Its because of great owners like you, we have a healthy selection of nice used cars to choose from.

I'm not an original owner- but you are asking a question I can answer as a used buyer. BTW- your car is awesome.

I started out looking at a boxster simply because they seemed like a good value. So my first searches were based on price only. That led me to find many decent cars (and a few junkers) under 10k. When you think about the quality of the car - 10k buys a lot in a Boxster. Then a further refinement -- it had to be an ‘S’ model.

I decided that for another 4-5k$, the cars took a big leap and I narrowed it down to a 2003/2004. I wasn’t looking for Lexus grade interior with all the latest gizmos- more of a classic roadster - basic. Good lines and leather.

The biggest draw to me is the mid engine design and the similarity (in my own mind) to the iconic 550.

The drivability of a Boxster is really amazing. Now that I have one in the garage- the ‘S’ is no longer such a big deal- nor is the model year. I think the car to choose would be the one in the best condition you can find. Spend a little more than you were planning.

Thanks for the response, and the explanation. Makes sense.

Easy stuff;

For the E-Brake swap - Replacing the Handbrake - Porsche Boxster (986) FAQ

The foot well lights are an add on and are wired to the center map light at the top of the windshield. They operate in conjunction with the map light. The $700 OEM option has a relay and a switch on the left side of the radio. Mine doesn't.

OEM light switch;

http://c767170.r70.cf2.rackcdn.com/G99661398006A05.jpg

Thanks Chuck.
E-Brake: Actually I just want to swap the leather handle of my E-Brake and the only info I have so far is to use brute force :eek:

Just a handful original owners so far, hmmmm

Original family
 

While I am not the original owner, I stole the car from my Mother and Step-Father a couple years back. Still have all the original documents, Window Sticker, reviews, brochure, etc.

I daily drive her now, and it makes every day a joy. Of course it helps living in Florida.

Guess I may as well chime in here:)

Purchased my '01 S new in June 2001. The length of winters here make me wonder how the local Porsche dealer makes ends meet. Short..ish summers and my job can make it tough to take her out as much as I'd like.

Currently 23,000 km's/ 14,290 mi's on the odometer. Have a local indy who is a Porsche master mechanic (and certified by LN Engineering to perform IMSB retrofits). He keeps a close eye on everything for me and I'm happy to have him near by.

She looks and drives like new. I have two years left to retirement and I'll be moving to Vancouver Island....lots of great driving roads there and I'm guessing 10 months of the year of decent driving weather.

Can't wait :dance:

Hey... for the 986 your talking 10 to 17 years. Most marriages don't last that long much less keeping a car you bought new. :)

WOW... 14,000 miles. And I though I was low at 23,000.

I retired 3 years ago. You will love it.

It is all in the family.... close enough. ;)

Thanks Chuck, great you're enjoying retirement. Comes a point where you really do feel that you've earned it. :)

I don't spend time on forums about my older original cars either. :)

Dito, as i don't really care much about my "daily workhorse original cars" (as they aren't PORSCHE) :D

Awesome looking car! :dance:

Now somebody tell me how to get the word Porsche on the back of my trunk like that . . . ?

Is the word Boxster smaller, too?

That's really cool, and I want it. :D

981 badge ;)

Yes, brute force. It helps to stick a small but long screwdriver (or something similar) in between the leather handle and e-brake from the front where the button is and work it around to loosen the adhesive.

Original owner. Bought '99 Boxster in fall of '98. Long winters here and don't drive in the rain, so very low mileage - just under 7000 (under 4500 miles). Only modifications are iPod cable into back of original stereo and IMS upgrade (original bearing was perfect).

Thank you, particlewave!