[Mogki]

Originally Posted by dradernh

One thing to be aware of is that Vermont is pretty much all twisties unless you're on I-89 or I-91. It is a terrific driver's state, one that rewards lighter, balanced cars at any power level. The owner of a race shop I used in Chester drove a stock NA Miata and swore it was the best car for Vermont roads. I was over there a lot and didn't doubt it.

OP says "My daily driver is a 435ix GC."; doesn't sound like he needs another 6-cylinder car. Still, a 230 convertible with THP isn't going to be easy to locate or grab before someone else gets to it.


I don't know – doesn't look so bad to me; I'd've bought one if I'd been able to find it with THP, and before someone else snapped-up the two I did find before I got to them:

Ah yeah you're right I guess I'm just always thinking of when the car is not up to temp it doesn't feel right, I'm always kinda kicking myself for not getting the 235 or 240

[BEM-S4]

Originally Posted by TCS4339R

“the convertible compromises probably a bigger issue than the extra weight up front”

Could you please explain this statement? Does it refer to the greater rigidity of the coupe chassis? Would this make a real world difference in driving on the street, as opposed to the track, WA a no matter how spirited?

Sorry missed this but then someone else answered down below. There's the weight that's the main thing, the car is pretty rigid as far as convertibles go. I just use the unscientific put my hand on the a-pillar and elbow on the door sill, you can tell surprisingly well from that.

What I was getting as is that light is good, but in the case of the convertible it's heavier so combat that heavy with more heavy in the form of engine. So you have heavy that makes you slow balanced with heavy that makes you fast.

[TCS4339R]

“So you have heavy that makes you slow balanced with heavy that makes you fast.”

Now I understand your reasoning. Not sure it balances out.

[BEM-S4]

Originally Posted by TCS4339R

“So you have heavy that makes you slow balanced with heavy that makes you fast.”

Now I understand your reasoning. Not sure it balances out.

Not entirely, no. But even with the coupe it's a longitudinal 6 with a good weight distribution, not like an Audi...

[E46ZHP2]

If balance and handling are your top priorities for the car, get a Boxster. The 2 series has to make compromises because it is intended to be a DD (M2, less so). Not a criticism, it's just a fact. I absolutely love my 240 vert. There is not a better car out there for me, as I can only have one DD right now. I accept the compromises that are required in order to have a single car that does so many things well. I've had 2 Caymans (987.2, 981) and drove many beautiful miles in VT. As they say, "it don't get no better" (for the money). Just configured a new base Boxster with a few creature comforts (~$4k) for $68k. People complain about the high cost of Porsche options, but the truth is you only have to add the niceties that you want, all the performance goodness is baked in. I ordered mine with upgraded seats, leather, and infotainment, that's it. As always, it comes down to you driving some cars and picking the one you like best. Enjoy the process, good luck!

[Ron Jeffries]

if balance, handling and money are important, consider miata. best bang for buck if you can get in and out of it.

[TCS4339R]

E46ZHP2
How is it getting in and out of the Boxster. I’m sure it is better than the Europa, but how awkward compared to the 2 convertible?

[E46ZHP2]

The seat height in the Boxster is lower and thus a little more difficult for in/out. Best thing to do is try it if you can, since everyone is different. My older brother (~your age) bought/still has my 987.2, and has no problem with it.

[TCS4339R]

Thanks, trying one on for size is obviously a necessary first step. Unfortunately, any urgency for me has just been eliminated because the person who wanted to buy my Europa decided to stick with his current cars.

[Lew Carrum]

Why not get the spec you want aside the THP which seems pretty rare and get it set up at a suspension/motorsport specialist, you can then fit whatever shocks and springs you like or coilovers with adjustable ride height.

[TCS4339R]

I'm still reading the forum for research, but the deal to sell my Europa fell through, so I won't be buying as soon as I thought.
Lew, very good suggestion, thanks.