986 Noob question
 

Hi, I just bought a 2003 Boxster S from an auction.
The hood, fender and light needs to be replaced.
I found a 2001 Boxster local to me that is being parted out.
My question is, are all the panels compatible or have they made some subtle changes in the 2 years that might make things difficult to swap?

Thanks

They're the same from 1997-2004. There is, however a slight difference between the bumper covers between the Base Boxster and the Boxster S. Most likely it's not a fitment issue, just cosmetic design.

Enjoy your Boxster!

Thank you! The bumper has minor damage and can be repaired but the fender and hood are completely trashed!

I can't picture the differences myself. The S has the center third radiator. I wonder if there is a difference with the bumper covers also?

If you have the S variety, you are going to want an S bumper. Specifically because the base model bumper will not have a hole for the middle radiator.
Also, the 2003-2004 variety (commonly called the 986 V2) has a different-looking front bumper cover, in addition to some other parts.
As a new 986 owner, you are definitely going to want to keep the 986 parts catalog bookmarked. It is an incredibly useful tool (not just for verifying fitment, but also for identifying part numbers to search for the best deals possible)

986 Noob question
 

If your '2003' is a MY2003 then it has the updated bumper designs. The MY2001 does not.

All 986 bumpers will fit all years, despite their differences. The main thing is 2 or 3 radiators.

986 Noob question
 

Deleted pointless comment relating to rear bars.

The headlights will be different - the 01 has amber turn signals, the 03 is clear.

The front bumper cover is different - the 03 has more gills in it than the 01.

The fender should be the same for both yrs.

Let’s be clear, here: they are different looking only.
They are all interchangeable. ;)

True, but why put an 01 headlight on the right and an 03 on the left? Putting the wrong bumper on will work too, but someone who knows Porsches will know it's wrong.

Maybe he’ll want replace both?
My point was that he can. They are all interchangeable.

People add the 3rd radiator to base models quite often, with the later bumpers to match. No one really cares. ;)

If someone is that worried about what other Porsche owners think, then they should probably address their insecurity issues. :p