The Porsche 986 Boxster S - Stop Moaning About Them, And Go Drive One (Review)

[@jimjimmyjam8242]

I love my 2003 Boxster. Its fun and has been very reliable. When somebody tells me I have a poor mans porsche, I ask them what kind of porsche do you have? Lol

[@TheYjmfan]

There’s no such thing as a poor mans porsche all the parts and servicing tax insurance are all the same.

[@matty74123]

better than no Porsche

[@dustinthewind4294]

F ya buddy 😆 👍

[@dougedwardsyachts]

Brilliant response! I drive an Impreza but really fancy one. I drove an early silver 2.5 tiptronic around 2005 and thought it was a lovely drive.

[@corypierce6141]

Sorry to be so off topic but does any of you know of a method to log back into an Instagram account? I stupidly forgot the login password. I appreciate any help you can offer me!

[@X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X]

Driving even "the worst" Porsche is ten times better than going on the internet, having an argument and then taking a Golf to the pub...

[@arrek6773]

Agree 😁👍

[@Te1ecastermaster]

Have an GTI, had an old 987 boxter. GTI is more fun, sorry.

[@bnr32jason]

@@Te1ecastermaster well, considering that you can't even spell Boxster, I'm going to go ahead and say you never actually had one. If you did, you never drove it correctly if you find the GTI more fun.

[@X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X]

@@Te1ecastermaster I see your point, there is an attraction to both the Boxster and the GTI. It was much rather a comment on people on the internet saying cars objectively better than theirs are worse for reason x, y, z, however.

[@Te1ecastermaster]

@@bnr32jason gotta love the internet and people who make wild assumptions and accusations based on their feelings being hurt. It was my opinion, sorry I hurt your feelings. Got rid of the BOXSTER (happy?) and wound up in an Elise, and track it. The Boxster was slow, and torqueless ( I had the 2.7). and because of the convertible, it was also quite flexy in the corners, the gearing was long, thus you always felt like you were between gears, all adding to the fact that it was a poor canyon car compared to a fizzy torquey GTI with a magical front diff that seems to defy the laws of physics and hides the fact that it is FWD quite well. I hope you get to/do own a fun car.

[@augustortiz]

I have never met a single person that drives one of these and doesn’t come out with a huge smile. I used to daily a base 986 and i miss it dearly.

[@veemacks7255]

Same here. Bought my new manual 986 Boxster in 1998 (not the 's' model) and bloody loved it. With only 204bhp you'd think it would be flat as a fart but no, it was fine. A B-road dream car.

[@augustortiz]

Vee Macks yeah, mine has catback exhaust, bilstein coilovers with H&R race springs and some other track oriented parts, carrera S brakes & wheels. It literally felt like it was on rails, there is nothing more satisfying than that car on a B/canyon road. I remember handing the keys to some of my friends with 300+hp cars and they would all just come out wishing they bought a boxster instead.

[@Fee.1]

What do you drive now

[@veemacks7255]

@@Fee.1 He said 'mine has' so it sounds like he's driving a Boxster now.

[@Fee.1]

Vee Macks no his first comment says he used to drive boxster

[@TDS981]

986 in the right spec looks so right, they have aged remarkably well, in fact I like them more now than ever before!

[@1BuckeyeRob]

Really liking this vintage too now but the 987 a bit more.

[@stevecookson61]

I’ve had mine for two years now and love it .... more than fast enough to get you into trouble but loads of fun. IMS is an issue but massively over hyped online. Buy them .. drive them and enjoy

[@ukwan]

I've had a 986 and 996, but as much as i'd say the IMS issue is overblown, and absolutely it is.. Jesus it sucks when your IMS bearing does fail (I know first hand), alas for £1500-2000 you can have the IMS changed and fit and forget, most likely for the duration of your ownership. Spending £1500 on a Porsche is nothing, and anyone who hasn't done it because they can't afford it (not other reasons), should probably not be driving the car in the first place. They're stunning cars, I still own a 996 C4 Aerokit and my 986 2.5L was an absolute peach of a car!

[@martinjplant]

Timothy Baker 3.4 is so much better than the 3.2. Owned a 3.2 from new kept it 7 years, then got a new 3.4 which still have

[@-DC-]

IMS scored bores one in approx 20 utterly ridiculous for a supportability quality car, Garbage.

[@MickPost]

I've recently had the IMS bearing in my 986 replaced with a Direct Oil Feed IMS bearing. This bearing has an hydraulic oil line leading into it, constantly giving the bearing engine oil. I'm pretty sure this alternative bearing is the solution. It seems practically unbreakable.

[@patricklinkous]

@@MickPost When I replace my IMS it will be with a direct oil feed. Simply replacing the IMS with a ceramic unit is delaying the inevitable. You still need to replace it every 5 years. Direct oil feed is the solution.

[@zguy95135]

I drove my friend's 986 Base for about thirty minutes and then I bought one the next week. What an amazing car and especially for the money. It's definitely worth it to find one that's been well cared for, even if it's higher mileage.

[@CurvyVic]

Same lol

[@MrSmygolf]

My first Porsche was 986 S, 172000 miles and it still works as new. Even after extensive track use no major parts have been changed :)

[@scottcowan6798]

They have a real presence on the road, even today. That silhouette is unmistakable amongst the dreary mass of cars today, in the same way an Elise can be spotted a mile away in traffic. Great review!

[@Thecryptoconspiracist]

Scott Cowan no....no they don’t

[@scottcowan6798]

@@Thecryptoconspiracist You're entitled to your opinion of course but it's pointless arguing. Just in the same way that I personally find modern day "Supercars" utterly boring and forgettable. I much prefer my 911 to any of them because it's just so much more useable and satisfying to own. I have a few other Porsches, Mercedes, Land Rover Defender and could quite easily purchase a proper supercar, but they just leave me cold. Each to their own. The Boxster and Elise are heroes and accessible and above all properly useable.

[@frogskinshoelace]

@@Thecryptoconspiracist lol this guy

[@grandtheftgameryt]

@@Thecryptoconspiracist your just wrong

[@oliverdance8642]

We’ve got a 2000 986 boxster, i cannot say enough how brilliant they are. Costs the same as a new base Golf and by god is it worth it. The handling is sublime and the noise is godly

[@jeffamburgey7485]

I bought my 2001 986 almost by accident. I was looking at 911 and in that adventure came across a red 30k mile very close to perfect in appearance car. I couldn't get it out of my mind, so I went and drove one for the first time. I was blown away at how great it was, I just could not believe it. I broke Jays rule and paid a little more than 10k, but the car is one owner and almost showroom. It is also the most enjoyable car I have ever owned. A 20 year old as new Porsche for low teens is to me, about as good as it gets, 10k miles and 2 oil changes, zero problems, as a matter of fact its build quality is as good as anything I've driven, and I have been fortunate to own some great cars. Great review.

[@mrrintymonaghan]

I bought a 2004 Boxster S back in August and I love it! Plenty of power and it looks and sounds great! I paid £5k!!

[@astongrad930]

That’s a steak, I live in London and seriously considering, do you know how the triptonic drives?

[@mrrintymonaghan]

@@astongrad930 I've never driven a tiptronic boxster. I do have a tiptronic Cayenne and it's great in the Cayenne but I think it would be rubbish in the Boxster! Go for the manual!!

[@astongrad930]

@@mrrintymonaghan appreciate the reply and sincere advice. Sadly living in the capital, i'm often averaging under 12mph in stop start traffic, so i don't think my legs can endure the constant shifts. The ideal scenario would be to get a competent saloon for daily and weekend/b road toy for the weekend. Budget only allows one car at the moment.

[@NickTaylorRickPowers]

God I love his attitude on the shortfalls Get on with it

[@martinboulden3540]

I had two of these from new and did over 225K miles and I loved every minute ! In the dream world how much more power and speed do you need for public roads. In manual form this car is amazing value secondhand especially if you find one lavished with a lot of extras. Just make sure you have heated seats !

[@04dram04]

It blows my mind how under rated these are. They are so awesome

[@wildwest5436]

I love mine. A friend who owned a 911 in the past recently drove my Boxster. He came back and said with humility, "You know all these years I had it wrong with my impression of the 986. And then I finally drove one."

[@thefreedomguyuk]

Exactly. I started with a 996, now I've got a 986. The latter is far more fun use as a a daily drive.

[@Adrenadriven7]

how's the ride quality?

[@wildwest5436]

@@Adrenadriven7 seats are very comfortable for being a Sportscar, easy basic accesses to buttons, aggressive steering and stiff suspension as a sportcar should be.

[@roscoe9507]

Had my Boxster S anniversary edition for 6 years, it’s my daily and in my opinion is a better handling car than my 996. They are such a joy to drive, great video

[@Paul8342]

I’m on my third 986 Boxster (second ‘S’) - they are so undervalued for the package they offer. I truly believe they would be more revered if Porsche hadn’t made them in the numbers they did. I also own a 996 4’S’ and Turbo and if the 986 was the only one of the three I owned I would still be very happy. I use mine as my daily and will likely have another - weirdly the 987 doesn’t float my boat just as much for some reason. All in all they’re great cars!

[@collinporterfield102]

I have owned a 964 C2, a 964 C2 cab, and a 996 turbo. Now, I bought a 2004 986 S 550 Spyder and I absolutely love it. Drives like a go cart and is plenty quick. 17 years old with 39K miles on it!

[@graemew7001]

I've always been a big 911 fan since childhood and I'll be honest I've never had an issue with the Boxster or the Cayman, they're both excellent cars and I wouldn't feel short changed if I owned either one as opposed to the bigger brother.

[@thefreedomguyuk]

Amen, Brother ! I've gone from owning a 996 to owning a 986. I can't see any reason for going back to a "William Shatner".

[@graemew7001]

@@thefreedomguyuk I'm going to admit that I had to Google the Shatner reference..... that's f-in hilarious, being British it went over my head. I saw the 718 GT4 RS on TV last night and omg I want that now haha!!

[@Tdeegs]

My 03 boxster to date is still one of my favorite cars of all time. I'm a current 991.1 pdk owner loving this car and I am considering picking up an older manual boxster or cayman for the exact reasons you described, well done!

[@chrissheppard4daysoff238]

Was a great day letting you review my car glad video turned out well even though my baby is looking filthy.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Really enjoyed it, thanks for bringing it!

[@suryamp12]

Do you sell the air freshener

[@bongwaterbojack]

These are quite good fun. Nevertheless, I am in the process of swapping a V8 into mine.

[@stuartd9741]

Check out hoovies garage (U.S channel) on YT. Before you do. He did that very thing.

[@bongwaterbojack]

@@stuartd9741 I've seen those videos, but there are some distinct differences for my project. My car is track only. There are no concerns about having the car look remotely stock from the outside, nor are there any concerns regarding comfort. The rear is already reduced to little more than a frame, so I've got significantly more space to work with. The engine going in uses a dry sump, so it should not have any oil starvation issues under track conditions. I could go on with differences, but you get the idea. Other than them being 8 cylinder engines going into Porsches, the two builds don't have anything on common.

[@cecilnoriega7276]

Bongwater Bojack I’m planning a LS3 for my 2001 S.

[@darrellclark9596]

Damb..ive heard of such beast Nevdr thaught id hear of one in real life...crazy times we live in 🤙

[@bongwaterbojack]

@@darrellclark9596 The car is now running and driving. Still a ways to go before it is track ready, but it's making lovely V8 noises. You can check it out on Instagram @SquonkwerkzGarage

[@arvidkarlberg5845]

I currently own a 2000 speed yellow 986 as my only car and daily it to work and for all other errands, freaking love it. Even top down here during sunny winter days in southern Sweden.

[@dangozo8167]

Like many other comments I loved my S, ended up trading it for a 996 4S but the Boxster was a much better daily. Now on the lookout for another. Unbelievable value, I think I paid around 40k for mine back in the day and to think I could buy the same car for 4k is a no brainer!!

[@JelloTypeR]

I had a 2003 986 S for a year. It was a well loved example and it was an absolute joy. I tracked it at Brands and Lydden Hill. Sold it for £500 more than I paid. I miss the howl from the flat 6 to this day and I’ve had some great sounding cars.

[@jo05dk]

I'd never moan about the 986 Boxster. We have the 718 for that.

[@anthonyfmoss]

I’ve had my 986 Boxster S for nearly 5 years now. I utterly love the thing. Never want to part with it. Gives me immense pleasure. JayEmm, I agree with everything you say in this video. Many thanks for putting this out.

[@t-dub74]

I've had mine for 4 years and couldn't agree more ! My favorite car that I've ever driven !

[@petermckechnie9092]

Hi Anthony, Im 4 years in on my speed yellow S and feel the exact the same as you. Still brings a smile to my face looking at it on the drive

[@kamakauketwo5282]

Mine is a 2001 S, 83,400 miles and still on the original IMS bearing. I’m the 3rd owner and I’m pretty.sure all of us have driven and maintained the car as it was designed to perform. It’s never been relegated to garage queen status. I’m 76, but my Boxster makes me feel like a kid.

[@anthonyfmoss]

@@kamakauketwo5282 so glad it’s keeping you feeling young! I’m a mere 61 and it does the same to me. God willing, I’ll still have it when I’m 76 and well beyond!

[@marquisbois990]

Wife had one early 2000’s and it quickly became our go to everyday drive. Brilliant car....shopping, holidays, track days...even visits to the lumber yard. Engine went, 3yrs out of warranty and Porsche put a new one in for free and gave us a Cayenne while it was being done. Most negative comments are from people who never driven one and probably feel they are addressing their inability to afford one.

[@dougsimpsonmusic]

I’ve had a nice condition 98 Boxster for 5 years. Did IMS when I bought it and drive it in the summer. Almost never have the top up. Really fun runabout and hwy car. I get a ton of nice comments on its looks and it’s bone stock. Great review!

[@tolivr]

Having purchased a brand new Boxster in 1998 and put 127,000 miles on it without a major issue, I decided to buy another Boxster after a semi took out my old one. Took me a year of searching, but in 2020 I finally found a 2002 Boxster S with 63k miles in immaculate condition that matched the black on tan color scheme of my 1998 model. 2 years, 4 months later I am at 75k miles and it runs perfectly. The 986 Boxster is hands down the best value in sports cars today, and the best handling car on the road under 100k.

[@thomasferber480]

Thank you for reviewing my Car and reminding me of how fun it is to drive. It did also suffer from several engine failures, 3 to be honest, but was everytime rebuild by a local dealer and I still love to drive it. So you are right, if you buy one be picky choosing one and save some money for the repairs, its worth the fun.

[@Carrera-gp9od]

Thomas Ferber Seriously, 3 engine failures ! That’s unbelievable what happened ? Was it a different problem each time ?

[@thomasferber480]

@@Carrera-gp9od 1. Crack in Cylinder Head left side 2. Cranked Shaft Bearing failure, so we need to open it up completely, replaced ims Bearing in that run 3. Crack in Cylinder head right Side. So two times heat problems, so water pump, thermostat and Ventilator control has been upgraded. Cylinder surfaces have no issues, dont know why the bearing Problem happened around 130tkm, oil was good and always available. Perhaps savings during build time. Got 911 bearings now

[@thomasferber480]

@@Gandalf721 of course I do use the car to drive for fun, not to own it. Used it as daily Driver with Hardtop for some time. Never intended to buy a Porsche in the first place, but value for Money looked good before the engine problems happened. Driving experince is superior due to the engine in the middle

[@tonye2695]

Great review, I have the 2.7 and love it, took it to south France last summer and had a ball in Rhône-Alpes. Looks like your local as I use the same roads on your review for a weekend morning run.

[@superdooperoofer8941]

Love them or hate them, they are a future classic, sought after models will increase in value. Drive one and tell me you don’t like it. Keep up the great reviews. Love them

[@EvoraGT430]

I didn't really like it.

[@superdooperoofer8941]

RS2Russ you didn’t really like it.... but you didn’t not like it....🤪

[@Cornwall1888]

I don’t need to drive it to say I don’t like the look of it, I like newer boxster looks, more of a cayman guy though Although I’m sure it performs

[@terrybuchanan1]

@@Cornwall1888 not sure, but i think i might end up being of the same same, after i review more reviews. but no hurry until late this year ;)

[@MasterMalrubius]

@@Cornwall1888 The Cayman looks so good!

[@1ROCKY89]

1:24 I hit pause so I can sub and now comment. Enjoy your roadster buddy. Sincerely, Porsche Driver 2000 Boxster Base since new 2018 718 Boxster GTS since new

[@pokemon123me]

Recently bought one, great car to drive and relatively easy to work on

[@marcnobel3938]

When Gordon Murray says it`s a good car he took inspiration from, it can`t be that bad I guess :-) - A S Version would be great to have in the Garage. Nice aftermarket exhaust and Suspension and you will have a lot of fun with it on the weekends.

[@crouger92]

Spot on review Jay. As my mechanic said to me: from the front to the driver's seat it's a 911, from the driver's seat to the back, it's better than a 911. All I will say is that my enjoyment of the car was ruined by the thought of what this month's £500-£1000 bill was going to be.

[@dragoinism6134]

I've had my 03 Boxster S since 2011 and love it. It's been as reliable as a Toyota Corolla, but alot more fun to drive!

[@wesleycarusos8225]

I have owned many 911s and a couple of Ferraris. Haven't had one in many years though. I drove my buddies 2001 Boxster 2.7 and fell in love with it. Found a nice 2000 s 6 Speed about 4 months ago. I've driven a lot of cars and I'll have to say this is one of the most fun cars I've ever driven. I absolutely love it. I can't tell if it's had the IMs done I'm going to go ahead and do it for the Peace of Mind. I got a good deal on the car so I'll still be in the car right and I'll have a car that had it done. Like you said it's easy to hate this car until you drive it.

[@tomhelvey9372]

I got a 2004 Boxster S to run at track and autocross events. It had 55K miles on it and cost $14K. I had all the reliability fixes done, new IMS, clutch and flywheel, underdrive pulley, deep oil sump, etc. I also got a couple suspension upgrades so I could increase the negative camber (competition alignment). It's a pure sports car, no PSM, 6 speed manual, I added a short shifter. If you drive it well, it goes around the circuit quite nicely. The back end can get away from you with little notice so watch the off camber turns. If you're going to track it, make sure you know how to feel when the back end starts to come around. My other car is a 2019 F-Type coupe, the Jaguar is much more comfortable but the Porsche is more fun. Interestingly enough, both have the same paper specs: 0-60 in 5.4, top speed ~160. It's a great car and a lot of fun to drive. Nice review.

[@alebigna]

I have one 3.2 S, it's great. The engine has enough power an torque for fun or for going around leisurely at 60 km/h without changing gears ever. Lovely car. Now I have to do some work on it (clutch, shock absorber) and I expect a great improvement of the drive experience, that it's already great. The standard sound is fantastic, over 4000 rpms is a delight. And handling is fantastic. Ale

[@pistolpete5189]

They are the ‘BEST CAR IN THE WORLD’ The end..

[@pgtmr2713]

That air freshener :-D

[@pokedon92]

I need one! haha

[@chrissheppard4daysoff238]

Ebay 2.99

[@camberwellcarrot420]

That's my next purchase.

[@donaldsalkovick396]

How dare you!

[@gerardfeeney5613]

Just bought a 2000 boxster 83000 miles , there's a few quirks here and there ( had to fix the horn , seat belt got stuck, haha) but absolutely love this little car!!

[@barsaf9989]

The 986 boxster S is pretty quick. Light weight with 250 horsepower is not slow. Also the steering is relatively heavy when compared to other cars in the segment. There might be something off with that car's steering since you mention that it doesn't communicate very well.

[@tylersea9910]

Beautiful Boxster. I have a 2002 Boxster sport with only 95,000 miles. It’s a salvage but still sounds amazing and there are a few bumps and bruises but Porsche makes cars that are timeless.

[@ThomasGillot]

Makes me want to buy one. The wheel choice fits the car well.

[@williampotter2098]

This is a perfect title. I have researched few products that everyone who used it then loved it. The Boxster is one of those. Whenever I read someone badmouthing a Boxster, it then comes out that they are just trying to sound smart about something that they know nothing about. I knew nothing about Boxsters. I saw one in the back of a shop that was low mileage and cheap. (They're out there, I promise). While I knew nothing about it, I liked its looks. I researched it overnight and made an offer the next day. I was immediately in love. I'd spend double what I paid for it. I love it. It doesn't hurt that its value has increased 30% in the last three years of ownership. PS, get the S model. Doesn't cost much more but you will be glad you did.

[@chrisbaker121924]

I have a 987 and I agree fully, it’s such a good car, I’ve kept it 6 years now because well, there really isn’t much I could replace it with for any real measurable improvement without spending 2 or 3 times as much. I had it for sale once, and thought about buying a 997… realised that they’re practically almost the same car 95% of the time but without the soft top ( wouldn’t want a 911 cab ). Plus being that bit slower (you’re right about the figures not being that impressive these days) but it means you can Rev out the engine through a couple of gears and enjoy the noise without being in trouble… it’s more fun to drive a slow car quickly than a quick car slowly… I don’t know in what world were living in where a 6 second to 60 car that will do 160mph+ is considered slow, the Boxster is ideally suited to the British roads in terms of performance and comfort. Great video as always Jay.

[@fxlltxtsearch]

Everything you say is factual. The car is genuinely fun to drive. It would be really nice if you could slap a turbo on it and do 400 hp, but the motor just wont allow it without blowing. Theres enough people that have tried it and got blown motors as a result. If youre not a complete speed freak but just want a little bit of get up and go its a solid choice. You can drift it. Hit a glorious 7000 rpm and its not too obnoxious sound wise

[@JeremyHartson2000]

Excelent segment. Thank you. In the market for a roadster and you've really swayed me toward the Boxster. The devil on my shoulder keeps saying "Everyone should own a Porsche once in their life". Cheers.

[@papaprankster101]

did you buy one? the Devil on my shoulder said the same thing and last year i bought a year 2000 Boxter S with only 33,5000 KM on it. basically its looks and drives like a brand new car but best of all i didnt pay a brand new price.

[@JeremyHartson2000]

@@papaprankster101 I sure did. Put a video up of it too. Search: Budget Boxster and you’ll see what I did with it.

[@ethanbailey7247]

My father just picked one up to day with a faulty alarm system for a sum under £2k. Yes it is a 3.2 S, it has had the Ims done and even has the sport seats and sports exhaust. What a car for the money!!

[@JoJoJoker]

What a bargain! The seats alone are worth £2K.

[@sh010272]

I am 8 years in on my 2001 986. Ultimate weekend toy, I enjoy driving it more than my daily RR L405, in fact I agree I think it’s now ageing very well and yes mine is resale silver.

[@cecilnoriega7276]

Steven H mine is the Silver also.

[@miamigt4922]

I have a 2020 Cayman GT4 and love the 986 Boxster. I always flash my headlights or give a thumbs up to if I see one. I know a lot of guys that own or have owned 911s, 911 Turbos, GT3RSs who all love the original Boxster. Not everyone who owns $100K+ Porsches look down on other Porsches, there’s a lot of good car guys out there. Porsche Club is a good place to meet them.

[@drcaw5422]

A great sportscar and used buy. Have a 987 Boxster RS60 Spyder in my collection and always thoroughly enjoy driving it.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Super cool cars

[@jimherleva4541]

Have a 3.2 986 and it is a huge amount of fun. That being said, despite it being somewhat slower, nothing beats my old 944S for driving joy. Held the road like it was on rails.

[@Pauli-COJ]

Hum, how funny. I just watched the smoking tire one take video of a 3.4 swapped 986 boxster (making around 315hp ircc) and right after that, your video got uploaded! Thank you for your genuine great content sir! And happy new year!

[@mrradman2986]

I have a 3.2S manual with 27K on the clock. It's plenty quick enough given the state of UK roads yet has a great ride really soaking up the poor surface conditions with zero body roll. The main issue with people not finding its character is they don't drive them hard enough. You only hear the true flat 6 howl over 4000 rpm and it gets better the closer to the limiter but at that range you will already be travelling pretty swiftly even in second. A lot of folks probably never get the engine up into this band as its so easy to drive them changing up at 3000 rpm.

[@KipKippax]

I bought my 2004 Boxster S a few weeks ago. been off the road for a while so going through it ready for an M.O.T. soon , Looking forward very much to driving it after your review ..thanks..

[@fleialex]

Used to have a 2000 Boxster, the one with 220 HP. Drove it 17 years! Loved it! Never had an issue apart from some cosmetic issue with peeling off rubber coating inside. Still regret that I sold it. At least I know it is in perfect hands of a very good friend who drives it to this day.

[@bridgewatercontract1]

Ive owned my boxter from 12 months old, as a new ish car I was slightly ill at ease with it, howeaver now its 10+ years old and as you suggest Jay not trying to impress anyone, for me it has become a total pleasure to own and drive. The standard coment from anyone who drives it being "God its a lot better than I thought"

[@TheCarGuysTV]

Loving your work, sir 👍

[@lehbeltman]

Test driving one Sunday, if it's in decent shape I'm buying it.

[@slideways8022]

They have grown on me not gonna lie, and this video sealed the deal, I now like the boxster

[@rodsalvador3608]

It's cool that people don't like them! All that matters is what you love and what you think. My 986S is a blast to drive and that's all that matters.

[@SanchezS1998]

It would take a lot to part me from my S2000, but I wouldn’t mind taking a Boxster for a test drive just to hear that engine note in person!

[@nicwilson89]

Can confirm, sounds like you're being chased by a WW2 fighter from inside...then you put a better exhaust on it and it arguably sounds better than the 911s...and a lot of other things

[@darknewt9959]

I swapped my S2K for one of these... they are such an amazing contrast. I loved the engine and gearshift of the S2K, but he's not exaggerating when he calls the 2K a little psychopath. It was a car I found it impossible to relax in - and I tried many times on the multiple occasions I drove it across Europe. But the Boxster S was a supremely relaxing car in comparison, and yet still quicker than the S2K with hammer down. The real problem I had with the 986 was the in-car audio system which, while giving good quality sound, only played gramophone records. It's practically impossible to integrate a phone or iPod without ugly, semi-functional and expensive 3rd party kit.

[@dannsgamingfails8899]

I was thinking about this, S2000 or Boxster S. I don’t know which I’d choose if I was in the market

[@DukeFerris]

I sold my S2000 with 150k miles and a ripped top, and got enough money to pick up a pristine Boxster S with 39k miles, plus the hardtop thrown in for free.

[@Porsche-Ninja]

*DO NOT* pick a 986 Boxster over an S2000. Don't do it. >Unless its a 987 Boxster, keep the S2000

[@trackdaylbs]

Bought my 1998 Boxster as a summer runabout 5 years ago... and I still have it as it is just great fun to drive. It's not bad on the track either...

[@weejim48]

I bought my 3.2 S 4 years ago. It’s my everyday drive and I love it. £8,000 , 71,000 miles on it. I put a stainless steel sports exhaust on it & had the wheels painted gun metal grey. Fantastic car for the money. My mate has a GT3 & he likes driving my Boxster S as much as his own. 👍👍👍

[@hanmanfoodcam5383]

I totally agree! I have always spoken down at the little boxster's, but upon driving shotgun with a friend who is actually a Porsche Cup racer... to just experience the level of performance this car had, blew my mind.. the confidence it gives you as a driver is way above anything in this category could deliver. bought one the next day and have never looked back... Thank you for a great review and Thank you Porsche for making this car for us to enjoy but above all, thank you GOD for blessing me with the opportunity to own one. GLORY!

[@drewmorg.]

Laughing to the bank in our 2006 Boxster S (987.1), 6 spd, 73k miles, great condition for $15.5K USD. Wasn't even the BEST deal in town either, just fairly priced. Touch screen upgrade was not cheap neither were the PS4S but man this car handles and sounds excellent. As you mentioned, the 986 generation are around the same price as any older MX-5 around here. It's a no brainer. P-BADGE.

[@ianmitchell9102]

Always fancied one, just always needed rear seats even if they are small, had two 944’s...... the boxster 3.2 engine in the 944 would be perfect

[@JamesJohnson-rg1ec]

Owner of a 2003 Porsche Boxster 986s here. I had my reservations about all of the horror stories manifested on the internet, but I just thought, it’s such a potent package at such a reasonable price I couldn’t dismiss it. Nothing else offers that six cylinder in the middle, with formidable handling, and user engagement for the price point. About 6 thousand miles in and I’ve not had a single issue with it- well not entirely true; the only issue being I can’t stop driving the thing, and my daily driver is constantly sat neglected. It’s just a great piece of design and engineering. The practicality is astonishing!

[@s_tyrer6005]

6:28 that's a far too familiar site on a backroad when you're trying to have fun; someone in a Honda Jazz doing 20 under the limit and braking mid corner.

[@jasonschronicles]

Drove the 986, ended up with a 987.2 S. Frankly its the most engaging sports car I've owned (or driven for that matter). They really do have to be the best value for the money out there. This is coming from someone who never gave P-cars a second thought until driving one...You're spot on. Got rid of a MX-5 RF for it and couldn't be happier with my decision.

[@carterkozminski]

I absolutely love mine! A well sorted 2000 S! I daily mine and with the heat and rain we get in South Florida, I added a hard top for the summer months which makes it even nicer to enjoy every single day! If you are debating buying on, stop debating and do it. They aren't getting any cheaper! Drive the hell out of them and enjoy!

[@timmusick9875]

Thank you for remembering what a sportscar is. Great commentary!

[@drifblimmin]

My hero. I've always loved these cars

[@risinbison1106]

I just replaced the coils and plugs myself. Pretty easy job and did it for $305 US and she runs like a champ for a 24 year old car. I have the 3.2L and it’s quick, handles like it’s on rails and when the suns up, the top is down.

[@michaelschnittker7388]

Bought my 1998 986 silver over red 115k miles 2 owner car for $5700 off EBay, shipping and new to with glass rear window and 4 new Michelins from Costco I’m in it for about $7k. First owner owned it all but two years, wife of a Houston, TX surgeon. No silver in oil filter, changed the filters. Goes as fast as my old 1987 911 Carrera Targa and unlike that car and ALL 911’s the 986 has real a/c and heat does not raise your blood carbon monoxide level. Handles better than the 911 but harsher ride bit it’s a real convertible vice Targa. Value for money is ridiculous. Great design, very much a two seater even compared to the 911.

[@itstheterranaut]

They make an incredible amount of sense. Its rare that anyone ever gets the chance to drive, say, a 911 at full or even half chat on UK roads. So something that handles just as well, providing that essential Porsche 'feel' and is built to the same standards is always going to be a winner.

[@kieronsmith4500]

Great video. Brought my Boxster S about five years ago 2000 model, read all about ims prior to purchase so had ims bearing, rear main shaft seal and clutch replaced at same time, not cheap but peace of mind 😊

[@jamesthegames4259]

Love these down to Earth reviews! Let me know when you want to drive my MX5 NC 2.0 Sport!

[@Albertan11]

Love my 1998 Boxster its bullet proof !! Great car even if people call it a baby Porsche.

[@mickles1975]

I love that mirror ornament.

[@bladerunner6282]

my favorite porsche: 2009-2012 cayman s. that year and model is surprisingly rare here in the U.S., at least those with less than 20,000 miles on them. according to sales figures, the number sold soon after the last major recession dropped by about 80% during those years. pity. BTW i, for one, wish to thank you for watching your speed during these reviews. many of the others on youtube demonstrate a flagrant lack of respect for the safety of themselves and others. although some try to limit their irresponsibity by choosing remote and untraveled roads. a demonstration of speed and cornering ability needs to be demonstrated on a track, not public roads. thanks again.

[@computerhelpcc]

Blade Runner : YES, that really is the way to go although the smaller engine skipped DFI so they stay cleaner and thus cheaper to run.

[@plektosgaming]

If I was looking at an 8 to 10 year old Cayman S, I'd want it to have about 3x that mileage and be used as a daily driver, with a stack of meticulous receipts. Not driving them is what causes things to go wrong - just look at his McClaren video from a little while ago. The issue is that the engine in it is designed to be run 8-12K a *year* but people let them sit for so long as investments that the seals and sensors fail. 2K a year is not being properly driven for such a high-strung little engine.

[@bladerunner6282]

@@plektosgaming three 10 mile rides per week (30 miles) is only 1560 miles per year or 15600 per decade. plenty, IME.

[@plektosgaming]

@@bladerunner6282 The difference between when I drive my car like that and after I take it on a single 50-100 mile drive and everything gets lubricated and warmed up properly is quite noticeable. If you aren't putting at least 100-200 miles a week on most vehicles, it's actually causing more wear and problems in the long run. 15K per decade is also just a bit sad. Porsches, and especially an entry level model that only cost $40-50K at the time, are meant to be driven until the wheels fall off. Not to collect dust as a trailer queen. They designed this model to specifically BE a commuter option versus something more expensive and meant for the track.

[@bladerunner6282]

@@plektosgaming we don't agree... so be it.

[@rickc2102]

I'm moving to a very rural, blue-collar town come summer. This is one of the very few Porsches I could see myself owning comfortably there.

[@Nippledozer]

Or a cayenne 😂

[@mrbagins3774]

Great cars, easy to work on and loads of them being parted out so even major parts aren’t an issue. Infact I’m getting another one now !

[@oliverrowe797]

That’s funny. He drove a long way for you to drive this, yet I live right round the corner from weathersfield road (which you were driving on) with the exact same car, colour, age, boxster s 3.2, and even alloys 😂

[@chrissheppard4daysoff238]

I was heading too london for that weekend anyway so was only 40 miles extra on my trip. But I did come from down in devon.

[@lang9872]

It's a very nice and objective Boxster review👍

[@dsrrecordsent]

986 2.5 S triptronic owner and it’s a high revving, great handling, fun every day driver/track car/weekend or project car that’s also a convertible and perfect Porsche👍

[@cantamusquerbeat]

I'm German. It's Porsche with the "e" pronounced, No Discussion. Nice no nonsense review,by the way. Subbed!

[@andrewfitton764]

Owned a 2.7 from new in 03, my only car for 4 years and despite subsequent Caterhams, Audi Quattros and Imprezas it remains my favourite car. Fast, when you want it, easy to drive the length of Europe (and I did twice) , roomy for a sports car as I find the s2000 and TVRs pokey and you sit up too high in the S2000. And it drove beautifully like only a well engineered mid engine car can. So 3 weeks ago I bought the best late 986 S I could find. And its all as it was only more as it’s got the low torque the 2.7 misses . As contemporary road tests said - it’s rational to sell a kidney or your nan to drive a Boxster.

[@robp8218]

I've driven a friend's Boxster S a few years ago, I was impressed. Less impressed/confused by your half-fingerless gloves however...

[@Cornwall1888]

Robert Pickavance exactly, the tips of your fingers are the bit that gets cold 🤷‍♂️

[@JayMaverick]

They look awful, but it's so useful for using your phone or whatever that needs a fine touch.

[@Dockhead]

@@JayMaverick meh id rather splash out and try the touch gloves that are meant to work, not sure if they do though. and heck id rather look like a dick who has his 2 thumbs out and typing for a few seconds, who types with there fingers apart from my mother. texting and driving leads to deaths, remember that ;)

[@richardhintonracing]

Parts and repair costs - and big items do fail.

[@fishadthethird]

Depends.. and yes crankshafts / engine cases are expensive, if you have bore scoring or a connecting rod failure.. :/ the key is to change out the oil regularly and to warm the engine up before pushing it in the higher rpms!

[@hunteraltman4762]

@towels towels Lol, that'd be awesome

[@olavafargamer757]

You nailed so many points in this video. One pretty fast get very attached to it for some reason, maybe as you said because it is 'eager to please'. The thing about low end Posche is true of course but it is also fact that most people who have little or no interest in cars (the majority) will only see a Porsche anyway so it might be more of a show off than a brand new Audi RS or whaver other 'standard' car type of horse power monster one might think of. A newer Golf GTI will for example probably be both faster and also more expensive than an old Boxster but nobody turns to look at it anyway, unless one does something truly spectacular with the exterior.

[@bavariancarenthusiast2722]

Great review and also insides Jay! You can make the 986 a really pretty little car too - spotted one in Munich last week which was silver and in a race delivery. I forgot how small they are. I own a 981 Boxer S and love it! Its a keeper - for me the 4cyl in the 718 are a deal breaker. I expect it will hold its value quite well and its paying back every time I drive it. Driving in the mountain roads in Germany - Austria - CH - Italy its a dream. You get loads of respect from bike owners driving in the alps - they know this little car is faster than most bikes and keep up with them, compared to no others cars - that what many bikers told me at gas stations. The comparison with the Fiesta ST was fun ;) There are two new models out now with a brand new 6 cyl. 4l - the Spyder and the GT4. I don't expect the 6 Cyl. are coming back to the normal Boxter / Cayman next generation - but who knows if it will be ICE at all, would be a great little platform for an electric roadster - Like ... BaxterS :)

[@alanjohnston-h3t]

I have had a 987 for 7 years it’s a great roadster , not a city car,on mountain roads it is as fast as you would like,yes you will need a maintenance fund & rear tyres last about 12,000km

[@nickb8257]

I love my 986: Puts a smile on my face every time I drive it! I was told not to drive below 3000 rpm - the timing chains don’t like it - plus it sounds so much better at higher revs!

[@plektosgaming]

This is actually true for most vehicles. Lugging around at 1800rpm and lots of 3-4 mile a day use is what kills them. Porsche's view is that you should drive the car as your main car and not have it sit. To have a fantastic driving experience, drive it until the wheels fall off ( at least 10K a year, if not more ), and in 10-15 years, put it aside and get another one.

[@MikeNSX]

I bought a 2002 Boxster S (986) after selling my first NSX. I have to admit I really loved that car. I did not at the time know about the IMS issues which are certainly a concern but I really did love that car. I think they are a great deal and even considered buying my previously back from the guy I sold it too. You just do need to get the IMS dealt with which sucks.

[@cecilnoriega7276]

NSX Guy the bottom line is; drive the car as it is supposed to be driven. Change your Mobile One oil every 5000 miles or less. Watch out for the scammer aftermarket IMS bearing POS’s.

[@SuperU2tube]

Where did you get the “How dare you” air freshener?

[@ARPerez]

Very solid review! I like your demeanor and style of explaining things. I have an 01 non-s and while I plan on upgrading to a 996 or perhaps 997, the little boxster has a special place in my heart

[@joncon1901]

As someone who changes cars too often, I have now had my 986 s for over 3 years .it is my daily driver, although I only drive 1.5 miles to work. I love the relaxed nature of the car,it went to Porsche for major service which was £400 including membership to Porsche classic register. I do wonder to change it....but a similar year 911 will cost around 20k.