2002 Porsche Boxster 2.7 (986)

Highlights 

• Tidy, usable example

• In current ownership 20 years

• Impressive service history

• Five-speed manual gearbox

• Full year's advisory-free MOT

Overview

Inspired by the iconic 356 Speedster, the Boxster was a bit of a revelation for Porsche. Released in 1996, the Boxster – a portmanteau of Boxer (as in the engine) and Speedster – turned the German auto maker's fortunes around at a time when it was struggling with a dated line-up of vehicles as well as dwindling sales.

Proving immensely popular, the Boxster, penned by legendary Porsche designer Grant Larson, was Porsche's first roadster since the 914 and hit the sweet spot between affordability and drive-ability. Essentially a cheaper, mid-engined 911, the Boxster still managed to stand proudly on its own two feet whilst sharing parts with its big brother – an idea borrowed from Toyota – and it was a stroke of genius, quite frankly.

The Boxster wasn't a lairy speed machine, only to be bravely dabbled with at weekends. It was a well-balanced, inherently drive-able two-seater that could be used every day. Far from being sedate though, it was initially available with a 2.5-litre, water-cooled flat-six producing a shade over 200bhp, with 0-60mph being achieved in around six-and-a-half seconds. A 2.7 and 3.2-litre were later added as production continued.

The car we have available here is a 2002 Porsche Boxster with the 2.7-litre engine, which means the best part of 220bhp on tap. A five speed manual gearbox keeps things engaging and the car comes with service invoices showing full and documented service history.

It may not be a pristine show queen but it appears to be mechanically sound and presents as an eminently usable example that has plenty left to give. So if you're in the market for a tidy and well-maintained example of the iconic original 986-generation Porsche Boxster then this could very well be the car for you - ideal for someone looking to enjoy top-down motoring with a solid mechanical pedigree.

History and documentation

• 2002 model year

• Original book pack

• V5C present and correct

• In current ownership since 2005

• First registered 17 Jun 2022

• Two keys

• Stored in a weather-tight garage from 2016 to 2022 before being put back on the road in August 2021 after a full service (fully documented)

• Service invoices showing full and documented service history

• Last major service 07 Aug 2025 (fully documented)

• HPI clear

• MOT with no advisories valid until 31 Jul 2026

• 102,379 miles

Interior

• The wholly original interior is holding up well despite the car's age and mileage

• The seats appear to be wearing well with no apparent damage

• The door cards and dashboard remain in great condition

• Everything works with the exception of the indicator stalk which does not self-cancel and the oil level indicator on the dashboard does not function (the level is set using the dipstick)

• New window regulators plus control unit for the central locking system in 2023

• The seller reports that he still has both mesh inserts for the roll hoops but the passenger side one is damaged and does not fit correctly, though the driver's side is fine

• The carpets appear clean and dry

• The steering wheels and gear knob are not overly worn

• The area under the bonnet is clean and tidy and comes complete with space-saver spare with tyre, tool kit, jack and warning triangle

Exterior

• The silver paintwork presents well overall but does carry some blemishes commensurate with the car's age and mileage, particularly to the rear bumper

• Appears to be a rust-free example

• All body panels and shut lines are straight

• The rear Boxster badge is missing and the petrol cap locking mechanism has been disconnected

• Repair to the rear following a minor collision in 2007 (carried out by an authorised body shop through insurance)

• Repair to the nearside rear in 2016 (documented in invoice)

• The roof was replaced in 2016 with one fitted with a glass rear screen and looks to be in great shape

• The original 16” five-spoke alloy wheels appear straight but do display evident wear and tear, including signs of flaking paint

• New Nexen Nblue HD Plus tyres fitted in 2023

• The vendor states that the underside is in good condition as reported at the last MOT

Mechanical

• 217bhp, 2.7-litre flat-six engine

• Five-speed manual gearbox

• Rear-wheel drive

• 0-60mph in 6.5s

• 155mph top speed

• New fuel pump in 2021

• The vendor states that the engine pulls well and the gearbox is smooth

• At the last service it was identified that  both inner and outer track rod ends showed major play and replacement was recommended, together with wheel alignment

• Other than that, the vendor informs us there are no mechanical issues to report and that the car starts first time, appears to run very well and stops as it should

Summary

A great, affordable entry point into Porsche ownership this particular Boxster has all the right fundamentals. With strong service history, apparent mechanical integrity and recent investment in key components it would make a rewarding summer car or light weekend project. 

It's easy to see why the Boxster was such a huge hit for Porsche and this honest, usable example with a full year's MOT is ready to be enjoyed right now.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Haringey, London.