I understand the idea of horses for courses and that the Golf (in any incarnation) is very different from a front engined, rear wheel drive coupe.

But as car enthusiasts, isn't it always the case that we want to discover something fun/great about new cars? I'd hate to be stuck to a brand and overlook a genuinely great car in the process.

I get that the GTI can be faster than the 86. In the same way my R35 GTR was insanely faster than my friend's Boxster S.

But give yourself a bit of time behind the wheel of the Boxster S, and it becomes quite apparent that Porsche has uncovered a secret formula that makes the car feel like an extension of the driver and not merely a tool for getting from point A to point B. The GTR gets to that same level of involvement only (sadly) at the tracks when you are pushing 9/10ths. The Boxster on the other hand feels fun just going to the shops (though you probably couldn't get much shopping in the boot)

I haven't driven the 86, but if they have even captured 80% of the magic of the Boxster, it's got to be a winner in my books, especially at this price range.