Porsche Boxster 986 S 3.2 Tiptronic: who this convertible suits

The Porsche Boxster 986 in brief

The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive two-seat convertible, and the 986 generation was the first of the model line, built from the second half of the 1990s until August 2004. The car we have for sale is a 2001 Boxster S 3.2 Tiptronic, 185 kW, finished in Meridian Metallic, with two doors and two seats. The mid-engine layout means balanced weight distribution and steering that gives the driver very clear information – one of the reasons this generation is considered an easier car to drive quickly than a 911.

The 2001 model year brought the 986 a series of smaller updates: cupholders, redesigned air vents, interior ambient lighting and new options, among them the PSM stability programme. The later facelift of the 2002–2003 model years, with its glass rear window and revised bumpers, comes after this car.

What this particular Boxster S is equipped with

This example is the S version with the 3.2-litre engine and a five-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox, whose gears can also be changed using the buttons on the steering wheel. The specification is clearly S-model: red Brembo brake calipers, ventilated and cross-drilled discs, Boxster S body parts, twin exhaust pipes, sports suspension, sports silencer and a rear spoiler.

Inside and under the skin, the notable items are:

• 18-inch two-piece GT3 SportDesign alloy wheels, Michelin CrossClimate summer tyres and studless winter tyres
• Xenon headlights with headlight washers, front and rear fog lights
• PSM stability programme, traction control, ABS, front and side airbags
• Electrically adjustable sports seats (memory on the driver's side), seat heating on both sides
• Leather upholstery and extended leather package, white instrument dials, dark headlining
• Automatic climate control, trip computer, wind deflector, Becker Traffic Pro CD/navigation radio
• Porsche original spare wheel

Who the Porsche Boxster S Tiptronic suits

The Tiptronic makes the 986 a far more relaxed city car than the manual version – the automatic handles traffic jams by itself and driving becomes effortless. Purists generally prefer the manual, and some Porsche specialists consider the automatic 986 less sporting; in return you get a smooth, comfortable car you can use every day and on long journeys.

In terms of practicality, the Boxster is surprisingly usable for a sports car: thanks to the mid-engine layout it has two luggage compartments – a deeper one at the front and a smaller one at the rear – with the electric roof folding away above the rear one. For two people on a weekend trip or a summer coastal run there is enough space. If you need rear seats, a child seat or a large boot, though, this car will not replace them.

The Porsche Boxster in Estonian conditions

A convertible is inevitably a seasonal pleasure in Estonia, but the 986 is not purely a summer car. This one has both summer and studless winter tyres, seat heating and automatic climate control, and rear-wheel drive on proper winter tyres copes with snow better than people tend to fear. Owner experience suggests that cars fitted with the stability programme feel considerably more secure in winter – worth taking as practical advice rather than a measured fact.

Two things deserve particular attention on Estonian roads. First, the low ground clearance: flat speed bumps and potholed side roads call for care, all the more so with sports suspension and low-profile 18-inch wheels. Second, salted winters – corrosion underneath is the main worry among owners, which makes regular washing and underbody inspection worthwhile.

What to check on a 986 before buying

The M96 engine of this generation has several well-known problem areas that every buyer should have inspected:

• IMS bearing: the 986's famous weak point. Sources disagree about the bearing type used in 2000–2001 cars, so on any individual car this must be checked separately and you should ask whether an upgrade has been done
• Cylinder bore wear, rear main seal leaks and air-oil separator (AOS) failures
• Cooling system: the plastic coolant tank tends to crack with age
• Roof drain tubes – if they block, water can reach the interior and the electronics; open and close the roof several times and listen for any creaking
• Speed-activated rear spoiler: check that it raises and lowers properly
• Hesitation under throttle (mass airflow sensor) and uneven running (ignition coils)
• Tiptronic: delayed or jerky shifts point to old fluid or a worn valve body – automatic transmission fluid servicing is critical

On a Porsche of this age, maintenance follows time and inspection rather than distance covered, and with an ageing M96 more frequent oil changes than the factory schedule are nowadays considered sensible. Bear in mind too that many simple jobs require removing the roof and interior trim, which means more labour hours. Parts availability is good thanks to the model's large production volume.

The Porsche Boxster from Autosky Rent

This Porsche Boxster S is for sale at Autosky Rent in Tallinn. Alongside outright sales we also take cars on consignment, and our partner network gives customers better terms on servicing, tyre work, car washing and fuel – something you notice day to day with an older sports car.

If you would rather have a monthly-payment solution than own the car, we also offer full-service car rental. Depending on the package, the monthly payment of a full-service rental covers motor insurance and comprehensive insurance including superkasko, servicing and repairs arising from normal wear, summer and winter tyres together with seasonal changes and storage, a replacement car when needed, 24h roadside assistance across Europe through the insurer, handling of insurance claims and Autosky Rent 24/7 customer support. Do ask which of the two options fits your plans better.