Highlights
- Well maintained and very usable early Boxster
- Recent clutch and engine work by Porsche specialist
- Full service history with 13 stamps
- Both front radiators recently replaced
- Long MOT to July 2024 with no advisories
The Appeal
After years working on models to augment or replace the iconic 911, in the mid 1990s Porsche finally hit paydirt. Inspired by the success of the MX5 the firm developed the mid-engined Boxster to sit below the 911 in its model line up. The new car usefully shared many parts with the 996, making it - and its big brother - more cost effective to build.
The new car was an immediate hit. Combining proven Porsche mechanicals with a superlative mid-engined chassis, it established a lineage that has become a mainstay of the firm’s line up.
Early Boxsters are beginning to appreciate as modern classic buyers discover their usability and reliability.
This very usable early model has full service history, a long MOT and recent significant clutch and engine work by a noted Porsche specialist. Very presentable and clearly cared for it looks ready for distinctive daily duties or as a weekend indulgence.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 4th July 1999
- Delivered to Merlin Porsche in Nottingham on 17th May 1999
- 3 keys
- Full set of owners manuals and service books with fabric wallet in good condition
- Full service history with 13 stamps by main dealers and independent specialists
- Most recently serviced on 7th July 2023 at 138,352miles by SVR Motorsport, Porsche specialist
- Extensive service history including old MOTs and invoices
- Low mileage replacement engine sourced by seller and fitted by SVR Motorsport in July 2023
- Clutch replaced in October 2022
- Both front radiators replaced in June 2022
- Long MOT to July 2024 with no advisories
- Early 2.5litre Boxster avoids the IMS bearing issues
The Interior
- Contrasting Savannah Beige leather interior in good condition
- Sheen on the driver’s seat and wear on bolster commensurate with mileage
- Electric backrest adjustment with manual height and reach adjustment
- Speed control system
- Fittings and trim in good condition with only light marks of use visible
- Switchgear unmarked with good, clear decals throughout
- Black fitted over mats
- Carpets in good condition with no visible stains or deterioration
- Sony stereo fitted with Bluetooth
- Cigarette lighter appears to be missing
- Front and rear boot trim in good condition with tool roll, spare tyre and warning triangle present
- Central locking but remote locking does not work from key fob
- We are not aware of any untoward warning lights
- Roll hoop with removable Perspex wind deflector between
- Electric windows and mirrors work correctly
The Exterior
- Black paintwork with no visible corrosion but some signs of age and use
- 17in optional alloy wheels are presentable but with some marks visible
- Some stone chips to front of vehicle and bumper
- Bumper replaced in 2020 and resprayed in matching black
- Electric roof in good condition with good colour and works correctly
- Rear window on roof has a small area of broken stitching
- Underside shows no areas of concern and no structural advisories on the last MOT
- Glasswork in good condition and lights undamaged and clear
- Black is an unforgiving colour and the paintwork could be improved by a machine polish
The Mechanics
- 2.5litre flat six porsche engine developing 201bhp
- 5spd manual gearbox
- Full service history from Porsche and independent specialists
- Clutch replaced in October 2022
- Front radiators replaced in June 2022
- New front brake pads June 2022
- Engine replaced in July 2023 due to poor running of original unit
- Engine swap professionally completed by SVR Motorsport, a Porsche specialist
- Early Boxsters do not have the issues with IMS bearings that affect later cars
The Boxster is renowned for its reliability with early cars such as this one proving particularly durable. The sinuous flat six engine, shared with the 911, delivers over 200bhp through the rear wheels. With superb weight distribution this makes the Boxster a delight to drive.
This car comes with full service history but the engine was replaced in July 2023 due to oil pressurisation in the original engine. A replacement 2.5litre engine with 135,000 miles was sourced from a reputable amateur Porsche Boxster racer who had it surplus. This engine has never been raced. It was checked over by SVR Motorsport which undertook the engine swap. The engine was serviced at the same time and has covered few miles since.
Other work has included a new clutch in October 2022, new front brake pads in June of that year and replacing the front radiators, a common issue with these cars and one buyers will doubtless be pleased to see has been recently done.
Summary
The original Boxster introduced a new dimension to Porsche’s product range and launched a long line of mid-engined marvels from the firm. Early cars now quality as modern classics and good, unmolested, cared for examples are increasingly in demand.
This car ticks those boxes with its thick history file and full service history attesting to careful owners. It looks very usable and ideal as an entertaining weekend classic.
Notice to bidders
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