2000 Porsche Boxster 986 Convertible 2.7

Summary:

Excellent introduction to Porsche

Faults:

Engine and transmission are solid. The car was bought not as a project but just in average condition. It starts and drives just fine. It has been looked after and garaged, but not used for a while - needs a bit of love and care.

Surprising number of electronic faults - windows, doors, brake switch, etc. I thought there would be more mechanical issues. Either way I will deal with them. The brakes could do with some work however, new disc and pads.

Cosmetically very good for its age, the car was always garaged from new, one owner car.

General Comments:

2000 "X" registration Porsche Boxster - these cars can be had for well under £5000 and make a great practical way to own a sports car bearing a desirable badge.

I am not pretentious however, I have always loved this car and do not care what other people think, positively or negatively. On the positive side, the car gets admiring glances. On the negative side, some idiots still say "You bought that because you cannot afford a new 911 Turbo" Well not true, I bought it because I like it, end of story. But yes - being a more affordable sports car is always an attractive proposition to anyone, regardless of circumstance.

Insurance is expensive as expected but not excessively so if you do low annual mileage or get special classic insurance. Running costs are surprisingly doable for anyone as a second car. Not great on fuel, 24 mpg at best. But with 6.5 seconds to 60 mph and a 155 mph top speed who cares? I drive it how it's meant to be driven.

Grey/black leather interior. Blue exterior and original Porsche wheels, I will be keeping this car original.

An absolute joy to drive as expected. Does not feel like its 25 + years old. The 2.7 petrol engine sounds incredible. Manual box is the one to have, but there is nothing wrong with the tip-tronic auto.

I think I'll be keeping this for a long time, ideal on days like this, rare 30 degrees sunny weather here in the UK. Country roads and days like this is what cars like this were made for.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th June, 2026

2000 Porsche Boxster S 3.2 petrol

Summary:

A great car let down by low quality parts

Faults:

Reversing light switch failed.

Air conditioning failed twice.

Brake discs corroded at 15,000 miles new discs x4 and pads.

Silencer heat shield came loose at 21,000 miles.

Both front lower ball joints failed at 24,000 miles.

General Comments:

Porsche Boxster S Aug 2000 Mileage only 25,000.

The car is a superb piece of engineering and terrific to own. My car needed new brake discs and pads after 15,000 miles and the dealer said they were not covered by warranty. The car now needs both front lower ball joints replacing. I have asked Porsche GB why these problems have occurred and I have received a patronising reply. Has anyone else had the same problems with these parts? I cannot believe it is just me.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 21st May, 2006

19th Apr 2009, 21:11

Is this car driven in the city? If it is driven in the city with a lot of stop and go traffic, then I'd expect your brakes to wear out very quickly, although it is still pretty low mileage to change rotors... but may be your dealer just wanted to make extra $$$ and took advantage of you.

If you are one of those drivers who constantly tail gate other people and use your brakes a lot, then that could be a reason why your brakes wear out prematurely.

If you drive on bad roads - the suspension will wear out prematurely. These things are kinda obvious, but many people fail to "connect the dots" if you know what I mean.

12th Jun 2009, 20:05

On many luxury german cars it's common to see brake pads that last for 15-20,000 miles and suspension parts that you would not expect to be wear items (which are not covered by warranty) to wear out. All of this depends on your usual driving conditions.