@3ducs Haha! Go you!! 👍😄
I take your point. But I think I´d miss my MX5. The lightness, the gearbox, and even to be able to feel like you´re doing 120 MPH when while still at legal speeds. I know it sounds stupid, but at least here in Europe you can get in really awful trouble when speeding (even if it´s just a tad, you know). I´ll probably keep my ND, and maybe add an Alpine which is also a great light little car, and much cheaper 2nd hand than a similarly aged Boxster/Cayman /718
I totally get it, and you’re right. That’s the beauty of the MX5 - it’s alive at any speed. The Alpine is an inspired choice. 👍
I’ve owned and tracked a ‘16 GT4 and a ‘14 911 Turbo S. The GT4 is the same platform as the boxster. Considering the Miata the best convertible ever is way off. I’ve been in some incredible Ferraris, mclarens, and Lamborghinis that giggle at the notion of the boxster taking the top spot. If you’re comparing the boxster to the Miata at their respective price points, then you’ll need to acknowledge that the same applies when you’re looking upward. Otherwise, good video.
Thanks for your insight, Jason. Just want to clarify a few things. I said the MX5 was "the top-selling real sports car of all time", and "one of the best and most accomplished sports cars" - not 'the best convertible ever'. I also said "The Boxster is *arguably* the best *convertible sports car* ever made." I don't consider anything in the Ferrari, McLaren or Lamborghini catalogues to be sports cars. Depending on the model, they're supercars or hypercars.
Love your car videos, keep them coming. I watch a lot of Car UA-cam channels and your videos are honestly up at the top. The cinematography and emotional content of the videos make them excellent to watch.
I currently own a base 718 and have owned 3 Miatas. Very common upgrade I think. I agree if you can afford it, it's a worthwhile progression.
Thank you. I really appreciate that.
I bought a 986 last year and had thought about an MX-5. It came down to me never havning dreamt of owning a Mazda, as good as they are.
Whenever I'm driving and I see an MX-5, I never think that I wish I had bought one of those instead. I fear that if I had gone down that route, that I would be wondering if I was missing out having not bought a Boxster.
They are both great cars, and there's fun to be had in each.
Yep, makes sense to me. Great colour, too. I imagine Guards Red is rare in the 986.
I currently own a 2018 911 Cab GTS with a manual as well as a ND2 2021. I’m selling both and have a Boxster GTS coming next month. It will join my 2021 Boxster Spyder in the garage. The mid-engine manual Porsches are just brilliant!
Oh, wow - what a sight that would be! Will they be the same colour, or different?
@@peterfritzphoto Spyder is Gentian blue with red top and interior. Boxster GTS coming is Guards red, black top and interior which is the same as my current ND2.
@@Closertotruth2 Oh, I love those colours; they’ll look incredible parked side by side. Gentian Blue with a red top is really unique. Thanks for sharing that.
The maintenance on the Porsche makes it a bad move. The oil change for my MX5 was $50 at the dealership. The oil change for the Porsche was $385. I imagine all of the other maintenance would follow suit. However, the Boxster is an upgrade!
@@SBphd You don’t have to use a Porsche dealership to do an oil change. There are plenty of qualified independents who can do that.
Well spoken in every way. You could compare onions, and it would probably sound thoughtful and intuitive. I tip my hat. Well done.
LOL - thank you. I thoroughly relate to your user name - Good Days Ahead.
Always love coming to your channel and seeing how much you enjoy driving and chatting about your cars. My NC2 is definitely the right car for right now, and though I would love to get into a base 981 like yours, it's just too far out of my reach at the moment. Hoping I can get into one down the line when I save more and can afford the higher ownership costs.
Something I think is totally worth highlighting is how underrated the base 981's 2.7L is. It makes nearly 100 HP per liter and gets the manual Boxster from 0-60 MPH in around 5.5 seconds. Very impressive, but what's even more impressive is how tractable it is, how responsive it feels, and how brilliant it sounds. Higher-displacement flat-6s benefit more from power/torque down low, but they're more bass-ish and thrummy throughout the rev range while the smaller engines really howl and shriek as you wind them out, which I absolutely LOVE in this car. It's a real exotic-sounding sports car engine that makes you want to wind it out again and again just for fun, and honestly I think it's the perfect engine pairing for these cars' chassis.
The NC2's 2.0L shares that rev-happy characteristic, and it sounds pretty good for what it is as well. You get a great intake resonance at around 4,000-RPM, and then the last 500 RPM at the top of the tach really scream as you approach the rev limiter. It's an excellent, bulletproof motor that knows it isn't exotic or special, but it works hard and adds character where it can. However, it simply can't hold a candle to the 2.7L in the 981 -- Just a different level of specialness. Hope you continue to enjoy yours and excited to see your next production.
Wow - thank you for this comprehensive, generous comment!
I agree in many ways. For me the Boxster drives better than the 911 as well. Is it better than the Miata? Of course. Still I went the reverse way swapping my 981 for a Miata ND. And I agree once more to Peter: Not being as good as the 981, the Miata still is one of the finest sports cars I've ever driven. Having the bigger 2019 engine with 184 HP helps of course ...
So really no reason to regret giving away a Boxster? Unfortunately yes. I sold my initial 987 to buy the 981. And THAT'S what I shouldn't have done. the 987 is the best modern Porsche to me, combining Stuttgart solidity with the juvenile lightness of an MX5.
All three are certainly fabulous. 👍
I was washed my 981 BS today and the design of it is still absolutely sublime. 🙂
Totally. I still turn back and look at mine every time I park it.