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YOUR RESEARCH996/Boxster--same issues?
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Replace yes, '03 was the year
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Yes, '03 was the year that quite a bit was changed both inside and outside.
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Suggestion · Original poster
I'm assuming they do, but thought I would check here.
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I'm doing my homework on my next Porsche and have been pretty focused on Boxsters. I'm considering expanding my search to include 996 models. I have a buddy who has a '99 (IIRC) and I've driven it once.
I've already read everything I can get my hands on about the the IMS, RMS, AOS and other problems to look for as far as Boxsters go, so I'm just asking whether the 996 line has exactly the same issues at least as far as engine goes. I'm assuming they do, but thought I would check here.
STP
I have a C4S and just picked up an 01 986 S a few weeks ago. I fricken love my boxster! From my research, the IMS, AOS, RMS, D-Chunk apply to both cars. I believe the early models 97-99 had some porous cylinder issues, not sure if it applied to the 996.
And as you know they are identical from the doors forward. I'd have to agree, my understanding is that they share similar issues, many of which have become worrisome due to the net. IMHO both are great choices if you really enjoy driving.
Yes, I had the same problems with my M96-powered Boxster as I've had with my M96-powered 911 - none. Just as the engines share the same known issues, they also share the same curse of internet paranoia.
If you get a Boxster, go with 03+. The glass rear window is a must.
if you don't care what Jeremy Clarkson says get the boxer, more fun and way cheaper. Go for the S model.
http://www.topgear.com/uk/jeremy-cla...che-2008-08-01
" What this car does - what every Boxster does - is sit outside your house reminding you that you couldn't quite afford a 911."
Yes, '03 was the year that quite a bit was changed both inside and outside.
2000 was the year the last major improvements were made. You probably already know all of this and more if you've been researching.
I don't agree that owning a Boxster only means you could not quite afford a 911. Especially since 996s are so cheap now. They are two different driving experiences. I would try a few of both models and see which feels better for you.
IMO neither driving experience is really "better" than the other except for the power difference (which ultimately means the 996 has higher performance numbers). I think that for most Porsche enthusiasts the driving experience is more about how the car feels and responds than it is about high power levels.
And don't forget the condition of the car is much more important than what year it is, or even whether it is a 996 or 986.
My wife bought a 986 new in 2000 and I currently own the same year 996. The Boxster always seemed underpowered to me, but the steering and handling is better than anything this side of a Lotus Elise. The 996 feels more grown up, and I'm into mine less than $25k including a new clutch, RMS, AOS, and IMS bearing as well as a bunch of minor stuff. The original IMSB was still fine when it came out. Not so much the rear main seal.
I have a friend who owns a 2000 Boxster with a 5 speed, doesn't visit any forum like this one, has never heard of an IMSB, regularly dries it and has an indy with a strong Porsche background, and guess what...it is reliable and lots of fun to drive. He bought it new and has had no major issues.
I didn't realize how poorly I was driving the Boxster until I moved to the 996. The Boxster is so forgiving and so capable, you can throw it into a turn completely wrong and be blissfully unaware of your transgression. The 996, even though it's also very forgiving for a 911, requires more smoothness than the Boxster. While it is possible to spin a Boxster, you have to work at it.
I wish I still had my 986...it would go great in the garage next to the 911.
Back to the OPs question. Mechanically they are very similar and so they have similar engine, transmission, cooling strengths and weaknesses.
996s have more electronics that could pose a problem as the cars age, but even then I think they share some of the same problems such as window regulators, microswitches, etc.
