What year to call my Boxster?

[derekcohen]

I have owned this 986 Boxster S since 2009, making this 14 years in my care ...



It was sold by its second owner as a 2001 model. In all the years I have owned it, it has been licensed as a 2001 Boxster S.

This past year I have done a bunch of upgrades or improvements: IMS bearing along with a new clutch, wonderful Alpine/Pioneer/Focal music system that brings a smile to my face ... when not listening to the sound of the engine as it hits 5000 rpm The top was replaced some time back for and now has a heated glass rear window. The latest change has been 17" Michelin Pilot Sport 4s on
BBS/Carrera wheels (I preferred 17" over 18" for the ride quality). Head- and tail lights are now clear and not runny egg. There are a number of other smaller mods.

All these changes and attention to details ... and only recently it occurred to me that this Boxster S is not a 2001 but a 2002. How can this be?

Well, I looked up the Vin, and this states:

Porsche 986

Model 986 - Manufacture Year 2002

Boxster Cabriolét (RoW spec)

3.2-Ltr, 250-bhp, Mid-engined Flat 6-Cyl

The notice on the lid of the rear compartment also states it is a 2002 year model.

Yet the registration certificate at the local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) notes ...

Registration expiry: 04 Nov 2023 Year of manufacture: 2001

Year/Month of compliance: 2001-12

This suggests that the car was first registered or built (not sure which) in December 2001.

So ... what is this Boxster S - 2001 or 2002?

Regards from Perth

Derek