[onewhippedpuppy]

Having owned both, it's night and day.

951 is fast as hell, but that almost becomes it's personality. It goes very fast, while often feeling like it is not. The turbo is a blast on empty freeway ramps or passing on the highway, but the lag is a PITA in town.

The 911 has more character, a special magic to it. I think it's partially the heritage, walking up to that classic shape each time you go for a drive. It just feels special. It also is one of those cars that can go fast, but can also be enjoyed at normal speeds. Compared to the 911, the 951 is somewhat sterile. Don't get me wrong, it's a great car, but just not as "alive" as the 911. The 911 talks to you, you always know what it's doing. Very hard to describe, you just need to drive one.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not at all bashing the 951. I thoroughly enjoyed mine. But if faced with choosing between the two, I'd take the 911 every time. It's just fun, pure and simple. Probably the best for your situation, you can get a great SC or Carrera for far less than a decent Boxster S.