Handling vs Grip - And A Long Discussion About The Porsche Boxster GTS 4.0L (Ultimate Waffle!)

The first 1000 people to use the link will get a free trial of Skillshare Premium Membership: skl.sh/jayemmoncars04211
In today's video I am taking the Porsche Boxster GTS 4.0 out for a drive, and talking a little bit how I felt it and the Cayman fall short of the standard set by Porsche's previous cars.
#Porsche #Boxster #GTS4.0L
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[@JayEmmOnCars]

The first 1000 people to use the link will get a free trial of Skillshare Premium Membership: skl.sh/jayemmoncars04211

[@marcnobel3938]

Since years on that platform :-D But thank you for the offer :-D

[@reginaldbowls7180]

Nice Jay!! I’m glad skillshare are sponsoring you.

[@e_e846]

Jay, what’s your height? Aren’t you too tall for the Boxster?

[@cryptohouse1676]

Are there any sports cars that are the complete package? Steering, sound, gearing, weight etc

[@Braglemaster123]

Just get too it please “ Too much useless chatter .

[@areknoid]

12:54 What you’re hearing is the engine switching off 3 of the 6 cylinders (for that great MPG). You can turn that feature off using the Auto Stop/Start button (not the Exhaust button).

[@claudiu7219]

I find it weird that I know this too, and I never drove a GTS 4.0. I'd expect a professional car reviewer to do a bit more research. Both this, and the previous review of the Cayman feel biased. First one, maybe due to having a bad day. This one seems to be meant to support the conclusions of the first one.

[@CarNitty]

@@claudiu7219 Firstly, James is a professional. He carries himself with utmost integrity and honesty so there's no question of that. I doubt Porsche mention the cylinder deactivation causes a weird droning noise so how would one know unless you really think about it? You've both made a very good observation for figuring out why that noise occurred but lets not get on someone for not knowing a small detail.

[@nickg3999]

I test drove one of these today. For comparison I once owned a 981 Boxter which I loved, a car that really did flow over UK roads. I currently own a 992 C4S which is mighty impressive but have been wondering whether this new, much vaunted Boxter GTS would be good enough to persuade me to swap. In short, the 4.0 litre engine is a complete gem, such character and instant punch in a turbocharged age (and what a noise!); the handling is pure mid-engined Boxter - I experienced no skipping; the ride may be slightly firmer than the 981 which is no great surprise given the extra punch but wasn’t actually uncomfortable. The steering is probably amongst the better electric systems and I was more than happy with its weighting and accuracy. The only issue I had was the interior which works fine but is a step back in time from the 992. All told, it is now a very tough decision!

[@tb-cg6vd]

Go on then, did you swap?

[@ianedmonds9191]

@@tb-cg6vd Everyone needs a 303!

[@tb-cg6vd]

@@ianedmonds9191 They surely do! And a Porsche!

[@LibtardTears]

Just get a 335d and remap it 🥳

[@pierrepye7031]

Fun vs good looking huge status symbol

[@user-gu1tn4oq9h]

Love how genuine and honest your reviews are

[@MasterMalrubius]

But he doesn’t seem to like other’s honest reviews.

[@leokal457]

@@MasterMalrubius why do you think that?

[@user-qq2mo1ek2r]

@@MasterMalrubius what hasn't Jaame liked about others reviews?

[@clu4u]

I think Jay and Thomas of Autogefuhl are the best I’ve seen.

[@marcnobel3938]

The "helper springs" talked about in the Video are also called "Vorspannfeder" (loosely translated as "Preload Spring"). The main job is to take on the static load of the vehicle. So when the car is adjusted on the ground, the spring is mostly fully compressed. That gives you a) the room to use the mainspring to its full extend (as the load of the vehicle doesn`t compress the mainspring when there is a "preload spring") and b) it helps when the car jumps for example to control the load and seating of the main spring. So mostly you get aware of the existence just in Rebound. Some manufacturers use "progressive springs". They have a tighter part that does the job of the "helper spring" and the main part for driving similar to a "normal" mainspring. - There are also dampers that can work very well with the normal spring sets (like Koni`s Frequency Selective Damping for example). So you can combine something to your liking, you just need to know what you are doing.

[@jdyxtra]

This. And the reference to Renault Sport is for the hydrolic bumpstops they have in the dampers, I guess.

[@DontPanicDear]

I realised the mistake too, but your explanation was better than mine would have been 👍🏻 So widely misunderstood.

[@Silverhks]

Not entirely though. There are setups where the sitter spring is not intended to be fully compressed under static load. This gives a short bit of compression to absorb smaller bumps without upsetting the chassis while also allowing a firmer platform for handling.In production cars this has expressed as progressive rate springs. These are or were expensive and difficult to tune so they were left to the OEMs. Aftermarket either went dual spring or single rate.

[@themanipulator1]

I genuinely enjoy these long chat style videos with a more technical focus. I think I may even prefer this style.

[@stuarthossack7906]

2nd post - gotta say, you've relaxed into a style of presentation that you are clearly comfortable with, the whole "show" is getting better with every video.

[@KC-lg8qf]

This is a great video and discussion about handling and ride. You seem to be the only KZbinr who dares, about Porsche not being absolutely perfect.

[@GM-fh5jp]

Jay, after that interesting rant it would be really good if you could list your Top10 "steering feel" cars that you've driven so far. That way there's more of a chance we may have driven one of them and thus have a baseline for your comments on other cars to compare with. Thanks for posting!

[@MustafaMustafa-uy6cr]

Great Idea. Please do

[@LawrenceTimme]

The big magazines really like Porsches they just give them all five stars yet the next model is always better somehow. Very disappointing. It's a good job people like you are honest and actually find flaws in the car rather than giving them all 10/10 best car ever.

[@christophersapsford1828]

The best way to get an honest review from a mainstream reviewer is to wait until a car has been superseded and they'll tell you what was so wrong about it while praising the new model they are now driving. If a car is no longer available new, you can be honest without upsetting the brand, and therefore not be given anymore cars to review. Can't bite the hand that feeds.

[@LawrenceTimme]

@@christophersapsford1828 yeah that's absolutely true. I sometimes watch or read them thinking damn the old model was 5/5 or 10/10, now you are saying all these things were wrong with it and the new model was better. So it never was 10/10 they just lied XD They did used to almost never give 5 star reviews. When I used to read Autocar, they maybe gave 1-2 cars a 5 star review out of a whole year and it had to be best in class and better than anything before it ever was. Now it seems they'll give out 5 stars every issue, and porcshe or Ferrari is automatically 5 stars. Pathetic tbh.

[@bluebristolian]

The strange engine sound you don’t like is when it’s running on 3 cylinders. It does this to improve the fuel consumption. When I test drove a Cayman GTS 4.0 it seemed to me that it disables that mode when the car is in put sport mode. Ride wise I was happy with the car I tested, it felt similar to my 987 Boxster S which I think has a good ride for a sports car.

[@joetacchino4470]

Yup. Came here to write this.

[@cartherapy718]

Yep I have the 4.0 and it is when it goes to 3 cylinders and it is stopped by turning stop start off. Ride is quite supple and comfortable considering it is a sports car. In actual fact everyone who has been in the car comments how comfortable it is and forgiving. The Pirelli tyres are awful. Michelin’s PS4s are going on shortly!

[@DontPanicDear]

The car simply shuts the exhaust valves between 2k and 4k regardless of throttle position or drive mode. This is to pass drive by noise regs around the world. It makes the strange noises at these speeds due emissions equipment. The same noises occur on small / larger throttle openings, running on 3 or 6.

[@bluebristolian]

@@cartherapy718 I liked the car a lot from the short drive I had. I thought the steering feel wasn’t as good as my 987 but I’m sure you’d get used to it. What do you think of the car? I’m considering getting a Boxster GTS.

[@cartherapy718]

@@bluebristolian I looked at all sorts. Have had 2 987 Boxsters. Was going to go for a 981 Spyder but couldn’t find the one I wanted. Talking to dealer and they had the exact spec in showroom so deal done on the CGTS. It is brilliant. Steering it brilliant, yes different I guess but turn in is excellent and engine is great. Turn stop/start off and it is fine! Take the vacuum pipes off and seal and the exhaust is great! Not as noisy as the 981 and doesn’t make all the pops but that was too much in the 981. It is a great all rounder, it’s fast comfortable and looks great. Was split between cayman and Boxster but this was the spec I wanted and it happened to be in the cayman!

[@breezeracing8015]

I often find myself disagreeing with you, and sometimes get a bit annoyed. But I keep coming back and watching your reviews as I appreciate and respect your honesty. Keep doing what you're doing mate.

[@rjhandley556]

Your consistency of content is second to none. Feels like everyday you’re releasing something new, that can’t be easy but the work rate is appreciated.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It's not, and thankyou for noticing :)

[@hobojon44]

I AM glad you said Porsche not Porsche A

[@jsquared1013]

@@hobojon44 that's the wrong way. It's two syllables, and the "e" at the end is pronounced as a schwa. It is a proper name (family surname in this case) and the proper pronunciation is approximately "Poor-scha". "Porsch" is objectively wrong; there is no circumstance in which the one-syllable pronunciation is correct.

[@mrslowly9985]

The best description of handling I have heard is that good handling gives you predicable outcomes. It's not about grip, lightness or power, it's about you being able to go around the same corner at the same speed time after time.

[@ChrisDorgan]

The OG M2 used to do that skipping on uneven surfaces. Wasn’t a problem on a straight or at slower speeds just made it feel fun. But a fast sweeper somewhere in Wales or Scotland and it can make you feel a little nervous like it’s going to step out on you for no real reason

[@DontPanicDear]

Yes those can be a little sketchy under power. Not ideal! The GTS 4.0 never does any of that shenanigans though. Utter traction regardless is amazing and is aided partly by the longer ratios.

[@eoinmaher455]

This is one of your best videos yet and that's saying something! You explained everything in an easy to understand way and really elaborated on the reasoning behind your views on the car, which most reviewers rarely do. I feel you would have taught a few petrolheads about the suspension workings and technical aspects too Very, very well done!

[@sangxu5391]

I always put your opinion of handling and feel above other journalists since you drive the cars exactly like normal people do on the road. Is it possible if you can give a scale or leaderboard of driving feels of cars you’ve tested? I’d be so curious to see how cars of different eras and different performance levels compare.

[@jhayes1776]

Excellent review, excellent teaching, always improving, keep it up!! From and enthusiast for 30 years, all this "feel" stuff matters. It matters not only from a joy of driving standpoint, but also from a perspective of mutual communication from both car and driver, which leads to a better experience AND often better lap times of that's what you're going for.

[@tuomasholo]

Complements to your audio setup. Your voice is very clear even though the top is down. Really enjoyed this video.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou

[@KarlkEst]

@@JayEmmOnCars can you share what mic are you using?

[@pervertt]

A 'dead kitten' makes a huge difference.

[@callelindstrom4789]

Hi, I think that ”Boouhh” sound you talk about is because the engine shuts cylinder from 6 to 4 depending the drivesituation. In 4 cylinder mode the enginge makes that sound. Push the start/off button. In ”off” setting the engine allways run 6 cylinder. I think the sound gos away…

[@StanCarrico]

I really love your closing theme and graphics mate! Also, thanks for the well reasoned defense and continued effort to bring us these great reviews. 🙏

[@Timboo1971]

The two tone (droning) exhaust note you mention @ circa 13.00mins is the cylinder deactivation and swapping banks of cylinders to maintain catalytic converter temps. You can switch this off by turning off 'start/stop'.

[@DriverGuy23]

I’ve come to the conclusion that Jay just doesn’t like Porsches, but that’s ok, that’s why there are different manufacturers. Besides, someone has to keep the Lotus repair shops in business.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

But I've owned a couple and loved many - so I think that's an odd conclusion to draw?

[@derekbrettell8121]

Porsche is superior to Lotus in every way. They are the benchmark for sports cars and always will be.

[@EvoraGT430]

@@derekbrettell8121 Having owned both, you are wrong. Look up EVO Car of the Year 2009 to see just how good a Lotus is.

[@chrisroberts1440]

My impression is that he is always a little disappointed that they are not always as good as they should be.

[@simonwhite5492]

@@derekbrettell8121 Sweeping generalisation, have you been reading EVO solidly? I have owned 2 911's and a Boxster and I wouldn't put any of them in the top 3 cars I have owned.

[@harrys481]

10:14 would love to hear more about this one day! love your videos and always appreciate how honest your reviews are :) watching all way from NZ

[@martinboulden4388]

If you want a brand new sports car - this is the one to buy ! Warranty, latest tech, awesome engine. I doubt you will even look grumpy when driving it !

[@StrictlyParanoia]

Thank you for putting effort and care into these videos! We appreciate you (:

[@simonr6165]

An interesting perspective - thank you. I'm the owner of a 981 Boxster S with PASM and 20" alloys and I'd like to question a couple of your main points about the 718 GTS 4.0 (and I have no axe to grind, as mine is the earlier model). I'm not clear from your review which PASM was fitted to the car you were driving. The Sport PASM (-20 mm) is quite firm and the 'normal' PASM (-10 mm) is more compliant. The Sport PASM looks better in press photos, so I suspect the car had Sport PASM, which is the standard fit on the GTS 4.0. Normal PASM is a no cost option (and the one I would go for). I have normal PASM on my 981 and it rides well at low speed. My second question is regarding your view on the tyres fitted to the car. It sounds like you've already had people telling you that the Pirelli's are rubbish (which they are), but perhaps I can elaborate. The Pirelli PZero N0 tyres I had fitted to my 981 were amazing if the ambient temperature was above 20 deg C. They were very grippy and the sidewalls had a very nice compliance that worked well with the suspension. However, in lower temperatures, the sidewalls behaved as if they were run flats. At really low temperatures they felt like they were absolutely solid. I know Porsche will have worked with Pirelli on the development of the tyre, but in my view they got it very wrong for Northern European countries who spend most of the year well below 20 deg C. I replaced the Pirelli's when they were only half worn and decided to go with Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2s which are known to have a more compliant sidewall. They transformed the car across all ambient temperatures, and as an added bonus are also much quieter. Just my tuppence worth, and do keep up the good work!

[@eze8970]

Thanks J, liked this format.

[@odinikita4821]

the difference between a Boxster S owner and a reviewer is that an owner wouldnt drive their car through a muddy puddle. lol

[@Cyberdyne-kg8ku]

Those roads are great. I especially like the one that goes from...no, it's our little secret.

[@gaara4667]

Interesting

[@baheh1801]

I know where he is when the video starts and I know where it ends but I didn't recognize any of the villages in the middle bit I know some really horrible narrow roads are in the area too.

[@ianrkav]

@@baheh1801 Where are these roads?

[@christophers_verified]

I wasn't expecting this from something you titled "- and a long discussion about...", but I just watched one of your best videos yet!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@danielthomas8507]

Hi James, your right about how some cars work best when driven hard, i just a replaced the bushings, bearing and suspension on my NA mx5 and its not all that great slow around town , but on the track it really comes alive and handles amazing at full chat...sadly just this saturday at my local track i blew my engine....ho hum...hahaha...great video mate

[@sportzntouring]

Love the in depth exploration of the tradeoffs of geo and damping etc. I didn't mind the suspension too much on this car. I just didn't feel enough through the steering. I can understand why some might like more comfortable steering but I always like more feedback and a stiffer setup.

[@danfreeney7656]

Don’t add power steering plus, you’ll get more feeling without it.

[@MasterMalrubius]

I don’t need negatives about another channel when the other channel doesn’t make negative statements of others.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I think you misunderstood the point I was making

[@geoffclarke8934]

Great video. I loved my mildly modified 996 GT3 and one of the highlights was the fantastic steering feel. Agree with your comments about the Ferrrari 355. I hired one in the early 2000's and loved the performance, the looks, the noise, a quite brilliant gearchange and the ride/handling was generally good but just let down by an overlight, lifeless steering.

[@ftboomer1]

I am picking up my Boxster GTS 4.0 from the Porsche HQ this week. The Porsche vibe is much more to my style than anything else. I've had a 981 Cayman S and my only complaint was the lack of power. Besides that, the 981 was fully brilliant.

[@emgee9775]

Boxsters are brilliant; they’re so chuckable. Look after them well, and they’re great fun. Love to try one of these, though!

[@Joey4420]

As always, great video. I look forward to the next one.

[@Farmhandboy]

Was this posted nearly a week ago and I have finally got some time to sit down with a beer in the sun and watch at my leisure. I am glad I did and thoroughly enjoyed this review as I am currently looking at the Cayman GTS 4.0 as my next car, but delivery is looking way out to maybe next year now, with the con rod issue not filling me with confidence at the moment! Excellent review and reviewing style.. Nicely relaxed and conversational and is very easy to listen to and enjoy. Cheers!

[@jimknowles5483]

Thanks Jay, good to have someone with your "real" experience reviewing with solid facts and truth....!!

[@andreapaglia4255]

Thanks Jay for answering about tire issues etc..

[@johnewing2159]

I prefer these kind of videos! long form chatting

[@mateo991.2]

this feels like a more watchable podcast imo. would love to see more. thank you for sharing!

[@British99]

Great review JayEmm. Regarding the suspension, Porsche is a German car, and German roads are so much smoother than British roads. I agree about the Sports suspension setting, with my 987.1 Cayman S I only use it on motorways or good A roads. I also agree about the ‘agressive’ throttle response in Sport mode, I have scared myself a few times!

[@stemcleeds]

Thanks Uncle Buck

[@BrianFraser]

100% agree, My one thing. Tyre pressure is one of the most annoying things for me. A combination of vendor and a couple PSI the wrong way can make a car feels pants. BMW's in particular for me.

[@ecb949]

Fantastic episode. Thank you!

[@datacourier2944]

Jay, have you considered making a top 10 list cars to buy by you? I've seen most of your reviews but I couldn't figure out which ones you think are worth considering.

[@andrewnorris5415]

"Piece" is way better than "vlog", adds more class. (Thanks for using it)

[@MichaelGross1]

You reviewed (and liked) the 981 generation of the Boxster GTS a couple of months ago. Would you say that the 981 generation didn‘t have the same issues, or were you less focused on these aspects when reviewing the 981?

[@nixer65]

Great video with honours! (love the MIB reference)

[@KarlkEst]

What would you recommend instead of Cayman 4.0 GTS? Like the NA sound, like the Cayman balance, like the lighter weight than for example 992.

[@TheMentalblockrock]

I'm pleased to see Jay explaining the difference between grip and handling, for example the humble Morris Minor on 135 tyres has low levels of grip compared to modern cars but with it's steering feel and well designed suspension is a pleasurable car to drive.

[@geraldswain3259]

I have a totally different opinion to you ,ref the minors driveability ,I find it to be very skittish above 110 mph .You can make it far more drivable by taking the torsion bars up notch or two ! .

[@TheMentalblockrock]

@@geraldswain3259 110 mph, lol, I'm talking about the standard 1098cc 48BHP car that tops out at 78MPH. Not a good idea to move the torsion bars because that has the effect of cutting suspension travel and lowering only the front of the car.

[@ufsteropolstero6014]

I love the neon 80s cyberpunk aesthetic of the outro song and graphics.

[@seanbyrne910]

Happy haircut man!

[@christophersapsford1828]

Really enjoyed this, especially the general discussion of steering feel. As well as being engaging, steering feel used to be an important safety characteristic before we had traction control. Imagine trying to drive an old rally car at the limit on dirt or gravel without steering feel. Traction control has robbed us of the need to have steering feel to keep us from flying off the road.

[@michaelsalter2473]

I’m ~6k miles in with a Cayman 4.0 so probably one of the higher milers. Interesting review and I think the difference is you are assessing in isolation in many ways, identifying what is ‘wrong’ with the car. In that context it’s fair comment. For me my GTS is the most expensive car I’ve had so is a high point. My previous car was an M2 and in comparison the cayman is a much more sophisticated affair. I love the steering, much prefer it to the M2 which was ‘sticky’ about the straight ahead and didn’t have anything like the feel. I had an Elise, S2 K series, and know what you mean about feeling the road from that car but I really wouldn’t want it in my Cayman which I use more as a general car than a weekend blaster. Ride I find is excellent on the road, I have the 10mm option, but the handling is far more balanced than the M2 was, it doesn’t frighten me in the same way. Clearly you drive many more cars than me and are a great reviewer, I tend to drive as I find and enjoy what I’m in, but for me the Cayman 4.0 is a really fine fun general car to drive, I personally don’t want a super focussed race car for the road and this car really is special. Strangely my biggest issue is with the Porsche experience, I find everything about owning the car inferior to the BMW experience I’ve had for 8 previous years. I just feel the whole thing is about how much cash they can get out of you, good cars but the experience is led by marketing people whose priority is profit generation. Also the in car systems are inferior.

[@S2kTi]

Interesting. I have a manual m2C and am waiting for my allocation on a GTS. There are flaws in the m2 that I hope the Porsche overcomes. I'm assuming I will really enjoy it. (daily driver, cruiser, not a track guy).

[@michaelsalter2473]

@@S2kTi hi, I think you will really enjoy the GTS. The M2 is more of a visceral experience in that if you press it there is always that feeling it wants to kill you, I would add I found that fun. The Porsche as I say above is more sophisticated and is a much more controlled drive. I did a Porsche club Oulton park track day and loved the precision of the car. I’m certain you will love it. I’m up at 12,000 miles in 18 months so do drive as you suggest, using the car for regular long trips. I see in excess of 30mpg on a long trip if I’m pootling along, I got 28-29 in the M2 in similar circumstances.

[@Aldas001]

We love a waffle

[@benjaminlocksmith8932]

Did not expect to see you here!

[@jackiechan8840]

Blue ones?

[@london_james]

@@jackiechan8840 🤣

[@Rich.Aardvark]

Gordon Ramsey loves waffles

[@cowanscott9047]

Great vid and content as ever!! However, on the subject of weight.. Did Harry not go back to measuring a 911 to make sure there wasn't an issue with the scales? For example (as you will probably know) an early S1 Elise was MUCH lighter than a slightly later S1 Elise despite published weights being identical. I had an S1 ('97 no. 538) and my friend still has a three year older S1 and it's approx. 40KG heavier. You could feel it in the weight of the doors alone when opening them. Not saying Harry couldn't have made a mistake either, but to me it seems odd.

[@itstartswithcars]

I appreciate the commitment to an original opinion and an honest one.

[@mattholland315]

One of the best pieces of motoring journalism I’ve seen in a long time.

[@andrewbox8984]

Absolutely respect and love your honesty and unbiased reviews James because you don't watch other reviews before you make your own.

[@superjollygreengiant]

Is that an insta360 x2 hanging from the rear view mirror? How good is the footage from in car? worth getting one?

[@thedetailingdoctor5746]

In regards to budget video making well I agree mate we are doing it on a budget and it’s working

[@thedetailingdoctor5746]

That weird feeling of being the other side of that door is there again 🤣🤣

[@Rich.Aardvark]

6:01 Henry Metcalf...... I've searched for his channel but it didn't come up 😁

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I know. I'm inventing reviewers now

[@Rich.Aardvark]

@@JayEmmOnCars you can do as you please sir! 😁 Just keep the brilliant videos coming. We respect your opinion. Best car channel 👍🏻

[@markburton5170]

Maybe he was serious. Harry's Garage for Harry and Carfection for Henry.

[@Rich.Aardvark]

@@markburton5170 I searched for Harry Catchpole and nothing came up either

[@markburton5170]

Henry Catchpole is on Carfection. Harry Metcalfe is on Harry's Garage. They are both excellent car reviewers.

[@ashman0071]

I think most people completely misunderstand what a helper spring does. In almost all driving the helper spring is Completely Compressed and does nothing with respect to suspension dynamics. The helper spring is there for when you get the car very, very light and the suspension is in full droop. In this situation, the helper spring extends / becomes decompressed to keep the main suspension spring pinned against its lower perch so the main spring doesn't come off of this perch or rotate on it.......which can be very, very bad. Got it folks ? I agree with you. Most newer sporty cars suffer from too stiff suspension, too low profile tires, and too high 'required' tire pressures.

[@Kwantummeekanniks]

12:56 in the video where you start talking about that hum...I was watching this with headphones on from the start and actually paused and checked with some other videos because I thought I had some kind of ground loop going on, ha!

[@johanvagerstam9730]

The ’humm’ sound is the cylinder deactivation. As default it is activated but you can turn it off by pressing the button below exhaust sound button.

[@KoryoJK]

That rumble you feel and hear is because of cylinder deactivation only when auto start stop is on. Turn it off (button light ON), and it’ll go away. Also, have you checked the alignment of the car? I know it gets thrashed around so if camber or toe is off, even while tracking straight, the feel / response can be very different. I’ve had both 718 GTS and currently GT4 and alignment made tremendous change to the dynamics and feel of the cars. Also, when I first bought these two cars, I admit that I was not as wowed as you as well. It took me a while to really notice a “Porsche”. And consequently, ruined other performance cars I got into afterwards.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Well that solves one mystery. As alignment goes - see my argument about the tyres, Porsche UK gave the car out so up to them to set it up right, which I am sure they do

[@user-qq2mo1ek2r]

Nice review James, totally agree with the track times (usually Nurburgring).. A pointless exercise, it's far more important to have a car that s good on the road as opposed track given that's where the majority will spend their life.

[@RzogL]

Got my 986 S fettled by CG last year and I am very happy with it. Looking forward to a before and after driving review of the S2K. James, I have asked you this question before in the Live sessions, but I think it always gets lost in the noise: has your appreciation of car dynamics been enhanced by any advanced car control training? If so, which courses did you do and would recommend? I noticed a lot of course certificates in the customer room at CG...

[@Rockit181]

hello, since I just watched this and noticed no replies, I highly recommend Porsche Experience Center as probably the best bang for your buck on learning car dynamics. $600 for 90 minutes of seat time in a new Cayman 4.0 or 992 S is silly cheap. You won't find something like that cheaper anywhere, I haven't.

[@sbasuroy]

James, u never got around to comparing this to the 981 Boxster GTS you drove earlier. Your thoughts?

[@lef100]

Jay love your content, but perhaps you exaggerate the pitfalls of the Porsches and forget about the compromises of your “benchmark” cars. Ownership experience is something you seldom talk about. Some cars offer a great experience 80% of the time and some others an amazing one but just 10% of the time. (I am both a lotus and Porsche owner and have gone both through the high and lows of both).

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It is certainly something I have discussed - particularly when driving big wafty barges

[@HellaRandomVideos]

Thank you for the honesty.

[@Stewwwwww]

How would u compare the 718 4 litre to the 981 gts 3.4?

[@Fee.1]

Ohhhhh skilllllllshare fancyyyy

[@krisjones3359]

Yes, Centre Gravity in Atherstone UK, Chris and Pete are Porsche setup Gurus !

[@DontPanicDear]

I’ve just spent 3 years in a GTS with -20mm chassis. The harder mode essentially locked out the dampers. Track mode would be a better description. The normal road never skipped and was always comfortable. Even my Mum thought so! I now have a -10mm GTS and both modes are road calibrated. Normal is really compliant and even the firmer setting won’t ‘skip’ on B-Roads. The -10mm is lovely in the UK.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Was this the old 2.5 GTS?

[@DontPanicDear]

@@JayEmmOnCars Morning, -20mm was 2.5 yes. Normal was brilliant. Sport mode just launched the car vertically. Now have a -10mm 4.0 and both modes feel great on road. Much more suitable for B-roads. Normal is really comfortable. Firm is still compliant enough to react to higher frequency lumps and bumps. I’ve never had any of the skipping, like most BMW’s with runflat tyres seem to do generate. If that’s the trait you were suffering from? Surrey B-roads are no picnic either 🙈

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@DontPanicDear What tyres are you on out of interest?

[@DontPanicDear]

@@JayEmmOnCars The 2.5 came with P-Zero, which I changed to PS4S after a year. Massive improvement in everything really. The 4.0 luckily arrived with PS4S fitted 🤓

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@DontPanicDear Again, as mentioned in the video, I've experienced quite dramatic differences between tyres but the unfortunate problem is if Porsche UK insist on saying the P Zeros are "right" then that's how I have to judge it!

[@oliverlondon5246]

Great car! The new 911

[@pervertt]

Astute observation about anything adaptive or dynamic robbing cars of more feel.

[@OscarStevensonTheDon]

Great video!

[@manuelaranda2643]

Excellent video. Anyone who had a question about your verbiage on your previous car reviews, and specifically speaking about the Porsche Boxster, as you reference in this video. And those that have a question about what you mean when you use terms like, “compliance, road grip, handling or over responsive, should not have any confusion after watching this review. I’m not an expert by any means, but I love cars and I particularly like your reviews. Actually, in truth, I often binge watch your show because I get a strong sense you are giving an honest, experienced, and fair review. Though I do also think in this particular clarification video, about the Porsche Boxster, you may have held Porsche’s hand a bit as you walked them through that clarification process with bit of, and pardon the pun, but your delivery of some of those truths to Porsche and the listeners respectively, were communicated on some of the softest suspicions, not unlike some of the best Mercedes S class among us! I understand your reason for doing it in that way, and I say this not to criticize you, but to express my thoughts on your, very thoughtful and sincere efforts to make your clarifications in this video, and I hope, Porsche, especially the watching public or any other vehicle manufacturers that you should review in the future, take note of this video and those efforts you so, carefully and methodically explained here to help educate us, and not be so quick to question your integrity, your good or fair intentions of your KZbin space going forward. -Keep up the good work. FYI, I too like the Porsche Boxster, even the early models. Especially the early models. The belt lines are much lower in line with those early chassis and to me, look and feel like a true roadster. All model Boxster’s are attractive though, indeed, it’s piece of handsome art. Thanks Manuel A.

[@cnote678]

Hi Jay! Great video. Niche question: did you notice any appreciable difference between the -20mm Cayman suspension and the -10mm Boxster suspension? Assuming not because you said the Boxster was still too harsh in normal mode in this video, but still curious. Thanks!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Can't say I did

[@Kajico]

Dammit James, Harry hyped this up for me and you're hyping it down. It's like the Ying and Yang. The 4.0 GTS is on my list but couldn't commit to my order this year so I got an F-Type SVR which I was hoping that when the time was right I'd put in my order for the GTS as the GT4 would be an impossibility for me (allocations). Now I'm 2nd guessing again. Hopefully Porsche will let me do a test drive to see if it's worth giving up my SVR.

[@ianedmonds9191]

Roadholding/grip is how fast you can go round corners without losing traction front or back. Handling is how the chassis reacts to a loss of grip. My old MR2 had awesome grip and could corner motorway slip roads at advisory 30 mph at about 50 mph. Just after the sliproad there was a 90 degree corner down to my rural house. Spun out twice on that because although the Mr2 had great grip the handling was pretty sketchy. Didn't crash it but I did do the whole over correction tank slapper thing a couple of times. My Z4 in contrast has decent grip but breaks grip more progressively and handles much more smoothly. The breakout is far more progressive. That's what I always understood the difference between handling and grip. Luv and Peace.

[@michaelh.9866]

Thank you for having principles.

[@tomweller1318]

Once owned a Boxster 987 and the sport suspension was useless and far to hard from British roads. I always felt it was over tyre’d which mad it skip and fidget when pushing on. Then I traded it for a Lotus Evora and that was magic but only when it worked which in the four years I owned that wasn’t very often sadly. I am looking for another sports car but need something to handle, ride and look 👀 like the Evora but work!!!!! Ideas???

[@zzhughesd]

James tells Porker owners how to use their car. James , I especially liked the LS600H review. As a trader we all love a temporary large engine barge or smoker while we find a buyer; for this your comment what we really want from a car is true. For everyday use a V12 large limo is just it; for fun may I suggest a Lotus, Exige or Elise or similar without P.A.S.

[@smilepermile8165]

James, for people who would be keen to review cars, it would be great if you could do a video where you list the best cars (as reference points) to compare specific qualities that affect the driving experience. For example: Alpine A110+Lotus Evora for best suspension dampening, S2000+Porsche Cayman GT4 for best gear shift feel, McLaren 570S+Lotus Evora for best steering feel etc.

[@mnejmantowicz]

I couldn’t agree more. I drove it on some B roads and I couldn’t wait to get out of it. It beats you up. Oddly, the base model didn’t give me the same impression.

[@malcolmbell5266]

Ok so pretty late coming to this video, but the wife drives performance cars. Previous cars have included a Nissan 350z, Aston Martin Vanquish and DB9, and a couple of BMW Z4's. And the car she says is the best car she has ever owned for handling, grip, and overall feel is the Porsche Boxster GTS 4.0L which she has been driving for over a year. And says it still makes her smile every time she takes it for a drive, which is at least once a week

[@Sweepdog700]

Good review, I get what you’re saying.

[@kylem324]

Re: Weight. EU regulations require manufacturers to post the weight of their cars based on the prior year’s most popular specification of options selected. Which means it’s not specific to the actual car. Which means the specified weight is for a car likely has power adjustable seats. PDK. And lack ceramic rotors. And other options. At least some of these specifications are quite different from the typical press car. All fluids, and the fuel tank needs to be either entirely full, or some thing like 90% full. I don’t remember the specs of the cayman, nor am I defending either set of figures, but these regulations do create quite a bit of room for disparity in figures.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Yes they do. Not that much disparity.

[@kylem324]

@@JayEmmOnCars I still think it’s possible. PDK is 75-80lbs. Ceramics are ~45lbs. Bucket seats ~35lbs. There’s 150lbs there. Less fuel could be 20-40lbs. Wheels and tires? Probably a wash but could be up to 5lbs a corner.

[@oscarericsson8300]

@@kylem324 Harry’s figure is definitely possible.

[@RussellMiddleton]

Enjoyed the video and matched my thoughts. But which modern cars do have great steering feel? Fiesta ST, Subaru BRZ perhaps?

[@000GunterGabriel000]

Lotus. McLaren. Maybe AMG GT (hydraulic steering).

[@mdub048]

I am constantly torn between keeping my Macan and getting a Boxster. But I think my Macan is better suited for the rough roads I like. And I think that may be the case, here, too. Those roads are barley suitable for an ox cart. JMHO, of course. I also think it takes some getting used to the electronic aid in a Porsche. Not everyone understands what the car wants. Once you do it all makes sense. Understeer is the result of entering a corner too slow and getting on the gas too early. Run in hard on the brakes and point it at the corner exit before getting on the gas. Let the rear finish the corner.

[@ElTurfStuff]

Strangely the Spyder seems to have a more compliant suspension system than the GTS 4.0. Could it be because it has a suspension system that is related to the GT3?

[@danielenticknap7540]

Odd. My 981 CS handbrake releases just fine and the car has auto hold. And sounds a damn site better. You can turn the rev matching off or was there no auto blip button?

[@TheValodjaCzech]

What about checking/changing the tyre pressures? Recommended values are often too much for real roads..

[@richnick1911]

I am considering buying the Boxster GTS 4.0, thanks for detail review.

[@Peter-Oxley-Modelling-Lab]

Generation 981 is still the king...But don't understand why Porsche persist with the Pirelli's as they are indeed not as well suited as the Michelin PS4. Great vid though 👍🏻 (apart from the pot-holed roads!) 😱