seeking input from boxster onwers on their 986

[Homeboy981]

Originally Posted by mountainman

an S 2002 or newer with as low milage as you can afford to buy. 30 to 50K would be good.

That's what I did….2002 Boxster S….you will not think twice about another car again. Whereas, I know a few folks who have the Base model. They are smitten with my S! Once they drive it…they cannot go back!

So if you do NOT have the cash for an S - don't drive one or you'll be sorry!

[Topless]

I drove 8 cars before choosing my Boxster. A mix of base and "S" models from 1997-2004 and many were pretty thrashed or poorly maintained. I chose a 98 because it was a one owner car with 67K miles, perfect maintenance history, and drove like it was new. It is a light weight strippy with no nanny controls or bells and whistles. The only creature comfort is an excellent A/C system.

I paid top dollar for a car with this year and mileage but it has been worth every penny. Everything works. After 7 years of ownership it has been very reliable although I have done several modifications and expected maintenance for a 14 year old car with 100k miles. Very satisfied owner with no plans to change horses.

[Lsg5cxoJ]

wow many thanks for the responses. i am going to look at a 2001 s with 65K that might fit the bill later this week. Hardest thing for me will be to take it slow and get the right car. in the end i am assuming it will be 2003 S for me. blue w gray int looks very sharp. I like the glass rear window. I also like the "5 spoke" porsche wheels.



I would be curious to hear what options you have found to be best used, ie traction control, heated seats. that is one area where I am not as sure what I really want. I live in NC close to beach so it is very hot/muggy in summer.

also thanks to recycledsixtie for the kind sentiments below, half the fun of buying a car like a Porsche Boxster is getting to know some of the other people that share the same passion for the car.

"Let us know what u decide on. We are here for u!PPI is a must.Service history is recommended. "

[fatmike]

Originally Posted by Lsg5cxoJ

I would be curious to hear what options you have found to be best used, ie traction control, heated seats. that is one area where I am not as sure what I really want. I live in NC close to beach so it is very hot/muggy in summer.

I have a 2002-1/2 S. The "and a half" is important because my car has litronic (xenon) headlights and PSM which were introduced mid year. PSM is the Porsche traction control, and I wouldn't buy a Boxster without it. The litronic headlights are very good - a "must have" for me. My car has an aftermarket glass rear window. The 2003 introduced the OEM glass rear window.

I have heated seats and use them, you may not. Definitely get the wind deflectors, they are a must have (and expensive to buy later).

I also have the shelf behind the driver. I use it a lot since the car doesn't have a proper glove box. Don't overlook storage.

Good luck.




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[BerneseMtnDog]

For me a solid maintenance history is critical. After that I'd look for somewhere in the 50k to 70k miles on the clock. Anything in the 90k or 100k range and you're looking at a lot of suspension parts and other things wearing out. Cars with really low miles on them can be bad as well. Lack of exercise.

Steve