2023 PORSCHE 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 vs. 981 Boxster GTS - DETAILED 50 MINUTE COMPARISON

[@rentrentrentlettings4178]

Been waiting to see someone do this comparison and the results were as expected. Thanks for such a comprehensive and balanced review. Will keep my 981 for as long as possible 😊

[@richfixescars]

I think the reversing camera stays on until about 20mph, the German logic is you might stop and reverse again. Keep your 981 it's better and cheaper.

[@volkswizard]

I know the Golf camera in badge stays out just in case but I don't think it keep the picture live

[@ricartsob]

Someone previously has mentioned the two alternative PASM set-ups on the 718 GTS 4.0; I believe your test car has as "standard" a 20mm lower Sport PASM with stiffer springs. This appears to be confirmed by your dimension comparison giving the 718 as 11mm lower than the 981. A no cost option when ordering is to specify the 10mm lower Normal PASM, which I have on my car and is a good compliant ride on UK roads. I think you may have found the suspension comparison with the 981 more favourable with this 10mm lower PASM option on the 718.Second point is that just below the screen and above the right hand dial is a "return" button (arrow symbol); if you press this it will shut the reversing camera down. Thanks for a good review.

[@paulgamble7548]

Have had GTS4.0 Boxster since July 2020. That followed my 981s with 20" Turbo wheels. I spec'd mine with 10mm PASM and have to say, it felt no harder than the 981s (and I drove mine shortly after getting rid of 981s that I'd owned for 6 years). I agree with the other poster that the difference must be that the Porsche GB car you have must be 20mm PASM. My honest feeling is that the 981 is still slightly prettier. The sound in the 981s was a screaming banshee whereas the 4.0 is more an angry raw. Initially I missed the 981s sound but after a while, I loved the angry GTS4 as much - it's just different. Handling and performance of the 4.0 is clearly better, particularly performance. The biggest difference is that the 4.0 has fairly linear torque from 2,500-3,000 rpm rather than waiting until the top end with the 981s. That is a dramatic change and rather removes any real issues with the 'long' gearing which did affect the 981s. My 981s was PDK. The GTS4.0 is manual (was all that was available with the early ones). Whilst the PDK is awesome it does have a slight kick down delay (actually almost .5 sec). Having the NA 4l with instant manual response is something else altogether. It's all subjective but you do need to compare like with like re suspension. Re sound etc, you also really need to experience the 4l for a couple of weeks to realise that whilst different, the sound is superb and more muscular. Engine sounds. Yes, all Porsche's have them and some sound odd an tappet like. You also start to get rather odd piezo high pressure injection noise after 5 or 6k miles that some had an issue with. Paul

[@Jay-xr3sb]

Nice write up. I would say your arguments for long gts 4.0 gearing being overcome with a manual are the same for the 718 turbo variants. They have even more torque lower down and as the sound doesn't built it suits the manual and no need to hit upper revs. If you're not reving out your gts 4.0, then the torque is the turbos is even more value. I have the 981 S, and I've learnt it's quirks. 2k to 3.5k revs is plenty for everyday driving, there torque to be nippy around town at lower speeds. If I want B road fun it's all about staying in 3rd, going for a blast and dropping to 2nd for hard acceleration out of corners or getting up to the wail on straights. It makes you use the revs which accumulate with the sound, torque and thrill. I drove the gts 4.0 first and it ended up out of my budget, nicer rear but prefer the 981 front. Defiantly easier to leave in any gear and drive. In the end I feel like I got a great deal, £32k for a fully loaded gts like S model

[@maxfrederick7703]

Hi! The parking brake not going on automatically is actually a feature….. Porsche sports cars don’t do this….. imagine you hammer your car around the track and then stop, parking brake goes on and your pads get welded to your discs. I’d rather not. My 992 GT3 is the same as was my 981 Cayman S. 😊👍

[@volkswizard]

I figured that might be the case though did say in an earlier video it was because Porsche drivers leave them languishing in the garage for long periods, rather than track use :)

[@UltimateAccuracy]

Helps prevent disc warping too. The position of the control is indeed rubbish. In normal driving I use the Hold Function (firm brake pedal push when stationary), for parking then P-PDK, and only use the Parking brake if parking on a steep incline. Has anyone been brave enough to try using the Parking brake in its Emergency mode? Applying it whilst in motion results in maximum available braking being applied

[@christianpratt]

My perfect content! Why? I had a deposit down for the 4.0 Boxster at the start of this year. Then the Spring price rise made my already enthusiastic man maths fall apart. So I cancelled the order, and tried a 718 T instead. Lovely car, unremarkable engine. Working backwardS, I ended up with a 981 GTS, almost indistinguishable from yours, save for a manual box. It is awesome. And everything you noted about yours - the versatility of PASM, the sufficiency of power, the sound the thing makes. Absolutely. All of that. I’d previously owned a 987.2 S, and a 997.2 S. The 981 is wonderfully better than both, to my mind. Don’t rush away from the 981 - even if you fancy a roof. 😉

[@VK6AB-]

Great review, I have the 981 Cayman GTS with PASM, PTV, PSE etc. Excellent car, sounds magnificent, right sized and a fabulous driving experience - its one of the few cars that I've kept. Its probably one of the best all round genuine sports cars Porsche have ever produced. I say this whilst also owning a 991.2 GT3 RS and Maclaren 720S. 340PS and 380Nm in a 1350kg car is right sized for a lot of back roads. Its always been a mistake to think more power is more car. The 981 GTS is a genuine drivers car, great engine, gear box, good compliance and excellent with PTV.

[@volkswizard]

Glad we concur and pleasantly surprised you rate 981 GTS so highly against such hallowed garage-mates👍

[@VK6AB-]

@@volkswizard Just a real world objective view. On public roads you can't use HP but you can can use handling 😀

[@laxman90210]

how're the maintenance costs like for you? in the process of buying a 981 boxster gts

[@VK6AB-]

@@laxman90210 The only items I've ever had to change are tires, oil, oil filter, brake pads, brake fluid and brake rotors. Thats it. I would describe it as painless and fuss free. There is a filter for the air con, I've never changed that as I live in a dry environment. 👍

[@laxman90210]

@@VK6AB- awesome! Appreciate the response. Got a boxster GTS. Any tips for making the best out of it? 🙂

[@anandn7425]

Nice review and comparison. Having owned a 981 Boxster S and now a Boxster 25, I agree about the ride and the sound of the engine in the 4 liter. It is very muted below 4k rpms. The exhaust valves don’t open at lower revs and there is almost no exhaust sound. The loud rattling/chirping sounds from the engine are the fuel injectors according to my dealer and other owners. Can’t do anything about it. There are plenty of aftermarket exhausts to fix the sound.

[@GoldPlatedCheese]

Agreed. The 4.0 definitely needs some exhaust modifications to sound the way it should.

[@UltimateAccuracy]

Very fair assessment (718 GTS owner here). There's no getting around non OPF cars sounding better, but the 718 GTS is still aurally rewarding. Sometimes a back to back comparison does highlight the "missing bits", but I think after a couple of months just having the 718 you'd be happy. I find the Normal Chassis mode perfectly judged but would like the Sport mode to be slightly stiffer. There's not much between them, but the system is adaptive so driving hard in Normal will be comparable to being less aggressive in Sport, there's some overlap. Interior options. I avoided the GTS pack based on cost, the coloured Tacho and deviated stitching always looking a bit wonky. Adding extended leather removes the plastic dash etc at half the cost, brushed aluminium trim was my luxury and looks great in the flesh.

[@volkswizard]

Good tip regarding interior options - appreciate your perspective

[@noandrewhere]

True comparison. I did the same with a cayman 4.0 gts and 981 gts last year and decided to buy the 981. Besides the missing sound and the fact that you don’t really feel the difference in power besides the torque difference the 981 is the better looking car imo. Unfortunately the market has already recognized that the 981 was the last raw cayman/boxster generation and the price difference has almost melted away. Anyway - I have never regretted my decision ;)

[@Reefman58]

Great comparison especially for me as I'm consider updating my 2012 981 S to either the GTS or the 718 GTS 4. My main concern is the comfort and PASM would be a must for me on a 981 GTS. Was the 718 you tested fitted with the 20mm lower springs? I test drove one recently which I understood was the 20mm lower spec and felt the ride was compromised to my PASM equipped S and a deal breaker for me (I think referred to as Sports PASM or SPASM but I may be wrong. I've now found out that there are some PASM set ups available with only 10mm lower than standard suspension like my S which I'd hope would be more compliant like my S or your GTS. Can you shed any light on this, or if indeed the chasis set up in the 718 is a contributory factor not just the ride height. Thanks

[@neilgaydon5430]

I tried both 20mm and the 10mm 718 Boxster GTS and bought the 10mm version for its extra compliance, especially on B roads. I heard somewhere the anti roll bars were also adjusted. You would need to try one for yourself. I’m super happy with mine in Sports mode most of the time, driving around the Yorkshire dales…plus the 718 GTS is addictively quick. Perfect sports car.

[@maxxsirrah821]

Nice video! I'm surprised though that you found the 718 GTS 4.0 suspension harsh, I don't find it so at all in mine, perhaps just because you were comparing back to back? And if this was an issue for you I'm even more surprised that you wanted to go for the 718 GT4 which is harsher still! I have to agree that the pre GPF cars sounded better, but I think Porsche have done an amazing job with the sound of the 718 4.0 given the legislative restrictions that are in place.

[@volkswizard]

GT4 has totally different suspension and yes it’s firm but it’s more sophisticated and deals with bigger bumps better. Plus like a lot in life, it’s about expectations and I don’t expect GTS to be virtually as hard as a GT4. Ultimately ride quality is subjective but that was a comparison with 981 GTS which is way softer. Yes Porsche did a good job considering restrictions but it’s still a shame the classic Porsche sound that the 981 replicated so well has been stifled

[@Ollie_5]

Great video Andrew! I compared the 718 GTS 4.0 to my 981 Cayman GTS and couldn’t really feel the power difference on the road. The sensation of speed is greater in the 981 which is arguably more important? I constantly debate having a 981 GT4 but like you I really appreciate the compliance of the GTS as it’s my daily car!

[@BrianFraser]

Absolutely the most thorough review I've seen in ages, well done sir

[@michaelcain2867]

Thanks for a great video comparison andrew. I bought a 981S in 2017 from Porsche mid sussex trading in a 987S. I’ve completed many roads including a drive thru France, Italy and Switzerland. My car has almost identical GTS spec to yours but I’ve added FVD headers and FVD tune giving power increase to 360 bhp. The only downside of the car is the dead steering feel compared to the 987. Personally I am also interested in the upgrade to the 718 GTS but spending 40k extra on a car that has uncomfortable ride, less rewarding engine sound is a hard pill to swallow. Although I would appreciate the extra power and better tech but not sure I want to pay 40k+ . Thanks for the non biased comparison. Michael

[@TheDonshaz]

You've also got the sport response button. Which puts everything to max for a seriously quick overtake and vanish

[@prazzy4712]

Nice detailed discussion. A few details missing in the analysis. You compared SPASM on the 4.0 to PASM on the 981, apples to apples would have been PASM to PASM. Hard to get those two apples together though as a PASM 4.0 is a rare one! There is no question the 981 sounds better outside the car...but not so sure it sounds better inside the car. The 4.0 sounds pretty phenomenal inside the car when you are on it. But you are right that you need to be giving it some throttle as the symposer only kicks in with generous throttle inputs. In the end, you can't go wrong with either. Even my stripper 16S with X73 was 90% of the experience of my GTS 4.0.

[@hyunwoolee9204]

Thank you for the really great review. I would like to ask you a polite question. Do you think it is better to add (PASM) (Raised 10 mm) option to GTS car or not to add it?

[@neilturner6749]

The difference in feel between the -20mm and -10mm PASM options is actually minimal. Don’t forget they’re both adjustable via the dash. The -10mm in Sport setting is firmer than the -20mm in Standard setting. Make your choice depending upon preferred ride height and not on stiffness. 718s ride lower than 911s but there’s no option for a nose-lift so be prepared to regularly scrape the nose on driveways, speed bumps and rough roads if you go for the default -20mm option. If you want to shave half a second off your Silverstone lap time or impress your teenage son with a “slammed” look then you should also spec the -20mm.

[@Reefman58]

So would the -10mm on the 718 be comparable to the PASM on my 2012 981 S in both comfort and sport modes?

[@wynhughes9072]

Is it worth paying £40k+ for another Boxter which is not much better than the one you already own? Especially when you really wanted a Cayman. Are you settling for second best?

[@Jay-xr3sb]

The 981 S with the sports options is a gts, save another £7-10k there

[@bookvalley]

Great review! I test drove a flooded brand new Boxster 25 (basically a 718 GTS4) and thought the PDK has a problem. But your video matches the behavior/sound, the engine may make some loud noise and then suddenly stop or suddenly come back. I switched to paddle shifter and could not get it to sing the way I wanted under legal limit and not give the car salesman a heart attack. I know people advice to stay(run) away from flooded car esp. from Florida due to salt water. It's a mechanics special. I think a mechanics did buy it before my attempt. Thanks for mentioning the ticking noise. I saw many discussions on that. Porsche said it's 'normal' 🙂. Add that to the build list of 'feature'. Now, I need to test drive a 981 GTS. My last Porsche was a 944 Turbo...

[@andrewmcivor42]

Both are beautiful cars - indeed, I'd be very seriously tempted by your 981 if I had the cash! I'm glad the 718 doesn't have the pops & bangs from the exhaust - just makes it sound like a Subaru Impreza... I've often had a pipedream of buying a 718 Cayman GTS (I'm not fussed about open top motoring), I love the fact that it's quite an "analogue" car, or as much as that's possible in 2023 - even down to the proper buttons on the centre console. Great content 👍

[@thePHXstudio]

So very thorough, thank you very much for all the info. This must have taken forever to plan, film and edit!

[@Poorschedriver]

What a great comparison. Theres a lot of styping updates I like with the 718, particularly with the rear, but that's not enoguh to justify me upgrading my 981GTS. The 981 is far cheaper by comparison, sounds better and is plenty fast. Plus it doesn't make that dreadful ticking chirping at idle that drives me crazy. Granted the 4.0 engine makes massive power and torque, but there's real character with the 981.

[@GoldPlatedCheese]

There are no bad choices here

[@peterscheffer4521]

Great comparison. Thx a lot. GTS 4.0 is on my shortlist but not driven it. I don't want a trackcar. I want a "GT" which can be made a bit more sporty, but offers comfort for long holiday trips. Will post after test drive :)

[@rouman7]

Just sold my cayman s. Loved it now driving a jaguar f type. Love it to looks great and drives superb

[@getdealtwithquick]

981? You prefer the Jag? 6 or 8 cylinder?

[@tonykono5225]

Wow! I’ve never heard them back to back. Very cool

[@kratos9223]

Great content as per usual, but PLEASE invest in a proper microphone before you buy any new car! I honestly can't believe that this is still an issue!

[@volkswizard]

Appreciate the feedback (pun not intended!). The reason this is still an issue is because nobody specifies when it occurs. My understanding of this video is that it will be only the tour of the outside and the inside, is that correct? If so it's weird because same mic on all the other bits and yet that camera records on its internal mic with no background noise. Hence why it's not as easy as it seems to resolve. I've ordered a new mic as it's probably that, it's 2 channel as well so better for interviews so not all bad :)

[@kratos9223]

@volkswizard that's correct! Thanks for addressing the issue. It's much appreciated. 🙂 I'm looking forward to more great content! 😁

[@JBthemanwithcars]

I’ve owned all the Spyder’s 987, 981 and 718 plus one of the first 981 3.4 S manuals. If you want something that feels special then the Spyder is the model to buy. Yes the roof takes a minute to put up but for looks, handling, performance and pleasure it ticks every box. I’m currently loving my 718 Spyder PDK which I think the gearbox really suits the car better and it is certainly quicker on track. I enjoy the channel and keep up the great work.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks JB, appreciate your owner input and really glad with your experience, you like the channel 💚

[@TGCREken]

Yep. 718 Spyder all the way !

[@Jay-xr3sb]

I'd you have the means sure, but the 981 S for £35k is a steal

[@dlhussain81]

The 981 looks and sounds better

[@simonambrose82]

Stay bought into the 981 experience but get that Cayman GT4 you want...... only buy it in 981 format. I think you'll find it's the better car!

[@volkswizard]

The 981 GT4 is awesome but I don't like the rear end and I'm ready for a step up in infotainment tech. Plus they are expensive for an old car and many have been tracked and have loads owns. Don't think I'm a good enough driver for either of them so it's a weigh up of value for money and 718 gets it - primarily because I can a very fresh one and get it protected underneath etc before winter has had a go at it

[@GRfourfun]

I managed to soldier on through the microphone issue as I’m not a a bloody REMF! 🙄 Great review of both cars, I think you’d be better off keeping yours and buying something else for the channel, a car that is, not a mic ☺️😉

[@volkswizard]

Good news is, mic ordered. REMF - every day is a school day ;) Glad you enjoyed the review. Boxster replacement is 50/50 me and channel :)

[@GRfourfun]

@@volkswizard Rear Echelon MF, old army saying. The mic honestly didn’t bother me at all, I was referring to the snowflakes. I think your GTS is such a great car with so many extras and the sound oh the sound!

[@colinw1591]

Great review Andrew. With regard to the suspension setup, I think you can order a GTS with either 20mm (standard) or 10mm (at no extra cost) lowered PASM systems. I guess the latter gives better compliance. Do you know the spec of the test car?

[@TDS981]

Test car was -20mm it looked to sit lower when back to back.

[@DontPanicDear]

I had a 718 GTS with -20, then another with -10mm. -20 normal mode was the best road setting overall. The downside was, that the sport mode was utterly rigid. Dampers pretty much locked out and could only use on track. The car bounced and skipped off every bump on the road. It looked better though! -10mm was all most too comfy in standard and a little soft for fast country roads. The sport setting was perfectly usable on UK B-Roads too, which was the ideal. It still didn’t offer the control of the -20mm standard setting. The 981 GTS had the X73 fixed chassis. That was overall better at everything, and was lower still. A tad to firm for on,y the worst B-Roads. I can see why Lotus use two fixed rate damper i]options on the Emira. They just have a more natural sweep and are always in harmony with the springs.

[@scotttibbits9703]

Andrew I am also interested to know if your 981 GTS had the standard -20mm PASM or (no cost option) -10mm PASM setup? I have a 718 GTS arriving very soon in an identical spec to my 981 GTS (which has PCCB). I feel like I should keep the 981 GTS… did you confirm the bad engine sound was normal for the 4.0 litre?

[@zeblackboi]

Thank you for this indepth video.

[@volkswizard]

My pleasure! It was quite a difficult one to film in all honesty as most head to heads are with lawn mowers and garden parties taking place close by but glad to get it recorded for posterity before my 981 GTS went a few weeks later.

[@ianmcshane9728]

The rattling sound you hear is the fuel injectors. You will notice that the noise disappears on the over-run when the fuel cut off engages. It is not a fault - they are all the same with the 9A2 Evo engine. Beware it also present on the GT4 / Spyder and I have heard it on 911 992s. I have just got used to it TBH on my Boxster 25yrs.

[@jonfrench7133]

Loved the comparison and thought i’m glad you weren’t able to follow through with the frozen berry GT car as the suspension would have been a notch up on harshness. The GTS in 4.0 guise is a different machine from the 981 version you are driving. It’s much more aligned with weissach than previous GTS incarnations, so further from the S and in previous versions. For me this is what GTS should be about, it’s not soft, it requires you to pay attention and is an event to drive. At least you have found out your preference before committing to the GT car so the question is what next for you?

[@GoldPlatedCheese]

Agreed, the 718 GTS is very different compared to the base and S 718 vs the 981 where the differences are smaller between the various models (cause all have the flat 6)

[@bispal]

Thanks Andrew, very good. the reverse camera is an option as are the steering wheel controls, and you can still have the stalk. You can also order with 20mm suspension drop or 10mm. I would be interested to know which the green car had? I have driven the 10mm drop and it felt fine, and I sold my 981 Spyder as it was too firm, i suspect you had the full 20mm drop? I am still undecided if I will go through with my 4.0GTS I have on order....

[@volkswizard]

I’ve got the spec sheet from Porsche and the only options listed are the ones which I mentioned. So steering wheel controls are a mystery as only option on configurator today is carbon multifunction as a no cost option and default wheel lacks controls. Maybe a model year spec change? It does state 20mm drop in standard spec and looks like 10mm drop is no cost option according to configurator.

[@bispal]

@volkswizard You can spec 10mm drop as no cost option. Very confusing as there is little info to say its already 20mm drop. The reduced 10mm drop rides much better. I've ticked that box. You can also untick the M.F. wheel and get a standard wheel but unheated. That way you get the stalk back. I'm really struggling if to go through with my order or not. £85k is a lot for a boxster but in reality a 911 GTS is £140k with options and is it that different or more expensive to make 🤔 And how much is a Golf R? £55k? So perhaps the 4.0 GTS is good value, even at £85k ?????

[@eduardoschumi]

Excellent video; I leave a like to the same one too. The evolution of the Porsche Boxster 718 will be launched in 2025, and it will not be a fully electric engine. With this, the Porsche Boxster will lose its true essence. Porsche should drop that electric motors exclusively for its "Taycan" model. Although I know that the German brand does this, since in little more than 10 more years, it will not be possible to sell more combustion cars in the countries that make up the European Union. Personally, I would not spend my money on an electric Porsche Boxster, and if I did, after that I would buy the engine of a Porsche Panamera GTS, which is a V8, and swap that electric Porsche to internal combustion. Many blessings to all, and also to their families. I send you cordial greetings from Chile! :) 🇨🇱 😀 👍🏻 🇨🇱 🙋🏻‍♂️ 🇨🇱 👋🏻 🇨🇱 🥇🏆 🇨🇱 🏁🚦🚗 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱 🇨🇱

[@s10lucky]

What a fantastic video. I have a 981 Cayman S and have been considering a 4.0GTS but haven’t for exactly those reasons. I think I still prefer the look of the 981 too. A 718 GT4 however……….

[@GethinJames]

I think the 981 GTS looks better.

[@jimmypage1]

Love these cars but I find the road noise too intrusive for me

[@clu4u]

You’re right, my ears grow weary after long drives in my 981 Spyder.

[@CJR_989]

Really enjoyed the depth and detail of this vid. You can tell the time it took to edit and film! Really surprised about the ride comfort difference between 981 and 718 GTS. Sadly the OPF/PPF issue really does seem to have impacted the sound of cars, Porsche especially, the 981 sounds amazing!

[@philipguacci6452]

Love a few pops and bangs. Iam 62.Makes me smile. But the whip crack can hurt pedestrians ears, as I have felt.

[@volkswizard]

Where I live it's the fear of horses bolting and ending up in passenger seat (when roof down!)

[@heelntoe3982]

The hips on the 987 are better than these 2 models. So much more pronounced and sleek. These are still very nice looking cars, i just prefer the classic look of the 987.

[@mc4130]

I disagree with you on the back. The 981 looks much nicer - no afterthought reflectors, and the way the spoiler flows into the curvature of the lights is much ‘curvier’ and we’ll thought through. Carmine is a massive plus - best Porsche colour. The middle exhaust also looks better too - very GT3. The front is no contest either, 981 all the way. Someone had better buy it quick as I cannot stand not being able to justify it and seeing it on AT…!!

[@volkswizard]

I noticed the lights flowing into spoiler on 981 which is slick and yes that exhaust is very 997 GT3 but overall I just think it’s a bit bland especially compared to the front but as ever looks are subjective 👍👍

[@ohmyggg]

Agree with volks - the 981 rear end looks bland, particularly on the Boxster since the rear lid is larger and flatter and doesn’t flow seamlessly into the top as it does on the Cayman. The 981 Spyder on the other hand is a masterpiece.

[@waltvancourt5052]

Manual roof on 718 spyder is easy after a few times

[@TDS981]

Interesting comparison thank you for making the video, of course you can fit the new and improved Pcm4 to a 981, drop by my channel if you want to see that 😂😁. There is a little more to the suspension than perhaps you realised at the time of making the video. The 718 has the sports pasm option which is comparable to the x73 set up in the 981, now you can get the adjustable sports suspension with the 718 (-20mm). They also ride a little stiffer because of the extra bracing added at the rear of the car which imho is a great addition.

[@Zach-sq1gs]

there is a high pitched ringing sound throughout your video

[@steviestube1919]

When I first got my boxster gts 4.0, there was a rattle, however I noticed that the seat belt was knocking against the side. I noticed in your video that the seat belt retention bit, which is a bit of plastic below the actual metal bit of the seat belt was down and therefore this would cause a rattle. There has not been any rattle from the engine since I got it May this year and so far have had some fantastic drives in it. Carmin Red fully loaded, but without active cruise control.

[@DontPanicDear]

I’ve owned both (and a 718 2.5) All GTS and all manual. (Cayman though, but close enough) The 981 was my first ever Porsche so I remember it fondly 😍 Carmine with platinum wheels and gloss black exterior plastic. It did have a few things about it that annoyed over time though. The main ones were….. Rattles. Always chasing down a rattle on the tailgate / boot area. Throttle mapping. The EU flat spot was noticeable and the delicate on/off at high revs was a little lumpy. Power delivery. The engine felt like it was just about to get going, then the red line stopped play. Drive modes are connected to traction control. Which is really annoying for normal road driving. I personally like it to look at, more than 718. The 4.0 was a big move on for my driving. (Black with gold wheels) Better screwed together. Faster steering with smaller wheel makes it more alert, but not silly. Throttle mapping was amazing. Not a hint of anything annoying. Power delivery was perfect for a non GT car. Builds to the red line nicely. Volume. Induction / engine sound in the cabin is WAY louder and really quite dramatic. The slightly wider rear wheels made a difference to high speed direction changes and looked a lot better too. Short clips of all the]reels on my channel if you click. Now have a Manual 911T in Ruby Stone Neo.

[@michaelcain2867]

The FVD tune and headers on the 981S increase power from 315 to 360+ which also raises the rev limiter and smooths out power delivery. The 991 base and 981S all share the same engine, so anyone who has a 981S has a detuned 911. Unleashing the power is a massive bonus for 981s owners. Porsche did this so that they could mass produce the same engine across the range but change the ecu slightly for each make and model. All marketing. It’s hard to pay for a 718 GTS if you already have the power in a 981S.

[@DontPanicDear]

@@michaelcain2867 I know that tune is supposed to up a 3.4 981S power to around the standard power of a 991.1 3.8. It’s quite unusual to get around 40bhp from a tune and manifold alone on an NA engine! The 991.1 is 400cc larger capacity after all. Normally a higher red line is required to make those kind of improvements. The only exception I can think of is the BMW N52. It was a 3.0L capacity in all cars, but some had a restrictive map and inlet manifold and were labelled as 2.5i Those could gain 40 hp by removing the restrictor and using the 3.0 map. Those were all the same capacity though, so it made more sense.

[@michaelcain2867]

Ok so this is a common mistake. When porsche built the 3.4 litre engine they fitted to 5 different cars and just altered the ecu in each case for marketing. For example the 981S boxster was set to 315 bhp, the 981S cayman was set at 320 bhp, the 981 boxster GTS was set at 325, the 981 cayman GTS was set at 335, finally the 991 base was set at 350 bhp. So porsche could sell all the models in the range, they did not build a new engine in each car, they just updated the ECU. Much cheaper option. So of course you get a reliable and more powerful engine if you update the mapping of the 981s to the same as the base 991. So if you have a 981S you have a lot to gain by updating the restricted ecu map set by porsche marketing. Hope that helps. Michael

[@michaelcain2867]

Also just want to highlight that the 3.4 was fitted to the base 991 and the 3.8 was fitted or the 991s and 991 GTS.

[@DontPanicDear]

@@michaelcain2867 I get that now cheers 😀 I never realised that ‘little’ 3.4 found its way into the early 991.1. I only drove a one 991.1 which was a manual GTS at Silverstone and wasn’t a fan. The CGTS was way more fun and didn’t even feel slower to be below 120mph. 2015 was the year I started wasting money on Porsches, so 991.1 was on the way out at the time.

[@GoGolfer72]

Annoying buzzing noise and your microphone needs an upgrade. Somewhat detracted from the video

[@John15293]

It was excusable until he stated it's until they can afford a better one lol. Hard to garner sympathy for that when showing off your porsche

[@lolpaladins]

You can get the full, nice alcantera/leather interior, without the deviated stiching, for a significant discount over the "GTS" interior, which is how I specced my car, with black aluminum trim which feels nicer than the plastic covered carbon fiber. (I also dislike colored tachometers) and since I had a blue car, it allowed me to get blue seatbelts, whereas the "gts interior" package forces you into only red or grey.

[@volkswizard]

Good info - thanks

[@trigganometry168]

We have similar spec. I didn’t feel the GTS interior package was worth the price. I prefer the hard plastic living under the California sun. I’ve seen the leather dash adhesive come undone on some Porsches. Plus it’s a sports car not a grand tourer. I switched out the aluminum colored spokes on the steering wheel to black and it completed the look for me. Here’s my ride in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nH7QYaWnerZ9bLssi=yU7IOCuWCw0xfgXY

[@lolpaladins]

Nice, I like the black on the wheel, like what I have on my Macan GTS, how did you swap out the inserts, was is difficult?@@trigganometry168

[@trigganometry168]

@@lolpaladins. It was pretty easy. I had to buy the bit (12mm XZN triple square bit) to remove steering wheel bolt and a new bolt. They shouldn’t be reused. I followed this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXfQamqanc6HqcUsi=fPSjLgj3PWS3ruPM

[@keithgreen9009]

Because you are a Porsche owner that has actually used your car and did extensive road trips , means you have a valued opinion... from the ride to brakes , power , comfort ... just shows how nice your car is .

[@johnmull59]

I love cars, but I do find pops and bangs from exhausts very tiresome, and to be honest inconsiderate to the vast majority. Guess I'm getting old....

[@ghowells5433]

I’ve had a 991.2 gt3, now have a 992 targa and have a Boxster GTS 4.0 due for delivery in December so really great review, thanks

[@volkswizard]

Thanks so much - appreciate that from a Porsche buff like yourself. It's a lot of fun and you will love it and it will great waiting for the weather to pick up in 2024, enjoy!

[@ghowells5433]

pleasure, you do some great real world comprehensive reviews that unlike a number of other (sponsored) Channels peop,e can trust. Would be great to see you do more with Porsche, GT3 Touring and 992 Turbo S real world review would be great to see

[@danielrussell446]

Well done Andrew a really interesting video and great to see the difference between these two cars I love that python green I would have it it looks great! I can see the upgrades on the newer boxster over yours but like the golf 7/8 some things better on the older car - would love to see one on the channel!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks again Daniel. Yes indeed last gen cars were some of the best, 981, C7 RS6, Golf 7.5

[@stephaneallroad8789]

981 gts forever 😎😎😎😎

[@clu4u]

981 Spyder forever 🤓🤓🤓🤓

[@shifty277]

Such commitment to thorough car footage Andrew. Thumbs up. I'm subbed dont panic and have been for I think 2 years. Your YT channel is fab. P.S to grow it as much as you may want you will need to get a wee bit of Audi in the mix for better or worse... Do you agree?

[@German-Whip-V8]

1080 now

[@drunvert]

Wouldn't want PDK. Manual is way more fun

[@TheNorville2]

Nobody does it better, Thanks for the review.

[@volkswizard]

You are too kind, thanks so much 👍

[@thamil1365]

Perhaps you should get a G80 M3

[@volkswizard]

Unlikely with that grille and image

[@damindra]

So the camera issue, I have the pana sport turismo and the camera will come on under 10mph, I have a surround camera so in traffic it comes on if there are objects or even other cars too close to me but goes off once I go over 10mph, so might be worth seeing if that's the same on the 718! Great comparison video!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for your feedback, appreciate it a lot. Could be that 10 mph is threshold for switching image off, will check footage, I do recall it dropped into 2nd gear when it did in the video. I’d say 5mph is better. On a Golf 99% sure it loses camera view when forward gear selected and the camera which is in the rear badge pivots closed at 10 mph. Makes sense as the mechanical pivoting of badge should be done as little as possible but switching image on/off is just software. Can’t see any reason why that image needs to be displayed when you’ve started moving forward

[@johnbris5]

Thank you for that comprehensive, honest review. I find that the 718 generation is a significant improvement over the 981 in the steering and suspension departments. I owned a 981 Cayman GTS and it was so disappointing. Sold it and bought a Cayman 987.2- so much better. I will be getting a GTS 4.0 in the new year.

[@neilgaydon5430]

If you didn’t like the ride in the GTS good job you didn’t get a GT4. I’ve had 5 different 911’s over the years and ‘upgraded’ to a Boxster GTS 4.0 with 10mm suspension, which is the best sports car Porsche make for roads, N/A engine (unavailable in new 911’s unless it’s a track GT), size, handling and feel. Nothing wrong with a 981 GTS. Best snap up a 718 GTS up while you can. They already discontinued GT4/Spyder with the GTS to follow…

[@volkswizard]

It's a case of expectations, I'd expect the GT4 to be firm due to its motorsport brief but not the GTS, based upon the 981 GTS.

[@neilgaydon5430]

@@volkswizard Makes sense, thank you. 718 GTS 10mm gets closer

[@malcolmscott4150]

VAG reverse camera delay seems built in - work fleet Octavia estate does same thing. Both of these cars get me looking for used examples every time as such great cars - your 981 is a brilliant example of peak Boxster spec and so is the green 718 - I do love python green. Great video skills Andrew with side by side comparison and roof timing shots also 👏🎯🏎🏎🤩🤩

[@jonathonbrett-qn1ic]

Hi Andrew great episode again love your comparison of both cars. If you by a new car it just has to tick all your boxes no compromise as it’s your pride and joy. Love the green colour against the black wheels. But overall your red car is probably the better overall car. Thanks again:)

[@volkswizard]

Thanks you again JB👍👍

[@michaelcain2867]

I have a 981S manual with sports exhaust and pasm. The weakest area of the car is the steering. Having not driven the 4.0 GTS I would be very interested to know how the steering compares? Thanks for great content. Michael from derby.

[@andrewharvey6213]

I put a DSC Sport Controller on my 20mm-lowered 718 GTS, and it made a substantial difference to the stiff and normal suspension modes. It’s an easy mod to fit and well worthwhile, still stiff but now a lot smoother. If you want you can tune the suspension even more yourself, but the DSC map is excellent. You can dismiss the reverse cameras image by pressing a PCM button which makes the image swap immediately to nav or radio or whatever without having to move forward to 20kph. Also, manual is better for these cars.

[@MegaGEZZZ]

Keep yours, Original front end looks better 🤷🏻‍♂️ plus it’s a better colour 😊

[@D992]

The 981 still looks better than the 781 some how.

[@smiler921]

MPG for both is a big step up on 987, as highest I’ve ever seen, briefly on a long slow drive was 35mpg, typically 30 is my average

[@volkswizard]

986/7 were efficient in their day but just shows how much progress has been made in that time with ICE

[@ceefeeshswim3772]

Like the cars, good informative video. Hope your car change goes to plan. BTW is Splodge a British shorthair?

[@volkswizard]

Thanks! Splodge we think is a Burmese cross. Toby previously of this channel was a British short hair and they are similar but Splodge has a nice temperament

[@paultasker7788]

The 981 sounds better and rides better. I'd keep that over the 718 GTS. Looked like you were enjoying it far more. In isolation the 718 is great but when there was less regulations Porsche could make a more exciting car. Suspension will be more to do with where it fits in the range

[@davidthomas7424]

Don't look much different to be honest if anything the older car looks better from the front and like the centre exhaust but it's up to me 😊

[@RickGTI2019]

Great video, and vehicle comparison. Not sure when exhaust sounds became part of a car review, but this is 2023 ! Love the 718, a little out of my price range, but I can dream. Thanks, RickGTI….. 🌴

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Rick. Exhaust sound on these cars is so important hence the section dedicated to it. I just wanted to record it verbatim so people can hear and make up their own mind regardless of my opinion which is better. For some 981 may be too loud and sometimes when I drive it, it can feel anti social but only when you choose it to be which is I guess the ideal set up

[@Pete7.5R]

Buyer beware!! 👀 Thanks for sharing Andrew, I feel your pain but good to know; makes you wonder how many press cars are sitting on peoples drives without them knowing 🧐 . . . I personally love marmite, but wouldn’t want it on the same bit of toast as bovril 😝 😎

[@barbarusbloodshed6347]

I like your videos but I couldn't watch this one. There's an incredibly annoying, loud, high-pitched noise in the background of many of the scenes. My ears are bleeding. Holy crap.

[@oomstu]

I can only view this in 360p?

[@kekatz0]

for now 720

[@volkswizard]

It takes a while to process HD but thanks for your patience

[@Stewwwwww]

When you bought the 981 gts we’re you told to thrash it every now and again to get engine working correctly? As wouldn’t driving these cars at 2000 revs all the time damage the engine?

[@D992]

Great video Andrew 👍🏼 I’ll keep my 981 😉 😄👍🏼👍🏼

[@richardbennett8701]

Great video, my 718 4.0 is for sale 9 months old 600 miles, artic grey

[@gsten2116]

The 3.4 in the 981 is such a great motor. It really wails.

[@volkswizard]

Is the 3.8 in 981 GT4 as vocal?

[@gsten2116]

No. The 3.8 is really nice and clearly more tuneful than the 982 4.0, but it does not wail like the 3.4. I think the 981 GTS is the high water mark for this chassis, with the pdk.

[@sbarker4186]

Every time the 718 on paper spec was worse than the 981 you said you didn't believe it, or it must be a typo ? inherent bias right at the start of the test, poor

[@TheRealSteveEllis]

Sorry Andrew watched until the buzzing started but cant stand it……

[@volkswizard]

OK, ordered new mic - I used the feature in my editing software to beg the noise back. No idea why it's decided to go noisy now but I'll never by Rode again.

[@TGCREken]

718 Spyder for many reasons. Plus, it’ll hold its value better. The 718 Spyder is peak Porsche.

[@LiveLifeLasting]

agreed

[@andresmattos7541]

OVERPRICED AF.

[@watchingu83]

Wish I could watch this review but the feedback from your cheap microphone made it bloody unbearable.

[@kekatz0]

I would say, if you're looking for fresh content and little difference in joy ride then yes go with 718GTS 4.0 or GT car. Just keep in mind 718 GTS or GT will never sound as 981 GTS/GT's )

[@German-Whip-V8]

Me too

[@MrDogstarr]

You really don't sound convinced that selling the 981 is the right thing to do!

[@jameswilkinson150]

Sound quality is appalling! Also unbelievably greedy with an insane number of ads (for this reason voted down 👎) Plus, you forgot THE best Boxster (yes, feel free to shoot me down) the 2.5 is torquier has beautiful pickup and the over run burbles are simply beautiful. Seems there are a lot of lazy journos out there who seem to copy each others homework. I’ve driven every recent Boxster and, sorry to say, the 2.5 is my favourite, especially if it has an after market exhaust but even without its still sooo much fun to drive.

[@pes6616]

Alternatively, just buy a used 911.

[@TDS981]

If you fancy a GT then sure.

[@peterrolt6403]

😂

[@flyinghedgehog3833]

Audio is rubbish...after 5 mins switched off

[@jonfrench7133]

Just be weary of owner bias here, its natural to defend your choice. All i can say is drive both and make your own decisions. For me, having owned the 981, 718 s and now 718 gts the 4.0 is a notch above and now truly a 911 alternative. The 981 never quite achieved that and will be seen unfortunately as the proverbial poor man’s etc etc

[@volkswizard]

I’m really aware of owner bias and have largely stuck to facts rather than subjective opinion. Facts are it’s now too hard to enjoy on a British B road (without being thrown around) and the exhaust magic of 981 has gone due to emissions regs which is a bit sad. There are some positives like the brakes, mpg but I wouldn’t say the extra power is much use in the UK as it would be in Germany. Still as 2023 compromises go, it’s not hobbled too much and is a great car. Does yours have the rattle? . The beauty of 981 is that it’s not a 911 alternative

[@jonfrench7133]

@@volkswizard love your enthusiasm and passion for the brand. Thumbs up to whatever ticks your boxes

[@imperatormouse2735]

Blame the EU

[@pauledmonds3249]

Epic waffling nonsense. My 330d BMW with a rolling road map is 305 bhp with 600 nm. It cost me 10K It will leave these hairdressers cars standing.

[@paultasker7788]

But it won't give you the same excitement as that 981. Really wish I could take that sound and play it out my stereo somehow linked to the accelerator pedal. I have an obd2 app that can do just that via BT phone but the delay makes it feel unnatural. Shame as great choice of sounds for it

[@AdmJackSwallow]

Just pull up the navigation to the tach-cluster. Problem solved.