Interesting review - thanks, nice to hear abt the base Boxster. I drive an 05 987 BB Sport Chrono + PASM and the sound the exhaust produces is fantastic...especially after 4K RPM - so you got the best seeing that you shifted above this threshold. My 987 has the 18" and in normal mode I find it perfectly smooth, although once I hit the sport it becomes alot harder and responsive, that little button IMO gives me 2 cars in one....good deal I think. Anyway, good luck mcoupe in making a choice. I would highly recommend the Base Boxster, with chrono pack...etc I have had endless hours of pleasurable driving.