[recycled sixtie]

Try the 986 forum for other opinions if you want more info.Especially the section "thinking of buying a Boxster". The 2009 or newer has less issues as mentioned above. My 2001 Boxster base had the camshaft deviation code come on. I had lots of green little bits in the oil filter. Possibly was the wearing down of the chain guides. One quote was around $5000+ to fix that plus install new ims, rms while in there.

So that was too much $$$$ for me to spend on a car that would still only be worth $12000 and then there would be water pump , aos etc etc to replace as preventive.

I think a 911 is a tad more $$$$ to run but not by much. Get the newest Boxster you can afford. Read the fine print on the warranties you can purchase. Many Boxster owners say put away $2k a year for repairs rather than get a warranty. I agree with them.
That said it is the most fun sports car I have had but the most expensive to run.
Likely my next sporty car will be an NC Miata.

Guy