Center Console Differences
 

I was thinking today that the 986 has an enormous amount of interior options and combinations depending on year and model. One thing that I cannot really determine is why and when the full width center vents gave way to the less integrated looking half width center vents? Is it year based? Or is it dependent on if the car has cupholders? I don't think I've seen any 996 with the ellipse-shaped vents. Were they available on any 996 models? Similarly, it seems like the ellipse shaped vents disappeared on the later 986s as well. Anyone have information about this?

I think the 986 got the new vents in 2003 when it also got the new dashboard with the glove box. Every 996 I've ever seen has always had those vents. Since Porsche added the glove box to both cars around the same time, maybe they simplified things by using the same parts with the new dashboard in both cars.

The 2003-4 facelift 986 came standard with cupholders integral to the dash. This required a redesign of the air vents.

Pre 2003 Boxsters required an optional kit for cupholders, which required moving and replacing one of the other items fitted in the top slot.

Both factory cup holders suck and shouldn't be used. Mostly because the holder is located above the HVAC control unit and stereo. Good luck trying to find a 03-04 holder that's not broken

Yes, one of mine broke on my 2003, I got lucky and found a used replacement, changed it and haven't used it since. It is a horrible design and extremely flimsy.