Can you answer my questions about the Porsche Boxster?

I’m confused about getting a Boxster. Mid life crisis, want a car with a bit of vroom, always fancied a Porsche. Test-drove a new Boxster, very nice. Lovely engine, great handling. Unsure about a number of issues; is manual or PDK best? Cabin is a bit plain and dated. Should I wait for the new Boxster next year? Not sure whether I need soft-top, should I go for a Cayman? What are the alternatives? I had a look at the Mercedes-Benz SLK, much nicer cabin but not a very interesting drive.

Asked on 25 February 2012 by MD, via email

Answered by Honest John
One alternative is a Nissan 370Z. Completely different kind of car. I prefer the manual 370Z to the auto. Tests: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/nissan/nissan-370z.../ and www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/nissan/nissan-370z.../
But our David Ross is a big Porsche fan and has made the Porsche section at www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/porsche/ which is very comprehensive.
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