That it is an interesting thing you mentioned - apart from the subjective opinion it sounds remarkable that the std. Boxster doesn't seem to be that much off in regards of the whole package. In fact this model is lapping the Hockenheim short circuit about as fast as the 997S convertible - that should say something!

I really consider the 987 as a great and fairly price-sensitive option to get into sportscars, maintenance and running costs about the lowest of all "real" sportscars.
I have heard from various sources that the S-model isn't as fast and agile as its power figures suggest.