Is a '98 a bad thing?

[Deserion]

Originally Posted by EJFrog

Thanks for the responses. Feel better about spending the money for a proper PPI now. Can you tell me how I can determine if it fits in the 98.5-99 category your mentioned? Assume it is by the VIN but where is the cutoff?
Will let you know what happens.

If you check the VIN decal on the left door, it should show a build date (month/year) which would show you if it's in the early, middle, or later part of the model year.

[itsnotanova]

I'm not sure when the cutoff date is but the early 98 cars will have some 97 parts on them. The suspension sub-frames are the biggest difference and it's easy to tell the difference between the two. I'll see if i can post some pics later on. Another quick way to tell is the long middle plastic belly pan. The early one's had holes down them.

[itsnotanova]

I misspoke earlier and since have corrected it. It's the door lock mechanism that is different for the 97-98.5

[EJFrog]

Looks like an early 98. Manufacture date is 8/97. Have the VIN of that would help show any additional details. Let me know and I will PM it to you.

Drove it again and seems very tight and strong. Actually smoother and quicker than an '02 S I recently tested. Definitely can see how these things are addicting.

Squeaks a bit in the rear suspension when I manually bounce it. Sounds great with top down, some suspension rattle with top up. Other than that seems sorted.

Interestingly had 2 Porsche shops say they no longer do PPI's. Too much liability. Would agree to do oil change and 20 point inspection but not a formal PPI.

Hoping to call her mine before the end of the week. Thanks for all the help.

[Porsche9]

With the age, mileage, and suspension squeaks and rattles the car may need a suspension rebuild. You may want to factory this into your purchase costs.

For a 98 to feel faster then a 02 S the latter Boxster most of had some issues. A car with 25% more horsepower even with some of the extra weight the later Boxsters added should not feel slower.

Good luck and welcome.