Used Porsche Boxster for sale nationwide

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 6.7%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 75
Average Price: Around £11,000

Porsche Boxster (1997-2005) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Exquisite to drive	Love-or-loathe looks
Plenty available	Patchy build quality
Stylish interior	Some expensive potential problems

Quick Summary

The Porsche Boxster (1997-2005), known as the 986, is Porsche's entry-level, two-seat, mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive convertible. Powered by a classic flat-six engine, it significantly lowered the barrier to Porsche ownership and remains one of the best performance-car bargains today. Renowned as one of the best driver's cars of the 1990s, it offers crisp steering, a beautifully balanced chassis, and an immensely satisfying driving experience with its rasping engine, carving tracks with exemplary precision. Despite being a two-seater, it's surprisingly practical with two boots providing decent luggage space for weekend trips or a weekly shop.

While early models lacked standard equipment like leather seats and air conditioning on base trims, and some interior plastics felt cheap, later versions saw equipment levels boosted. Fuel economy averages around 25mpg. Maintenance costs can be steep, with expensive parts and specialist servicing required, though a metal timing chain helps reduce long-term belt replacement costs. The 986 Boxster offers an exhilarating drive and prestigious badge at an accessible price, but potential buyers should be aware of possible expensive problems and the importance of finding a well-maintained example to avoid false economies.

Best for: Drivers on a budget seeking serious driving pleasure, those wanting to own a Porsche, and enthusiasts looking for a modern classic sports car.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising lavish standard equipment, those who need back seats, or buyers unwilling to commit to potentially steep maintenance costs.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Boxster if: You're on a budget but want serious driving pleasure, a prestigious badge, and the experience of owning a modern classic Porsche.

Consider alternatives if: You're unwilling to commit to potentially steep maintenance costs, are concerned about expensive problems, or prioritise lavish standard equipment in earlier models.

Competitive Position: The Porsche 986 Boxster stands out as an exceptional value proposition in the used sports car market, offering an exhilarating driving experience and the prestige of the Porsche badge at an accessible price point. While it requires careful consideration of maintenance costs and potential issues common with older performance cars, its superb handling, classic flat-six engine, and surprising practicality for a two-seater make it a compelling choice. It competes by offering a purer, more engaging driving experience than many rivals, albeit with a trade-off in standard equipment and potentially higher running costs if not properly maintained.

Porsche Boxster Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.