This launch-year 1997 Porsche 986 Boxster was among the first produced at the main factory in Stuttgart, designated by the “S” as the 11th character in its VIN number. Featuring the optional Sport Touring Package, this example is finished in Guards Red over Savanna Beige partial leather upholstery and features a 5-speed manual transmission. Acquired by the second owner and current seller approximately three years ago, this Boxster is now being offered for auction out of Nevada with less than 135k miles showing on the odometer.
Factory-specified in Guards Red with a black soft top, this 986 received refinishing on the front bumper, front fenders, hood, rocker panels, rear bumper, and trunk under current ownership to address cosmetic imperfections. It is equipped with the optional Sport Touring Package, adding an Arctic Silver-painted roll bar, Exclusive exhaust outlet, Porsche windstop, and 17” Boxster Design wheels. New Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 tires were mounted within the last 2k miles. The seller states that under prior ownership the vehicle was vandalized, the convertible fabric and mechanism was replaced, and it was later involved in a minor fender bender that resulted in approximately $5k in repairs with no structural damage. The convertible mechanism has since been refurbished, and the seller also notes a small ding on each side and light curb rash on the wheels. Detailed images are provided in the gallery along with a clean CARFAX report.
Inside, the driver is welcomed by Savanna Beige partial leather upholstery with optional black floor mats featuring red logos and a cassette shelf in the center console. The Sport Touring Package adds a Hi-Fi Sound System, cruise control, a remote-controlled alarm system, on-board computer, remote CD changer, stainless steel door sills with model insignia, Aluminum-look instrument dials, and an aluminum/leather gearshift knob and brake handle. The seller notes that the seats were reupholstered in Canadian synthetic leather as OEM hides were unavailable. During start-up, the starter occasionally emits a whine (approximately one in five times) but always engages, and the digital clock intermittently turns off. All other gauges and accessories are confirmed to be in proper working order.
The 2.5-liter flat-six engine is factory-rated at 201 HP and 181 lb-ft of torque, driving the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. The seller notes that the suspension was overhauled in two stages, first with the replacement of the struts (shocks and springs), followed by control arms, tie rods, sway bars, and bushings. Additional service items include replacement of the idler bearing, tensioner, serpentine belt, water pump, and power steering hoses. The transmission fluid, brakes (discs and pads), tires, battery, and oil service have also been addressed. All service records dating back to 1998 are included and summarized in a detailed spreadsheet.
This sale will include a clean title, owner’s manuals, a window sticker, a toolkit, a spare tire, a car cover, and a collection of documentation. A custom leather bra and a Bose upgrade kit consisting of door woofers with brackets, a rear amplified woofer, and a 6-channel Bose amplifier are also included.
The seller would like you to know: “Thank you for visiting my auction. I have thoroughly enjoyed driving and restoring this German-built 1997 Boxster over the last 3 years. I addressed the cosmetics and age-related items: professional paint and interior refresh with new leather, replacement of any failing electronics, and proactive renewal of wear components. I also ensured that all mechanical components (suspension, brakes, etc.) were in good shape for a potential 996 3.4L (295 hp) swap—I wanted more power—but a pristine 2004 40th Anniversary 996 found me first. The swap never happened. Hence the sale of this Boxster: a well-sorted, carefully maintained example with a clean, documented history.”
Comments (8)
@JSinCity Thanks for amplifying!
@Spokayman @Spokayman, I chose a high-quality Canadian supplier for the seat covers (other choices were China or Bangladesh.) The material is a PU-coated synthetic leather over a textile base—selected for durability, easy cleaning, and notably better grip during spirited driving compared with the original hides. Happy to share close-ups on request.
@JSinCity
Serious question,
What is the “Canadian synthetic leather” that you used to reupholster the seats?
@hotdumale, you are correct. I had the same question for the original owner, he related that during the clutch replacement his mechanic pulled it and showed little to no signs of wear and so it wasn’t upgraded. Since then I’ve learned that these early cars had less than 1% failure.
Welcome to my listing for a 1997 Porsche Boxster. I’m the second owner; the car has a well-documented, adult-driven history and has been maintained to a high standard. Under my ownership I refreshed cosmetics (paint and interior), replaced aging electronics, and addressed wear items. Early in its life the soft top was replaced after vandalism; later a minor fender repair (\~\$5k) was completed with no structural damage. Disclosures: two small mid-body dings (left and right) and light curb rash on the original wheels.
Recent cabin updates include a refurbished soft top mechanism and a new soft top, a gently used three-spoke steering wheel in excellent condition (some photos show the original wheel, which is included in the sale) and an aluminum shift knob re-trimmed with an Alcantara top and leather bottom. I’m happy to accommodate inspections or a PPI. Full records available—bid with confidence.
Bid in the amount of $3,500
Hola, very nice 97 specimen! With 134k miles on it you probably don't have an issue with the IMS, but wanted to ask if it has been replaced. I didn't see it listed on the 2016 Clutch and Flywheel maintenance receipt. Thanks in advance.
Bid in the amount of $250