[DCPorscheFreak]

Thanks Tony that's really helpful information.

I guess the biggest test-drive take-away for me was just how "heavy" the Boxster felt compared to my heavier (3,400 lbs) VW R32. Everything about the Boxster felt heavier and a bit less sensitive which really surprised me.

I was expecting a lighter, more nimble feel to the Boxster at just over 3,000 lbs with a 10:1 lbs/hp ratio and yet was largely disappointed by the overall feel of the ride.
I've owned 3 911s ('70 T, '72 E/RS, '86 3.2) that had only 1/3-2/3's the power of the Boxster but weighed considerably less, and a 914 2.0 which had extremely nimble handling despite it's relatively anemic power compared to a Boxster or any of the 911s except the T.

While the power of the 3.4 S was indeed pleasing--especially in Sport mode, the steering feedback and overall feel of the ride was an overall disappointment. The steering, clutch and go pedal were all heavy and a bit numb compared to any of my air-cooled cars, and it felt far less nimble than even my HEAVIER, F/AWD R32. When I drive, I use the entire rev band and often blip the throttle on downshifts which is actually easy in the R.

In contrast, I found the Boxster's throttle pedal heavy and difficult to blip and align with the clutch. The gear shift was solid and accurate (unlike my air-cooled cars), but I was really taken aback by the heavier feeling of the steering and the pedals. The Boxster felt rock-solid and nicely singular in body--no creaks or flex, but, it also felt really heavy and not at all nimble. Perhaps it was the tire choice (worn Pilots) or just my first time in one, but I was expecting a much more nimble and connected feel in the Boxster than I got.

Returning to my R32 with its lighter controls and more nimble feel has me now second-guessing my Boxster strategy.

Am I crazy? Have any other old-vs-new Porsche owners experienced similar results? I will definitely have to drive some more Boxsters before I decide.