I think that's perhaps a little harsh.
I believe that the majority of cars do not have any more realiability issues than anything else.
The issue, of course, that any issues that do arise cost rather a lot to rectify.
Whether these costs are then covered by warranty, extended or otherwise, is a separate topic. But you could clarify all this by asking a few questions, then you would at least know what the potential risks are.
Whatever car you buy, buying 2nd hand (or pre-used if you prefer), means that you have some element of risk. You do not know what the previous owner has done or how they have treated the car. Has the oil always been topped up, has it been overrevved, etc.
Buying any sports car runs this risk, since they are by nature more likely yo have been driven hard and therefore more suscetpitble to abuse. The external appearance of course, is not necessarily a guide.
As the sales have risen, so the number of people with problems has risen. Unfortunately it is hard to know whether the percentage of failures is constant or rising, since the figures are never published.
Unfortunately, as the numbers rise, so the residuals will become more like other cars. As Merc and BMW expand their empires, so the residuals on these are decreasing. It's all supply and demand, coupled with badge snobbery.
Of course if oil hits $100, then perhaps a 911 won't be worth much at all.
I wouldn't think the servicing is that much more, since you don't have to do any routine maintanance to the driveshafts, except check the gaitors and cv joints (5 mins).
Of course there are more parts to fail, so long term it will no doubt cost a little more.
Running costs will be a tad higher since the car uses a bit more fuel (since it is heavier) and tyre wear may be a little higher, but nothing to worry about.
From a residual point of view, your Boxster might be worth 30, so after 5 more years you might see 15 (maybe more), so a depreciation of 15K. The C4 might depreciate to 20K, so a depreciation of 20K.
Whatever way you slice it, I would suggest that the Boxster would be cheaper to keep.
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