The Ultimate Porsche 986 Buyers Guide: Is Is The Car For You?

Brief History On The 986

The Porsche 986, also known as the first-generation Porsche Boxster, was introduced in 1996 and produced until 2004. It was Porsche’s first roadster since the 550 Spyder and was aimed at a younger and more price-sensitive market. The car was designed with a mid-engine layout, which allowed for a lower center of gravity and better handling. The 986 was initially offered with a 2.5L flat-six engine, which was later replaced by a 2.7L and a 3.2L engine. In 1999, the Boxster S was introduced, which had a more powerful 3.2L engine. The 986 was praised for its balanced handling, high-quality interior, and classic Porsche design. The car also had some issues, such as an intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing that could fail, leading to costly engine repairs. Overall, the Porsche 986 was a success for the company, selling over 160,000 units during its production run and setting the foundation for future Porsche roadsters.

By Vauxford – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70162739

Reaction to the Creation

The reaction to the Porsche 986 was generally positive, with many automotive journalists and enthusiasts praising the car for its balanced handling, classic Porsche design, and high-quality interior. The mid-engine layout of the car allowed for a lower center of gravity, which contributed to its excellent handling characteristics. The Boxster also had good performance, with the later Boxster S variant capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 6 seconds. The car was seen as a return to Porsche’s roots as a maker of affordable sports cars, and it helped to expand the brand’s market share by appealing to a younger and more price-sensitive demographic. However, the car was not without its issues, such as the well-documented IMS bearing problem, which could cause engine failures and expensive repairs. Despite these issues, the Porsche 986 was a commercial success, selling over 160,000 units during its production run and setting the foundation for future Porsche roadsters.

Porsche Boxster S Cabriolet, 2001 for sale over at https://www.elferspot.com/en/car/porsche-boxster-s-2001-2029818/

Our Top Tips For Purchasing The 986

The Porsche 986 is a popular model of the Boxster that was produced from 1996 to 2004. If you’re interested in purchasing a Porsche 986, here’s a quick buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision.

Check the engine: The Porsche 986 comes with either a 2.5L, 2.7L, or 3.2L flat-six engine. These engines are known for their durability, but they do require regular maintenance. Look for service records to ensure that the previous owner(s) have kept up with the recommended maintenance schedule.

Inspect the body: The Porsche 986 has a unibody construction, which means that the body and frame are one piece. Check for any signs of rust or damage, especially around the wheel wells, fenders, and rocker panels. Also, check the convertible top for wear and tear.

Look for leaks: The Porsche 986 is known for having oil leaks, especially around the rear main seal and the intermediate shaft (IMS). If you notice any oil leaks, it’s important to have them fixed as soon as possible to avoid any damage to the engine.

Test the transmission: The Porsche 986 comes with a manual or automatic transmission. Test the transmission for smooth shifting, and listen for any grinding or whining noises.

Check the suspension: The Porsche 986 has a multi-link suspension system that provides a smooth ride and great handling. Check the suspension for any signs of wear or damage, such as leaking shocks or broken bushings.

Take it for a test drive: The best way to get a feel for the Porsche 986 is to take it for a test drive. Pay attention to how the car handles, accelerates, and brakes. Listen for any unusual noises, and make sure all of the features, such as the air conditioning and stereo, are working properly.

Consider maintenance and repair costs: Owning a Porsche can be expensive, especially when it comes to maintenance and repair costs. Make sure you factor these costs into your budget before making a purchase.

By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a Porsche 986 and ensure that you are getting a high-quality vehicle that will provide years of driving pleasure.

Should I buy a Porsche 986?

Whether or not to buy a Porsche 986 ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and priorities. The 986 is a well-regarded sports car with classic Porsche styling and excellent handling characteristics, making it a fun car to drive. However, as with any used car, it’s important to be aware of potential issues and costs associated with maintenance and repairs. The IMS bearing issue is a known problem with the 986, so it’s important to thoroughly research the car’s history and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. Additionally, the car’s age means that it may not have modern features and technologies that you may want in a car. Overall, if you prioritize driving experience and classic Porsche styling, and are willing to invest in maintenance and repairs, the Porsche 986 could be a great car for you.

Porsche Boxster Cabriolet, 2000 for sale over at https://www.elferspot.com/en/car/porsche-boxster-2000-2254511/

How Fast Is The 986?

The top speed of the Porsche 986, also known as the first-generation Boxster, varies depending on the specific model and engine size. The base model, which was equipped with a 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine, had a top speed of around 146 mph (235 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in 6.9 seconds. The Boxster S, which had a larger 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, had a top speed of around 162 mph (260 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in 5.7 seconds. It’s worth noting that these figures are for the original factory-spec vehicles and may vary depending on modifications or upgrades made to the car.

RENNLINE DEAD PEDAL RUBBER GRIP. PORSCHE 996 / 986 BOXSTER

Rennline Dead Pedal Rubber Grip
LHD Cars

Fits:
Porsche 996 1998-04
Porsche 986 Boxster 1997-04

Note: Pictures may not show actual product.

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PORSCHE CLASSIC COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT PLUS

For installation in:
Porsche Boxster (1997 – 2004)
Porsche Boxster S (1999 – 2004)
Porsche 996 (911) Carrera 2 (1998 – 2005)
Porsche 996 (911) Carrera 4 (1999 – 2005)
Porsche 996 (911) Turbo (2001 – 2005)
Porsche 996 (911) GT3 (1999 – 2005)
Porsche 996 (911) GT2 (2001 – 2005)

Do you find yourself talking to your classic car from time to time? Now your car can talk back.

Available soon : The Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus (PCCM Plus) for vehicles with a DIN-2 slot.

Your PCCM Plus combines timeless driving pleasure with state-of-the-art technology. Even though you like to travel in classic style, sometimes blissfully unaware of the time, it goes without saying that you want an easy and comfortable journey that avoids any traffic jams. The new Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus will help you achieve this.

With its unique, original Porsche look complete with Porsche lettering, the PCCM Plus blends seamlessly into the interior. In addition to touchscreen operation via a high-resolution, optimised 7-inch display, modern functions such as DAB+ (Europe), Apple CarPlay and GOOGLE® Android Auto have now become part of the PCCM Plus. The PCCM Plus also features additional on-board navigation with Porsche-specific points of interest (POI). Route guidance is available in 2D and 3D. The associated map material is provided via a separate SD card, which must be ordered separately.

SD Memory Card
PCG64250100 – Europe
99664250112 – Australia / New Zealand
99664250114 – UAE

Media can be played back via SD card, USB, AUX and Bluetooth®. In addition, the PCCM Plus can use Apple CarPlay and GOOGLE® Android Auto for media playback, navigation and telephone calls.

Additional information:
Only for Europe.

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CUP / DRINKS HOLDER. PORSCHE BOXSTER 986 / 996

These cup holders clip into the side air vents. Please check your side vents have small holes to locate the drinks holder. Click on the image for more info. You will need one for each side Left or Right.

Fits:
Porsche 986 Boxster 1997-04
Porsche 996 1998-05

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REAR SPOILER/AEROFOIL TYPE I PORSCHE 986 BOXSTER

Boxster Aero Rear Spoiler Type I. With cut out for 3RD brake light, which is not included.

Fits:
Porsche 986 Boxster

Material:
Made from Fibre Glass GRP

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INTERMEDIATE SHAFT IMS BEARING UPGRADE. ETERNAL FIX IMS BOXSTER 986 / 996 / 997

IMS Intermediate Shaft Bearing Upgrade. Eternal Fix for M96 Engines and Early M97.01 Fits engine types: Carrera 996 M96 engines, Boxster 986 M96 Engines, Boxster 987 M96 Engines, Carrera 997 M96 & M97.01 **Engine (3.8) number up to M97/01 68509790 has the older IMS bearing (this product fits) and Engine number from M97/01 68509791 has the larger revised IMS. (this product does not fit). IMS Eternal Fix retro fit kit installs in-car without removal or disassembly of the engine required. The Cylindrical Bearing with Thrust Control design has a load capacity 5 times greater than the inferior, failure prone, Ball Bearing solutions on the market!

Fits:
Porsche 996 C2 3.4L 1998 – 2001
Porsche 996 C2 3.6L 2002 – 2004
Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 1999>>
Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 2000>>
Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 2001>>
Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 2002 – 2004
Porsche 996 C4S 3.6L 2002- 2005

Porsche 997 C2 3.6L 2005 M96.05
Porsche 997 C2S 3.8L 2005 M97.01**
Porsche 997 C4 3.6L 2005 M96.05
Porsche 997 C4S 3.8L 2005 M97.01**
**Engine (3.8) number up to M97/01 68509790 has the older IMS bearing (this product fits) and Engine number from M97/01 68509791 has the larger revised IMS. (this product does not fit)

Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997 – 1999
Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2000 – 2003
Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2004 – 2005
Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 2000 – 2005
Porsche Boxster 987 2.7L / 3.2L / 3.4L
**M96 Engine only

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