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Buying a Porsche but is a cheap one a non starter ?

For our wedding in 1996 I hired one of the first Boxster’s imported into the UK. Pale yellow with 50 miles on the clock. I’m 6’4” and don’t recall a problem fitting in. It was a hoot. We had it for a long weekend around the Lake District. I remember cars in front pulling over just so they could see the rear of it as it was so rare at the time. Completely took my mind off what a terrible mistake I’d made... ;-)
 
I looked at these the other day to see where the values were out of idle curiosity and was amazed what you could get for your money!

Get a Boxster S in silver with ‘Lobster claws’ (a type of wheel) and you’ll have an absolute riot.

I doubt you’d loose money.
 
Not sure I’d spend £5k on a Boxster without expecting some very sizeable bills that would be bigger than the initial outlay someway down the road, unless you were very lucky or very in the know.
 
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Rug Doc said:
I looked at these the other day to see where the values were out of idle curiosity and was amazed what you could get for your money!

Get a Boxster S in silver with ‘Lobster claws’ (a type of wheel) and you’ll have an absolute riot.

I doubt you’d loose money.
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My thoughts as well, some well priced metal out there.
 
Mate of mine recently traded his X reg in (Macan for Grandad duties), he'd had it for near 15 years, DIY serviced to a decent standard, forums for expert advice. Nothing beyond ware items, albeit brake pads and oil are premium. An alternator was needed (refurbed ) for £115 , Porsche add another 0.

I'm sure there are well cared for, low milage ones about, just be patient and buy on condition.

I've almost been tempted myself, but I like my load lugger :D
 
Tony Lockhart said:
Are the early Boxsters tighter for space inside than later (>2012?) versions?
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Yes. I'm 6' 3". Wife's 981 is just about big enough if I compromise the rake and height of the seat to squeeze the base hard against the bulkhead, it's still a bit snug but long journeys are not an issue. Couldn't have done that with the previous model so never had one. My Lotus Elise has more leg room than an early Boxster.

It's the only flaw in what is otherwise a great car. The Cayman may be a little sharper, but the ability to drop the roof which it does so quickly trumps any minor "on the edge" performance differences imo. You would have to be on a track to find those.
 
I could waffle for pages on this but will try not to. I researched, thought and test drove for months. A cheap Boxster was one option but as many have said £5K is quite a risk. Even if nothing major breaks running costs will be quite high. If your heart just says Porsche then just get one. If head as well as heart and you want the car primarily for UK road use I think £5K is better spent on an MX5 MK2 in pristine condition with no rust, something like the 10th Anniversary. Or a Honda S2000 although at £5K that ship may have sailed. Both the latter have to be revved so you need to want that. I bought an S2000 and like it more and more. I was careful to buy one where the suspension bolts moved and had it properly aligned - pretty much crucial. I fit very nicely (6ft, short legs, long body). I don't fit at all in a MK4 MX5 and was underwhelmed in a MK3. There is a lot to be said for driving an ultra reliable Japanese car. Of course it doesn't matter, but it's also nice to drive something rare (most think it's an MX5 anyway), that attract smiles instead of 'dick'.
 
Just a different perspective you may wish to consider...

I owned a 987.2 Cayman S. Nicest car I’d ever owned or driven. Planned to keep it forever.

Two years into ownership other priorities took over, and I accepted that it had to go. Had a tear in my eye when it went!

Now, the interesting bit. After a week I realised I’d never really, really, driven it anywhere near its potential. It’s just not possible on public roads. Well, maybe in the highlands or something, but living down south I’d only scratched the surface of its abilities.

Then, a couple of weeks ago my son and I went to Thruxton, and each did nine laps in Caymans.

Wow.

These things are so utterly capable that I quickly discovered that my abilities/balls fell short of its. Over 100mph through long bends it just loved it (as did I), and after a few laps I grew into it a bit and did have it screeching through the slower long corners. Left the circuit with a massive smile that lasted for hours. I’ll be going back next year.

So, if you want the Porsche experience you can have it for £150 a go. Highly recommended.
 
AV8 said:
I am approaching my 60th & have always longed for a nice sporty car again. I would have liked a Porsche but could never really afford one,or use one due to family requirements. On Autotrader there are Porsche Boxsters for sub £5000 so would it be a leap of faith or the blind leading the blind if I went in headfirst ?

My brother has had a few but reckons the Boxster is not really a Porsche whatever that means.

As a starter I have acquired 2 brand new wheels from him in order to have something Porsche at least before I pop off this mortal coill
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Bought a 7 year old boxster from a Porsche specialist kept it for 2 years then sold it. They give you a real thrill. Don't buy anything without an inspection or you will get your fingers well and truly burnt financially.
 
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