seeking input from boxster onwers on their 986

[dmairspotter]

Bought a low miles 2003S (20k miles)

Wanted an S
Wanted glass window
Wanted a pre 2005 (I'm big and needed to do a console delete)

Car has done a bunch of long trips and so far has been hassle free. FUN!

[Johnny Danger]

Base your decision on finding the most well maintained, best condition boxster that has a scrutable history behind it. I wouldn't obsess over the model the year - the negligible differences between them is not enough to take precedence over a well sorted vehicle .

[jb92563]

Bought a 2001 S because:

- More power is more fun and I didn't ever want "S" envy so it had to be an "S".
- It was the color I wanted...Black
- Manual 6 speed transmission was a requirement since its a Sport car and I find the shifting part of the fun. Its no big deal in traffic and the shifting helps keep you amused and your muscles moving so you don't get sore.
- There were no leaks of any kind on the underside, engine or ground during the PPI, still true today.
- The owner had detailed records back to the original owner and you could see took good care of the car. Only RMS replaced so far.
- It had only 55K miles
- The 3rd radiator in the S model helps keep things cooler. Excessive heat is the engines enemy.
- Bigger brakes on the S model.
- It was in my price range for a second car $14,500

Did my own PPI, 2 hours at the private sellers house.

Discovered:
- Driver seat recline not operational, but it was in the perfect position so I keep forgetting to investigate the fuse, wiring, switch and seat motor.
- RMS seal has been replaced at a dealership along with a new clutch after 45K.
- Needs new rear tires, got a $500 discount from the seller.

Missed:

- That it did not come with the Wheel lock lug nut key so I will have to find a way to get the 4 locking lug nuts off without a key.
- Wind shield wiper sprayer did not work. Thanks to this forum it took 20 minutes to find and reattach the fluid reservoir hose and add a hose clamp to prevent a future disconnect there.

I think spending a little less so you have $1000 budget to do some catch up maintenance right away and minor fixes is a good idea.
Typically a seller will not do the last maintenance if he knows he is going to sell the car soon.

[lahalte]

I bought a base triptonic with 55,000 miles three years ago.I paid $10,500.I bought it from the original owner with all service record and bill of sale.I have not done anything to it except normal servicing(changed plugs,serpentine belt,air filter,wheel spacers).Absolutely no problems with it and still enjoy it very much.I was not looking for a car but a friend of mine wanted me to search for a Boxster for him.I found this one but he did not want artic silver so I bought it instead.I eventually found a 1999 base Boxster with 45,000 miles lapis blue with tan interior and sport wheels.I had a ppo done on it and only got new tires,spark plugs.This was three years ago and it is still running strong with no issues.It is always stressful buying a car for a friend not knowing if it will breakdown in a week and he blames you for it.Anyway it all turned out fine and we both enjoy our toy.Take your time,there are a lot of nice Boxsters out there for your pleasure.