1998 Porsche Boxster

A late first-generation, 2.5-litre model, this 1998 Porsche Boxster was built in Germany - as designated by the ’S in the VIN, whereas Finnish-built cars have a ‘U’ as the 11th digit - and was specified with numerous desirable options from new, including stainless-steel door guards with the Porsche logo (X70) aluminium gear lever and handbrake trims (X97/X98) the SportTechnic package (013) sports chassis (030) heated seats (139/340) ASR traction control (222) ABD differential braking (224) and 17-inch Carrera look twist spoke wheels (396) among other options.

Purchased by our vendor from the only previous owner around nine years ago, this 986 has accrued only around 500 miles since the vendor purchased the car, used only in ‘fine weather’ and garaged throughout both the current and previous ownership.

With only 25,600 miles on the odometer, low ownership and with several rare options, this Boxster presents an excellent opportunity for one lucky bidder to obtain a pre-facelift car in good order.

Whilst the 986 might be somewhat ‘marmite’ in its appearance - especially back in the day - it has aged well compared to some of its contemporaries, and this example is no exception.

As you’d expect from a car that is now knocking on the door of 24 years old, there are a few marks here-and-there such as stone chips, minor marks on the lower edges of the bumper and the odd ‘car park’ mark here-and-there, but other than the deteriorated number plates and a notable mark on the offside rear wing, the wear-and-tear is minimal, and in keeping with the low mileage and usage the car has seen.

All four wheels are in excellent condition, whilst the lenses - both front and rear - are clear and show no sign of any damage.

The folding roof mechanism is in working order and the soft-top itself is in very good shape, with no noted damage, rips or tears to the material. The rear plastic window is also in good shape, with only a couple of notable indentations from being stored folded for an extended period of time.

Inside, the driver-focused interior of the 986 presents in good order for its age, and the two owners should be commended for the care that the car has evidently enjoyed throughout its lifetime.

The classic ‘tombstone’ seats show some impressively light wear - such as creasing to the bases on both seats - whilst the driver’s seat also shows some more notable wear to the outer bolster, which is a common sign on any Porsche from this era.

The dashboard is in good order, and the high-traffic areas such as the gear stick, handbrake and steering wheel only show commensurate wear-and-tear through years of use, but no damage or major discolouration.

There are no reported or known faults with any of the electronics or switchgear, and there are no warning lights illuminated on the dashboard.

Out on the road to and from the photoshoot location, our photographer reported no obvious issues with the car, which is further supported by our vendor stating that they know of no mechanical issues with the car from a driving perspective.

On account of being mid-engined, we’re unable to get a thorough visual assessment of the engine, but we always encourage prospective bidders to come and take a look at cars for themselves, and this is no exception - just book in an appointment below by getting in touch with our team.

Underneath, the chassis looks to be in generally good shape, with only a few patches of - what appear to be - surface corrosion noted on the suspension components and around the jacking areas. The latest MOT exam - dated 05 August 2021 - showed no concerns, with advisories only noting the deteriorated condition of both number plates.

Included with the car is the V5 showing two former keepers (due to a house move, as the previous owner had the car since new) a stamped service record with the most recent service taking place in May 2015 at 24,443 miles, a full complement of Porsche handbooks and manuals, two keys and various minor invoices.

Eminently usable, surprisingly practical and with a full-fat flat-six soundtrack, it’s no wonder the first-generation Porsche Boxster has become somewhat of a cult classic in its own right, and is lauded by Porsche fans and driving enthusiasts the world over.

This example benefits from low ownership and low mileage, and presents in very good condition for its age. One for the drivers who want a practical daily driver with some extra style and sophistication only the Porsche crest can provide, we estimate a value in the region of £8,000 - £12,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with us at The Market HQ near Abingdon; to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.