2001 Porsche 986 Boxster S | The Porsche Experience for $15k

Today I got behind the wheel of a 2001 Porsche 986 Boxster S. The 986 along with many other models (such as the 911) from this era were often frowned upon for their water-cooled powerplants, IMS issues, and not-so-gorgeous looks. Fast forwarding 22 years later, what is it like to drive this old German roadster? I'm pleased to report that this car offers a sublime driving experience with everything you'd expect from a Porsche with a mid-mounted flat 6. And with market values of these vehicles still hovering between $10-20k depending on mileage and specification, they are a great bargain for any enthusiast. If you enjoyed the review, please support the channel by leaving a like and subscribing for more great content. Cheers!
Instagram: / autowisdomyt

[@MrDaymien1]

I saw one the other day, it looked incredible. They really have aged well .

[@sunset986S]

My 2002 Boxster S makes me feel like a kid in a go kart every time I drive it...😍

[@noandrewhere]

Maybe the last true bargain on the Porsche market. I bought a 2000 boxster s manual just because I was looking for a compact convertible for sunny days in the city and trust me - you get way more than you expect from a 20k car. I am driving 911 since two decades now and the 986 gives you maybe 80-90% of the experience for one seventh of the price. Strong recommendation !

[@SpencerF6]

My brother has a 996 C4S, a loverly car and a lot of car for the money. For a quarter of what he paid. I agree, my 986 S gives me 80% of the experience. General running costs are quite similar though and he will get his money back for sure. Price wise, I think a C4S is undervalued too.

[@noandrewhere]

@@SpencerF6 it has the same technical issues and is a ticking Bomb. In general I’d say „stay away from 996/997 Carreras“ - but I think you can take the risk if the stake is low (and that’s the case in a 986 but not in a C4S)

[@SpencerF6]

I'm very happy with mine. Going to many Porsche events and meeting owners of much more expensive and modern Porsches, I've spoken to many that have had a Boxster at some point. Not one of them has had a bad word to say about them, in fact, a few have said that they miss it and how easy to it is to chuck it around and have fun in.

[@tjomara3812]

I drive a 00 S .6 speed manual. You describe the vehicle so well, I wish you had a 6 speed S to review. Thanks for the video.

[@AutoWisdom]

I’m hoping to review a manual example at some point along with the base non S variant. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@nathan_funny_7752]

What an awesome review! I’m 16 and have grown up around Porsches of all kinds since I was born. Next year I’m hoping to have a manual 986 Boxster S of my own, so i’m currently watching, reading, and absorbing every bit of information out there on them 😂

[@AutoWisdom]

Thank you and good luck with your search for a 986 S!

[@gajalafromkentucky]

This brings back memories brooo….. keep researching and maintain your enthusiasm. I’m telling you this feeling is better than love any day.

[@nathan_funny_7752]

@@gajalafromkentucky It’s now been 6 months, I’m 17, and have purchased my own 986 Boxster. It isn’t an S but still a 5-Speed with the 2.7L, I’m absolutely in love with it. Carmona Red Metallic over Savannah Beige - it’s really a nice looking car with only 1-2 minor imperfections. I did all the right research and jumped at the opportunity when I found this for sale on the Porsche Club classifieds website. All the time, effort, and research was more than worth it! I had the pleasure of taking it to my first Porsche Club C&C in Cincinnati this past weekend, everyone there was amazed and surprised to see a 17 y/o driving a Porsche that he bought with his own money 😎

[@14nightwolves]

Excellent review of the 986. Always had an appreciation for these cars, glad to hear you enjoyed it. Keep em coming

[@VinceFung]

my co worker has one and man it looks great

[@jameselliano1203]

I have driven an air cooled 911. This is very much a Porsche. It is not a 4 cylinder VW. People who say things like this drive toyota's. Other than that....trash it much? These are fun cars and these comments are just an opinion. Enjoy it.

[@myavaz]

I'm trying to find that same Porsche with the 15k price tag not having any luck.

[@AutoWisdom]

This one in particular was in mint condition with very low mileage so it's tough to find a spec like this for $15k, but they can definitely be found with higher mileage and some minor wear and tear.

[@disturbingkreationz]

Cool video. I build these.

[@AutoWisdom]

Thanks! I’d like to build one as a project car someday.

[@Thewinnerscircle_]

Sick ass ZF8

[@Live2die777]

Dont you have a bmw channel?

[@AutoWisdom]

Yep!