potential problems - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

jr1966 · 03-21-2006, 05:33 PM

since i am considering the purchase of a '97 Boxster, 44,500 miles, are there any other things that I should watch out for before committing to purchase? appreciate any help. thanks.

Brucelee · 03-21-2006, 07:13 PM

I would NOT buy a 97. The car is underpowered and has its share of gremlins.

I would suggest at least a 2000, an S if possible.

Good luck.

70Sixter · 03-22-2006, 11:11 AM

Brucelee is right. And buy the best car you can afford. You'll be glad later.

jr1966 · 03-22-2006, 04:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dbth

Is there a Porsche dealer in Guam?

No there isn't. That is the reason why the vehicle I am considering, a '97, is only one of the few Boxsters running around and for sale. And it kinda beats the risk of purchasing one from the US mainland and shipping it here.

I will try to follow the advice of this forum as I know you guys have experience with Boxsters.

We do have an auto shop that specializes in repair and maintenance of expensive european vehicles.

Brucelee · 03-23-2006, 05:43 AM

"We do have an auto shop that specializes in repair and maintenance of expensive european vehicles."

Then I would have this shop check the car out PRIOR to purchase or you will get to be this guy's best friend and not in a way you will like!

RandallNeighbour · 03-23-2006, 09:29 AM

Do read my web links below as I own one of those first model year, early production boxsters from way back in 1997. I'd have waited and bought a 2000 S had I had more patience and cash.

pecto3 · 03-24-2006, 12:03 PM

I myself own a 1997 boxster, I guess it's a miss or hit when it comes to engine failure. I still hear stories from this forum about people with their 1997's with 100k miles or so on original engine without major problems they encountered. I would definitely do a pre-purchase inspection from that independent shop if I were you. As for me, I did my own inspection when I looked at the car (very risky). I only asked the sales guy on where he usually park the car and he said it was where it was sitting at that time. It was negative on RMS leak. Took me quite sometime to look and feel for everything I can on the car. Everything looks perfectly ok, kind of like too good to be true on an 8 year old car. Got the car with 35K miles on it, drive it 2-3 times per week and it has been a year now without any problems. good luck with your purchase!

Brucelee · 03-24-2006, 12:53 PM

On a 97 a leak down test and a compression test would be a must.

Also look for the dreaded oil leaks etc.