OK, so it's actually the next Boxster (to be known as a 718). But, it sure has a familiar look. I like that it's midship and available with a stick. But, Porsche's move to make everything 4-cyl Turbo is going to play havoc with their purist base.

 

Looks like a slightly less ugly Boxster to me.

 

Looks nothing like an F-Type to me. Just another ugly Boxster.

 

+1

 

The guys he boxster design have the same conversations as the ones in the 911 shop:

Hey Helmut, got any ideas for design changes for next year yet.

Klaus, haven't thought of anything yet , but toss me a Lowenbrau while I ponder it for a while. Ok, maybe a hump here, a whaletail there and a gash on the side.

Helmut, you know we've really got it good over here. We haven't had to do much of anything in the past 20 years. Look at those fools in the engine and suspension shops. Those idiots are always working their butts off.

 

Is that hole under the front plate where you wind it up?

 

That's a DASM unit. For things like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control.

 

Yes, that's for posers that don't want to actually drive it.

 

Oh, the same thing that is "hidden" under the HUGE Mercedes emblems on their new cars...

 

718!

 

I'm very curious to see how this plays out. $70k+ for a 4 banger? will be interesting to see how it sounds. will this be the death of the boxster/cayman?

 

Actually it is a 718 and there is a big debate on the Planet 9 forum about its future. It has more HP than people thought, 0-60 time is much better, and the Porsche mid-engine handling will still be there, at a higher price. Some still pledge loyalty even with a turbo 4.
Larry

 

If this thing has 300+ hp as 4 bangers do nowadays have and maybe saves 200lbs over the six and it is already 400lbs+ lighter than the lightest F Type then this thing will continue to drive circles around everything on the road ... as Porsche usually does ... better Performance with less horsepower ...

Not my car but not bashing a Porsche product sitting in a 4,000lbs porker ...

 

I am virtually certain you will be proven correct on your assessment above. A lower-powered, lightweight, better performing car would be my overwhelming preference, if it weren't so ugly.

I'd pay a premium price for a 340HP F-Type weighing 400 lbs less than the current base with a performance enhanced suspension.

 

+1

 

Looks like a slightly more ugly Boxster, doesn't look as good as the current one.

 

The "purists" whine about electric steering, air-cooled engines, and now no naturally aspirated option. But Porsche sales increase every year.

 

I think there are alot of reasons. First it's a fad that is having its day in the sun. Plus the overall costs of cars has increased so much for many makers that the relative delta between the regular market and the luxury market has narrowed. Third low costs to finance and lease have made "status" marques seem more in reach. Hence more people buy them. I wonder however how long they keep them.

 

I used to work for Porsche, and owned a Cayman. I once went to the Atlanta training center and got to thrash every Porsche model I chose.

There is a reason so many people buy them.

They are excellent. Driving dynamics and build quality really second to none!

As with much of the German luxury market, leasing is the primary choice. They keep vehicles from 24-36 months depending on needs and deal structure.

They just dont turn heads like F Types though! By look or by sound.


EDIT: Forgot to mention regarding the new flat 4 motors: They are calling it the 718 because the original 1957 718 also had a flat four.

Porsche has been doing flat 4's for a long time and this is far from their first attempt!

 

But the new 718 is a Turbo flat 4, not NA. Many are upset by that although people will get used to it. Nevertheless, the sound of a Porsche flat NA 6 winding up is a joy.


Larry