It isn't just the powerful new engine, though it sounds great and leaves the standard Boxster in the dust. And it isn't just the S model's bright red brake calipers, easily seen through the elegant spokes of its specially designed wheels. We love the Boxster S because it does everything better than the Boxster while maintaining what made the original model wonderful. Like the original, the Boxster S presents a classic sports car visage that reminds us of post-war Porsche Speedsters. Yet it rides better, sounds better, handles better and is substantially faster than the Boxster. We're talking night and day here. More important, it is arguably the most enjoyable sports car in this category.

Fortunately, there's good news for those who cannot justify the extra $8,500 for the Boxster S. Porsche has revised the interior of the standard Boxster for 2000 - a source of disappointment in the 1998-99 Boxsters. Gone are the cheap plastic bits, replaced by high-quality trim. A new headliner presents a more attractive appearance and reduces noise when the top is up. We think everyone should have a Boxster in the driveway.