which should i consider - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

cojan666 · 03-18-2018, 05:00 PM

I have been looking to get another Porsche and decided to go with a Boxster this time. Question is should i go with a 2005 Boxster S with most of the options I would like to have PASM, sport chrono, power seats and a few others or a 2009 to 2012 Boxster with fewer options just to eliminate the IMS issue completely. Just not sure how much not having an S would make in enjoying the car. I know I would have to drive a base Boxster to really know myself but just trying to get some feedback from those that may of had both. Thanks

kirkandorules · 03-18-2018, 06:48 PM

I usually suggest avoiding the '05 model year due to unknowns in the IMS configuration. Some cars are have a serviceable IMS, some don't. Some have a single row, some have a double row. If these have been checked and documented on the car, of course, then go for it.

In my opinion, IMS is really only a serious concern on the single-row cars (mid-00 through mid-05), and in most cases those are easy-ish to replace - a handful of the 05s are the the exception.

BirdDog · 03-18-2018, 08:01 PM

I don't think any of the 05's had double row, just the earlier single row (like my 2001 S) or the larger unserviceable single row...

But I could be wrong...

paulofto · 03-19-2018, 06:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BirdDog

I don't think any of the 05's had double row, just the earlier single row (like my 2001 S) or the larger unserviceable single row...

But I could be wrong...

You are not wrong.

kirkandorules · 03-19-2018, 10:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BirdDog

I don't think any of the 05's had double row, just the earlier single row (like my 2001 S) or the larger unserviceable single row...

But I could be wrong...

Whoops, you're right - I meant to say larger and not double-row. Had a "double row" synonymous with "not known to fail often" thing stuck in my head...

por356c · 03-19-2018, 11:41 AM

If you can afford a 2009, which is the first year of the non IMSB, do that, and eliminate that potential problem. If you need to buy an earlier Boxster, make sure that the IMSB update has already been installed, or plan to do it immediately after you get the car (about $2k). There may be a lot of hype about this, but why gamble - make it a non-issue and then enjoy! Good luck.

cojan666 · 03-19-2018, 02:39 PM

Thanks for all the feedback. I really need to find a base 2009 to 2012 near me to test drive and see if that is enough for me. That way I will know if i need to put more down and go for an S and just have the IMSB as a non issue. Not finding many near by unless I want to drive an hour or so just to test drive. I'll keep looking for something to turn up.

mikefocke · 03-20-2018, 11:58 AM

The larger single row is serviceable by removing the grease seal and allow the bearing to be lubricated by oil immersion and oil vapor. Reference. No hurry, do it when replacing the clutch. If the engine is ever apart for a total rebuild, a flat bearing with external oil source lubrication is possible.

kk2002s · 03-19-2018, 09:39 AM

It all about

If you are thinking or suggesting that a 2005 S $$$$ is the same as a 2009-20012 Base $$$ --- I don't think they are

If So-- get the 2012. Has almost as much power as the 05 S and no IMSB
Done - That was easy

cojan666 · 03-21-2018, 08:28 PM

I definitely plan to test drive one. Just finding the time and one that is not too far to test with. Most of what I've found is an hour away or more. If the weather holds for this Sunday and it's not sold I may take the trip and see how I like it. At least then I will know if I need to put more down to get the payments where I want them. I never should of gotten rid on my 02 911 TT. One of the biggest mistakes I've made at least for cars. I do appreciate all the responses and info everyone has provided.

Brian in Tucson · 03-22-2018, 07:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cojan666

I definitely plan to test drive one. Just finding the time and one that is not too far to test with. Most of what I've found is an hour away or more. If the weather holds for this Sunday and it's not sold I may take the trip and see how I like it. At least then I will know if I need to put more down to get the payments where I want them. I never should of gotten rid on my 02 911 TT. One of the biggest mistakes I've made at least for cars. I do appreciate all the responses and info everyone has provided.

Any car you get should have a PPI before by buy it.