4) Porsche’s Performance as an Owner

After about three months of ownership, here are my thoughts on the Porsche’s performance.

① Engine

The naturally aspirated 2700cc engine provides just the right amount of power. It’s not extremely fast, but it allows for a satisfying rev to high RPMs. The precise feeling and exhilarating “sound” at high RPMs are simply irresistible (laughs).

② PDK

Initially, I wanted a manual transmission, so I wondered if PDK would be boring, but that was not the case at all. The gear change response is lightning-fast and excellent. Additionally, when you turn on Sport Plus, the connection between the engine and transmission becomes even more direct, giving it a racing car-like feel.

③ Fuel Efficiency

I’ve rarely paid attention to fuel efficiency, but it’s around 10km/L to 11km/L. However, with a Porsche or Boxster, worrying about fuel efficiency is a waste. Enjoying the drive without worrying about fuel efficiency is the key to experiencing the joy of a Porsche.

④ Ride Comfort and Handling

In PASM Normal mode, the ride is so smooth and flat that it feels like a luxury sedan. When you switch to PASM Sport, the suspension becomes slightly firmer, but not harsh, making it just right for me.

The steering responds precisely to your input, and the acceleration is directly proportional to how much you press the pedal. Everything feels natural, so even after long drives, I don’t feel tired at all. This is the first car I’ve experienced like this.

⑤ Convertible Top

At first glance, I was a bit worried about the convertible top being fabric and whether it would leak in the rain. (Of course, it doesn’t leak, but it’s just an impression, haha) I also wondered how to clean it if it got dirty, whether washing it would be a hassle, and how much it would cost to replace if it aged.

When I asked the dealership about these concerns, they said, “You don’t need to be overly cautious; just wash it normally.” And indeed, that was the case. Once the top is closed, it’s no different from a regular car.

⑥ Family’s Reaction

The first thing my two children said was, “Wow, the roof opens? That’s awesome! It sounds great!” My wife commented, “The sound is so loud. It’s going to disturb the neighbors. Are you having a midlife crisis?” (laughs). She also remarked, “If you open the roof in the city, your nostrils will turn black from exhaust fumes,” but on the other hand, she was pleased, saying, “There are two trunks, front and back. They’re bigger than I thought, and they can hold luggage.”

“Well, as long as Dad is happy, it’s good that we bought it,” so overall, it seems to have left a positive impression.

⑦ Favorite Points

The “sound” is my favorite aspect. When you turn on Sport Plus and the sport exhaust, rev the engine to high RPMs, and shift up with the paddles, the “whoosh” sound is fantastic. I think this is unique to PDK, and I often drive with the top down just to hear that sound (laughs).

This might be something you can only experience with the naturally aspirated 2700cc engine. Before purchasing, I thought the power might be a bit lacking, but now I think 2700cc is just right.

If the car had more power, the speed would increase too quickly, and I wouldn’t be able to press the accelerator as much. Now, except when driving around my home, I drive with Sport Plus on, paddle shifting, and the top open.

5) Porsche Track Experience

In September, I participated in the beginner course (Warm Up) of the Porsche Track Experience held at Fuji Speedway. Initially, I thought, “It’s a beginner’s course, so it should be easy. I’ll take it as a review of my driving skills,” but it turned out to be quite intense. It was a full day from 8 AM to 4 PM. Although I was exhausted afterward, I’m really glad I participated.

Changed My Driving Style

The reason it was beneficial is that it “changed my everyday driving style.” By learning the correct driving position, steering techniques, and braking, I feel like my entire approach to driving has transformed.

Unleashing Porsche’s Performance

The second point is that I feel like I can “unleash Porsche’s performance more than before (or so it feels… haha).” Previously, I was cautious on public roads, but by experiencing full braking and driving on wet surfaces, which you can’t do on public roads, I got a sense of Porsche’s limits. This allowed me to understand, “This is the limit, so I can safely go this far,” resulting in more confident and enjoyable driving.

There were about three women participating, and although their driving was initially unsteady, by the end, they had improved remarkably. I think Mina should definitely participate too!

6) Options I Want for Future Purchases

When buying a Porsche in the future, the must-have options are as follows:

① Sport Chrono Package
② PASM
③ Sport Exhaust

① The Sport Chrono Package enhances the PDK’s directness with the addition of Sport Plus mode, and the engine characteristics become more powerful, so having this option allows Porsche’s performance to be fully realized. Additionally, the stopwatch (clock) on the dashboard adds to the aesthetics, and without it, it feels a bit lacking (not very Porsche-like), which is another reason for choosing it.

② Regarding PASM, when I test-drove a Boxster without PASM, I felt the suspension was a bit too soft on mountain roads, and conversely, it felt a bit stiff on bumpy roads. Therefore, I definitely want PASM, which allows for suspension adjustment based on the situation.

③ And the Sport Exhaust. The “sound” is everything. While the sound quality changes with Sport Plus ON, adding this option enhances the “crackling” sound during downshifts and the “whoosh” sound during upshifts. Although it can be added later, it’s quite expensive, so it’s an option I’d like to have from the start.

Next, if budget allows, I’d like to add:

① Carbon Full Bucket Seats
② PCCB (Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes)

① Regarding the Carbon Full Bucket Seats, I had the opportunity to sit in them during the Porsche Track Experience, and they felt incredibly comfortable. The way they hug your shoulders and waist from the inside is sporty and appealing.

② As for PCCB, even without this option, Porsche’s brakes are more than sufficient, but when driving at Fuji Speedway, I felt, “PCCB would be even better!” Previously, I thought spending so much money on brakes was a bit crazy… (laughs) But once you experience them, you definitely want those brakes.

If I buy another Porsche in the future, I’d like it to be a bit more performance-oriented and sporty than my current one.

7) Areas of Concern

There aren’t any major concerns, but if I had to nitpick, here are five points I’ve noticed.

① Rainwater on Heavy Rain Days

After parking the car on a day with heavy rain, when I open the side window, rainwater drips inside from where the windshield and convertible top meet. On the flip side, it shows that drainage is well-managed, and rainwater entering the car is common in most vehicles, so I’m not too concerned… haha. Still, I always keep a towel in the car.

② Stone Noise Inside the Wheels

When driving on roads with many small stones, you can hear stones bouncing inside the wheels. I suspect it’s because there’s no soundproofing material inside the wheel wells, but on the other hand, it helps me understand the road conditions better.

③ Struggling to Retrieve Parking Tickets

The Boxster’s low ride height means I have to stretch to reach the parking ticket dispenser. On the bright side, it motivates me to stay fit and agile to continue driving the Boxster (laughs).

④ Avoid Placing Cold Items in the Rear Trunk

A minor detail, but since it’s a mid-engine car, placing cold items in the rear trunk causes them to warm up (laughs). It’s not a major concern, though.

⑤ Difficulty Installing a Rear Dashcam

For those who want to record rearview footage in case of an accident, installing a rear dashcam in the Boxster is challenging because it’s a convertible, and you can’t attach it to the rear window.

I have both front and rear dashcams installed inside the front windshield, but if you want dashcams for both front and rear, it’s something to consider in advance.

⑥ Flimsy Cup Holders (Wife’s Opinion)

This is my wife’s opinion:

“I won’t complain about the seat not reclining, but there’s one thing I can’t tolerate… the cup holders are too flimsy (flimsy: a Kansai dialect term for something that seems easily breakable). Every time I place something in them, I’m worried they’ll break. For such an expensive car, they should have more durable, lightweight, and sturdy cup holders. It would definitely improve customer satisfaction!”

It seems to be a point of concern for women in the passenger seat.

8) Overall Impression

What Kind of Car is the Boxster?

The Boxster is a car with dual personalities, making it incredibly fun. In normal mode, it drives as comfortably as a luxury sedan, but when you turn on Sport Plus, it transforms into a completely different sports car.

With the ability to open and close the roof, you can enjoy various driving experiences depending on the situation. It’s not just dual personalities; it’s a car that can transform in many ways, making it a great value.

I’ve driven cars with sharp handling, extremely fast cars, and cars with high braking performance, but often, when one aspect is outstanding, you have to compromise on other points.

In contrast, with the Boxster, I feel that handling, braking, engine, and stability are all balanced and unified. “Driving,” “turning,” and “stopping” have never been so effortlessly controllable in any other car I’ve experienced.

What Car Do You Want to Drive Next?

Interestingly, once you drive a Porsche, you want to drive another Porsche (laughs). I finally understand why so many people get hooked on Porsche. I definitely want to drive a 911 next, and I hope to conclude my car journey with a GT3.

9) What Does Porsche Mean to You?

To me, Porsche is,

a source of excitement and thrill in life.

Since purchasing the Boxster, I’ve started visiting places I never considered going by car before (the Sea of Japan, Shikoku, circuits, etc.), and I’ve met more people. It’s truly added color and excitement to my life.

…or rather, just sitting in the seat and starting the engine gets me excited (laughs).

I’m filled with gratitude for the Boxster owner friend who encouraged me to buy a Porsche and for my wife and son.

〘Administrator’s Note〙
Many people say “Porsche enriches life,” and this owner’s file truly embodies that sentiment. Also, regarding Boku★981’s comment about the “cup holders,” I must agree… the female perspective is refreshing (though I’m a woman too… lol) Thank you, Boku★981!