F82 M4 vs Boxster and which model year

jeep · 10-19-2020, 04:10 PM

I am in the market for a convertible, since I sold my E93, considering 2018+ M4 and Porsche Boxster Convertibles. I am a boring mostly BMW person and this will be my 5th, so have been debating to try something else hence between an M4 and a Porsche Boxster S. What I love about the M4 is the practicality of being able to ride together and enjoy the drive but the Porsche drives amazing. They are about the same price point.

What would you go for (lol not the best forum to ask that question). Any other options you would consider at this price point. Would like to bring it in below $60k.

Thx

stein_325i · 10-19-2020, 07:19 PM

I would go for the Boxster, however only if you have another car in the garage. The Boxster is daily-able, however of course with two seats, a low ride height, and even with two trunks its more of a weekend backroads carver than a daily.

I had a 2017 S 6MT and it was pure bliss, however, it was the third car. Everything in that car from steering, brakes, clutch, shifter etc. was excellent. The Flat-4 is not the preferred engine choice of mine compared to the 6 especially in noise, however, for a first time Porsche owner it is plenty fine.

Haven't driven the M4 vert so can't speak to that, but I would imagine its a better one car solution and will feel familiar since you've had BMW's. I would reccomend you Test drive/rent each car out to get a good feel because they really are quite different.

Not too many options sadly at the $60k price point for drop tops other than maybe a C63 vert. Would you be doing manual or automatic?

scoale · 10-19-2020, 09:08 PM

Very different propositions.

In my experience (981 BS), the Porsche turns in sharper, corners flatter, powers out of corners better, puts power down better, AND the suspension is more compliant. The steering is better, transmission is better, and the exhaust sounds way better, (again, NA). In addition, putting the top up/down is a touch of the finger. BTW, this car is EASILY daily driveable....if....you are ok with getting in/out of it on an ongoing basis.

I don't have experence with an M4 vert but the F80 accelerates harder and is much easier to get in/out of.

If this is a 3rd car, Porsche. If a 2nd car, BMW.

YMMV

jeep · 10-19-2020, 11:39 PM

Thanks folks, I felt the same, I had an e93 which was great but felt heavy. I did drive the boxster recently and loved the drive, drove a 2008 H6 as well as a 2017 H4, felt the latter to be more nimble and fast, in terms of sound as well it was not bad, however M4 comes across as a mean machine but it is heavy. I wish there was an M2 vert which is the perfect package. This will be the 3rd car, so looks like the consensus is shaping up for a Porsche.

stein_325i · 10-20-2020, 07:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeep

Thanks folks, I felt the same, I had an e93 which was great but felt heavy. I did drive the boxster recently and loved the drive, drove a 2008 H6 as well as a 2017 H4, felt the latter to be more nimble and fast, in terms of sound as well it was not bad, however M4 comes across as a mean machine but it is heavy. I wish there was an M2 vert which is the perfect package. This will be the 3rd car, so looks like the consensus is shaping up for a Porsche.

Go for the Boxster then, being a third vehicle, it's definitely the best choice and easily more of a pure sports car with less compromises (dynamically).

Redacre · 10-20-2020, 09:11 AM

I've owned a bunch of convertibles and the best ones were those that were designed from the start as a vert. A better comparison would be with the Z4 M40i.

Arcades · 10-20-2020, 02:23 PM

I mean... if you have the cash for it. I throw it at the Porsche 718 Speedster. A Flat6, PDK or 6MT. Car looks amazing. Or maybe the Z4 M40i.

If you can, the base 718 Boxster can work too.

jpy1980 · 10-20-2020, 02:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arcades

I mean... if you have the cash for it. I throw it at the Porsche 718 Speedster. A Flat6, PDK or 6MT. Car looks amazing. Or maybe the Z4 M40i.

If you can, the base 718 Boxster can work too.

I just saw the speedster in and it looked glorious! Silver with red interior and a red top. Droooll.

therealkenc · 10-20-2020, 03:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeep

Thanks folks, I felt the same, I had an e93 which was great but felt heavy. I did drive the boxster recently and loved the drive, drove a 2008 H6 as well as a 2017 H4, felt the latter to be more nimble and fast, in terms of sound as well it was not bad, however M4 comes across as a mean machine but it is heavy. I wish there was an M2 vert which is the perfect package. This will be the 3rd car, so looks like the consensus is shaping up for a Porsche.

As the owner of an F83 and someone who's test-driven the 718, I'd say if it's your 3rd car then go for the 718. I love my F83 and look forward to driving it all the time, but it doesn't drive on rails like the 718 does. The 718 also isn't the mean beast that the F83 is when it wants to be.

Humdizzle · 10-20-2020, 04:21 PM

i don't see an issue dailying a boxster.

you live in cali and it sounds like its just you or you + wife/gf. its got enough space for two people. if you need more luggage space for a weekend trip flying out somewhere just get a rental from enterprise and drop it at the airport.

if scraping wasn't an issue in your m3 it shouldn't be an issue for the boxster. my m3 is lowered with a lip and i never scrape.

arashir · 10-20-2020, 04:34 PM

When I was cross shopping the M4 with with 718, it was the 4 cylinder engine that killed it for me.

RoundelM3 · 10-21-2020, 08:19 AM

I owned an original Boxster for 5 years, and it was my last-ever Porsche. It was cramped (for me, over 6'/225#), the engine was only accessible from below, and it was just not practical. No real comparison between it and an F82. Based on my ownership experience, I wouldn't consider buying another Porsche. If the OP is dead-set on a roadster, a Z4 M40i would be a better choice.

stein_325i · 10-21-2020, 08:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RoundelM3

I owned an original Boxster for 5 years, and it was my last-ever Porsche. It was cramped (for me, over 6'/225#), the engine was only accessible from below, and it was just not practical. No real comparison between it and an F82. Based on my ownership experience, I wouldn't consider buying another Porsche. If the OP is dead-set on a roadster, a Z4 M40i would be a better choice.

Z4 is lacking a proper roadster transmission

RoundelM3 · 10-21-2020, 08:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jstein55

Z4 is lacking a proper roadster transmission

Nonetheless, it's still a better choice than a Boxster S (or any Porsche in that price range).

stein_325i · 10-21-2020, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RoundelM3

Quote:

Originally Posted by jstein55

Z4 is lacking a proper roadster transmission

Nonetheless, it's still a better choice than a Boxster S (or any Porsche in that price range).

I'll agree to disagree on that one... my boxster was much better than the Z4 M40i I had as a loaner, even with the flat-4.

Humdizzle · 10-21-2020, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jstein55

I'll agree to disagree on that one... my boxster was much better than the Z4 M40i I had as a loaner, even with the flat-4.

i think he's saying the Porsche costs more to operate and is smaller inside and less practical day to day... therefor the z4 is better.

performance comes with trade offs. having a superior mid engine layout means working on the engine will be a bit more cumbersome and you should probably invest in a set of quick jacks if you want to work on it yourself.

i agree with you that the boxster is the better sports car. it wins pretty much every comparo review against the z4.

jeep · 10-28-2020, 01:08 AM

Looks like the consensus definitely is for the Boxster, though I do agree it is not a mean machine like an M4. There was a pre-owned Spyder at the local dealership which looked awesome, didn't get a chance to drive it. I was surprised it took a while to move. At the moment I am considering 2014 981 S with almost 50k miles. I do have the concern at the back of my mind about lack of access to the motor. I do tinker with my cars to fix any small niggles and it will be a upsetting to have to take it to the $tealer every time.

mattylmbr · 10-28-2020, 06:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeep

Looks like the consensus definitely is for the Boxster, though I do agree it is not a mean machine like an M4. There was a pre-owned Spyder at the local dealership which looked awesome, didn't get a chance to drive it. I was surprised it took a while to move. At the moment I am considering 2014 981 S with almost 50k miles. I do have the concern at the back of my mind about lack of access to the motor. I do tinker with my cars to fix any small niggles and it will be a upsetting to have to take it to the $tealer every time.

981 Boxster is an amazing vehicle - and - you won't be disappointed. Not the same violent speed as an Fx M3 or 4, but it will be one of the best handling cars you ever own. Engine access is an issue - but - it won't need much work. Just sold my 981 S - and miss it every day.

stein_325i · 10-28-2020, 08:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeep

Looks like the consensus definitely is for the Boxster, though I do agree it is not a mean machine like an M4. There was a pre-owned Spyder at the local dealership which looked awesome, didn't get a chance to drive it. I was surprised it took a while to move. At the moment I am considering 2014 981 S with almost 50k miles. I do have the concern at the back of my mind about lack of access to the motor. I do tinker with my cars to fix any small niggles and it will be a upsetting to have to take it to the $tealer every time.

If you go the Porsche route, avoid the stealership (unless CPO) and find a good indy shop that specializes on Porsche's and German cars.

kyrix1st · 10-28-2020, 07:38 PM

718 GTS 4 cylinder was lethargic. I would go with 981 boxster/cayman GT4.

10-19-2020, 04:10 PM	#1
jeep Private First Class 71 Rep 116 Posts Drives: 23 X7 40i,18 M4,19 530e,08 e70 Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: California iTrader: (0)	F82 M4 vs Boxster and which model year I am in the market for a convertible, since I sold my E93, considering 2018+ M4 and Porsche Boxster Convertibles. I am a boring mostly BMW person and this will be my 5th, so have been debating to try something else hence between an M4 and a Porsche Boxster S. What I love about the M4 is the practicality of being able to ride together and enjoy the drive but the Porsche drives amazing. They are about the same price point. What would you go for (lol not the best forum to ask that question). Any other options you would consider at this price point. Would like to bring it in below $60k. Thx
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10-19-2020, 07:19 PM	#2
stein_325i Ring Leader of G8X Haters 25083 Rep 8,762 Posts Drives: A Car Join Date: Dec 2017 Location: All-Around iTrader: (0)	I would go for the Boxster, however only if you have another car in the garage. The Boxster is daily-able, however of course with two seats, a low ride height, and even with two trunks its more of a weekend backroads carver than a daily. I had a 2017 S 6MT and it was pure bliss, however, it was the third car. Everything in that car from steering, brakes, clutch, shifter etc. was excellent. The Flat-4 is not the preferred engine choice of mine compared to the 6 especially in noise, however, for a first time Porsche owner it is plenty fine. Haven't driven the M4 vert so can't speak to that, but I would imagine its a better one car solution and will feel familiar since you've had BMW's. I would reccomend you Test drive/rent each car out to get a good feel because they really are quite different. Not too many options sadly at the $60k price point for drop tops other than maybe a C63 vert. Would you be doing manual or automatic? __________________ Current Garage: 2022 Mercedes-Benz S 580 / 2023 Genesis GV70 2.5T / 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 350 / 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata Retired: '95 E36 325i 5MT / '04 E46 330i 6MT / '05 E83 X3 3.0i / '11 E90 335xi / '17 G30 540i / '19 F87 M2C 6MT / '19 MB CLS 53 / '20 MB GLC 300
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10-19-2020, 09:08 PM	#3
scoale Captain 682 Rep 749 Posts Drives: M3 /M2C/540 Join Date: Feb 2014 Location: California iTrader: (0) Garage List 2018 BMW M3 [0.00] 2021 BMW M2 [10.00] 2018 BMW 540 [0.00] 2013 Porsche Boxster S [0.00] 2013 BMW M3 [0.00]	Very different propositions. In my experience (981 BS), the Porsche turns in sharper, corners flatter, powers out of corners better, puts power down better, AND the suspension is more compliant. The steering is better, transmission is better, and the exhaust sounds way better, (again, NA). In addition, putting the top up/down is a touch of the finger. BTW, this car is EASILY daily driveable....if....you are ok with getting in/out of it on an ongoing basis. I don't have experence with an M4 vert but the F80 accelerates harder and is much easier to get in/out of. If this is a 3rd car, Porsche. If a 2nd car, BMW. YMMV
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10-19-2020, 11:39 PM	#4
jeep Private First Class 71 Rep 116 Posts Drives: 23 X7 40i,18 M4,19 530e,08 e70 Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: California iTrader: (0)	Thanks folks, I felt the same, I had an e93 which was great but felt heavy. I did drive the boxster recently and loved the drive, drove a 2008 H6 as well as a 2017 H4, felt the latter to be more nimble and fast, in terms of sound as well it was not bad, however M4 comes across as a mean machine but it is heavy. I wish there was an M2 vert which is the perfect package. This will be the 3rd car, so looks like the consensus is shaping up for a Porsche.
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10-20-2020, 09:11 AM	#6
Redacre 6 Cylinders 3 Ways 369 Rep 459 Posts Drives: M5, 911, Macan Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: FL iTrader: (10) Garage List 2019 BMW M5 [0.00] 2015 BMW M4 [0.00] 2015 Porsche Macan ... [0.00] 1986 Porsche Carrera [0.00]	I've owned a bunch of convertibles and the best ones were those that were designed from the start as a vert. A better comparison would be with the Z4 M40i.
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10-20-2020, 02:23 PM	#7
Arcades In The Rain 8174 Rep 6,259 Posts Drives: '24 GT4RS, '24 Macan GTS Join Date: Mar 2015 Location: SoCal iTrader: (1) Garage List 2024 Porsche Cayman ... [10.00] 2024 Porsche Macan GTS [10.00]	I mean... if you have the cash for it. I throw it at the Porsche 718 Speedster. A Flat6, PDK or 6MT. Car looks amazing. Or maybe the Z4 M40i. If you can, the base 718 Boxster can work too. __________________ '24 Porsche Cayman GT4RS Arctic Grey "Alice" '24 Porsche Macan GTS Dolomite Silver "Gina"
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10-20-2020, 04:21 PM	#10
Humdizzle Brigadier General 6062 Rep 3,625 Posts Drives: GT3 + M2c Join Date: Oct 2016 Location: Missouri iTrader: (0)	i don't see an issue dailying a boxster. you live in cali and it sounds like its just you or you + wife/gf. its got enough space for two people. if you need more luggage space for a weekend trip flying out somewhere just get a rental from enterprise and drop it at the airport. if scraping wasn't an issue in your m3 it shouldn't be an issue for the boxster. my m3 is lowered with a lip and i never scrape. __________________ 2018 Porsche GT3 6MT 2021 M2C DCT Previous: Ferrari 458 \| R35 GTR \| F80 M3 \| E46 M3 \| E36 M3 \| Scion FRS
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10-20-2020, 04:34 PM	#11
arashir Private First Class 164 Rep 164 Posts Drives: F82 Join Date: May 2017 Location: USA iTrader: (1)	When I was cross shopping the M4 with with 718, it was the 4 cylinder engine that killed it for me.
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10-21-2020, 08:19 AM	#12
RoundelM3 Major General 1835 Rep 6,990 Posts Drives: 15 F80 M3, 22 G01 X3 30i Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Clayton, NC iTrader: (2) Garage List 2022 BMW X3 [9.83] 2015 BMW M3 [6.50]	I owned an original Boxster for 5 years, and it was my last-ever Porsche. It was cramped (for me, over 6'/225#), the engine was only accessible from below, and it was just not practical. No real comparison between it and an F82. Based on my ownership experience, I wouldn't consider buying another Porsche. If the OP is dead-set on a roadster, a Z4 M40i would be a better choice. __________________ 2015 F80 ///M3 Sedan 7DCT Tanzanite, 2022 X3 sDrive30i 8AT Brooklyn Grey
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10-28-2020, 01:08 AM	#17
jeep Private First Class 71 Rep 116 Posts Drives: 23 X7 40i,18 M4,19 530e,08 e70 Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: California iTrader: (0)	Looks like the consensus definitely is for the Boxster, though I do agree it is not a mean machine like an M4. There was a pre-owned Spyder at the local dealership which looked awesome, didn't get a chance to drive it. I was surprised it took a while to move. At the moment I am considering 2014 981 S with almost 50k miles. I do have the concern at the back of my mind about lack of access to the motor. I do tinker with my cars to fix any small niggles and it will be a upsetting to have to take it to the $tealer every time.
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10-28-2020, 07:38 PM	#20
kyrix1st Colonel 2362 Rep 2,362 Posts Drives: G87 M2; E92M3 MT&DCT; M3 euro Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: nyc iTrader: (0) Garage List 2004 BMW Z4 [0.00]	718 GTS 4 cylinder was lethargic. I would go with 981 boxster/cayman GT4. __________________ Pass me if you can.
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