YOUR FIRST PORSCHE BEST BUYS
1.986 BOXSTER
It’s not by accident almost every 911 & Porsche World contributor has owned a 986 — in terms of value for money, the first-generation Boxster stands head and shoulders above all other Porsches. Early 2.5-litre cars, complete with their previously derided (but now finding favour) ‘fried egg’ front lights, are often the cheapest route into Porsche ownership, but be mindful of condition — while early Boxsters can be bought at criminally low cost (sub £5,000), many available examples are cheap because they’ve been neglected. Buy the best you can afford and, if possible, ask a specialist or knowledgeable owner to take a look over your prospective purchase before you part with your hard-earned cash.
Though Porsche presented the Boxster as a fresh new concept in 1993, there’s no denying influence provided by the 914, introduced in 1969 as a replacement for the 912. The 914 sold in big numbers (admittedly, this was in four-cylinder guise, with the 914/6 proving less popular due to its lofty price tag), which is why it remains surprising Porsche took so long to revisit the idea of a mid-engined roadster. When it did, success was assured — the 986 Boxster was a huge hit, which is why there is no shortage of examples to choose from today. Of course, the main reason for owning a 986 is the model’s driving dynamics, which are a perfect blend of power delivery, pinpoint turn-in, poise and handling. The fact the 986 is the lightest and most agile of the Boxster dynasty makes it a better choice than spending
