BOXSTER S 986 * 2000 ‘V’ * 79,246 MILES * £6995
When your correspondent first looked at Porsches in the early 2000s, a twenty-year-old Porsche was a 911SC or a 924, and they did look old, especially the 911. It is interesting then how relatively modern a two-decade old Porsche appears today: the smooth lines of the 986/996 have aged well and essentially these cars remain clearly related to if slightly smaller than their 2020 successors. This 2000 Boxster S is a case in point: in classic Guards Red and with 18-inch wheels, at first glance it belies its age. Closer inspection indicates that it has been substantially resprayed at some point in recent years, but this has been done well with no signs of overspray and successful matching of the panels. Paint finish is good, the vulnerable front valance looks newish as do the fried egg light units and sidelights; the grey Turbo-look wheels are largely unmarked and behind them the brake discs exhibit only minor wear. A previous owner – the Boxster has had five, has gone to the trouble of carefully painting the non-friction part of the discs with metallic lacquer. Tyres are Continental at the rear, 70% worn, and half-worn Joyroads at the front. As well as new paint, Porsche side strips are fitted as well as discreet crests from Adrian Crawford, who presumably carried out the body refurbishments which included new exhaust tips. Both luggage compartments are commendably clean.
Inside, the leather seats are quite creased, but otherwise the cabin has stood up well, door cards and facia unblemished. The S was distinguished by white instruments, and a previous owner has fitted a Porsche competition steering wheel, its Alcantaraesque rim material agreeable to the touch. Floor mats are missing, the worn carpet needs a clean, but the drilled alloy pedals are a nice feature. The hood works efficiently. Erected it shows no significant marks and is free of weathering. Visibility through the plastic rear window is still acceptable.
The Boxster was registered in Belfast and logbook has eight stamps, the first four the OPC, covering the period to 2011 and 60,018 miles. It then moved to the mainland and appears to have resided entirely in the West Country. Services occurred in 2014 and 2018. MOT history confirms the mileage at all stages since 2011. There are few invoices or documents with the car and nothing since a 2010 invoice from IPD of Huntintdon Beach detailing a competition plenum for $800 and a ‘Porsche throttle body.’ There is no information on their subsequent fitting.
The S answered criticisms that the original 2.5 was underpowered. With its 3179cc 252bhp flat six, the S had a power-to-weight ratio only just shy of the 993’s and this twenty-year-old 986 certainly feels as if it would get near the original road test figures. Also apparent is the abundant torque – the larger engine pulls hard from below 3000rpm and rushes to the 7200rpm red line with enthusiasm, accompanied by a splendid rasp from the tailpipes. Neither clutch nor gearshift exhibit wear enough to spoil the driver’s enjoyment and combined with the Boxster’s sharp steering and wonderful visibility, especially hood down, this Porsche is fun in the best tradition. Brakes pull up straight and efficiently but lack bite – this may be due to lack of recent use. Less inspiring is the ride which is accompanied by various rattles and creaks, some of which seem to emanate from the hood. In fairness to the dealer, the Boxster had only just arrived and Eporsch’s workshop will investigate the suspension as well as carrying out a full service prior to sale.
This Boxster feels fundamentally sound, especially its flat six, though the car does need work and the lack of history is unfortunate. On the other hand, for £7k, which includes a six-month guarantee, once this attractive S is properly sorted it should offer a highly entertaining summer’s motoring without threatening your driving licence.