Why The 981 Boxster GTS is the ONLY Modern Porsche That I Would Buy

Thinking of a Porsche, but not sure which one to buy? Love the GT products, but can't afford them? Interested by the new GTS 4L but know it is going to be unobtainium? Well, help is on hand from Porsche's own back catalogue.
#Porsche #Boxster #GTS
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[@R2D2trashcan]

“It’s worn it’s miles very well indeed” It’s done 12,000 miles mate, I’d even trust a Jeep with 12,000 miles.

[@DaudGonzalez]

preach

[@R2D2trashcan]

@MK27 PILOT totally agree

[@charleslu7044]

@John S 150,000 on my 05 S, traded for a 981 Spyder, 9,500.

[@TimFerber]

I know boxsters with 120k miles and they still run fine.

[@buildthis99]

A Jeep?! Steady on old chap

[@robertgregory1927]

Trading my 992 for one of these, 992 feels just too large for me and never bonded with it like my 981. Great review…cheers!

[@MichaelHanna-c5i]

This was the main video that sold me on the car. Mine's a 2016, also Carmine Red. Gorgeous with the sun on it. At any normal road speed with the roof down it's more fun (and sounds better) than my brother-in-law's GT3. Thank you for convincing me!

[@stephaneallroad8789]

Full the same for me 😊

[@johnfarner555]

I have a 2015 981 Boxster GTS and I absolutely love it. I have been debating upgrading to a new Spyder or GTS 4.0, but videos like this remind me why I love it so much. It's not the numbers, but the sum of all the parts that really make this car special to drive. Mine is garaged for the winter, and this video is getting me excited for spring.

[@speaklikeanative]

Four years ago I rented 2015 981 GTS with PDK in Dubai. Best car I've ever driven. I was heartbroken when they started fitting the 4-cylinder angry hoovers. Three weeks ago my dealer called me on Friday to let me know the GTS 4.0 is coming. On Monday I paid the deposit for a carmine red with manual transmission. Should receive it first week of March. My brain still hasn't processed the fact this has 64 more BHP and a manual over the 981...

[@rickc2102]

Have an amazing time with her!

[@bmcallister1974]

Rocco Siffredi when I move on from my 981S it will be for the 4.0. Also, I enjoy your films. Keep up the good work. Haha

[@mpc007]

​@@bmcallister1974don't you want a 981 gts?

[@GT380man]

I hope the last few years have been good for you. Separately, I hope the Porsche has given you copious amounts of pleasure! At 64 years of age, I’ve finally pushed the button on my first Porsche, a 2004 911, a 40th anniversary edition of the 996 coupe. It has been loved and coddled, used modestly every year and the previous owners evidently enjoyed spending money maintaining it. It honestly looks showroom fresh, inside and out. The gremlins have been solved with a prophylactic replacement of IMS, RMS, all clutch parts plus all these limited numbers model had the X51 “power pack” engine, which came with the modified sump & oil pick up. I’m having OE kit being retrofitted at eye watering cost, but I’m told I’ll never regret having the new PCCM+ and Porsche’s switchable exhaust. I declined to go for the 997 GT3 all metal gear selector mechanism installed, because the original parts feel like brand new and I didn’t find the throw of the gear lever in any way excessive. Have I fallen in love, or joined a cult? I’ve found myself perusing things you can buy for your 911, even though I’ve not the slightest dissatisfaction about anything to do with this car.

[@mdamd7513]

981 GTS owner. Great video. I would also mention that you're having lots of fun starting at > 10 mph given exhaust crackles and excellent responsiveness. 0-60 in 4 seconds is not slow. If you want a PDK, forget the GT4. GT3 is not as fun on normal roads given rougher ride and extremely high limits, also does not sound as good at lower RPMs and you're traveling way too fast when it does sound great as 9k is too addictive. New 718 4L does not sound as good given particle filter and nowhere near the crackles this thing has. This sports car stands on its own.

[@mpc007]

If you modify the exhaust and delete the particle filter 4.0 can still sound great.

[@MikeSmith-rd9fi]

Prices are still firm and its still the best one to get for value and sound.

[@ashlinr38]

Great video Jay, have had my 981 GTS for nearly 5 years and she always puts a smile on my face especially when downshifting. If you have an opportunity to track one,the experience is immense - did a Porsche day and continually caught the 992 pace car on the twistys on account of the perfect mid engine balance. Best wishes from Johannesburg

[@prashanthp5448]

About to pick up a fully spec’ed 981 GTS with 15000 miles and this video has convinced me I haven’t made a horrible mistake!

[@brucekaufer]

I have this car in Rhodium silver. Never had more fun driving anything else! A true dream to drive!

[@peterADL]

981 GTS is the gem, I love that car. The sound of the flat 6 is wonderful. Great video.

[@MrElnuno]

The 981 is a real sweetspot in the P-Car range. Actually, since the introduction of the 991/981 models, I think the Boxster/Cayman is now the 'sportscar' of the line-up, with the 911 more of a GT car. I have a 981 Boxster S and I'm so impressed with it's practicality vs performance. Great car and probably a sought after model in the future.

[@mpc007]

I think it already is if you compare current value to competitors.

[@nafnaf0]

Even with the release of the GTS 4.0, these 981 Boxster GTSs should continue to hold their value very well. Sounds outstanding

[@therealist5680]

My 2005 987 S went 203000 miles with hardly an issue. Love these flat six machines and can’t wait till I can afford a newer GTS. Best sound under 100k that you can use every day!

[@williammorris3334]

I’ve now had my 981 Boxster S for six months and yes, it’s brilliant! For the vast majority of us watching these wonderfully done reviews by pros like Jay, price is a major consideration. I am a blue collar guy and stretched my budget to get this car for 43k $US and it’s worth every penny. I didn’t get sport exhaust or pasm and I’ll have less problems for it. The car just doesn’t need these and I’ve already put in a lighter weight exhaust and H&R springs. With a Quick Jack, a good local mechanic and a three year warranty it’s not expensive to own once the car is sorted out. I got 32.6 mpg on a recent road trip! It’s gets 23-25 mpg in mixed somewhat spirited driving. No there’s not a lot of low end torque but that’s not what you buy these for, and it’s got plenty of power in traffic with the occasional downshift which is more fun anyway. Get a 2013 as the door panels will not delaminate and it’s the best value. Unfortunately the new GTS has not dropped 981BS prices but they’ve at least stopped rising at the moment. This is the best practical daily sports car out there with its reliability, large amount of storage and good gas mileage. And it’s not going to depreciate as environmentalism is killing off true drivers cars.

[@ianashton1226]

I’ve owned a 987 gen1 Cayman, a 981 Cayman S and now own a 987 gen 2 Boxster. All stunningly good cars (but I think 987 Gen 2 - whether hard or soft top - was the peak driver’s car). My mates are all blown away when I let them have a drive. Best car in the world for pound-for-pound fun

[@drbilly5133]

Lucky to have. 981 Cayman GTS. What a car

[@ronsmith4171]

Bought this car New in November 2015, 42k miles later, I honestly have to restrict myself on how much I drive it as it is not a daily but a open road driver. Never gets old, can easily put 4K miles on it in one stint. Plan on driving it to 200k plus miles, and so far best money I ever spent.

[@Jay-xr3sb]

Did you go for the pdk or manual?

[@andersjensen1499]

Being a former owner of a black 981 Boxster GTS - I miss the sound when watching this video and it still looks so good 😊

[@PS-tu2ds]

I've owned two CGTS. One in Black, one in Carmine. Both PDK, both with interior pack etc. Simply fantastic cars - balance, usable power, fantastic damping. Wonderful cars. I now have a 991 Gen 1 GTS - that's a step up and a car I can't imagine selling.

[@MrRoyck10]

Any Boxster or Cayman after the 981 is a quasi electric car, similar to any M powered BMW after the e46 / e92 M3. Boxster / Cayman are now becoming the true enthusiast car by virtue of being two a seater mid flat 6 engine. However the 4 cylinder 718 inject more options to the Boxster Cayman range, so take your pick. Excellent content.

[@RogerBaileyOnCars]

Totally agree with this, I spent time with one last year and it really is all the sports car you could ever need. Great review.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Cheers for watching as always Roger

[@Kiarax1]

JayEmm on Cars Both yours and Roger’s channels are highly entertaining.

[@Bambotb]

Still 2 seats not enough, 4 is best

[@tomcraig8027]

Reasonably specified new 718 GTS is coming in at around £70-75k OTR so these cars are looking very good value particularly if the price softens as you stated. Had a base 2.7 981 and wish I had never sold it. Really lovely cars.

[@mpc007]

Price will likely never soften. These cars will never return you know, and Porsche will stop making new ones.

[@jordonstudio]

No love for the base and S models? All the 981s were great cars. I have a 981 Manual Base and it's like having a Porsche S2000. Love the damn thing

[@MrJef06]

981 Cayman 2.7 PDK here, and I absolutely love it! Both for daily driving and occasional track days. In fact if I were to replace it, it would be with a 981 S or GTS no doubt, certainly not a 4 cylinder 718 which I didn't like at all. Well the new GTS 4.0 could be a different story, but too expensive sadly.

[@TDS981]

@@MrJef06 I've tried them all, theres something quite rewarding about pushing the 2.7 along.

[@chriscushing1275]

There is something joyful about wringing the neck of a "lesser" engine in a really good chassis. It's the same reason the 986s were fun! I've always said that stock vs. stock the 1.5L Miatas were the most fun of the lot because they try harder.

[@williammartin5279]

Ikr, I have a base 981c It's like the perfect sports car that almost can hang with true preforming mainstream exotics

[@stephenfoster6940]

Test Drive Scotland Totally agree. Also have the 2.7, manual, 19" S wheels with Sport steering wheel (no buttons) and it is a hoot. Because they aren't the glamour model like the S and GTS they are more affordable and a better value proposition in my opinion. You can still hear it sing gloriously at 4000-7600 rpm.

[@prazzy4712]

6 years and 4 cars later, I am still searching for a car that spoke to me like my first 981S manual. It's fast enough, compact, beautiful, refined, sounds amazing and just a joy to drive. Nothing like it in the current market. GTS 4.0 might be the next move for me, but not if the particulate filters make it to North America.

[@lx1150]

Same boat here... had Boxster gts since late 2014... thinking of the 718 spyder... not sure about the new 4.0 styling tho...

[@prazzy4712]

@@lx1150 agreed the 981 looks cleaner

[@Californification]

Bought a 16 CGTS back in December and totally love it. Coming from the F80 M3 it was down in power but surprisingly faster than my M3 on familiar backroads. The car is just more fun to drive. I test drove the manual because I did want a manual but the 2nd gear is way too tall and that was the deciding factor to go with the PDK.

[@pierogiguy]

Nice! The only thing that could get my out of my Cadillac ATS-V would be a Porsche.

[@Hypersonik]

Surprisingly? One is a saloon car modded with a big engine in it weighing 1600+kg. The other is a dedicated rear mid engined 1350kg sportcar. No surprises at all.

[@moneyparhar]

Dude pls don't compare ur 3 series with 911. People say BMW is ultimate driving machine. Those people never drove Porsche 911.

[@Californification]

Shift Gears Noted. Just for clarity I was not comparing it to a 911. Not sure if you noticed but this video is not about a 911. Lol! It’s a Cayman not a 911. Get your facts straight. I just said I was pleasantly surprised, that’s all. Don’t make this out to be a comparison post and start shitting on a M3 . They are totally different cars serving a different purpose. Let’s leave it at that.

[@Californification]

Hypersonik Yes I realize that now:-). It was a pleasant surprise nonetheless.

[@andrewjones1944]

Just bought a 2015 stunner last week.....Fantastic car , fantastic drive and what a sound.....!!! This one will be wrapped up each winter and loved again each Spring.....

[@aaronming8466]

Finally an honest review. Non of that overhyped 911 crap. I sold my 991 C2S and got this after I drove it. It just sounds and drives better.

[@kanervatie]

Sure it does. :D

[@Baerchenization]

Can you tell me about the mileage/age and value of both cars when you did the swap? Because I might be interested in doing it the other way round. I have a late 2015 GTS with 46K miles, quite a few options, in carmine red.

[@FEVERNOVAA]

Both automatic and manual options both designed for sporty driving Every single sports car should have those options

[@finalpharoah1]

The Murcielargo had both options and apparently only 4% of consumers chose the manual. The original Audi R8 had both options, there are plenty of autos for sale, good luck finding a manual for sale

[@Bmontepeque11]

This is wonderful 🥰 I have fallen out of cars as a whole because they are so numb, and they just chase numbers, not experiences. And this Boxster GTS just looks so pure, so simple, so greatly judged, I LOVE IT 🥰

[@deedoubleyatraining]

Well Jay, this is a cracking review and while it was some time ago now, prices have risen. Regardless, I have traded my 911 ( 991 Base ) for a GTS……. I can tell you, it’s the right decision!!!! It feels special 👍

[@radeon08]

Had a base 981 Cayman, sold it for a 997.1 C4S manual. Didn't even keep it a year before I went back to the 981 Cayman. Now I have a Racing Yellow 981 GTS with PDK. Honestly, its a fucking outrageously good car. Way better in almost every way to the 911.

[@Peter-Oxley-Modelling-Lab]

Great Vid! 👍🏻 The 981 is indeed the best for sure... the sound is superior even to the new 6 cyl model, (thanks to them having to comply with new emissions regs) though personally in the UK, (with its weather) I would prefer the Cayman for its long distance usability.

[@Michael_Lorenson]

ANY six-cylinder Porsche that fits your budget is worth considering. Even the early ~200 HP Boxsters. Brilliant cars. That said, I bought a Corvette in the end. Here in 'murica (Fuck Yeah!!), Corvettes are plentiful and can be downright cheap to buy. Availability of parts, 'upgrades', and expertise is unmatched. It's loud, fast, brash, beautiful, comfortable, reliable, and loads of FUN to drive. Whatever your preference, forget about the numbers and focus on the car's character. Numbers only matter if you are racing for money!

[@CroneRaven1810]

718 GTS 4.0 just came out. The same Naturally aspirated flat six from the GT4. Looks great, sounds great, manual, up to date. Epic sportscar

[@BubuBarong]

I've got a mint, fully loaded 981 S, could not agree more.

[@bmcallister1974]

BubuBarong So do I, the original owner bought so many options (PASM, PLDS, 20” rims etc) I honestly don’t know why he didn’t just buy the GTS. He then promptly lost his license for DUI and I was fortunate enough to get the mint 981S with only 3000km on it at a great price. I love that car

[@philiphiggo6156]

A belated comment to a really excellent vid.review... As a previous owner of, inter alia (and limited to just the most recent three...) a 2020 718 Spyder, a 2015 981 GT4 and a 2013 Cayman S, I completely agree with all of this - and that is again also supported by reviews by other accredited reviewers (see , just for instance, Autocar`s Sutcliffe, Henry Catchpole and Roger Bailey etc.). I am in the painful process of selling by beloved 2020 718 Spyder (a very special car, but expensive...) and purchasing 2015 981 Boxster GTS. I have re-evaluated everything thoroughly in order to decide on what can give me the closest holistic emotive experience while still being practical as a daily driver. As special as the 718 Spyder is, this gives probably 90% of the thrill of driving (and a better sound..), with more practicality, for approximately 55 % of the price...And if you don`t track as such, it isnt that far off from the 2015 981 GT4 as far as the thrill of driving is concerned. Well done...

[@danredzone73]

My dream car, modest hard working guy, you’ve raised my hopes even higher with word on the new GTS and prices dropping, i’ve been watching and waiting, cheers.

[@jandejong8209]

Hi Jay, been looking at your reviews for quite some time. Back a long time ago i had a 986 boxster s, which i really liked, but then i bought a 987 gen2 Boxster S. It was better in almost every way compared to the 986. The cabin-was way more refined and the driving was more civilized yet very accurate in terms of steering and handling. Just recently i purchased a 2015 GTS with only 19,000 km’s. I love the design, interior cabin is superb, ride is excellent, the sound is unreal especially with the sport exhaust and auto blip, but….the steering doesnt have the precise feel or road feedback, the 987 had. Now a few steps forward i watched your GTS 4.0 review and i can see where you get the lack of steering feel sensation. In a few years i will upgrade to a low km GTS 4.0, but i wish it would have the 987 gen 2 steering rack. It was without doubt the best. On the other hand a lot of the new features are fantastic on the 2015 GTS, but once in a while i do miss the direct steering of the 987. Just my 0.02

[@omarlondon]

981 boxster S is just as good.. excellent cars

[@Hypersonik]

It is. Mechanically identical to the GTS.

[@omarlondon]

@@Hypersonik yes correct, just about 10bhp more and different bumpers and maybe suspension too

[@Hypersonik]

@@omarlondon 10bhp is software. Mine now has 20+bhp more than the GTS :) Yep, different bumpers, smoked lights, some alcantara and a middle rad (so more weight). Suspension was the same. The GTS was basically an options package for the S.

[@Angry-Lynx]

@@droptopdan But you would lose warranty? I would never own a porsche without warranty lol ;

[@Baerchenization]

@@Hypersonik Almost :) GTS has a 3rd large centre radiator in the front, which looks about as large as the standard left + right combined and it has 911 brakes in the front. I would normally say that doesn't matter, but when it was up to 40C in summer two years ago, my temperature kept going up and up in the mountains, so that I had to turn the aircon off despite the extra radiator ! :) For practical purposes of course, they are "identical" and S is much cheaper than GTS, so S is the sensible option. Chris Harris said nobody needs more sports car than a Boxster S, there you go ;)

[@Pecktastic]

Have owned my 2013 981s for a little over 2 years now. Prior to owning this, I drove a couple 911s - 2009 and 2010 years. The Boxster is a tad less quick but makes up for it by being more fun to drive.

[@bellastaffypearmapearman2666]

I've got a 981 base and love it. Ring its neck in every gear and is still nippy.70mph in 2nd and 105 in 3rd is enough for me. Until of course I can afford a GTS. 981 is amazing and absolutely love it. Have owned quicker cars in last 5 years but this 2.7 is a special little thing. # porkies all the way❤

[@hunteraaa2666]

It’s also one of the best looking generation too!

[@williammartin5279]

The best, 981 is arguably better looking than the 718

[@Baerchenization]

​@Stijn 3 A GTS with options had cost almost as much as a base 911. In reality, everybody can get their asses in to a 911 if they very much want to because most luxury cars are leased, anyway and while that is not a bargain, it is achievable. So that would suggest most people who drive a 911 could not afford to buy a Boxster, which is why they lease a 911 ;)

[@fragu123]

@Stijn 3 ...if that would be a problem for you, I recommend to talk to a therapist to boost your self confidence....

[@AquilHK]

I’ve had two over the past two years. One when I lived in Saudi Arabia and now the second one since I’ve moved to the UK. What a phenomenal car and I chose it over a 911 both times. Never regretted my decisions. I hope to keep it till it breaks down (if it does lol. I drove the one I had in Saudi about 50k miles with no problems)

[@blackmanxrjc]

Push up makes sense my friend... When you shift into first in a manual you are shifting towards the front of the car. I know... there's also an argument to pull to shift up (as you're screaming around a corner) but I'm happy I have an "early" 981. Honestly... it's not that hard to shift. Porsche 981S -- the ultimate Porsche....(Sorry 911's)

[@brtnspn]

I noticed and really appreciate the faster speech, lot more information coming through than before, making for easier listening.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It's easier when it is a car I know about. The problem I get when I talk faster is non native speakers can have trouble understanding

[@ChrisFEJackson]

No frills, no nonsense, just pure feedback of driving a car and sharing the experience. If only your shirt choices were as good as your knowledge ;) cheers fella another great installment.

[@drbobs8267]

Good review… I would Imagine 2015 GTS is much like an S2000 in that you have to wring it’s neck for the best performance but it is ultimately why it is so fun to drive. I had an S 2000 and it was by far the most fun vehicle I’ve ever had. However I was paring my cars down to one and I needed something that I could drive long distances without feeling assaulted. I got a 2018 base Boxster which admittedly isn’t quite as much fun but close and I can drive it across the United States without feeling like I’ve crawled through a knothole.

[@rainzoro]

Let me tell you what many are missing. I’m a former 718 Cayman GTS 2.5 owner and a current 981 Boxster S owner. Before buying the 981, I had a chance to sit in a 718 GT4 with aftermarket exhaust. At first I was blown away but after 20 minutes it started to feel linear and boring compared to the 981. It sort of lacked character because the pitch remained the same throughout the entire rpm meter. I think the reason for this is because the 4.0 engine was tuned from a 992 turbo while the 981 was born as an NA.

[@johnlee5307]

Also the GT4 has too much power which with the manual's long gearing makes it frustrating to drive. I'd rather wind out the 3.4L to the redline as much as possible in my weekend canyon carver. If you track your car regularly then GT4 is the car for you.

[@jetara3082]

The "wrong" way the PDK leaver works is heritage of the former Porsche Boss Wiedeking...the reasoning was pretty simple. Just different from the others so you know you are in a Porsche. I really loved the attitude behind this. After having driven those cars for years it was pretty hard for me to get used to the other way, even if it's mostly considered the right way cause it goes with G Forces. I agree fully on the Title of this Video, 981 is like a little Ferrari F430, it's so damn good. Doesn't matter which one, S and GTS don't differ in Sound or Power in any way you will notice. Only on the german Autobahn the Base model can be a bit disappointing cause the gearing is long and torque down the rev range is pretty much non existent. It screams like Hell and you see 3.0 TDI passing by...better back of and pretend you are on the phone.

[@davidkn]

I had one of these, Carmine, black wheels, gloss black pack, every option, was perfection. I replaced it with a 991.2 911 GTS convertible in Viper Green, and whilst I love it, its just not quite as good as the Boxster was, I wanted more power, but I lost a bit of soul and that beautiful sound and perfectly balanced handling. My one car regret was selling it.

[@PS-tu2ds]

991.1 GTS has the soul of a 981.

[@davidkn]

P S which is strange, because I test drove a 991.1 GTS and didn’t get on with it, it just didn’t click. I then drove a 991.2 S and same thing, just didn’t go anything for me. But the 991.2 GTS did, just hasn’t got the same feeling as the 981, but the power on the 991.2 is immense, not much can touch it.

[@tombolton9616]

I have an agate grey 981 Boxster GTS and I can’t fault it. It’s the perfect sports car and this video doesn’t do the exhaust note justice. Pure heaven compared to the 718 four cylinder

[@mkc1rrc]

Absolutely LOVING the Porsche videos! Thank you. I hadn’t considered the 981 GTS until now, hoping the price softens a bit! Another brilliant review, thanks again.

[@scottc543]

I've had my Guards Red 2015 Boxster GTS for a little over a year now and I still can't stop grinning when I'm driving it.

[@xTheDeserter]

I bought one of the last 981 Cayman GTS in may 2016. Seeing how everything evolved I really am sooooo glad I made this decision. Love this car and will most likely also never replace it.

[@D992]

Dare I say it but my 981 is way way better than my previous 911 997. The styling and performance is absolutely spot on.

[@limpunsing224]

The best alternative to the 718 GTS 4.0 Awesome content

[@ProjectFairmont]

Totally agree. Sweet flat 6, PDK, convert, and GTS trim. I passed on one last year and bought a Ferrari F355 F1. Why? Because the late model P car will depreciate like a rock, while the semi vintage F car wont.

[@sparkes999]

1. It wont depreciate like a rock, it's at the same value 2 years ago pretty much. 2. Sure the F355 will hold value better but have MUCH higher running costs, so will be offset by that.

[@ProjectFairmont]

@@sparkes999 ok, have you sold a late model P? They do depreciate. I take it you also own a Ferrari, and know of these MUCH higher running costs? If you use the car as a daily, yes P car all the way. However for me the F car has so far worked out, no regrets.

[@sparkes999]

@@ProjectFairmont I own a 981 GTS and yes owned a 360,430 etc also owned 996 and 997 gt3s. I'm sure you love the car no arguments there. But the F355 is a very expensive to run compared to a GTS just saying.

[@dinos22]

Love my 981, good to see you’re converted:)

[@jonathancollard3710]

We’ve had 981 for 7 years now initially dropping out of DB9 but then also bought Lotus 2-11 for track. Car has been faultless for 25,000 miles. PDK excellent. Sold Lotus and kept Boxster as 85% of fun on track but annual servicing costs more than double that of Porsche for half the mileage 🤔. Now have McLaren 570 but still enjoy Boxster and will probably keep it in family as it’s aged incredibly well.

[@darthnatas953]

Thanks for the review. I wish more youtube reviewers would put the year model of the cars they are reviewing in the title. There are often subtle changes from year to year, and it would be nice to know what year the car is we are looking at.

[@johncastorina8310]

Camera work and sound quality are AMAZING!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks!

[@capuchinseven]

lol what camera work? The camera and mics are stuck on with suckers and don't move.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Ah but its knowing where to put them

[@callez2402]

@@JayEmmOnCars Often the sound is the weakest point, but it was great here. I own a 981S 2015, and I on all points agree with your comments and judges. The steering feel is ok, but could be better, it is the weakest point. And the Pirellis are great in dry weather, but yes, slippery in wet - but that can also be kind of fun, at least on corners :) Great video, overall, you definitely knew what you were talking about.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@callez2402 cheers!

[@JayKullar]

Nice Video. Loved my 981 Boxster GTS, had it for 3 years as a fun car and did some great road trips. I had a manual with the 981 Spyder X73 passive suspension option which was stiffer and lower. I did fit the 981 GT4/Spyder OE Porsche shortshifter and the smaller Steering Wheel and Airbag from the 981 GT4/Spyder to enhance the driving experience. As you say noisey on long distance as the engine is right behind you. Also the Sound Synthesizer system, the grilles behind your head which channel induction noise into the cabin, so when the roof is up its like a different car. As you said downsides, steering is a bit numb, i spoke with people about fitting the 981 Spyder steering rack but it's not possible, the best you can do is switch to MPS4S and change the Geo. Gearing is even longer on manual but you can leave with it. Nothing perfect. If they do drop down anymore I'd be tempted to get back in one if i can find the same spec as before. Although thinking to try an Exige 350 or 410 Sport next as a road blaster........

[@jamescockram5934]

Damn you, man! I've been planning on buying my first Porker for sometime now and am just a couple of months away from FINALLY being in the financial position to. I was originally planning on a 4.0 718, then flip flopped between that and a 991.2 C2S. Then I had a word with myself and lowered my budget to £50k. I've been trying to convince myself that I'll live with the flat 4 noise of a 718 GTS, taking advantage of the decent torque (and mod-ability to go over 400hp if I choose), Apple Car Play etc. And I'm just about there. But then I watch this! Oh, the flat 6 is just a symphony of pleasure. But on every other metric, the 718 is a better car, right? This is agonising....in a 1st World Problem sort of way!

[@ricosun]

the sound..... I love this car, and the best thing is I have one :)

[@mpc007]

These are still darn expensive, like over 60k. Shame, i think its the pinnacle of a sports roadster. Crazy that a F-Type V6S can be had for a lot less nowadays.

[@stephaneallroad8789]

Ridiculous boot in the Jaguar 😮

[@brtnspn]

For those on a budget, for a fraction of the price I'd recommend from experience a fully spec'ed 370Z roadster (avoid the Base with the tiny brakes and no diff). Beautiful car, lots of V6 rumble (just change the very end of the pipes if you want more volume, costs a few hundred tops), 7-speed fast auto with rev match, nice interior, etc. Truly awesome experience for a roadster, loved my 2 years with it. Drove the nuts off it over 20k km and sold it for 1k under what I paid for it. True story.

[@Joanbcn68]

driving a Porsche is driving. Try it and then come back to tell us what do you feel. Trust me.

[@Hypersonik]

@@Joanbcn68 I have a 350Z and a modded 981CS. They both do different things and I love my 350Z as much as my CS

[@Swainmtb1]

Yep totally agree! I have the 987 with the 3.4 and love it!

[@JeffJacquesmd]

Watching this a year later and like all things messed up by the pandemic the prices have rising not fallen. I’m seeing low mileage GTS’ for 75k+ in the US. Great overview and review.

[@borinvlogs]

I am still waiting, waiting, waiting, waiting for the prices of these to drop but it is not. they are still holding the values and selling for still more than my budget.

[@BinhLe-ku1ds]

I have a 981 GTS and absolutely love it - great review!

[@Baerchenization]

Would you swap it for a base 991, if you could have one for the same money?

[@owiowi1989]

@@Baerchenization Got one as well and i wouldn't swap it for the base 991. If i would change it for another porsche, it would be for a GT3 or a GTS but i think that the 981 is funnier to play with than the basic 991.

[@Baerchenization]

@@owiowi1989 No you wouldn't swap it for a GT3, because a GT3 costs 3x more. "Swapping" it would realistically be done with a base Carrera or nothing, unless you top up the difference with 50-70 K in your favourite currency. And there is no GT3 cab, and even a GTS always has a premium price tag in the line-up new and pre-owned... Swapping and what-is-your-dream-car are two very different questions ;) I was a toddler when the 911 came out, so there is that for me personally, I love it for 40+ years and a 911 is just a different animal. Obviously that does not rubbish the 981, but if you can only have one or the other, this is what I keep thinking about... and even if someone were to literally swap it for me, 911 is still much more expensive, eg why tf do winter tyres and everything have to cost straight up like 50% more for the 911? :)

[@owiowi1989]

@@Baerchenization I understood and this is why i said that i wouldn't swap it for a base 991 ;) I also thought about it when i bought mine in 2015. The fact it that the base 911 is a legend but that's it. For the same price i would still go for a 981 GTS or at least wait a bit to get a 991 S with the sport options.

[@Baerchenization]

@@owiowi1989 Is Charlie Sheen from the US? I like to remember that like ca 5 years ago, I put ca 12K GBP in options in to it - and was still 10 K away from an absolute stock 911, not even fucking parking sensors... while in the US, you could get a 911 for the same money. And then all the premiums to pay for insurance bla-bla-bla, so I thought, OK slow down my dude, it has to be a 981 :P

[@treyquattro]

the jacket was a good idea - we can't see the shirt

[@banjopete]

Trey Quattro ,CRUEL!

[@clu4u]

@@banjopete a meanie!

[@michaeloshea7360]

good review James.....but I think you're hard on the 992 911....I've driven one extensively and its an amazing piece of engineering ..in many way perhaps too good.?..but you are carving a nice niche in the world of car reviews ....I've followed you since your early Mc Claren reviews and you've made great use of your skills from a film background....keep it real and congratulations in subscription....you will break through 250 000 in 2020 I have no doubt...

[@ryanthomastew]

I genuinely like your videos. Down to earth and realistic analysis. Keep up the good work!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks ryan!

[@TDS981]

I replaced my s2000 for one of these, great cars, the sound and drive just make them. Thanks for the great review.

[@KingDowgg]

Same here.

[@paulschmidt5847]

i had an S2000 for 14 years (loved it) ... bought a 981S for touring.😎

[@timbonfield2325]

If Clarkson,Partridge and Brent had a 3 way baby.

[@jasonloader8149]

Tim Bonfield i honestly thought this was a parody video.

[@burnham7673]

The best bits of all three.

[@acchaladka]

...they would make a Boxster? 🤔

[@morri03]

The warehouse manager ... is a personal friend of mine

[@JayEmmOnCars]

JAYEMM DRIVES THIS KIA

[@Lucky008aau]

987.2 CS here and love every minute I'm in it.

[@P1_TDT]

Good review. I had a 981 Cayman GTS as my daily driver for 3years and 22k miles. Was lovely. On optional sports chassis x73. I had PDK. Mechanical LSD was also an option on the GTS. Bundled with PTV.

[@joeshmoe7485]

why would you ever get rit of it?

[@P1_TDT]

For a 981 GT4. :)

[@joeshmoe7485]

@@P1_TDT That is 100% the correct answer. Congrats to you, sir!!

[@P1_TDT]

Joe Shmoe 👍😎

[@PoloDaBear]

11:55 I vote we call them the tennies

[@brandonbandstra226]

This is the best Porsche video I've ever seen or will ever see

[@staraman1]

Yes, 981’s with 6-cylinders are great.

[@sevesellors2831]

The sound is heaven, great car! Great video!

[@andrewbrown5636]

Had my 981 Cayman manual nearly 2 years now.. which is a long time for me. Started getting itchy feet a couple of months ago and had thoughts of changing to an M4 competition or C63, I couldn’t do it! I feel the 981 will be a future classic for sure

[@EnglishSpitfire]

Who in their right mind would swap a Porsche for a bmws/merc?????????? They're just supermarket family cars with big engines.

[@robertl2856]

Great variety of cars....keeps me coming back for more !

[@MichaelJ-fn5pl]

So glad to see you give a updated review. I just picked up a 2015 manual Carmine red 981 GTS with 8750 miles on it just before Christmas and I'm in love with it.

[@Hypersonik]

Don't drive it, you'll lose money

[@owiowi1989]

@@Hypersonik Losing money is to buy something expensive and not driving it.

[@CindyLandoltTraining]

ooooh I have a Black 981 Boxster S and LOVE it!

[@callummccubbing4506]

What about the 981 Boxter Spyder? Now that is a car and a half!

[@nichopaulu8395]

Amazing review! Thanks for capturing that lovely H6 sound!

[@105higginsroy]

I have a Boxster 987's the natural progression would be a Boxster 981 's or GTS. Simply put what more complete car in this price band would you want on UK A,B and M roads.

[@1970boggy]

The car I’m seriously looking at buying rather than another Elise / Exige. May be not a GTS but the S for sure

[@zaink7037]

They are a bargain for what they are going for. Hope I can afford one later after finishing uni

[@RussellMiddleton]

I went Elise to 987, and never looked back. Good fun in a much wider range of conditions. If you get the Sport Chrono option, the sport mode makes the throttle response more linear, comparable to the Elise.

[@Hypersonik]

Forget the sport chrono, it's nonsense/pose factor. Get a Cobb AP and unlock what sport chrono can only dream of giving you :)

[@Chris-hb6jt]

get a 987.2 r or s, much purer driving experience than the 981, just get a nice new radio and you'd never notice it was a 10 year old car other than the fact that you can actually feel the wonderful hydraulic steering

[@katsungchan3599]

PDK has the push/up and pull/down because their Tiptronic was like that. The Mercedes sourced 722 and also the Aisin in the Cayenne

[@jimc8609]

The only real issue with these is the silly price to do basic repair as the engine is so inaccessible we bought ours new, and quality was just ok. Driving experience excellent. Once it’s out of warranty beware

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

I call these types of cars "three year cars". Bentley's are the same. Fabulous cars, but get rid after the warranty runs out or you'll soon be shedding money.....

[@augustortiz]

Nothing like the mid engined Porsches. The new 4.0 GTS’s are going to be perfection.

[@maxvanboxel]

Dear Jay, what would your pick be, the 981 GTS or the Alpine a110? How would you score these two cars in terms of driving dynamics, engagement, and refinement? I had the opportunity to drive a 987 Spyder in the past and I remember how gloriously raw that exhaust note sounded. I think it is fair to say that the 3.4l flat six is a precious gem compared to the 1.8l turbo Toyota engine. I did however also drive the Alpine, and boy did I love the way it handled. Just drove around with a big grin on my face (driving the Spyder felt more serious). Unfortunately I did not drive these cars long enough to really make a good comparison and given that I have no experience with the GTS I was hoping you could provide me with your two cents on this topic. Many thanks for all the great content.

[@chrissheppard4daysoff238]

I do like the sound of that exhaust.

[@mustbkyle5697]

I've recently discovered your channel and am already a fan, keep up the good work!

[@terrybuchanan1]

great scriptwriting combined with the techie stuff artistically!

[@graemew7001]

That engine note with that gearbox is spot but I'd but I'd buy the Cayman 981GTS instead, only reason is I'm not a fan of soft soft tops, I like the folding metal for security and Porsche don't have one.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Fair enough

[@arrek6773]

I have the 981 Boxster S with pdk, pse, sport chrono, padm and pasm. 😃. Love the car. Time for the big maintenence on Monday. 2k$ for that. Poor mans porsche, yeah right

[@michaelcain2867]

If you want more power from your 981S try these guys; You get 352 bhp from a simple tune. www.fvd.net/us-en/FVD981100111/981-boxster-s-34l-level-1-352-hp-291-tq.html

[@Arnokami]

Spot on review! Clearly the most exciting car for non-stratospheric budget still today -which is why I bought one 1 year ago, mahogany metallic and Luxor/black interior. Pure pleasure! The weakest point is the steering very precise, but a bit lazy