I still can't decide :( ! Now I've bumped up my price range to the low $50,000, and Porsche has jumped into my picture. I'm trying to list the pro's/con's of each car and so far, here is what I came up with: :help

2006 Porsche Boxster :buttrock
_______________________
PRO: Great Styling
PRO: More exotic than the Z4
PRO: Faster, and fun to drive

CON: Considerably more costly


2006 BMW Z4 :buttrock
_______________________

PRO: Better interior (in my opinion)
PRO: Cheaper to buy and own
PRO: Less expensive options

CON: Not as fun to drive
CON: Little bit slower

It's so hard to buy a new car with so many great options out there!!

:buttrock have you drove any of the two cars yet? you might need to to get the feel of them

I drove both on the same day back in June. Here are parts of an email I sent to a friend describing the experience.

===============================================

First stop was the
Porsche dealer for a spin in the Boxster. I
had intended to drive both the base and the S version,
but honestly after driving the base, there was no
need. It was really, really nice. The sound was
wonderful - much more audible than my old 911
(edit: a 99 C2). Handling, at least as far as I could
tell from a test drive, was very nice. Acceleration was
surprisingly satisfying - the base sports 240hp
which isn't going to peel any eyeballs back but will
get the smile going. Honestly I didn't see the need
for any more power.

Finally got back to Pleasanton and figured I'd drop by
the BMW dealer here to take a spin in a Z4. I had low
expectations after the M3 (edit: disappointing test drive),
figuring that if that one
didn't impress then I certainly wasn't going to get
anything out of the weaker engine. Surprise,
surprise, surprise - my faith is restored! It
accelerated nicely, sounded wonderful, and it was
probably the best salesman-accompanied test drive I've
ever had. There's a really cool burble/backfire to
the exhaust when decelerating that I just loved.

=======================================

So which did I choose? Personally I chose neither. Something about parenthood has affected my "buy hot cars" instinct. Maybe when money is flowing a bit more freely I'll indulge myself. I also considered the 350Z roadster and S2000 (liked the former and didn't like the latter).

That said, if I were to choose, I'd probably get the Z4, even though I think I liked the Boxster a bit more. The difference in lease payments that I got was about $350/mo for a pretty loaded Z4 and a fairly basic Boxster. Maintenance is included with the BMW. And I don't track any of my cars, so competance/heritage there is not really an issue for me.

If I were to buy one with the intention of keeping it for a long time, I think I'd be even more inclined to go with the Z4. Just something about owning a Porsche out of warranty - whoops, need a new engine, there goes $10k. I guess I don't make enough money for it.

Personally, I'd rate them this way:
Interior: Boxster (by a hair)
Sound: Boxster, with Z4 close
Handling: Boxster
Acceleration: Same
Cost: Z4

Of course, you need to drive them and pick the one that's right for you.

Hope that helps.

I drove both, and I made a different descision; I got a 2006 BMW 325cI Coupe! It came standard with a sunroof so there wasn't a huge need for a convertible. Ever option (except the sport package and heated seats), I tacked on!

The interior is beautiful, and it was about $15,000 less than a fully loaded Porsche Boxster. I'm pleased, but I still like my Eldorado better!

Which is more fun aside, think of more than just the purchase price. Insurance and maintanace. The Boxter's engine is in a very tight place where it is very hard to get to and work on. The engine needs a lot more general maintanace than the Z4 engines as well. It isn't uncommon to have to drop the engine to do some general maintanace, like replace the rings that can blow up the engine if you don't replace (this doesn' tneed to be done on the Z4).

The Boxter's engine is in a very tight place where it is very hard to get to and work on. The engine needs a lot more general maintanace than the Z4 engines as well. It isn't uncommon to have to drop the engine to do some general maintanace, like replace the rings that can blow up the engine if you don't replace (this doesn' tneed to be done on the Z4).

SB, why do you keep making things up about the Boxster and it's maintenance. There's no "rings" that need to be replaced nor are these "rings" a general replacement item. Matter of fact, there's no engine removal for *any* maintenance. Engine is accessible from top, bottom, front and rear while still in the car.

Do you want to know what the true cost of maintenance is? I'll tell you considering I own a Boxster S. The first maintenance is an oil change at 15K miles. That's it. Yes, it'll cost you $120 from the dealer. Or it'll be cheaper if you do it yourself. However, 10 quarts of Mobil 1 will be a little more than a typical car's 5 quarts. BFD.

The next maintenance comes at 30K miles. Oil change, brake flush, air and pollen filter change and a few other little things. Cost: ~$500 from dealer. This cycle will repeat for every 15/30K miles.

So up to 30K miles it would cost ~$620 in maintenance if you use the dealer. That's not so outrageous neither in price nor amount of maintenance needed.

Boxster's are a piece of shit. I had a 99 and it was the biggest headache, and wallet user. The tops have a tendancy to break and get stuck down when your driving( what a nightmare). Also every little thing that breaks(theres many) you have to take to the dealer cuz the engine is so rammed in there you cant get to anything but the air filter. Bimmer all the way. much much cheaper and less maintenance.

But yea other then that its a nice car...but i wouldnt get another one.

Boxster's are a piece of shit. I had a 99 and it was the biggest headache, and wallet user. The tops have a tendancy to break and get stuck down when your driving( what a nightmare). Also every little thing that breaks(theres many) you have to take to the dealer cuz the engine is so rammed in there you cant get to anything but the air filter. Bimmer all the way. much much cheaper and less maintenance.

But yea other then that its a nice car...but i wouldnt get another one.

Nice 1st post. That's what you get for buying the base model.

Care to list out all of your "issues"? I bet I can list more issues with the E36 M3 than you can with the Boxster.

Boxsters are a piece of sht so I second that but I also dont care for the Z4. I think any 3 series convertible is better. BTW huge difference betwen sunroof and a convertible moron!

Boxsters are a piece of sht so I second that but I also dont care for the Z4. I think any 3 series convertible is better. BTW huge difference betwen sunroof and a convertible moron!

WTF is your problem? :nono

SB, why do you keep making things up about the Boxster and it's maintenance. There's no "rings" that need to be replaced nor are these "rings" a general replacement item. Matter of fact, there's no engine removal for *any* maintenance. Engine is accessible from top, bottom, front and rear while still in the car.

Do you want to know what the true cost of maintenance is? I'll tell you considering I own a Boxster S. The first maintenance is an oil change at 15K miles. That's it. Yes, it'll cost you $120 from the dealer. Or it'll be cheaper if you do it yourself. However, 10 quarts of Mobil 1 will be a little more than a typical car's 5 quarts. BFD.

The next maintenance comes at 30K miles. Oil change, brake flush, air and pollen filter change and a few other little things. Cost: ~$500 from dealer. This cycle will repeat for every 15/30K miles.

So up to 30K miles it would cost ~$620 in maintenance if you use the dealer. That's not so outrageous neither in price nor amount of maintenance needed.


Have you watched them do work on your car? I'm not making this up. I speak to a friend with a 2004 Boxter all the time about maintenance. He's watched the dealership drop his engine six times, all for routine maintenance. I’ve seen that engine bay, and there is no way you can change those spark plugs with how the engine is mounted. The service interval for spark plugs is a lot sooner than BMW’s as well. And there are engine seal rings that need to be replaced, I don’t remember much about them other than if they go, there goes your engine. We replaced them on my mom’s 911, and my friend has had them replaced as well as preventative maintenance.

I just traded my Z4 with step for another Z4 with 6 speed. I looked long and hard at the boxster but in the end the Z won out.

Just more performance for the money. And I think it looks better. But that is a personal opinion.

Have you watched them do work on your car?
No...because my car is still fairly new. However, I have talked extensively with the Porsche mechanic at my dealer. I've also opened up the engine bay to change the air filter (and just to look around) and there's easy access to things that you would expect to get to. Also, after break-in at 2K miles I changed the oil and filter which was a snap. Sorry to disappoint but there's been no engine dropping.

I'm not making this up. I speak to a friend with a 2004 Boxter all the time about maintenance. He's watched the dealership drop his engine six times, all for routine maintenance.
I'm sorry but your friend is either on crack or you are making this up. First of all, if he has a 2004 then why has he needed maintenance service 6 times ??? much less dropping the engine 6 times?

They do not have to drop the engine for maintenance. PERIOD. Maintenance would be several thousand dollars each time if that were true (and it isn't). Call any Porsche dealer and see if they need to drop the engine for maintenance...but just don't call the dealer your friend goes to. :lol

I’ve seen that engine bay, and there is no way you can change those spark plugs with how the engine is mounted.
Well of course you can't change the plugs from the top of the engine bay. FYI, it is a flat 6 motor. The spark plugs are easily accessed on each side of the rear wheels, due to it's flat (pancake) design. Here's a link for a DIY: http://www.ppbb.com/scgi-bin/boards/986/museum.pl?read=217622

The service interval for spark plugs is a lot sooner than BMW’s as well.
I don't know how long the new BMW plugs go for but the Boxster uses platinum plugs. Recommended change interval is 60K miles. And since it's easy to change them, it's no big deal anyway.

And there are engine seal rings that need to be replaced, I don’t remember much about them other than if they go, there goes your engine. We replaced them on my mom’s 911, and my friend has had them replaced as well as preventative maintenance.
Uh no. The seal you're talking about is the RMS (rear main seal). Some cars can develop a leak. This is the only time it needs to be changed. If you don't have a leak then you don't need to change it. It is not a "maintenance" item nor can you do "preventative" maintenance by replacing a perfectly fine seal. Therefore, cost = $0.

So there you have it. I'll give you 1/2 point for coming close with the RMS but you're flat out wrong on all other accounts.

Have you watched them do work on your car? I'm not making this up. I speak to a friend with a 2004 Boxter all the time about maintenance. He's watched the dealership drop his engine six times, all for routine maintenance. I’ve seen that engine bay, and there is no way you can change those spark plugs with how the engine is mounted. The service interval for spark plugs is a lot sooner than BMW’s as well. And there are engine seal rings that need to be replaced, I don’t remember much about them other than if they go, there goes your engine. We replaced them on my mom’s 911, and my friend has had them replaced as well as preventative maintenance.

Yeap...a buddy of mine confirmed the same thing. I couldn't believe it! They had to drop the engine to work on it. Yeah, and "I'm SURE" they'll put it back on correctly also...

Yeap...a buddy of mine confirmed the same thing. I couldn't believe it! They had to drop the engine to work on it. Yeah, and "I'm SURE" they'll put it back on correctly also...

OK, I give up. You guys are all correct. We pay $2K labor for the removal and replacement of the engine just to change oil, plugs, filters, etc. I'm sure your buddy also forgot to mention that the wheels need to be removed to add air to the tires every week. That costs a lot of money too. :rolleyes

And then there's the monthly blinker fluid change...

And then there's the monthly blinker fluid change...

??? I thought this was just once a year?

On another note, my significant other and I test drove the Boxster S today. I am wicked impressed. This car is absolutely much much much different from a Boxster S I drove maybe 2 or 3 years ago. I'm not talking about the engine power (which feels anemic even at 280 hp). I'm talking handling. I'm afraid this car feels much more planted than my Z4. The steering feel is much better and so are the brakes. This is not to say that the Z4's is bad. It's just that the Boxster's is that good. Throttle response, however, the Z4 is much much better. I also like the shifting of the Z4 better. It feels "crisper" and precise. The Boxster S's felt like there's something mushy at the end of each gear travel. The Boxster S also had more room for the passenger. It basically had more "knee" area. My fiance kept running back and forth to each car to compare.

When my fiance was done driving, she ended up parking it right next to the Z4. Both tops were down. Admittedly, I really like the styling of the Z4 better. The Boxster S looks good, but there's just something about the Z4 that's more emotional. The whole time I was at the dealership, I kept saying to myself to wait for the M Roadster. But the M Roadster is not going to handle better than the Boxster S. It will be much much faster, but it won't handle better. My Z4 with the sports package is so stiff enough as it is.

So it's a tough call between the M Roadster and the Boxster S... But as soon as I factor in the engine needing to be dropped on the Boxster S, I just can't see why I'd go for it...

Holy mis-information batman. As a Boxster owner, I can tell that some of you are full of shat. Taking the engine out of a Boxster is a 1 hour deal. It is 6 freaking bolts and the thing sits onto a specially made cart. It's not $2k to take it out. It can't go back in wrong. There are no special seals or rings to replace. It is a very well engineered car. It is one of the best handling cars ever produced. Some of you need to get your heads out of your bums.

Holy mis-information batman. As a Boxster owner, I can tell that some of you are full of shat. Taking the engine out of a Boxster is a 1 hour deal. It is 6 freaking bolts and the thing sits onto a specially made cart. It's not $2k to take it out. It can't go back in wrong. There are no special seals or rings to replace. It is a very well engineered car. It is one of the best handling cars ever produced. Some of you need to get your heads out of your bums.

One thing I also heard about the Boxster is that in order to purchase one, one would need to get a mandatory lobotomy in order to dismiss a lot of the car's misgivings... Is this true???

Yeah, sure. :rolleyes

It's a great car. A little small on the inside, but still has more total storage space than the Z4. The sport seats are some of the best OE seats made. The ride isn't bad and the 987 is supposed to be even better. The 986 wasn't slow, but it wasn't fast either. But, those cars make the most wonderful noises.

I only got rid of mine because I'm not a convertable kind of guy. But, my next car is a Cayman S.

Hmmm....in my research into "Boxster ownership", it seems that an unusually large amount of these engines fail <30k miles. What's up with that? http://forums1.roadfly.com/porsche/forums/boxster/6178561-1.html

It's almost like the E46 M3 engine failing prematurely - but at least BMW has owned up to it! Porsche seems to be dragging their heels on this. This DEFINITELY weighs in on me purchasing a Boxster S...or at least not own it - maybe lease it?

I think you guys need to get a S2000, it will whooop Z4 in everyway and will be pretty close to the new boxster. Except for the fact that is a reliable jap car.

I think you guys need to get a S2000, it will whooop Z4 in everyway and will be pretty close to the new boxster. Except for the fact that is a reliable jap car.

Yeah, whatever... :stickoutt

Yeah, whatever... :stickoutt

haha...you know it's true and don't give me that it's still a honda crap. A good car is a good car.

haha...you know it's true and don't give me that it's still a honda crap. A good car is a good car.

No doubt, it's a good car... But I'm more looking for great cars... :stickoutt

:ar15firin :chainsaw :headshot :ak :ripperwho :para: :bigun2 :argue :rock: :grenade :para: :chainsaw :para: :ripperwho

my friend has an s2000 and it looks nice hes got a hard top and a nice rims , i raced him and he beat me by a car in a 2 gear roll, i bet he wont beat me if we race off the hole tho.

IMO the Z4 is a very feminine looking car, Boxster is definitely the way to go.

I just bought a Z4 3.0 with sport package, premium package, xenons, heated seats. I looked at the boxter S and set my limit at 60k. I still could not get everything I wanted at that price and if I tried to match the options with what I got I would be closer to 66k+ In my mind there wasn't much of a comparison. The Porsche is a great car, if you put the right options on it and have the cash.

IMO the Z4 is a very feminine looking car, Boxster is definitely the way to go.

Let me get this straight...you're driving a "Sentra" and you think the Z4 is a feminine car? :stickoutt

I honestly dont "get" the whole Z4 Vs. Boxster thing. It seems that some people have to set out to prove things to other drivers....usually those with low self esteem or tiny peepees. WHO CARES!? I didnt buy my car to drag race everyone/everything that pulls up next to me. I dont have feelings of inadequacy or the need to prove anything. I could care less what others think of my car...excuse me, BOTH of our Z4s. When I get in my car, it is to drive for MY pleasure....not for those around me. Pick a car, drive it and get over your low self esteem issues, folks. The moment you buy ANY car....you can guarantee that some auto maker somewhere is working on one to beat it somehow.... GO DRIVE.

--Chad
http://idisk.mac.com/powerbookbeetle/Public/makomanotag.jpg

Look at sig much more fun then either one :D

Much more cheaper and IMO better looking. Handles better then the Z4 and I think then the Boxter. The power on the S2k is more then either but less torque.

OE S2k seats are great! The only thing I hate about the interior of the car is that it only has two front speakers.

http://www.evasivemotorsports.com/projects/s2/09.jpg

[QUOTE=Vladimir L]Look at sig much more fun then either one :D
Much more cheaper and IMO better looking. Handles better then the Z4 and I think then the Boxter. The power on the S2k is more then either but less torque.
OE S2k seats are great! The only thing I hate about the interior of the car is that it only has two front speakers.


Your car is cool and I just got through selling mine and getting the Z4 3.0. I am glad you like your car and you should, the car in my opinion is one of the best bang for buck cars you can own. but, someday when you grow up and want more than just a 4-wheel sportbike than you might want to look at a more grown-up car. Things that are important at 23 are not of the same importance as they are at 33. Luxury, comfort, not being treated like sh*t when you take your 32k car to the dealership for service. Enjoy the car, I did mine. But stay on s2ki unless you have something valueable to add.

[QUOTE=Vladimir L]Look at sig much more fun then either one :D
Much more cheaper and IMO better looking. Handles better then the Z4 and I think then the Boxter. The power on the S2k is more then either but less torque.
OE S2k seats are great! The only thing I hate about the interior of the car is that it only has two front speakers.
Your car is cool and I just got through selling mine and getting the Z4 3.0. I am glad you like your car and you should, the car in my opinion is one of the best bang for buck cars you can own. but, someday when you grow up and want more than just a 4-wheel sportbike than you might want to look at a more grown-up car. Things that are important at 23 are not of the same importance as they are at 33. Luxury, comfort, not being treated like sh*t when you take your 32k car to the dealership for service. Enjoy the car, I did mine. But stay on s2ki unless you have something valueable to add.


Oh I like the old S54 model Z cars and the new Z coupe or whatever it is. Honda has great service thats why they sell so many cars. When it comes down to it Honda need very little service because their reliable. BMW does have the best service package though with free maintenance for the first 4 years. Comfort and luxury well the Z is more of a cruiser. If I want that I'd get a 5 series. I wouldnt get a Boxter, S2000, Z4, Corvette and ect. It also seems like in the thread their comparing performance. The S2000 has clearly shines here besides its obvious flaw of no torque. Well but at the end its sure fun as hell to drive.

[QUOTE=tonyw]


Oh I like the old S54 model Z cars and the new Z coupe or whatever it is. Honda has great service thats why they sell so many cars. When it comes down to it Honda need very little service because their reliable. BMW does have the best service package though with free maintenance for the first 4 years. Comfort and luxury well the Z is more of a cruiser. If I want that I'd get a 5 series. I wouldnt get a Boxter, S2000, Z4, Corvette and ect. It also seems like in the thread their comparing performance. The S2000 has clearly shines here besides its obvious flaw of no torque. Well but at the end its sure fun as hell to drive.

I had a hell of a lot of fun in the S-turns and other fun places to drive. I had no fun in stop and go traffic for 45 minutes each day. The stock S2000 can clearly beat the stock Z4 in a drag race. The only way though is by reving the engine to 6500 rpm and dropping the clutch. If you do that a lot and haven't fried your clutch then great you are lucky. I saw quite a lot of posts with people frying clutches at s2ki. By the way, mine was only at the dealership twice for regular maintenance and oil changes but each time, at least here in Austin, they could care less if you have a civic or S2000. I asked for Mobil one and caught them in the back putting standard Honda oil in. They tried to charge me $96 for that service. I made them remove the oil and put in the Mobil one I asked for. They were pissed at me even though they made the mistake. The guy in the back said S2000 owners are their biggest pain in the asses. No thanks, they can keep it.

[QUOTE=Vladimir L]
I had a hell of a lot of fun in the S-turns and other fun places to drive. I had no fun in stop and go traffic for 45 minutes each day. The stock S2000 can clearly beat the stock Z4 in a drag race. The only way though is by reving the engine to 6500 rpm and dropping the clutch. If you do that a lot and haven't fried your clutch then great you are lucky. I saw quite a lot of posts with people frying clutches at s2ki. By the way, mine was only at the dealership twice for regular maintenance and oil changes but each time, at least here in Austin, they could care less if you have a civic or S2000. I asked for Mobil one and caught them in the back putting standard Honda oil in. They tried to charge me $96 for that service. I made them remove the oil and put in the Mobil one I asked for. They were pissed at me even though they made the mistake. The guy in the back said S2000 owners are their biggest pain in the asses. No thanks, they can keep it.


And twisties too. S2k owners are pain in the asses their very picky about their cars for the most part. I replaced 2 clutches because I didnt break the first one in. This one though has over 3000 miles. From a roll is where the S2k stands out most not launching it. My car never gets launched anymore. I have a racing clutch and comptech rear diff.

[QUOTE=Vladimir L]The stock S2000 can clearly beat the stock Z4 in a drag race. .

ummm....NO. Maybe the 2.5L, but certainly not the 3.0... Long term tests also have the Z4 getting even faster 0-60...

From Car and Driver: "The 5.3-second 0-to-60 (Z4) squeaked ahead of the Honda by 0.1 second and out front of the Nissan by twice that. The quarter-mile blurs past in 14 seconds flat, again 0.1 second ahead of the Honda, and this time, 0.3 up on the 350Z. All three clock an identical 99 mph in the distance. The BMW leads in top speed at 152 mph, with the Nissan and Porsche close behind at 148. The governed Audi hangs back at 125 mph."

[QUOTE=tonyw]
ummm....NO. Maybe the 2.5L, but certainly not the 3.0... Long term tests also have the Z4 getting even faster 0-60...
From Car and Driver: "The 5.3-second 0-to-60 (Z4) squeaked ahead of the Honda by 0.1 second and out front of the Nissan by twice that. The quarter-mile blurs past in 14 seconds flat, again 0.1 second ahead of the Honda, and this time, 0.3 up on the 350Z. All three clock an identical 99 mph in the distance. The BMW leads in top speed at 152 mph, with the Nissan and Porsche close behind at 148. The governed Audi hangs back at 125 mph."

I don't think the Z4 would beat the S2000 in a drag race where the driver of the S doesn't care about his car. If he starts at about 6500 rpms and drops the clutch and shift at the redlines he should be just slightly ahead. I think an average driver in an Z4 can beat an average driver in a S2000 but it would probably come down to the driver.

[QUOTE=M3Armand]
I don't think the Z4 would beat the S2000 in a drag race where the driver of the S doesn't care about his car. If he starts at about 6500 rpms and drops the clutch and shift at the redlines he should be just slightly ahead. I think an average driver in an Z4 can beat an average driver in a S2000 but it would probably come down to the driver.

The same driver in the different cars produced the Z4 beating the S2000 - in Car and Driver, Road and Track, and I believe Motor Trend when I looked it up prior to purchasing my Z4.

[QUOTE=tonyw]
ummm....NO. Maybe the 2.5L, but certainly not the 3.0... Long term tests also have the Z4 getting even faster 0-60...
From Car and Driver: "The 5.3-second 0-to-60 (Z4) squeaked ahead of the Honda by 0.1 second and out front of the Nissan by twice that. The quarter-mile blurs past in 14 seconds flat, again 0.1 second ahead of the Honda, and this time, 0.3 up on the 350Z. All three clock an identical 99 mph in the distance. The BMW leads in top speed at 152 mph, with the Nissan and Porsche close behind at 148. The governed Audi hangs back at 125 mph."


0 to 60 meaningless

S2k handles like its on rails. If you know how to drive it well can pull a 13.7 if you care about that. I do like the "Z" cars though. I'm sorry but Car & Driver arent going to test the car at over 150 MPH. I have taken my car 152 with still room to go even higher. A guy on this board pulled a 13.66 with his S2000 launching at 7700 but he still pulled it. The Z4 is an easier car to drive which is a plus. Doesnt oversteer as much or is as twitchy.

[QUOTE=M3Armand]


0 to 60 meaningless

S2k handles like its on rails. If you know how to drive it well can pull a 13.7 if you care about that. I do like the "Z" cars though. I'm sorry but Car & Driver arent going to test the car at over 150 MPH. I have taken my car 152 with still room to go even higher. A guy on this board pulled a 13.66 with his S2000 launching at 7700 but he still pulled it. The Z4 is an easier car to drive which is a plus. Doesnt oversteer as much or is as twitchy.

I wasn't questioning the handling aspect of the S2000. I hope you're not saying that the S2000 is faster on the straights. But with the SAME EXACT driver (who cares or not cares about beating on the car) driving both cars, the Z4 3.0 will always be faster. It is also faster towards the top end since it has significantly MUCH more torque than the S2000. If you want to talk handling, then I would agree that the S2000 has the slight edge over the Z4 3.0 with the sports package. If you want to talk top speed, the only thing limiting the Z4 beyond 155 is the speed limiter. If you go on the z4um.com board, you'll come across a lot more Z4 folks who track their car and have driven well past 155.

[QUOTE=Vladimir L]
I wasn't questioning the handling aspect of the S2000. I hope you're not saying that the S2000 is faster on the straights. But with the SAME EXACT driver (who cares or not cares about beating on the car) driving both cars, the Z4 3.0 will always be faster. It is also faster towards the top end since it has significantly MUCH more torque than the S2000. If you want to talk handling, then I would agree that the S2000 has the slight edge over the Z4 3.0 with the sports package. If you want to talk top speed, the only thing limiting the Z4 beyond 155 is the speed limiter. If you go on the z4um.com board, you'll come across a lot more Z4 folks who track their car and have driven well past 155.


Ok so we agree on R&T and all those magazines being crap thats a start. :)

Yeah I'll be hones to get the most out of an S2k you have to be a hella good driver. Lets leave it at drivers race both fun awesome cars to drive.

[QUOTE=M3Armand]
Ok so we agree on R&T and all those magazines being crap thats a start. :)
Yeah I'll be hones to get the most out of an S2k you have to be a hella good driver. Lets leave it at drivers race both fun awesome cars to drive.
:beer I agree!

lol...i started a war. Anyways...way I think about it is s2k is the same but $25k less outta your pocket. Sure Z4 is gorgeous but s2k is very good looking too. Z4 is luxurious, s2k interior is simple and has leather all over, it sure don't have cheap interior like the civics and accords. I think the less torque thing on the s2k doesn't really matter too, that is why the redline is at 9k. The car is engineered to perform in higher rpm. So final thought, if i wanna buy a roadster, i'd buy a s2k simply because its 25k cheaper and it performs fairly same or better. If I want a bmw sports car, shieet...i'd rather buy a m3.

I thought this post was a question regarding a Z4 or Boxster?

Anyway, I have both ('03 Z4 3.0 and '03 Boxster (not S). The dealer charge for the 15K mile service (Boxster) quoted me $607. I had it done at a Porsche shop for $350. The rear main seal was leaking and had to be replaced at 17K miles, that was covered under warranty, but they said the clutch was worn and should be replaced . . . another $500 or so. The main computer crapped out around 15K and had to be replaced. That was covered under warranty.

So far with the Z4, I had to have a window realigned that came off its track.

They are both a blast to drive, just different. I like 'em both equally. I feel the service cost on the Boxster is going to be a lot more.

(I don't know how anyone could even remotely compare a Honda S2000 to either of these cars)

Roman, you are correct this was origally a comparison between the Boxter and Z4. We got off on a tangent because of a previous post. To me the base boxter compairs pretty well with the Z4 2.5 not with the Z4 3.0. If you want to compair the Z4 3.0, I think you need to step into the Boxter S in which case you are talking about a lot more money. I almost bought the Boxter S, it is fun to drive and extremely well ballanced, but it was more significantly more expensive (63k with the options I wanted) and was not as smooth as the Z4 in everyday driving. I believe you can option out a Boxter to be more car than the Z4 but you are going to top 70k in my opinion. Personally I like BMW and their service. Porsche has a legendary name but they usually have a legendary service cost.

I thought this post was a question regarding a Z4 or Boxster?
Anyway, I have both ('03 Z4 3.0 and '03 Boxster (not S). The dealer charge for the 15K mile service (Boxster) quoted me $607. I had it done at a Porsche shop for $350. The rear main seal was leaking and had to be replaced at 17K miles, that was covered under warranty, but they said the clutch was worn and should be replaced . . . another $500 or so. The main computer crapped out around 15K and had to be replaced. That was covered under warranty.
So far with the Z4, I had to have a window realigned that came off its track.
They are both a blast to drive, just different. I like 'em both equally. I feel the service cost on the Boxster is going to be a lot more.
(I don't know how anyone could even remotely compare a Honda S2000 to either of these cars)


Roman the track performance on the S2k is as good as the boxter and better then the Z4. The reliability facter also much higher and cheaper to own. I love the s2k interior more then the boxter. The seats on the S2k are pretty damn nice. The only complaint is the speakers!

S2000 and Boxter pure sports car

Z4 daily driver if you want a convertible

Silverstreak(BFC MOD) also happened to run 13.66 on an S2000 which is pretty impressive.

Roman the track performance on the S2k is as good as the boxter and better then the Z4. The reliability facter also much higher and cheaper to own. I love the s2k interior more then the boxter. The seats on the S2k are pretty damn nice. The only complaint is the speakers!

S2000 and Boxter pure sports car

Z4 daily driver if you want a convertible

Silverstreak(BFC MOD) also happened to run 13.66 on an S2000 which is pretty impressive.

Why must you persist? I owned a 2003 S2000 with 14000 miles on it when I sold it. I had to pay $69 for oil changes at standard Honda recommended schedules + $99 and over 140 for the 12000 mile service. The Potenza S-02s were 144 a piece at tirerack and they only last for about 12000 miles. I don't have to pay crap for service at the BMW and they give me another BMW to drive while it is in service. Try getting that at your local honda dealership. I never could. I also get 4 year 50000 warrantee vs your 3 year 36000 mile warrantee. My insurance at USAA went down $88 every 6 months with 500 mile deductables to $340 per every 6 months. It costs less to own the Z4 trust me. And the extra money up front buys luxery and sport not just sport.

And the extra money up front buys luxery and sport not just sport.

And a heckuva lot more torque. AND THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR OF ALL... which car would the women rather get a ride in? Errrr...ummmm...NOT the Honda. Vlad, I don't even want to read you countering that one. :stickoutt

Tony, at this point, it's useless to argue with him since he's probably just egging us on... I mean, who in the right mind would argue pro S2000 stuff in a Z4 forum? It's almost like he's trying to convince us to switch or he's posting in the Z4 forum from buyer's remorse and trying to convince himself? :)

Lastly, the 13.66 or whatever was probably obtained with factors where all the planets practically had to align themselves...

And a heckuva lot more torque. AND THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR OF ALL... which car would the women rather get a ride in? Errrr...ummmm...NOT the Honda. Vlad, I don't even want to read you countering that one. :stickoutt
Tony, at this point, it's useless to argue with him since he's probably just egging us on... I mean, who in the right mind would argue pro S2000 stuff in a Z4 forum? It's almost like he's trying to convince us to switch or he's posting in the Z4 forum from buyer's remorse and trying to convince himself? :)
Lastly, the 13.66 or whatever was probably obtained with factors where all the planets practically had to align themselves...

I agree! This thread is dragging on too long anyway!

Why must you persist? I owned a 2003 S2000 with 14000 miles on it when I sold it. I had to pay $69 for oil changes at standard Honda recommended schedules + $99 and over 140 for the 12000 mile service. The Potenza S-02s were 144 a piece at tirerack and they only last for about 12000 miles. I don't have to pay crap for service at the BMW and they give me another BMW to drive while it is in service.

Why can't you just change the oil yourself? And you think that free maintanence is really free for your z4? You paid that sh*t up front when you bought the car.

[QUOTE=M3Armand]which car would the women rather get a ride in? Errrr...ummmm...NOT the Honda.QUOTE]

Hmmm...I don't know if I agree on that one, but I know m3 will make the panties come off, 3 pairs too! lol

Tires are expensive I have to geek up over 1000 dollars for S03.

Heh I know plenty of women who hate the front looks of the Z4.

Heh I know plenty of women who hate the front looks of the Z4.
Well, that pretty much explains your taste . . .


Tonyw I test drove the Boxster S too. I agree, that one is certainly a step up from the standard Boxster. the Boxster is the wife's daily driver (weather permiting) and for her, the "S" wasn't important. The car fits her like a glove. She's only 4' 10" and it's one of the few sportscars where the seats actually fit her (she doesn't need a back cushion to get her close to the pedals). Plus the cost was a major factor . . . Don't tell her this, but the real reason is I couldn't have her driving a faster car than me!

Why can't you just change the oil yourself? And you think that free maintanence is really free for your z4? You paid that sh*t up front when you bought the car.

You don't think your time is worth money?? I have a friend who built a RV-8. Everyone told him it must be inexpensive to build the plane yourself. He told them it cost him 12 months of his life. Obviously I could have done the oil change myself and most of the service myself but why??? I have enough oil stains in the garage from my brother-in-law comes to visit. I did pay some for the service up front. My S2000 cost me 31k new in 2003. It cost me every year after that. My Z4 cost me 45k (Last of the 2005s at the dealership) the difference is 14k. For that 14k I have things like sport switchable suspension and throttle response, 18 inch sport rims (the S2000 came with 16s) on run flat tires, a much more luxurious cabin, GOBS of TORQUE, 4 year 50k mile warrantee with maintenance, etc..... and maybe the most important thing to me, Not being treated like I am buying a civic. I have owned a civic si, prelude, accord, S2000 and I loved all the cars but every Honda dealership between Austin and Houston never treated me as good as BMW of Austin has. That might change but for now I could not be happier.

I dunno how good the BMW dealers are in Austin, but damn...our BMW dealers in the bay area suck. My sister's e46 m3 went in for a differential TSB problem, they friggin scratched her bumper. So the dealer fixed it, and put a new scratched on it. Now the dealer fixed the new scratch again, then I went over and check. The car has over sprayed paint all over one side of the car. I dunno WTF is wrong with them. My god, it's a f'ing M3, the dealers treat the m3 like a Ferrari when its for sale. But treat it like shit when in maintanence. The best dealer exp. I've had has to be Lexus, nothing can compare.

Heh I know plenty of women who hate the front looks of the Z4.

Heh this - I didn't say they needed to LIKE the front of the Z4. But if you ask them which car would they rather be seen in, the Honda or the BMW? If you say the Honda, you're either seriously wishful thinking or those women don't have a full set of teeth!

I'm sure you can find 1 of 20 women or so that would prefer to be seen in the Honda (maybe the "earth crunchy" ones that think the Honda gets much better gas mileage or something - which it DOES NOT, btw: 29 mpg Z4 vs. 25 mpg S2k). You can also maybe get the same amount of people (1 of 20 or so) than can make the S2000 do a 1/4 mile faster than the Z4. But the reality of it is, ON AVERAGE, the Z4 3.0 IS faster and MORE women would rather be seen in a BMW than a Honda when given the choice between the two - probably the same way they'd rather be seen in a Porsche than a BMW. That's just the way it is. Now notice that I didn't say anything about handling (where the S2000 is very slightly better) so please don't even bring that up.

I dunno how good the BMW dealers are in Austin, but damn...our BMW dealers in the bay area suck. My sister's e46 m3 went in for a differential TSB problem, they friggin scratched her bumper. So the dealer fixed it, and put a new scratched on it. Now the dealer fixed the new scratch again, then I went over and check. The car has over sprayed paint all over one side of the car. I dunno WTF is wrong with them. My god, it's a f'ing M3, the dealers treat the m3 like a Ferrari when its for sale. But treat it like shit when in maintanence. The best dealer exp. I've had has to be Lexus, nothing can compare.

Sorry to here that. The dealership I have delt with here and in Houston have been great. I have had problems with Honda Dealerships in about 4 States. Like the M3 they treat the S2000 like gold when you are buying it and then they treat you like crap when you are servicing it. If that had been my M3 someones ass would be on the otherside of my foot. If all this is documented then I would contact BMW and find out what can be done to rectify this problem. Even though the dealership is owned by a private individual it is amazing what they will do to keep thier "scores" with BMW high.

I repeat. . .





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