Is the 987 Spyder worth the money… - Page 23 - Boxster/Cayman - PistonHeads UK

I have been thinking about a replacement for my previous weekend car which was an immaculate Evo Vi, front runner has been the GR Yaris. However, whilst having a few pints with a mate (who works in the car journo biz) suggested I stretch the budget a bit a look at the 987 Spyder. I have seen a few in the past, not knowing what they were and thinking 35k looked high for a 987 gen 2 Boxster. But looking now there are only 2 for sale at the moment (both on eBay) both above £45k Is this strong money or are they worth it?

Very special cars imho but not one that I would pay over £40k for.

The Yaris its an absolute hoot you will not be dissapointed with one, I also have a 987.2 Cayman S which is similar to the Boxster mechanically and its a great drive as well, two polar opposite cars they are my perfect two car garage.

Klippie said: The Yaris its an absolute hoot you will not be dissapointed with one, I also have a 987.2 Cayman S which is similar to the Boxster mechanically and its a great drive as well, two polar opposite cars they are my perfect two car garage. I already have a quick Tesla and a family wagon (vw Cali) if you could just have one of yours (consider the price) which one would you have if you were me?

If you have the Tesla and VW I’d definitely go Spyder for roof off mid engined thrills. But I’d the replace the Tesla with the GR!

Fantastic car, perfect usability, great steering feel and exclusivity for a weekend car. I also have a Cali, but an M140 as daily. Make sure the 12yr service has been carried out as its a big one.

MrVert said: Great cars, good spec and low miles cars are £45k - £50k from a dealer still it seems. As much fun on UK roads as cars much more expensive. Just the right amount of usable power, great steering and with PSE a lovely soundtrack. Prefer a spirited drive in the Spyder than many of the other cars I’ve had in the past. They’re also pretty rare, relatively light, look fab, will probably continue to hold their value and are even good on fuel (30mpg easily on a run). South of £50k for a sports car, they can easily hold they’re own. Gratuitous picture… Edited to add…don’t worry about higher mileage cars, they can take it as long as they’ve been properly maintained. You will get a good one for £40k. Edited by MrVert on Sunday 8th January 15:59 That looks perfect MrVert! I think my mate was correct to get me looking at these.

I didn't really take to mine even tho it was the perfect spec. I thought it looked ace but never quite hit the highs I was hoping for. Guess it's an individual thing. To be fair, I've never really seen the appeal of the Yaris GR either so maybe it's me! Pic, just because why not.

I have never driven one, but one of the few convertibles I would like to own. Never understood why they are so cheap in the UK given the UK drivers' affinity for convertibles. Cheapest one in Germany is c 75k euros atm I think (they were available from around 60k in the past I think).

One of the few cars I regret selling and one of the true specials in the boxster/cayman range. But I bought new for £45k but not sure I would spend £45k for one today. I think the 987.2S represents better value. Buy one with 18” wheels, most will be needing some kind of suspension refresh so I would fit KW3s tune the engine to circa 350hp and I think you would have a cracking car for less than a spyder!

Great car, I had one for 6 years, initially a PDK for a year which I traded against a 2011 manual, which I think is loads better. I still miss seeing the soo attractive twin humps on the rear, but I’d taken mine up from 8000 miles to 25000 and could sell it literally for what I paid - which I did - so decided, at 11 years old, things are potentially going to start failing (like alloys cracking on a pothole which are seriously expensive, suspension, clutch, exhaust etc) just due to age ( although I had no problems at all over 6 years). I think now at 12-13 years old just be aware they’re getting on a bit, I don’t think they’re going up too much but certainly not going down if you love and cherish it. The 6 years of depreciation free payments allowed me to upgrade to a brand new GT4 last year. I’m a huge fan in summary, wonderful looking machine and superb drive - (just make sure you get the buckets !!!) Edited by SpyderMatt on Sunday 8th January 17:28

I had one for 5 years, it always felt special as a weekend toy on sunny days. The Spyder is all you ever need on the road, speedy enough, easy controls, great handling, nice steering, I liked the buckets and it just did everything right. I had this in the garage alongside a GT3 of the same age and very similar spec, manual, buckets even the same colour. See my profile picture. It was a great pairing I only sold it because I was bit spooked in the Covid days and all the talk of plummeting values etc and decided I didn’t need two toys and a daily driver. My daily is a GR Yaris, 18000 miles and 20 months in, its great when flying along, I love the look of it too and it’s been faultless. I am averaging 33mpg which tells you I don’t get the time to stretch its legs very often. The only thing I have done is to fit a mirror raising block. My take. A 987.2 Spyder would make a great weekend toy. GR Yaris is more a multi-tool, if you’ve got the daily driver covered I would go for the Spyder.

I think they are a motoring work of art ... The latest refinement of hydraulic power steering ... you can feel the difference The lightest Porsche of it's era < 1200Kg's More than enough power You can get into both boots whether or not the roof is up ... you can't do this with the later lardy 981 and 718 Spyder's Two stage hood which is a delight if no real prospect of rain ... does make it more likely to be used useable in more variable weather conditions. The first stage has a fabulous Carbon Fibre frame that mounts onto the windscreen top and the rest is common sense taking a minute to erect (but you do need to stop). The aluminium rear clamshell is lovely ... And then it has lots of CR bits, but not the wider exhaust manifold which I guess gives a tune matching the CR rather better. To sum up, I think a careful purchase could be depreciation free .... there aren't many cars about which I might say that in this market.

Great cars, good spec and low miles cars are £45k - £50k from a dealer still it seems. As much fun on UK roads as cars much more expensive. Just the right amount of usable power, great steering and with PSE a lovely soundtrack. Prefer a spirited drive in the Spyder than many of the other cars I’ve had in the past. They’re also pretty rare, relatively light, look fab, will probably continue to hold their value and are even good on fuel (30mpg easily on a run). South of £50k for a sports car, they can easily hold their own. Gratuitous picture… Edited to add…don’t worry about higher mileage cars, they can take it as long as they’ve been properly maintained. You will get a good one for £40k. Edited by MrVert on Sunday 8th January 15:59 Edited by MrVert on Sunday 8th January 20:33

Chris, pretty sure the 987 weighs the same, if not slightly more than the 981. The 718 is quite a lot more than either.

It’s a special car.

Seems like the lightest are around 1300kg (if buckets, manual, no aircon/radio, maybe carbon brakes)? Otherwise nearer 1400kg according to this... https://rennlist.com/forums/spyder-cayman-r/116266...

ChrisW. said: I think they are a motoring work of art ... The latest refinement of hydraulic power steering ... you can feel the difference The lightest Porsche of it's era < 1200Kg's More than enough power You can get into both boots whether or not the roof is up ... you can't do this with the later lardy 981 and 718 Spyder's Two stage hood which is a delight if no real prospect of rain ... does make it more likely to be used useable in more variable weather conditions. The first stage has a fabulous Carbon Fibre frame that mounts onto the windscreen top and the rest is common sense taking a minute to erect (but you do need to stop). The aluminium rear clamshell is lovely ... And then it has lots of CR bits, but not the wider exhaust manifold which I guess gives a tune matching the CR rather better. To sum up, I think a careful purchase could be depreciation free .... there aren't many cars about which I might say that in this market. Lardy 981?? And you might want to check that 987 weight

They’re 1300-1350ish kg kerb weight depending upon options. Still one of the lightest modern Porsche’s. They definitely do feel light, I always think of the Spyder as a grown up version of an Elise. I’ve still got an S1 Elise (own with a friend) and every time I get back into the Spyder, it gives me Elise vibes in the way you can thread it through the bends on a B road. It’s not the quickest straight line car I’ve had by far, but it’s one of the most fun. Elise photo….just because…

Billy_Whizzzz said: ChrisW. said: I think they are a motoring work of art ... The latest refinement of hydraulic power steering ... you can feel the difference The lightest Porsche of it's era < 1200Kg's More than enough power You can get into both boots whether or not the roof is up ... you can't do this with the later lardy 981 and 718 Spyder's Two stage hood which is a delight if no real prospect of rain ... does make it more likely to be used useable in more variable weather conditions. The first stage has a fabulous Carbon Fibre frame that mounts onto the windscreen top and the rest is common sense taking a minute to erect (but you do need to stop). The aluminium rear clamshell is lovely ... And then it has lots of CR bits, but not the wider exhaust manifold which I guess gives a tune matching the CR rather better. To sum up, I think a careful purchase could be depreciation free .... there aren't many cars about which I might say that in this market. Lardy 981?? And you might want to check that 987 weight My 981 version was 1340kg on the weighbridge without a driver. Mine has PCCBs and 918 style buckets. Edited by elisered on Monday 9th January 08:36

MrVert said: They’re 1300-1350ish kg kerb weight depending upon options. Still one of the lightest modern Porsche’s. They definitely do feel light, I always think of the Spyder as a grown up version of an Elise. I’ve still got an S1 Elise (own with a friend) and every time I get back into the Spyder, it gives me Elise vibes in the way you can thread it through the bends on a B road. It’s not the quickest straight line car I’ve had by far, but it’s one of the most fun. Elise photo….just because… That’s exactly how I looked at it. I had an early S2 Elise for a number of years and loved it. (Would love a mint S1 now) I moved to a 987 Cayman S. As nice as it was, I didn’t quite gel and missed the Elise. Press release of the Spyder came out and ordered one pretty quickly. There are a lot of similarities, but does have a more grown up (comfier) feel to it. Although I’ve thought of selling at weak moments, there’s not really been anything else that has tempted me away from it. Didn’t really worry about the weight thing. I had a/c and the radio. For me it is road car, not interested in some tiny gain on a track day with meaningless times or days rankings. Have some tunes or comfort have been far nicer than a slight weight savings. Regardless of the a/c or radio being in, the Spyder will still be lighter than a similar Boxster S with the other weight savings.

elisered said: Billy_Whizzzz said: ChrisW. said: I think they are a motoring work of art ... The latest refinement of hydraulic power steering ... you can feel the difference The lightest Porsche of it's era < 1200Kg's More than enough power You can get into both boots whether or not the roof is up ... you can't do this with the later lardy 981 and 718 Spyder's Two stage hood which is a delight if no real prospect of rain ... does make it more likely to be used useable in more variable weather conditions. The first stage has a fabulous Carbon Fibre frame that mounts onto the windscreen top and the rest is common sense taking a minute to erect (but you do need to stop). The aluminium rear clamshell is lovely ... And then it has lots of CR bits, but not the wider exhaust manifold which I guess gives a tune matching the CR rather better. To sum up, I think a careful purchase could be depreciation free .... there aren't many cars about which I might say that in this market. Lardy 981?? And you might want to check that 987 weight My 981 version was 1340kg on the weighbridge without a driver. Mine has PCCBs and 918 style buckets. Edited by elisered on Monday 9th January 08:36 OK .... I give-in I found the original "The new Boxter Spyder Unleashed" which listed all the weight savings (many also on the CR) ... it states 1275 Kg for the manual, DIN. Clearly <1200 is now corrected in my memory Anything else you wish to query ?

Lots of great info and pics. My search has officially begun….. However …. I’ve started also to read up about Cayman R’s now. I completely ignored these years ago when a mate had a green one. But now I’m learning more about the Spyder, they are fast coming onto my radar. I wonder as my car won’t be a garage queen (done that in the past and never drove the car how it should have been driven ) maybe the R is a decent option and potentially 15% less money?

I'm not sure they're 15% lower in price, same spec cars seem to me to be priced in a similar bracket. Both been trading at £40-£45k for low miles versions for years now. Having had both (R and Spyder) they're very alike, apart from the roof obviously I think it'll be down to where you keep the car, what you use it for etc etc. Would you want / need the added security of the coupe? The R is a great car, under appreciated by those who've not driven one. The Spyder looks that little bit more exotic perhaps, the roof seems to add a tad of character to the experience, roof off there's more noise and sensory overload possibly, but it's down to your own preference which one you prefer. In my view you can't go wrong with either. Edited by MrVert on Monday 9th January 14:00

There are owners who have happily kept their Syders outside but I preferred not to. Having owned both I would agree with the above .... the CR is also very "fun" trackday car as well.

oxnop said: I already have a quick Tesla and a family wagon (vw Cali) if you could just have one of yours (consider the price) which one would you have if you were me? For the shear love of driving, the sounds it makes, the beautiful hydraulic steering and I just love the thing to bits...Porsche. And for a balls out mad b-road blast, insane levels of grip, it feels unburstable, and its a Homologation Special...GR Yaris. I can't choose that's why I have them both...you will not be disapointed by any of them.

Loved my Spyder. Had it 2 years and put 9k miles on it. Very well balanced. Suspension only good above 50 mph mind. Lovely steering and so responsive in any gear. You will love it. Amazing in summer with roof on and back window out. Side profile is beautiful. Ended up with a 987.2 again but went 2.9 and modded. About to get the remap and bmc to go with the M&M exhaust and 200 cel manifolds. Sounds lovely. Bit slower but actually more fun IMO. | Fantastic cars and i daily mine. Budget around 1 - 1500 a year to run servicing and odd bits to keep them 100 pc and they won’t let you down!

Short answer…. Yes But that’s easy for me to say, owned mine for over 12 years now and, despite a couple of ‘should I sell it’ wobbles and a lot of other interesting and exciting cars having come through the family, it’s the one that has stayed - for lots of reasons already mentioned but can probably be summed up by the way it feels - the Cayman R is probably the same (though we kept our spyder instead of our GT4) In fact I’m really struggling as to what to get next (serial car owner) and am now going down the ‘bespoke’ route - can’t afford a restomod Porsche but picked up a rust free mk2 MX5 for the price of a decent mobile phone (was my first ever convertible and brand new car back in the day so fond memories) and handing it over to Rocketeer in a couple of months…. But that’s another thread to write….

I really enjoyed my 987 Spyder and it's one of the cars I've owned that I'd re-visit at some point. As mentioned before very spec dependent, you want the carbon buckets, lightweight wheels etc. To put into perspective of how much I enjoyed the car as a driving experience I replaced it with a V10 Audi R8 and was so underwhelmed I sold the R8 within 6 months! Obviously the R8 was blisteringly quick but after the Spyder felt big, heavy on the road and not as special to me. Have you thought about a series 3 Lotus Exige? I found mine was closest in experience to the Spyder but a lot quicker and more raw. Exige offers you the benefit of hard top and roofless as well.

Big E 118 said: I really enjoyed my 987 Spyder and it's one of the cars I've owned that I'd re-visit at some point. As mentioned before very spec dependent, you want the carbon buckets, lightweight wheels etc. To put into perspective of how much I enjoyed the car as a driving experience I replaced it with a V10 Audi R8 and was so underwhelmed I sold the R8 within 6 months! Obviously the R8 was blisteringly quick but after the Spyder felt big, heavy on the road and not as special to me. Have you thought about a series 3 Lotus Exige? I found mine was closest in experience to the Spyder but a lot quicker and more raw. Exige offers you the benefit of hard top and roofless as well. I’ve not considered the Wxige but have been looking very closely at the supercharged Elise’s. I keep thinking I’ve definitely made a decision on which way to go, then I read or watch another review / ownership experience and make an about turn!

Big E 118 said: I really enjoyed my 987 Spyder and it's one of the cars I've owned that I'd re-visit at some point. As mentioned before very spec dependent, you want the carbon buckets, lightweight wheels etc. To put into perspective of how much I enjoyed the car as a driving experience I replaced it with a V10 Audi R8 and was so underwhelmed I sold the R8 within 6 months! Obviously the R8 was blisteringly quick but after the Spyder felt big, heavy on the road and not as special to me. Have you thought about a series 3 Lotus Exige? I found mine was closest in experience to the Spyder but a lot quicker and more raw. Exige offers you the benefit of hard top and roofless as well. I’ve not considered the Wxige but have been looking very closely at the supercharged Elise’s. I keep thinking I’ve definitely made a decision on which way to go, then I read or watch another review / ownership experience and make an about turn!

Thread bump; while it wouldn't be my main motivation I can't help but feeling that in the years post 2030 (if that deadline gets stuck to) cars like this are going to be mega money...so I'd get one now. Personally, having spent a bit of time in one I'd definitely go manual. The PDK is very effective, and isn't a bad choice, but when the manual is that good then why wouldn't you?

I'm not sure I could live with the trade-off of loss of usability for the performance gain over my 987.2 S - and I certainly couldn't live with the 100% increase in price. Having said that, I met a bloke the other day who described himself rather modestly as a 'lifelong jobbing racing driver' (F1 and Le Mans history plus decades of racing Porsches) who had sold his 'pension fund' 2.7 RS to a collector; they were some distance apart on a price and the collector offered the 987 Spyder from his collection in part-exchange to bridge the gap. The Spyder had never been used; all its 50 or so miles had been accumulated on trips to get it serviced, have new tyres fitted etc.: so the chap I was speaking to felt he could realize a solid £10 - £15k profit over and above their agreed part-exchange value if he sold it on. With this in mind he agreed the deal, delivered the RS and picked up the Spyder, PDK gearbox and all: 30 minutes into the drive home in it he was sufficiently smitten to have changed his mind about selling it altogether and he's keeping it - so perhaps they do have something about them.

Thankyou Henry !! But most of them will be 1275Kg's ish ... my heart is in the air-cooled lightweight Porsche's and of course I have my "ultimate 981 GT4" which is not so far away from a CR (great cars for the money) ... so my Spyder once fettled from lack of previous use became a 3.2 Clubsport.

3 cars in that spec, 2 main press cars and one back up press car (mine), Richards is back in the UK owned by Phil Hindley of tech 9. And the one in most UK vids or mags. Then I still have mine, I don't think Richards was 1210kg that was the goal with a new exhaust and LWFW which never happened, I think it was 1240kg with his battery and taking the roof off. most will be well over 1300kg of course with PCM, AC with roof etc and PDK back up even more and wrong wheels seats etc. will see 1350kg again. PCCB saved zero weight, as the 4 pot 330 mm set up was then 350mm 6 pot set up so just about a like for like weight, nothing like putting a 380 Steel vs a CCB disk back to back and saving 1/2 the disk weight. what did happen was the car was well over braked though and thus it's fun to drive, take people out even instructors and then smash the brakes most people s t themselves. The 3 cars in this spec also had no Sports mode wart and were all leather as the leather dash weighs less than the plastic ones. Porsche 3 press cars were def speced to be the lightest possible and were very expensive cars with PCCB and leather dash options. def a modern classic and atm none for sale in manual I think. A know a few very rich new owners who have snapped the last few up lately. Seem very under valued to me vs the prices for LHD cars, should be £80k+ in the UK but not good enough for cars and coffee over a GT4 RS I guess. I now have even a rarer car from the same era so I might have to let my Spyder go after 10+ years of ownership :-( My retirement car is my new to me 997.2 2WD manual GTS which is circa 90 UK cars and feels like the Cayman R's daddy and is over 3 seconds faster than one 100-200 kph. The x51 was really the mezger under studdy engine which in fact did go racing in the 981 Clubsport or as close to that engine as possible. The 3.8 X51 lump has the wow factor imo and of course the 997 GTS has much shorter ratio's so only 67mph in 2nd vs modern GT cars at 85 MPh + Infact the 992 ST is like a remake of the 997.2 GTS ! . NA engine, manual, 2WD, Short ratio driving machine with no RWS etc. funny how things turn about in Porsche land, it took them a long time to realise Shorter ratio's were the way to go !! I have ripped 100lbs out of my GTS to date and just about to fit some Ohlins to it, it's a very special car to own and drive, I feel very lucky to have owned all these Porsches and of course the new GT4 and GT3's also. I still have 3 Porkers though so 2 will have to go as I plan to retire in March and it's too much hassle to look after 5 cars.

PorscheGT said: I might have to let my Spyder go after 10+ years of ownership :-( Your PH account doesn't accept emails but mine does, I'd be interested in having a chat about your car.

Pflanzgarten said: PorscheGT said: I might have to let my Spyder go after 10+ years of ownership :-( Your PH account doesn't accept emails but mine does, I'd be interested in having a chat about your car. I am sure he will be easy to track just go over to the Porsche club forum;)

GT4P said: Pflanzgarten said: PorscheGT said: I might have to let my Spyder go after 10+ years of ownership :-( Your PH account doesn't accept emails but mine does, I'd be interested in having a chat about your car. I am sure he will be easy to track just go over to the Porsche club forum;) Haven't been a member for years, any pointers?

Pflanzgarten said: Haven't been a member for years, any pointers? sorry to be so cryptic but once you speak to the fella you know what I mean, nothing bad by the way I know of his spyder he has had for about 10 years. PM sent Edited by GT4P on Thursday 31st August 17:27

we have touched bases btw. 1210kg dry maybe sans fuel, roof out, all the frunk crap etc. Porsche state 1275kg in the lightest possible spec which is our cars, you cannot magic 150lbs out the car from oem with just a battery swap ;-) I knew Richard well we had a nice few chats about our cars off the forums and I helped him buy that car. Plus I have the sister car also with a Antigravity battery and mine is 1245kg sans roof the frunk crap out and 1/2 a tank fuel. put the roof back on, the tyre stuff back in and fill her up you are back at 1275Kg's. by the by anyway weight wise, it's light in todays standards and nice big PCCB brakes they drive very well and are a lot of fun. Edited by PorscheGT on Thursday 31st August 18:33

PorscheGT said: The 3 cars in this spec also had no Sports mode wart and were all leather as the leather dash weighs less than the plastic ones. Porsche 3 press cars were def speced to be the lightest possible and were very expensive cars with PCCB and leather dash options.. I assume this is one of the press cars, but no pccb or leather dash https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0VcNPFq0O4&t= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKKO1txe-0s

Must be just two like mine then, like Richard's advert said. I forget it's been 12 years now :-). Great value cars vs what you can buy today at £50k that’s for sure. Boy I feel old these days :-(.

I have the OEM lithium battery you need that to hit the lightest weight.;)

Richard (the builder of the CLR lightweight 996 C2 that shed just over 250kg and ended up sub 1090kg but retained the vast majority of its OE interior trim) also owned a 987 Boxster Spyder. It was proper lightweight spec car, including PCCB’s. With a lightweight battery it tipped the scales at ... drumroll 1210kg Edited by Slippydiff on Wednesday 6th September 16:05

Does anyone know how durable the roof is if the car is kept outside in winter. I heard that they are not designed for all year round but I might have misread that in Viz comic. lol

I loved my 987 Spyder, a picture of it is is further back in this thread along with my now departed GRYaris that has been replaced with a 718 Boxster. One of the members on here has done circa 130k Miles in his, I think his PH name is Kushy

Another big thumbs up for the humble 987 Spyder , loved mine and it is the only car I wish I kept. Driven in a torrential downpour and roof never leaked but if I was keeping outside I would invest in a decent cover at least to protect the roof

Does anyone know how durable the roof is if the car is kept outside in winter. I heard that they are not designed for all year round but I might have misread that in Viz comic. lol

Never had any issues with the roof leaking - and never the degree of faff that those respected motoring journalists said it was Owned mine for almost 14 years now - apart from a steering rack replaced under warranty 10 years ago has never put a foot wrong Think this year may finally be the year i say goodbye to it though - I'm getting on a bit, have other toys, and averaging less than 600 miles a year over the past few years just isn't right....I don't like garage queens... but I've said that before and then couldn't let go.... we'll see how i feel after it's next service in a month or so....

I’ve owned my 987.2 Spyder since 2011 and done over 134,000 miles in it - it gets used for everything in all weathers Every mile is an event - the speed, the sound, the feeling and …… apart from servicing, hasn’t cost me a bean - 100% reliable The top is easy - around 1 min up and 1 min down + you can get 1 whole bicycle in it + a passenger and loads of luggage OR 2 bikes with the top down + no passenger and loads of luggage I cycle a lot - so this is important. Daily driver for me - no issues - but I guess its not for everyone - in 13 years - I have only ever seen 2 others on the road. Edited by khushy on Monday 29th April 09:36

M Attard said: Does anyone know how durable the roof is if the car is kept outside in winter. I heard that they are not designed for all year round but I might have misread that in Viz comic. lol When I first got mine it lived outside under a proper fitted, breathable cover. No problems with leaking.

the roof is fine - mine spends most of its time outside and never leaks even one bit

khushy said: the roof is fine - mine spends most of its time outside and never leaks even one bit And what’s the roof like on the move?

GT4P said: One of the few cars I regret selling and one of the true specials in the boxster/cayman range. But I bought new for £45k but not sure I would spend £45k for one today. I think the 987.2S represents better value. Buy one with 18” wheels, most will be needing some kind of suspension refresh so I would fit KW3s tune the engine to circa 350hp and I think you would have a cracking car for less than a spyder! If a long term keeper I might agree with you, but you know that UK market values do not take any account of the cost of modifying ... to many it's seen as a negative to value (for various reasons) ... The Spyder has a wonderfully open and free spirit ... the rear clamshell and the carbon fibre windscreen header in particular are things of beauty ... and with its two stage hood it is surprisingly practical ... still with two useable boots. It's also low numbers with a great reputation, so depreciation is likely to be modest ... and fast enough to be plenty of fun. P.S. Missed the thread resurrection ! Edited by ChrisW. on Wednesday 1st May 09:58

GT4P said: One of the few cars I regret selling and one of the true specials in the boxster/cayman range. But I bought new for £45k but not sure I would spend £45k for one today. I think the 987.2S represents better value. Buy one with 18” wheels, most will be needing some kind of suspension refresh so I would fit KW3s tune the engine to circa 350hp and I think you would have a cracking car for less than a spyder! What's involved/ cost in that? Cheers

paua said: What's involved/ cost in that? Cheers Cargraphic or M&M manifolds and cats, decent air filter, (and maybe a cold air kit) plus a live re-map. May as well chuck a lightweight, single mass flywheel at it whilst you’re in there … : https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=C9tJUKsmOSc&pp=y...

Slippydiff said: Cargraphic or M&M manifolds and cats, decent air filter, (and maybe a cold air kit) plus a live re-map. May as well chuck a lightweight, single mass flywheel at it whilst you’re in there … : https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=C9tJUKsmOSc&pp=y... Cheers - that looks ideal. Used to have a 993 with Cargraphic exhaust, S Wong chip, smfw ( really enhanced throttle response/ double declutched shifts) & H&R lowering springs. Really liked it. Now thinking about a 987.2S

Were these all Red White or Black? I swear I saw a blue one last week

Have had mine now for 11yrs and do very little miles to date is at 15,850 as have another Porsche. I am thinking it is now time to sell but at the right price circa £49K it has all the right bits .Buckets .Spyder Silver Wheels .Manual .Short shift .Sports Switchable Exhaust .Air con . Radio /Phone . OPC service history .Red only around 15 in the UK.If interest drop me an email . Brian

Yes but bias ...have one for close to 10yrs now and great cars also had a 981 Spyder sold a few yrs ago. As to price a lot depends on spec mine has Buckets .Sport Chrono .Spyder wheels .Manual. you could not buy mine for under £49k ,they are creeping up in value, new where a £58k car with the right bits. You will love it old skool steering ,the hood can be a bit fiddly till you get used to it ,if you plan on high speed autobahn driving with the hood up has a max 120 mph limit. Edited by woodysnr on Friday 28th June 17:13

Very tempted but no garage at present

dino_jr said: Were these all Red White or Black? I swear I saw a blue one last week Aqua Blue Metallic...

dino_jr said: Were these all Red White or Black? I swear I saw a blue one last week Great thread on the colours of that model at https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...

Hi Brian, I'm tempted by your Spyder. Is it still up for grabs? I've just joined PH (clearly I've been hiding under a rock all these years) and can't send any e-mails yet. I'll try to send an e-mail in 24 hours when PH unlocks the feature.

SJPS said: Hi Brian, I'm tempted by your Spyder. Is it still up for grabs? I've just joined PH (clearly I've been hiding under a rock all these years) and can't send any e-mails yet. I'll try to send an e-mail in 24 hours when PH unlocks the feature. can't send you an email about a 987

woodysnr said: Have had mine now for 11yrs and do very little miles to date is at 15,850 as have another Porsche. I am thinking it is now time to sell but at the right price circa £49K it has all the right bits .Buckets .Spyder Silver Wheels .Manual .Short shift .Sports Switchable Exhaust .Air con . Radio /Phone . OPC service history .Red only around 15 in the UK.If interest drop me an email . Brian Is this still up for grabs? I'd be interested.

SJPS said: Hi Brian, I'm tempted by your Spyder. Is it still up for grabs? I've just joined PH (clearly I've been hiding under a rock all these years) and can't send any e-mails yet. I'll try to send an e-mail in 24 hours when PH unlocks the feature. also have a 987 for sale. 15k miles I'm second owner, PDK, buckets, Sports Exhaust, Sport Chrono, extended leather, extended Alcantara, black Spyder wheels, no aircon (never needed). maintained by Cameron Sports cars. currently listed on Craig Spyder Club CSC exchange. in showroom condition. price set at £49k

you need to switch on messaging/email as system says your not accepting emails so can't message you here

Fabulous cars, so good I’ve owed mine twice. Out of interest how much would this one be worth? 2010 27k Full OPC history Silver Spyder wheels Manual AC Alcantara option Carbon buckets Sport exhaust Sports chrono Rear sensors Standard radio White Extended leather dash Sports shift

jameshc said: Fabulous cars, so good I’ve owed mine twice. Out of interest how much would this one be worth? 2010 27k Full OPC history Silver Spyder wheels Manual AC Alcantara option Carbon buckets Sport exhaust Sports chrono Rear sensors Standard radio White Extended leather dash Sports shift By 'Alcantara option' you mean the door inserts and door pulls? I'd say circa £47K

I would say low 40s at best

https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/17044546

GT4P said: https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/17044546 That is lower spec than the spec listed above

These are lovely cars but for me the 981 series moved the boxster on so much i'd be taking a 981s or GTS over the 987

Nice car but that Kenwood head unit looks awful. I really dislike these non OEM head unit swaps, cheapens the look instantly even if the functionality is improved.

KittyLitter said: That is lower spec than the spec listed above But it has the rare Bizenon headlights! For a 987 Spyder to be approaching £50k needs to be a bit like my old car that sold in the height of prices which was a 2012 MY less than 10k miles all the main extras plus PSM , alcantara bits etc. sold for around £50k

GT4P said: But it has the rare Bizenon headlights! For a 987 Spyder to be approaching £50k needs to be a bit like my old car that sold in the height of prices which was a 2012 MY less than 10k miles all the main extras plus PSM , alcantara bits etc. sold for around £50k Interesting. I have a manual car with buckets + Spyder wheels, just ticked over 8k miles. Beginning to think of moving to something else. Will put an ad up soon but curious what it may be worth!

Kananga said: Interesting. I have a manual car with buckets + Spyder wheels, just ticked over 8k miles. Beginning to think of moving to something else. Will put an ad up soon but curious what it may be worth! You can always start at a high price and see if you get any takers if not you can then lower the price

GT4P said: You can always start at a high price and see if you get any takers if not you can then lower the price Fair enough! Will get an advert up this weekend.

I ended up in a 996 GT3 but if I could have got my hands on a manual, spyder wheels, buckets car with most importantly PCCB car I would have. If I had more storage space I probably still would-they'd make a lovely pair.

PRO5T said: I ended up in a 996 GT3 but if I could have got my hands on a manual, spyder wheels, buckets car with most importantly PCCB car I would have. If I had more storage space I probably still would-they'd make a lovely pair. Funny - I had a 996 gt3 a few years back and loved it - only issue I had was I kept losing those plastic brake ducts on bumpy roads. But don’t do track days any more and wanted something a bit newer but still nimble - 987 Spyder hits the spot Are they worth the money - not in any strictly rational sense vs a normal Boxster, but as a bit special analogue rare Porsche that drives brilliantly and has as much performance and handling as you could ever need on UK roads … I’d say they are a bargain !

Picked this up from 911V a couple of weeks ago and v much enjoying it

I sold my 987 Spyder, manual with every extra, 3 years ago privately for £43k, and bought a new GT4. Now sold that, just too fast, sterile and enclosed, never really gelled with it if I’m honest. I gotta say out of all the cars ive owned over the years my Spyder is the one I really miss. I think the styling is so spot on, they really nailed it and such a great drive, with not too much power. Seems prices have held, perhaps inched up slightly, so not a bad place to “invest”. Might get back in over the next few months but white and buckets are mandatory for me…

Is it possible to retro fit extended leather - dash, doorcards etc ? See plenty of Spyders and CR's for sale without and a bit of a must have for me.

willwest said: Is it possible to retro fit extended leather - dash, doorcards etc ? See plenty of Spyders and CR's for sale without and a bit of a must have for me. The black one listed today - over in the R thread - that has full extended leather

KittyLitter said: The black one listed today - over in the R thread - that has full extended leather Yeh but pdk and no buckets

willwest said: KittyLitter said: The black one listed today - over in the R thread - that has full extended leather Yeh but pdk and no buckets Just my opinion but I think "the essentials" on a 987 Spyder matter less than a Cayman R. A Cayman R without the buckets is virtually no different to a standard car where with a Spyder you get all that lovely lightweight bodywork and roof. And for some people, comfort seats and PDK are a must.

willwest said: Is it possible to retro fit extended leather - dash, doorcards etc ? See plenty of Spyders and CR's for sale without and a bit of a must have for me. Everything is possible if your pockets are deep enough. You might find some parts on eBay 987/997 door cards are the same.. or a chat with someone like “Dave the trimmer” to get a cost for doing the work

willwest said: Is it possible to retro fit extended leather - dash, doorcards etc ? See plenty of Spyders and CR's for sale without and a bit of a must have for me. It is. I have done it on a 987.2 Cayman S in the past. It wasn't all that expensive, can't remember exactly, roughly £1,500 all in. However, your problem will be finding the door cards and dash parts in really good condition. Breakers tend to slightly damage all of these parts when they pull the cars apart. But the dash top is the trickiest bit. All the other parts are the same across gen 1 and gen 2, so there are quite a few parts out there. Indeed, the lower dash parts are the same as the 997, too, and you can use 997 door cards, too (I did, though they have slightly different door pulls). But the dash top has to be 987.2 (well, you could actually fit a 997 dash top, but then you'd have something obviously not factory spec) and the gen 2 extended leather dash top is different to the gen 1 (has additional stitching), and not only were gen 2 cars made in lower numbers, extended leather seems to have been optioned at a lower rate on the gen 2. Long story short, there are very few decent condition gen 2 leather dash tops out there for sale! If the car in question has Chrono, you'll also need a dash top with the Chrono hole. Anyway, doable, but bear in mind it will likely take a while to find the parts. Might take a couple of years.

SpyderMatt said: I sold my 987 Spyder, manual with every extra, 3 years ago privately for £43k, and bought a new GT4. Now sold that, just too fast, sterile and enclosed, never really gelled with it if I’m honest. I gotta say out of all the cars ive owned over the years my Spyder is the one I really miss. I think the styling is so spot on, they really nailed it and such a great drive, with not too much power. Seems prices have held, perhaps inched up slightly, so not a bad place to “invest”. Might get back in over the next few months but white and buckets are mandatory for me… I'm with you on missing the 987 Spyder. I've been lucky enough to own a few cars since and it's the one that always seemed to hit the sweet spot of power/weight and feel. I too had a 718 GT4, I really enjoyed it but it was a car you felt only came alive at 8/10ths and above which you rarely can do on a public road. I've swapped out to a 718 Spyder which I must say I'm really enjoying. The damping is different to the GT4 and as well as being slightly softer it seems slightly more playful, better fun at road speeds. It might be worth trying one if your haven't already?

f6box said: It is. I have done it on a 987.2 Cayman S in the past. It wasn't all that expensive, can't remember exactly, roughly £1,500 all in. However, your problem will be finding the door cards and dash parts in really good condition. Breakers tend to slightly damage all of these parts when they pull the cars apart. But the dash top is the trickiest bit. All the other parts are the same across gen 1 and gen 2, so there are quite a few parts out there. Indeed, the lower dash parts are the same as the 997, too, and you can use 997 door cards, too (I did, though they have slightly different door pulls). But the dash top has to be 987.2 (well, you could actually fit a 997 dash top, but then you'd have something obviously not factory spec) and the gen 2 extended leather dash top is different to the gen 1 (has additional stitching), and not only were gen 2 cars made in lower numbers, extended leather seems to have been optioned at a lower rate on the gen 2. Long story short, there are very few decent condition gen 2 leather dash tops out there for sale! If the car in question has Chrono, you'll also need a dash top with the Chrono hole. Anyway, doable, but bear in mind it will likely take a while to find the parts. Might take a couple of years. Thanks for the detailed reply.. its a bit of a mission eh. I thought I saw someone say on a forum the extended leather ones weigh less. I'd assumed the leather is put on top of standard parts and is just skinny enough to still fit, but this would imply Porsche don't just do that.

willwest said: Thanks for the detailed reply.. its a bit of a mission eh. I thought I saw someone say on a forum the extended leather ones weigh less. I'd assumed the leather is put on top of standard parts and is just skinny enough to still fit, but this would imply Porsche don't just do that. Yeah, for extended leather, they don't just put leather over the standard soft-touch finish. Both dash types have the same hard plastic shell underneath. But to that is either applied the soft-touch plastic layer or the leather. If I were doing it again, I'd go with a 997 dash top. They're nearly all extended leather and the gen 1 and gen2 are the same, so much easier to find them. I think the 997 dash top looks loads better too. The only issue is that the binnacle is designed for the five-dial clocks, not the three dial. Ideally, you convert the car to five dial, which I believe is doable. But then you have a real oddball in resale terms, you'd probably take a lot of value off the car. So probably only makes sense for a forever car. Slightly off topic, but here are the parts I had, everything you need to convert. They look good here but they were not perfect. The breaker I got them from had zillions of leather door cards (mostly 997, which are very nearly the same), but all of them had damage. Of course you need the right door card spcec re speaker grilles and things like buttons for memory seats etc to match your car, so that narrows the pool a bit. A lot of 997door cards have the buttons for the seats. Dash i bought had a tiny bit of damage, too. You could probably send the big bits off the have the leather refinished. I didn't do that, but probably should have. Don't have the car anymore. Saw it for sale some time later at a dealer, complete with bulls t description saying that it had factory extended leather and even mentioned that it had the option code in the ECU for it. Dick'ead. Someone who really knew what they were looking at would have spotted the 997 door cards and the fact that the Chrono clock was plastic and not leather!

@f6box, thanks for posting. That is really interesting. I’m also interested in retrofitting full leather to a Spyder. Were you able to convert the door cards to have door pulls (instead of handles) ?

f6box said: It is. I have done it on a 987.2 Cayman S in the past. It wasn't all that expensive, can't remember exactly, roughly £1,500 all in. However, your problem will be finding the door cards and dash parts in really good condition. Breakers tend to slightly damage all of these parts when they pull the cars apart. But the dash top is the trickiest bit. All the other parts are the same across gen 1 and gen 2, so there are quite a few parts out there. Indeed, the lower dash parts are the same as the 997, too, and you can use 997 door cards, too (I did, though they have slightly different door pulls). But the dash top has to be 987.2 (well, you could actually fit a 997 dash top, but then you'd have something obviously not factory spec) and the gen 2 extended leather dash top is different to the gen 1 (has additional stitching), and not only were gen 2 cars made in lower numbers, extended leather seems to have been optioned at a lower rate on the gen 2. Long story short, there are very few decent condition gen 2 leather dash tops out there for sale! If the car in question has Chrono, you'll also need a dash top with the Chrono hole. Anyway, doable, but bear in mind it will likely take a while to find the parts. Might take a couple of years. Thanks for the detailed reply.. its a bit of a mission eh. I thought I saw someone say on a forum the extended leather ones weigh less. I'd assumed the leather is put on top of standard parts and is just skinny enough to still fit, but this would imply Porsche don't just do that.

Highly recommend Linas at DesignLS, https://www.designls.co.uk/ He did loads of bits on my old 987S and his own cayman has lots of bits he’s done too. Contemplating getting him to do some bits on my Spyder too

willwest said: Thanks for the detailed reply.. its a bit of a mission eh. I thought I saw someone say on a forum the extended leather ones weigh less. I'd assumed the leather is put on top of standard parts and is just skinny enough to still fit, but this would imply Porsche don't just do that. Yes, the leather replaces the soft 'plastic' layer, over the hard shell beneath.

LemonTart said: I loved my 987 Spyder, a picture of it is is further back in this thread along with my now departed GRYaris that has been replaced with a 718 Boxster. One of the members on here has done circa 130k Miles in his, I think his PH name is KHushy indeed - its my daily and has been for 13 years - bought it with 700 miles in the clock . . . now just over 135,000 miles - it is just EPIC Wont suit everyone - but I love that every journey is a total event, even when its not meant to be 100% reliable for me - no issues just lots and LOTS of fun

MH824 said: Highly recommend Linas at DesignLS, https://www.designls.co.uk/ He did loads of bits on my old 987S and his own cayman has lots of bits he’s done too. Contemplating getting him to do some bits on my Spyder too What bits are you thinking of ? I’m tempted too.

Lovely one listed today https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202503300... Feature on them today on 9 Werks

Jones the cat said: Lovely one listed today https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202503300... Feature on them today on 9 Werks That black car looks “Purveyor of recreational pharmaceuticals gangster” spec… Added to which, black hides the the most important/best aspect of the 987 Spyder shape (the humps on the rear deck). White highlights them far better, and black cars are a PITA to keep clean. Whilst the choice of Pasha inserts on this car looks “questionable”, at least they’re easily removed and replaced, unlike the “sea of red” interior seen on the black example. Stunning : https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/18203789 Edited by Slippydiff on Monday 31st March 08:09

Beaver said: I bought the red auction car, just collected this morning. Wanted to change wheels to silver but now not sure as the black with silver lip is original.. Correct decision See the pictures of my old Guards Red (with factory black/silver wheels) Cayman R in the "Cayman R" thread. As stated previously, your new car looked stunning at Bicester on Sunday Edited by Slippydiff on Tuesday 28th April 16:29

PRO5T said: They do look exceptionally good dull in silver with silver wheels. FTFY CW

Beaver said: I bought the red auction car, just collected this morning. .. Nice Beaver

Thanks, I just had it stuffed.

Tempted by a local-ish PDK car in white (buckets, sports exhaust, cruise, chrono plus, xenons, 15k miles from new, etc.) Price is a bit spicy but dealer open to negotiation. Am I mad?

Michael_B said: Tempted by a local-ish PDK car in white (buckets, sports exhaust, cruise, chrono plus, xenons, 15k miles from new, etc.) Price is a bit spicy but dealer open to negotiation. Am I mad? Sounds good to me, I have a similar spec but with the comfy heated seats, which is my perfect spec

Michael_B said: Tempted by a local-ish PDK car in white (buckets, sports exhaust, cruise, chrono plus, xenons, 15k miles from new, etc.) Price is a bit spicy but dealer open to negotiation. Am I mad? If you're happy with white and PDK then it sounds a good fit but it's difficult to comment further without knowing what spicy means.

ATM said: If you're happy with white and PDK then it sounds a good fit but it's difficult to comment further without knowing what spicy means. Sticker price £62k.

james28 said: 62k Wow I bought a white 35k car 2 owners Manual chrono buckets pse For under 40k Sold to ashgood who sold at 46k less than 3 months ago So imo 62k is more than a bit spicy bit having seen the crazy prices recently who knows anymore I am in Switzerland, so a limited supply (possible to import from the EU but not easy) and a local economy where minimum wage is double that of the UK. But it still seems a lot of money for a 16 year old car with no guarantee; OPCs here won’t give a warranty for >15 year old vehicles.

62k Wow I bought a white 35k car 2 owners Manual chrono buckets pse For under 40k Sold to ashgood who sold at 46k less than 3 months ago So imo 62k is more than a bit spicy but having seen the crazy prices recently who knows anymore Seen paul Stephens asking 73k pure madness for a car 20k less than 1 year ago And having watched a rather nice red car go through auction on bat sell for 55k red manual buckets the prices ate obviously all over the shop l. Edited by james28 on Wednesday 6th May 21:02

Ashgoods had a black one at £50k that sold 2 weeks ago.

Michael_B said: I am in Switzerland Any 981 spyders?

ATM said: Any 981 spyders? A dozen, all £90k-£100k, mostly the latter, so out of budget for me.

It's the same damn playbook as 997.2 GT3 RS, there are so few around it's relatively easy to pump the market. Even easier with Spyder as they were relatively cheap to begin with.

Beaver said: Ashgoods had a black one at £50k that sold 2 weeks ago. Oops! I meant £60k.

Talking up the Porsche market is nothing new on the Porsche forums the 718 GT4 owners were good at that on another thread, usually when a dealer and a high price is involved and shows as sold it usually turns up a little later with a lower ticket price at another dealers lol. A good all the right options 987 Spyder is worth circ £45-50k with a top spec , late build, low miles, low owners probably circa £60k.

Hi all, So I'm in the market for a 987 Spyder and I'm wondering 1: Where the market is going? and 2: What is the right price to pay for a good low mileage one? The guards red one was lovely and sold at a very good price, but the only other one I've seen online (recently) was the one at Paul Stephens which I thought was priced quite high - but which appears to have sold too... So are the prices rising that quickly? I could buy a 981 Spyder for similar money, but I guess it won't hold it's price as well due to there being more of them? Thoughts?

Drive them, they're very different cars. Both will "hold" value I feel, the 981 is also very limited in numbers.... Whether one or the other rises in value is something for whether you care about that.... I don't. But they're very different, to drive and to live with...

In Denial said: Hi all, So I'm in the market for a 987 Spyder and I'm wondering 1: Where the market is going? and 2: What is the right price to pay for a good low mileage one? The guards red one was lovely and sold at a very good price, but the only other one I've seen online (recently) was the one at Paul Stephens which I thought was priced quite high - but which appears to have sold too... So are the prices rising that quickly? I could buy a 981 Spyder for similar money, but I guess it won't hold it's price as well due to there being more of them? Thoughts? It’s a very different car to the 981, much more analogue. Gearing and steering feel way better. I know of a red car if you want to DM me.

Thanks for the feedback guys. I'd love to hear more about the red one on offer, but I can't send message yet, as I've only just signed up to the forum. I currently drive an old 997.1 that I've had a while and love, so the Spyder really is a rare occasion toy, that (hopefully) won't lose me thousands over a few years (but break even / increase would be even better). I love the analogue feel of older cars and I read the 987 Spyder is up there with the best of the best. I'll see if I can DM tomorrow. Thanks everyone.

In Denial said: Thanks for the feedback guys. I'd love to hear more about the red one on offer, but I can't send message yet, as I've only just signed up to the forum. I currently drive an old 997.1 that I've had a while and love, so the Spyder really is a rare occasion toy, that (hopefully) won't lose me thousands over a few years (but break even / increase would be even better). I love the analogue feel of older cars and I read the 987 Spyder is up there with the best of the best. I'll see if I can DM tomorrow. Thanks everyone. Have emailed you as your number didn’t work.

Michael_B said: Tempted by a local-ish PDK car in white (buckets, sports exhaust, cruise, chrono plus, xenons, 15k miles from new, etc.) Price is a bit spicy but dealer open to negotiation. Am I mad? That one (a 2010 car) is still available at the Porsche dealer for £62k. Tomorrow I am viewing another 2010 PDK example also in white, and only 35 minutes drive away. 33k miles, sports seats, full leather, chrono plus, cruise control, but no sports exhaust or xenons. Private seller, but has August 2025 invoice for a big service (inc. PDK fluid change) and a 12 month gearbox/engine guarantee from the OPC concerned. Has been advertised for a while at £52k, a few days ago the price was dropped to just under £50k.

HG10OXK 28,025 Miles £47,999 https://www.carandclassic.com/l/C2028021

Michael_B said: That one (a 2010 car) is still available at the Porsche dealer for £62k. Tomorrow I am viewing another 2010 PDK example also in white, and only 35 minutes drive away. 33k miles, sports seats, full leather, chrono plus, cruise control, but no sports exhaust or xenons. Private seller, but has August 2025 invoice for a big service (inc. PDK fluid change) and a 12 month gearbox/engine guarantee from the OPC concerned. Has been advertised for a while at £52k, a few days ago the price was dropped to just under £50k. So cars can be had for circa 50/52k and yet Paul Stephen's car allegedly sold at 73k! Frankly laughable

If you want a car to actually use rather than an investment to garage and just look at (not really my thing) a decent 987.2 Boxster S is now looking a relative bargain!

I had a 20 minute test drive earlier this evening, and long chat with the owner, who also has a 1989 Carrera 3.2, a 2015 Boxster GTS manual, an Alfa 4C, just of what I saw in his garage(s). And we discovered we also had a few mutual acquaintances amongst the international organisations here. The car drove as expected, steering reminded me how good my old 987.2 Cayman was, exhaust note was superb despite no PSE, paintwork impeccable, seats in good condition, radiators clean as a whistle, etc. I then perused the invoices, service history, and took a photo of the Swiss V5 equivalent. It all looks pretty tidy for a 16 year old car. Now back home sipping a nice chilled glass of local white, and having a bit of a think.

V7SLR said: If you want a car to actually use rather than an investment to garage and just look at (not really my thing) a decent 987.2 Boxster S is now looking a relative bargain! For sure, £20k will get you a decent 987.2S privately. You could get the Spyder springs, dampers and ARB fitted, plus maybe a lithium battery and some shell buckets, Cobras or whatever, all for, what, £10k max? It'll weigh near enough a Spyder and drive just like one, especially if you get one with the Carrera S II wheel, which weigh almost exactly the same as the Spyder wheels. Problem is that you won't get your money back at resale. Not a problem if it's a forever car. But if you think you might sell after a few years, total cost of ownership will probably be cheaper with an actual Spyder.

Pick up arranged for Wednesday evening

Hurrah!

Michael_B said: Hurrah! Happy days! Congratulations bud

Is this the one that was in the auction the other week? https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202605182... If so, I wonder what’s going on? I did have a bid, put probably still £5k ish more than I’d go to

Yes same one just with a 7k mark up!!

Lox said: Happy days! Congratulations bud Thanks. I took the morning off to register the car to my plates, get a haircut, and practice putting the roof on and off.

Such a great, great looking car.

Michael_B said: Lox said: Happy days! Congratulations bud Thanks. I took the morning off to register the car to my plates, get a haircut, and practice putting the roof on and off. Looks great. Congratulations. Roof is 60 sec job after a little practice. Even faster going back on caught in heavy rain shower! Can’t wait for Le Mans soon and a proper drive in mine.

The only car I now regret selling, and probably the only car that would persuade me to sell the Evora for.

LM240 said: Can't wait for Le Mans soon and a proper drive in mine. There is an old friend who is travelling by train from Germany to Italy via Chur in mid-July. I might take the Porsche to meet him there (via the Furkapass) the night before, leave the car, and take the Bernina Express together the next day. He'll then continue to Pompeii for some hippy progrock concert. I'll have lunch in Tirano and take the same train back in the afternoon. I've done the BE a few times in the past and it's always good value, especially for a train/bridge/tunnel fetishist like me. Return route would be via the Süstenpass/Grimselpass the next day. But if it looks like rain, I'll take the Alpine instead

This looks a decent spec if you like PDK, reasonable mileage and price. https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202605222...

Black with ceramics https://www.carandclassic.com/car/C2076120

So many with the plastic interior. It's not a driving dynamics issue, obviously. But it doesn't half make the car feel cheap when you're sitting in it.

Beaver said: Black with ceramics https://www.carandclassic.com/car/C2076120 That's actually really nice, this era is peak for most of what Porsche were making. It's also notable that the price of this and the same era 911 is somewhat different and I don't think it's just scarcity, this era Spyder is just a genuinely nice car and I don't think it was improved on, even with a GT engine in it.

Beaver said: Black with ceramics https://www.carandclassic.com/car/C2076120 Gibbo's old car.

Unfashionable opinion but I don’t think it suits black

renmure said: Unfashionable opinion but I don t think it suits black Agree, hides all the lovely humps. White and silver are the best, with red a close third. IMO…

I do agree on black but it’s a case of choosing what you can with the options that you want. I’d also say that black doesn’t photograph well, a bit like the wheels on my GT3. They look great in real life but in photos look as crap as any black wheels do. In real life a black spyder looks just fine.

PRO5T said: Beaver said: Black with ceramics https://www.carandclassic.com/car/C2076120 Gibbo's old car. 1 of only 4 with ceramics I believe.

Jones the cat said: PRO5T said: Beaver said: Black with ceramics https://www.carandclassic.com/car/C2076120 Gibbo's old car. 1 of only 4 with ceramics I believe. That’s a double edged sword, given the choice I’d have ceramics 100% of the time, but it puts some people off because of the cost of replacement or returning to steel. But if the cost isn’t an issue then ceramics all day long. I think you could buy that, put 5,000 miles on it and sell it for the same this time next year.

Jones the cat said: 1 of only 4 with ceramics I believe. I’m not convinced that’s true.

PRO5T said: Jones the cat said: 1 of only 4 with ceramics I believe. I m not convinced that s true. It does sound low but I could believe it, I remember back when they were current and pretty much every one I spoke to advised me that they were a liability and not worth it, on one of these or the 997 - something I didn’t believe at the time or now, they’re totally worth it in my opinion. Gibbo’s old car - is that Gibbo that had the 458 and Mint colour Caterham? Wonder what he thought of it. I think it’s a really nice car, spec seems ok and price looks reasonable enough in the current climate that you wouldn’t stress over it, that might be worth a visit for us.

Never realised the Spyder had a hard top option https://www.elferspot.com/en/car/porsche-987-boxst...

It didn’t have one as an option. I recall someone somewhere devised that monstrosity though…

Jones the cat said: Never realised the Spyder had a hard top option https://www.elferspot.com/en/car/porsche-987-boxst... No official item was. That’s a bit challenging looks-wise.

There is a 981 Spyder coming up for sale at RPM Technik shortly, absolutely cracking motors.

harryblue said: There is a 981 Spyder coming up for sale at RPM Technik shortly, absolutely cracking motors. Listed today https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/20546745

My newly-acquired example is going into a local Porsche specialist tomorrow for some wheel geometry work. They had it for an hour last week for a quick inspection and test drive. The verdict was that everything was generally OK, all suspension elements are equally old/worn for a 16 year old 35k miles car, but nothing is need of immediate replacement; the tyres are in good condition and showing no uneven wear. However the steering wheel is slightly off centre, so it would definitely benefit from being looked over and adjusted.

harryblue said: PRO5T said: Jones the cat said: 1 of only 4 with ceramics I believe. I m not convinced that s true. It does sound low but I could believe it, I remember back when they were current and pretty much every one I spoke to advised me that they were a liability and not worth it, on one of these or the 997 - something I didn t believe at the time or now, they re totally worth it in my opinion. Gibbo s old car - is that Gibbo that had the 458 and Mint colour Caterham? Wonder what he thought of it. Apparently he's an airline pilot now. Edited by Slippydiff on Tuesday 9th June 17:20

New listing https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202606123...

Bloody hell took car in for service yesterday. Looked at the numbers and realised I ve only done 1300 miles since last service exactly two years ago. (Pretty much just the two Le Mans trips). (2010, sat at just over 18,000miles) I love the car, but I do consider whether it is worth keeping with such little use. Nothing deliberate about keeping miles low, just how it goes. Either use cash to invest more or scratch the boating itch that is building. But I know for sure the boat will cost more than the car to run! On ferry tomorrow with it for Le Mans again, where no doubt any thoughts of getting rid will evaporate again! As predicted. Loved having the Spyder to use for the Le Mans trip. Thoughts of selling disappear again. Some lovely sections of road found which were a real delight and reminded me about everything the car offers. Edited by LM240 on Tuesday 16th June 09:38

Jones the cat said: New listing https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202606123... Easy to understand the argument that black doesn't show the humps as well as other colours might

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ATM said: Easy to understand the argument that black doesn't show the humps as well as other colours might Pardon?

PRO5T said: Beautiful...... yours ?

Rsx Boy said: PRO5T said: Beautiful...... yours ? No, it was on display at Sunstede the other week I merely snapped a photo of it.

LM240 said: I love the car, but I do consider whether it is worth keeping with such little use. Nothing deliberate about keeping miles low, just how it goes. Either use cash to invest more or scratch the boating itch that is building. But I know for sure the boat will cost more than the car to run! Edited by LM240 on Tuesday 16th June 09:38 Do NOT get a boat unless you have £ to burn! I ve just been thru that exact experience, sold my new GT4 to scratch the boating itch, 3 years ago. Just sold the blessed thing after 9 months advertised. Weather in UK is crap, wind is the issue, so you never get to go out when you planned unless you like your wife complaining I feel sick and/or are we going to die? Mooring, servicing, insurance, haul out, polish, repairs, it s never ending and that s all to be paid even before you fuel the thing. Makes my Porsches seem cheap , honestly. Now shes finally sold I’m back in the game. need to decide, 718 Spyder or Portofino, to scratch the Ferrari itch… Edited by SpyderMatt on Tuesday 11th August 18:09

SpyderMatt said: Do NOT get a boat unless you have £ to burn! I ve just been thru that exact experience, sold my new GT4 to scratch the boating itch, 3 years ago. Just sold the blessed thing after 9 months advertised. Weather in UK is crap, wind is the issue, so you never get to go out when you planned unless you like your wife complaining I feel sick and/or are we going to die? Mooring, servicing, insurance, haul out, polish, repairs, it s never ending and that s all to be paid even before you fuel the thing. A wealthy American once told Me If it Flies Fooks or Floats ... RENT IT

ATM said: SpyderMatt said: Do NOT get a boat unless you have £ to burn! I ve just been thru that exact experience, sold my new GT4 to scratch the boating itch, 3 years ago. Just sold the blessed thing after 9 months advertised. Weather in UK is crap, wind is the issue, so you never get to go out when you planned unless you like your wife complaining I feel sick and/or are we going to die? Mooring, servicing, insurance, haul out, polish, repairs, it s never ending and that s all to be paid even before you fuel the thing. A wealthy American once told Me If it Flies Fooks or Floats ... RENT IT And I keep telling you that one Mr B Ecclestone penned the phrase (shorty after his divorce from Mrs Ecclestone)

Slippydiff said: And I keep telling you that one Mr B Ecclestone penned the phrase ( shorty after his divorce from Mrs Ecclestone) It’s true he’s not the tallest of men

Michael_B said: Slippydiff said: And I keep telling you that one Mr B Ecclestone penned the phrase ( shorty after his divorce from Mrs Ecclestone) It's true he s not the tallest of men

Great combo - GT silver over cocoa https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/21098886

Jones the cat said: Great combo - GT silver over cocoa https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/21098886 Am I missing something or does this seem very strong money for a 987 Spyder?

Billy_Whizzzz said: Jones the cat said: Great combo - GT silver over cocoa https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/21098886 Am I missing something or does this seem very strong money for a 987 Spyder? I agree. Stunning colour combination, but it doesn't have the lightweight bucket seats which most people want on a 987 Spyder (especially at that price). But they only need one person who's happy with standard sport seats and more money than sense to buy it. If it had cocoa trimmed buckets that would be amazing.

g7jhp said: I agree. Stunning colour combination, but it doesn't have the lightweight bucket seats which most people want on a 987 Spyder (especially at that price). But they only need one person who's happy with standard sport seats and more money than sense to buy it. If it had cocoa trimmed buckets that would be amazing. I think I've only seen the buckets in black. Do many cars have them in anything other than black?

ATM said: I think I've only seen the buckets in black. Do many cars have them in anything other than black? I've seen them in red on a Spyder and an R had tan buckets.

I had black with red. It was all a bit too much.

Beaver said: I had black with red. It was all a bit too much. I actually like that. Probably because I refer to mine as a bit of a tart‘s boudoir

Beaver said: I had black with red. It was all a bit too much. If I had specced GT Silver, that was the route I going down. I like it.

Billy_Whizzzz said: Am I missing something or does this seem very strong money for a 987 Spyder? If that's worth 60k mines worth 30k, easy. But the truth is neither are.

phazed said: Beaver said: I had black with red. It was all a bit too much. I actually like that. Probably because I refer to mine as a bit of a tart s boudoir Me too, though I think black carpets, steering wheel, gearknob/gaiter and handbrake would balance things out a bit.

There are US examples on the market over there for up to £90k, with owners and dealers trying to hype up the model, especially those with low mileage, manual transmission, carbon bucket seats, and sports exhaust. “Analogue driver’s car, hydraulic steering, NA flat six engine, etc.” This contagion now appears to be spreading across Europe. Which is fine by me, as my 35k miles, PDK, sports seats, non-PSE version was still reasonably priced when I bought it earlier this year. More important to me was it being white, with black extended leather and silver wheels

Call it £70K https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202609286...

Jones the cat said: Call it £70K https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202609286... Wow. More than a 981.

Mad that you could buy my 2 year older immaculate RS60 with all the bells and whistles 4 times over for the same cost . Yes humpy looks, 15 more bhp and a bit of torque but 70k….

With only 10 previous owners too I guess that won’t be changing hands soon then.

Nice car but more like £50-55k though. Cars like the Spyder and GT cars do seem to have a lot of owners sometimes but should be reflected in the price

And it's a private sale to boot!

A funny one for me as I'm fairly relaxed about not ever wanting to sell mine (981) But I can't help watching the market...A quality 987 is now about to breach £70k A quality 981 is about to breach £90k Whilst the 718.... is also at £90k... is that due to availability and production numbers?

No, just madness of the buyer

In a not boastful way I’ve had 4 of them, and have experienced a lot of other decent cars in between. IMHO they’re pretty special - they feel light and analogue and are beginning to show their age in an appreciable way. Spyder wheels/bucket seats/sports exhaust/manual will always be top money. Saw one listed at $130k in US this week, so who knows. Also saw a 996 GT3RS here for £300k, and having had one really can’t see that.. “shrug emoji”

I have always maintained that a 987 Spyder is top of the tree over a 981 and 718 Spyders, but always rated the 981 Gt4 over the 718 Gt4, so parity is going to happen at some stage. But there seems to be some crazy asking prices at the moment especially when look at the 997 gt products

Interesting. Why do you rate the 987 over the other two?

I’d say small, light, better steering/gearing, exactly the right amount of power for the road.

Beaver said: I d say small, light, better steering/gearing, exactly the right amount of power for the road. Plus limited numbers less than 2000 worldwide, no eps or gpf. I have owned a 987.1S albeit a cayman a 987 spyder and 981 gt4 and the 987.2 is the sweet spot. Never rated a 718 but wouldn t say no to Spyder RS it s just a shame no manual

Thanks for that. I’ve done many trackdays with my RS60 which in my opinion handles beautifully. I can only imagine the later cars handle possibly a few degrees better.

There’s nothing wrong with the way a 987.1 handles especially on passive suspension, preferred this over PASM, the 987.2 CR and Spyder were passive out the box and not PASM which tells you something, with the 981/718 there wasn’t a choice Gt4 and Spyder came with PASM as standard.

On the road, PASM feels fine in road mode, would never switch onto sport as far too harsh. On track with PASM on, obviously it stiffens up the whole package which even though it feels very harsh on the road is actually great on track, if anything could do with being a bit stiffer! Obviously these aren’t track focused weapons and therefore given its limitations, they do a fair/great job.

I remember this Cream car from years ago, I’ve never seen another and I couldn’t find it again when searching. The wheels suit it so well

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Had a little run yesterday and today. One of the first since Le Mans in June! Always love it when I do drive it and the looks are still a winner in my mind. The way it drives, nice simple cabin and no endless menus to go through on a screen is refreshing these days. It is a lovely reset after driving the family stuff or other more modern cars. But of a sudden jump to nearly 70k car being advertised. Good ones have been nudging 55-60 for a while, so that’s a bit of a jump. As mentioned, European and US cars have been quite expensive for a while.