I sold my 2002 boxster last year and I regret it everyday. It is a joy seeing you drive yours. I hope to pick up a 2006 one soon..

@Torikkaa

6 жыл бұрын

Did you do it?

@vladimiralvarez1162

6 жыл бұрын

Pete N why you sold your boxter ?

I ordered my 2000 Boxster S back in October of 1999, and it is an excellent sports car. I had some engine work done and IMS issues thus far. After 17 years it still looks beautiful and sporty on the road in NorCal.

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

Stop. You're making me envious. I ended up selling mine due to tiring of parking my daily driver outdoors in the winter. I really miss it!

@vladimiralvarez1162

5 жыл бұрын

Harvey williams love mine ...from south California

thanks for making the video 1 year review. I own a few Porsches and one of them is a 1998 Boxster with a 3.4 liter 996 engine conversion. It actually was my first Porsche and I have owned it now for 15 years. I have been enjoying your videos about your journey from a 1982 911 targa "air cooled" Porsche 911 to your switch to the Boxster and "water cooled" engine. Your "cons" have taken me down memory lane and most of those squeaks, rattles, and plastic rear window issues I have addressed. I upgraded with the "GAHH" glass window convertible top, another investment, but so nice to have a clear glass rear window, it actually is one of my favorite upgrades. Yes, a little more confining, but really adds a modern look and feel to the top. . I got really tired of doing the old Boxster Karate chop on the rear plastic window in order to avoid kinks. I also got very creative with strategically placing pieces of sticky cloth or foam strips in order to eliminate 90% of my rattles. I still drive with my top down 90% of the time, just more enjoyable all around. Key fob signal sounds like the issue with locking, not the car. I love that you mention the sound of the intake and engine on the Boxster and how you thought it rivals or is even better than your old 911. Boxsters are amazing and so fun to drive. I also own a 911 and know they are really special too, but it really bothers me that Boxsters don't get the respect they deserve, so it was refreshing to hear your honest opinion. Glad to hear you are still enjoying the car and did not allow the 911 air cooled "purist" talk keep you from enjoying this fine vehicle. Can you add any more thoughts on the differences between the Boxster and your 911?

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+qikqbn77 Wow, I envy you that 3.4 liter. That must be a real hoot. I'm glad to hear your positive opinion on the aftermarket top. Did you install yourself or have someone do it? I'm pretty sure I'm not up for attacking that myself. In terms of other differences comparing to the 911, one huge thing is that engaging the clutch on the 986 is not a challenge every single time like it was on my 911SC. Even though the SC had a new clutch and cable, I always had to concentrate to get going smoothly. In the 986 it feels more like every other manual-transmission car I've driven -- you just get going without issue. On the other hand, the 911 is a dead-simple car with very little to go wrong and lots of into available when things do go wrong. I have to admit I do worry a bit more about something expensive going wrong on the 986, but given it's been trouble-free for a year, I probably shouldn't worry much. I did a lot of work to it when I bought it (as you know if you've watched the vids). I've done a bit to tamp down the obvious rattles (windscreens), but some come from the top and frame itself (I think) and those are very tough to diagnose when the car is moving, and even tougher to reproduce when the car is stopped. But like you say, I drive the car mostly top down, and it's very solid that way, plus the wind noise drowns out all the smaller sounds :-). Thanks for your comment!

@qikqbn77

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas I would definitely recommend having a professional install the top. A few hundred bucks for labor if you shop around.. But I have found some do it yourself guides on line if you are so inclined to save the money on labor. I have owned my Boxster 15 years. The original 2.5 liter engine I put 90k miles on and the 3.4 liter has 60k miles on it for a total of 150k miles I have on my Boxster. I have had no major repairs other then regular maintenance like brakes and fluids and the occasional air oil separator, engine mount, or plastic fluid tank which I had replaced 60k miles ago when I put the 3.4 engine in. You have already done the IMS Bearing and new clutch so I would drive it like you stole it and not worry so much. In fact, the more you drive and the more rpms you give it the happier the car is. be aware that it is the "garage queens" that see very little road use and do not get revved out that develop the dried up seals, leaky engines and all kinds of other issues. If you would like to read about my 3.4 liter journey as well visit qikqbnboxster.9f.com . best of luck and Enjoy!!

Great video. Thinking of my first Boxster/Porsche and some invaluable information in the video. Thanks.

Omg. Love the color inside and out. I would love that car 😍

Beautiful, Mike...

I have the glass window roof. It is good enough, no visibility issues. I have also the glove box, however the handle is broken already so not much usable. The rear tires do not go that fast, interesting observation from you. I have the 2.7 and the gas milage is not bad at all. I love your video!

Thank you for doing this. I own a '99 Boxster. Got it last fall so haven't had the chance to experience everything it has to offer as of yet (live too far north). I shall be remedying that once spring finally hits though. Take care.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Nick Grossman Oh, man, you're gonna love it!

@andynickles7505

2 жыл бұрын

Just wondering how your ownership is going? Have you put a lot of money in it? And how many miles did if have when you got it and how many miles does it have now?

@nickgrossman7656

2 жыл бұрын

@@andynickles7505, good overall. It's not my daily driver so I don't put a ton of miles on it. It had around 50k on it when I got it, I believe it has around 68k on it now. I have had a few issues with a small oil leak I can't seem to get corrected as of lately. Just had the oil changed in June so I really don't want to have that messed with yet if it's not necessary (as they're thirsty creatures). But it's a fun little car though. Hope you like yours!

Thank you for all the information :)) thinking about one of them too (probably the last facelift with glass window) Keep it up :)

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Luca “The G.” B. Though it's smaller, I think the glass window will be a win. I really hate having to help the plastic window fold correctly. The glass will also be clearer (though much smaller), and have a defogger. Still can't decide which way I'll go when top replacement time comes.

I love my 02 Boxster S...........I'm 6ft 1in and 245lb so it's a tight fit but certainly worth it. The 986 is a pure type sports car. You hear it, you feel it, you smell it and even taste it when you push it to its limits. It's plenty fast enough to get you in trouble and it's handling is better than a go cart. It sounds like yours needs some tweaking to tighten it up to get rid of the rattles etc. A new top with a glass window and inner lining will quiet the ride.

@vladimiralvarez1162

6 жыл бұрын

No Brakes hmmmm how those it smell man ? I feel the heat inside sometimes at least I think I do ...or smell all the engine etc lol

Nice review, thank you mike.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike C Thanks for your comment :-)

My is 2.5 1998 and i love my Boxster.Great car

Excellent video!

You mentioned that the steering wheel is not adjustable...actually it telescopes forward and back...just does not tilt up and down. I have had my '00 boxster for about 8-9 years now and experienced a lot of the same plus/minus points as you point out. I did eventually replaced the top with a glass Robbins/GAHH top and it really makes the care feel more plush. I installed it myself and it is not too difficult to do but takes a full day and ideally have some extra hands available. You might try the sumitomo HRT Z II or HTR Z III on the car. I have gotten good wear for a very fair price using those tires. I have also had falkens, P-zero's, and some other pirelli's to compare against and the sumi's give 90% of the performance of the pilot's and such at a lot less cost. I just replaced the two rear tires on my car and I think I paid a little over $300 total and they are the same size tires as your car has more than likely (265-35-18). Keep the reviews coming...enjoy watching.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

Ah, you got me on the telescope! I'd set it and forgotten. It's not the movement I'd like, though. Anyway, I just work around the tight fit between my legs and the wheel -- it's not a major issue. Thanks for the recommendation on the tires. I actually had a leak in one of my rears, and they needed replacing anyway, so I just went with another set of Pilot (Super) Sports. $600+ :-O. When I need all four, I'll definitely keep your recommendation in mind! Thanks for watching!

I also have a 2000 boxster s. I have done a 6-7k of service after buying it last year. Watch out for the cv boots, I didn't really notice both of mine split in the front. But it is good to get your boxster checked up once and a while so you can reveal the hidden impairments.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Ben Jamin Yeah, mine is due for an oil change soon, so I fear what my mechanic will find "while he's in there". I just paid for about $4k of service on my BMW E46, and that was painful. It might kill me if the Boxster is due for something expensive!

@vladimiralvarez1162

6 жыл бұрын

Benjamin Walker how did you noticed you had those cv boots messed up up front? Did you feel the diff in driving ? Mine makes a weird loose sound when I hit a bum on he road or rail road crossing

I bought an unblemished 99 Boxster last Spring. Carfax report indicated it sat in a garage most of its life, had regular maintenance and recall corrections. It only had 72k miles, and was/is in perfect condition. Naturally 20 year old stuff happened: fuel pump and filter, power window motors, speakers shredding and all that. I had turned in an expensive Caddy at the end of its lease, and this car was on the lot at market price. So I picked it up. It is my daily driver now. Love it!! (However maintenance IS expensive). I'm not worried about whether it will keep its value. I'm just driving it like it's 1999. If you're thinking about picking one up while they are relatively affordable, if it's in good condition, give it a drive. You'll love it.

@andynickles7505

2 жыл бұрын

any chance you mind saying what you paid for your Boxster?

Also have 2002 3.2 - great car - enjoyed the video. Post full service I get 30mpg plus - daily commute on country roads - top down if not really wet! Would recommend new top with heated glass rear window - still allows crucial look over shoulder through back window when pulling out of peculiar junctions otherwise blind. But still better sensation of the road and other traffic topless!

@TonyLorimer

8 жыл бұрын

+Tony Lorimer Also 6'1" and 20 stone with no problems driving (gettinf in and out can be embarrassing tho in tight car parks....

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Tony Larimer My mileage is much better on the highway, but my daily commute is a suburban one with plenty of stops and waits. Naturally I mash the gas after each one, so my mileage suffers!

Nice car. That noise on the suspension must be the rubber bushings on the several links and arms on the rear suspension, and front suspension arms. Had to change mine and choosed OEM rubber ones instead of the PVD bushings, more track oriented and a little bit "harsh" on the bumpy tarmac of normal urban roads.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Nuno MC Yeah, that's what it is. I don't work on my car, so I have to weigh whether it's worth it to me to have them replaced/updated. Car rides fine. Very compliant, yet planted.

Love that color.

Nice ride!

Good reviews both good and bad insights appreciated...I would never had imagined they rattled...did you ever find all the rattles and get them to stop? That does get on your nerves over time I'm sure

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

No. Truthfully, I almost never drove with the top up, so I didn't have to live with the noisy roof very often. The rattle in the visors was an occasional annoyance that I never bothered with.

what doees center fan means against over heat, very nice review

Mike, one thing I learned about my 2003 booster is the motion sensors above the rear view mirror on either side of the handle that you pull to unlock the top to open it. There are two sensors there that supposedly activate when you lock and arm the car alarm. However with the top down, they don't set for some reason. They only activate when the top is closed. A friend of mine said he bought this cheap piece of plastic to cover the switch that tells the motion sensors that the top is up or down, so now when the top is down and the car is locked and the alarm is set, if you reach into the car the alarm will go off. Have you heard of this? I have not tried it on mine yet, but it makes sense to have the sensors on when the top is down so its more secure. Anyway thought I would pass that along...it was something I didn't know the car had.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Alan Simmons I've definitely heard of this, but am fortunate to generally park in relatively secure areas. Probably a good idea if you're keeping valuables in the car, though. I definitely move those items to the trunk or frunk if leaving in the car.

@alansimmons4071

8 жыл бұрын

Cool. agreed!

Bought a 1999 986 five years ago for $5000.00. It needed some work. Over the years had to fix the top motor. New air compressor and got her a new paint job as well as when I first got it reupholstered the seats. Mine is not so noisy with top up.

@mike.thomas

5 жыл бұрын

Jeff Cameron Wow, what a deal! Glad to hear yours isn’t noisy with the top up. Not sure what the issue was with mine (or maybe I’m just sensitive), but I addressed it easily - by never driving with the top up! 🤓

love your reviews. I also live in Denver. Do you drive the boxster in the winter? Would toy say it is reliable? I have been told that on average maintenance costs about $1-2k per year. Have you experienced this?

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

Trevor McElhaney I did drive the Boxster as often as possible in the winter -- you know, on those sunny winter days. It would definitely not be good in the snow (unless you put snow tires on it). That expense estimate is probably about right. If you drive a lot, you'll need new rear tires more often than with other cars, and this car deserves the best tires you can afford. If you don't change your own oil you will pay a pretty penny to have that done (if they use german synthetic, anyway). After my initial big expenditures to fix my car up I didn't touch it for two years, except to get new rear tires. When I finally took it in for an oil change, they checked it over and said "needs nothing". Can't guarantee the same for you, but it was a reliable car for me. Have fun if you get one!

I think you would benefit from having a wind deflector fitted

Good video. Thx.

You should look into the console delete for leg room

I know this is an old video, but I'm test driving an 04 Boxster today with 77k km on it (47,845 miles). I don't know yet if it had the IMS bearing replaced and if it has the original clutch. I assume it does until the dealer tells me otherwise. Did you have your IMS bearing replaced? I want to avoid sudden engine death, as many on forums have posted about. If you recommend replacing the IMS bearing, would you recommend doing it right away, or should I wait until I replace the clutch and do it all at once?

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

You've probably already tried, but see if you can get the service records. Failing that, a Carfax _might_ clue you in (and might not). If you can't get explicit records, and you want to live with peace of mind, just plan to do both the clutch and IMS bearing sooner than later. That's what I did right after buying my car (I definitely needed a clutch, though).

@dmitryk53

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the reply! CarProof (I guess the same thing as Carfax?) is supposed to come free with this car, and I'll definitely ask about the IMS bearing when I get to the dealer tonight. I'm not sure what kind of service records come with the car, but I'm sure they will know this kind of stuff since this is a "certified and e-tested" car.

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

dmitryk53 Man, I wouldn’t rely too much on what a dealer calls “certified”, unless it’s a Porsche dealer. I drove a pair of Mercedes SLs at a Ford dealer recently that were supposedly “inspected”. Each car had no-go issues: alternator light on, discharged battery, check engine light on, top wouldn’t go down, etc, etc.

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

My recommendation is always to get a pre-purchase inspection from either a Porsche dealership or a good independent Porsche mechanic (the indie will probably be a lot cheaper).

My 2001 Boxster steering wheel shakes a lot when I'm driving in the high way a bit above 70 mph. I just put brand new tires and it still does it. Idk what it could be.

@dennisdaniels5991

Жыл бұрын

Have you done a front end alingment yet?......

Thanks Mike, I really enjoyed going for a ride in your home town. I was thinking of a 987, but I have included the 986 in my search for a Boxster. I'm leaning toward a 2009 987 so I don't have to worry about the IMS issue. If I go earlier, I was looking at the direct oil feed IMS conversion to make the car bullet proof. Thanks for the video's.

@mike.thomas

5 жыл бұрын

As you’ve probably seen in your research, traditional Porsche wisdom (with 911s anyway) is buy the newest one you can afford (if you aren’t going strictly for a long-hood or whatever, and who can afford that now? 😂). So, yeah, 987 might be a better choice. IIRC all the engines have weaknesses, and one of the mid year versions had the nasty situation where if you had an IMS issue it would be harder to service due to the engine’s design. I can’t remember which. It’s all a gamble. The risk of actual IMS bearing destruction are pretty slim, but the expense if it happens is pretty severe as I’m sure you’ve learned. Oil-fed is probably a great idea. I decided to just go with the ceramic bearing because I didn’t want to complicate things further. But that’s just my nature.

Mike. thanks for this one year ownership review. Was comprehensive and clearly balanced re the Boxster's strengths and weaknesses. I was totally surprised by the 16 mpg! Did not see that coming but good to know upfront. Now that you've had experience with the Boxster S would you recommend any particular model year over another? I'm in the market and thinking of the 2003-2004 model year. approx18K is my budget. Any thoughts? Thanks, joe

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Joseph Dragan Well, the newer the better, IMO, but in my shopping I found that anything newer than 2004 was a large price jump, and thus out of the running for me. Also, I can't remember the details of the later years, but some years had an odd engine configuration, WRT the IMS bearing and replaceability (if I recall correctly). Use your good-sized budget to get an 'S' and get the needed services and I think you'l be happy (and probably have some left over).

@TheBIGJake111

8 жыл бұрын

+Joseph Dragan just want to comment on the basis of gas mileage. I have a 2000S 6 speed. There is a massive noticable difference in gas mileage from highway to street. I used to drive the car only on street use and would get about 16 mpg. Now i have a good mix of back road and a 2 lane straight highway in the country that i may or may not go 65 to 85 on. I get like 20 mpg with the mix now and ive heard that in highway only settings these cars can almost get 30. Point is... there seems to be a larger then normal gap between city and highway mpg in these cars... maybe thats just because of my right foot in 2nd and 3rd gear though.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+TheBIGJake111 Thanks for adding that. Wish I'd thought of it. Yeah, I see a big gap between street and highway driving, too. And I suspect for the same reasons as you :-).

This will be my 8:th summer in my 1999 2.5.....dont drive it so much but when I do ...I do it proper :-) it´s black out and black in whit GT3 265x35x18" rimms back, 235x40x18 in the front, white spedometer/rev´, full leather, 3 spoke stearing wheel and some aluminium detales and I just love it. yes and I have the Nordic edition whit heated seats and Litronix lights :-)

It's a fun car. I love my 2003 boxster, right now it has little over 3,000 miles. The sound of a boxster is much better than 911.

The color is absolutely astounding!!! My dream color. Was yours a factory color???

@mike.thomas

2 жыл бұрын

It definitely was a head-turner! Yes, factory, but special paint (Forest Green). IIRC it was a $3k option (I bought used, so I didn’t pay that ;-)).

@mr.terwilliger5728

2 жыл бұрын

@@mike.thomas it’s my favorite color. My Boxter is speed yellow. Which is really nice. It’s too flashy for me though. I love the color, but it’s catches everyone’s eye and jerks on the road tailgate me or drive passive aggressively. But I still adore the boxter nonetheless! In the future I would like the boxter S for the 6 speed transmission. This was a great video!

How often you are changing oil? If you does not drive the car in the winter, do you change the oil every year or on 10,000km (6200miles)? What kind of oil do you used to have?

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Pavel Baramov Every 5k miles is what my mechanic is recommending. I believe he uses Motul.

@patchosan

8 жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Pavel Baramov I have a couple of quarts in my garage, and actually remembered to check the exact oil: it's Motul 8100 X-ceed. Hope that helps.

@patchosan

8 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I was with Fucks, but now I use Mobil1 0w40

Very nice and I'm the second person who envy you so much I'm thinking of one . How many miles does it have ? Thanks

@mike.thomas

5 жыл бұрын

sputnic Sadly I sold the car a few years ago. I lost my extra garage space. However I am in occasional touch with the gentleman who bought it and I am first in line if he chooses to sell it :-). It had around 60k miles IIRC.

Nice video. Hey, my 2001 Boxster is quite bumpy. Are they all this way? What's your favorite between driving your 911 or Boxster? I almost got a 911 but decided on the Boxster.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

Sorry I'm late to reply. By "bumpy" do you mean the suspension is stiff? If so, it's partially because it's a sports car. If it's waaaay too bumpy, then maybe the suspension should be looked at. Mine drives pretty smooth for a sports car, IMO. I much prefer my Boxster over the 911SC I had. It's more fun to drive, IMO. I loved the 911 for what it represented (a legend, and the dream car I always wanted), but I love the Boxster for what it is -- a relatively inexpensive, but awesome car to drive.

Iv owning my 2001 986 boxster s for half an year now. One thing i always keeping in mind is the IMS Failure. One of the porsche engineer explains the failure on youtube u might find it by typing " 986 porsche boxster IMS Failure" . He said that it happens when the engine revs so high that could vacuum the engine oil from the bearing and overheat the bearing so cause the ims failure happen. I dont know if it s truth, but i always keep it in mind , so i never push the car to its limit or even close to the limit... I was driving a 2011 coyote mustang, and it was faaast. Unfortunately, the MT82 trans had some issue that had to be fixed, and i didnt have enough money to fix it. I know i shouldnt compare my boxster s to the muscles, but damn the boxster has an unbelievable handling compare to the mustang lol, definitely love it

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

I've had my IMS bearing replaced with the ceramic LN Engineering bearing, so it should be good to go. I don't think I've ever redlined my Boxster, but I'm sure I get near 6k revs every time I drive it. It's a sports car, after all :-). I do love the handling of the Boxster. I really love the car in almost every way. Sad to see it sitting lonely in the garage, sitting on the charger during our recent very cold weather.

@riquester1971

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas Hi Mike! As a new Boxster owner, I found your videos and watched with great interest! Thanks so much for posting them. I just got a 1999 Boxster from Chicago Auto Place about 2 weeks ago and drove it back home to MN. I was curious about your comment here, about it sitting on a charger in your garage... Is it having trouble starting in the cold? I work an overnight weekend shift, and this last weekend it has been about -10 degrees during the night... I was so proud of my new purchase, it started up without hesitation after sitting outside for hours in the -10 weather. (I decided it's not going to be a garage queen, I am actually going to drive it in the winter, when it's cold enough for the roads not to be a slushy mess.) Again, thanks for your vids! Mine too has the tan interior like yours, which I think looks fantastic. Later!

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

I leave it on a trickle charger just to keep the battery in good shape, since it sits for many days without starting sometimes. Congrats on your purchase!

@Sheeshening

8 жыл бұрын

Well as far as i know the track cars never had any ims problems and I've read about redlining it is recommended if the temps go above 88C. However the track cars also have the advantage of many oil changes

Bought my '98 this year, 1600 miles with zero issues.

@kevinkarzinsr3229

5 жыл бұрын

Marshall Weaver just bought a 2000 Boxster S, 921 total miles. Like it’s brand new!

I want get one but the cost of ownership how much is going to be for me.

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

There's no way to accurately predict it. You'll want to check out my other video if you haven't already: kzread.info/dash/bejne/nZef0dOsqdfemMY.html My mechanic claims they are reliable cars if you take care of the obvious stuff and the car has a good maintenance history. I can say that my car was very reliable However, I did $5k work to it up front!

Loved mine. Yeah the interior was a bit mundane. Even though stock, it was more performance than I could ever turn loose on an average road. Drove it 8 hours across SC/GA and it was a miserable, noisy ride. Eventually sold it. Miss it at times. Test drove one not long ago for old times sake. It would be a fun third car. Alot of bang per buck if you find a low mileage example for $12-15K. My neighbors own Porsches. One has a 911 variant of some sort. The other has a Cayman. I the the Cayman is gorgeous. Will pull the trigger for one when my Jeep Wrangler is paid off.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

A Cayman would be a lot of fun, I think!

I have the '00 2.7 no rattles. Maybe the stiffer suspension on the S is culpret? I live at foothills of Smokies, I can't imagine driving a Boxster in your traffic. You haven't experienced a Boxster if you haven't driven twisty roads, imho!

@mike.thomas

5 жыл бұрын

Papa Torr Possibly stiffer suspension. Also, the prior owner apparently drove it on fire roads occasionally. I know, YIKES. But overall the car was in really great condition and was a great runner.

I've currently got a unique '91 vette as it was first sold in japan then imported back here, regardless do you think I'd enjoy the boxster more

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

Wow, I have no idea. It all comes down to what you appreciate. Brute force (torque) as in the Vette, or a freakishly balanced suspension and a very willing, but much less powerful engine, as in the Boxster. If the Vette isn't a full convertible, then the Boxster also offers that (with the attendant trade-offs). Yeah, hard to say...

@puffpuffer

8 жыл бұрын

Hmm I guess you're right, I've got to drive a boxster then I'll know. Although about a year ago I had a really shitty 924 as my first car lol and it was really a joy to drive, almost more funk than the vette. Also last question how tall are you? Because I'm a pretty big individual but still somehow manage to fit in the corvette 6'4 or 6'5 lol

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+puffpuffer I suspect you won't fit into the Boxster very well, then. I'm just short of 6'1" with a 32" inseam. I have the seat almost as far back as it will go and my legs aren't particularly long. You definitely should try driving one. If it doesn't fit, a 911 probably will (well, at least my '82 SC would have easily fit you).

@puffpuffer

8 жыл бұрын

Oh lol any 80's or 90's 911 is my dream, but alas being a college student I can only dream I had funds to buy such a beautiful machine

One person is envious of my Boxster.

@MrDJCoulton

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas Im envious of your Boxter, dont see the reason for the thumbdown, it s a great video

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

MrDJCoulton Thanks :-)

@bobjimenez4464

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas it looks like a great ride but the traffic tickets...the cops are Pavlovian trained to drool every time a porsche or corvette comes into sight.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

I can live with that trade-off. :-)

@nickgrossman7656

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas . Probably a troll. I wouldn't worry about it.

Rear Michelin Pilots (Tires) cost me $429 for the pair and $50 to install and balance. Good for about 12K miles.

Did you get the creaking fixed and if so what was it? Mine does the same thing. (2002) Boxster S

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

I assume it's suspension bushings. I haven't addressed it yet. I mean to ask my mechanic what it would cost. I expect the parts are affordable but the labor is expensive. Just a guess.

@amazonaddict6236

8 жыл бұрын

idk if its rear wheel drive, (just gonna assume it is!) if you try flushing the rear differential fluid, or replacing the wheel bearing, that might help might help

my dad wants this car sooo bad, i too love it :* , :( but we dnt have this in india :o even the 2013 model costs like 75k $ with 38k mileage on it :( , cant even import , right hand , drive :( !!!

4:25 wth it doing at 4000 revs

Love the Do you feel better now reply👍

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

Jeff Jeff 😋 yeah, it always astonishes me how YT seems to draw so many people who go out of their way to be rude.

best car to look like your driving a 50k car

Nice vid....got the same 2001 252 bhp to bad you can’t really Drive fast in the US compared to our German Autobahn....

Hey thanks for the video. I've been looking for more ownership videos like this on early boxsters. I've been in the market for one for about a year or so, surfing craigslist daily. I'm torn between a 2003 boxster 66k miles with the IMS upgraded n glass window on the soft top for $8k. Versus a 2006 nc miata with 44k miles for $8.5k. I want the boxster but the only thing that scares me is maintenance costs compared to the miata. Is it really that much more than owning a regular Japanese car? I've been doing research and only really finding out that it costs more. But how much more? Especially after the IMS as already been replaced.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

The old saying for classic 911s is: "they're all $20k cars". Meaning you either spend now or spend later. I'd say with Boxsters they are all $15k cars (the S model, the regular is a bit cheaper to get started with). I can't do a direct comparison with the Miata, but I'll guesstimate that if you have someone else do it, anything that involves separating the transaxle from the engine on the Porsche will cost you close to $2k: clutch, rear main seal, etc. That's why I did so much stuff to my car all dat once. It was a "while you're in there" situation. Once you break open that linkage (say for the IMS), you may as well do the clutch, RMS, motor mounts, etc. Basically anything that can be done in that area. If I were you'd I'd compare clutch replacement and brake jobs between the Porsche and Miata and see where you land. Independent Porsche labor is around $140/hr here in Denver, so there's another datapoint. Another datapoint is I just had my oil changed: $200. Heck, just the oil (Motul) was $100. I think it's a good idea to have a repair fund for any car, but especially for a European car, and that goes double for a Porsche. Be sure you can come up with $3-4k on a moment's notice, just in case. My car has been extremely reliable with my low-mileage use. So you may never need a that major service, but when you do, it can eat up a lot of money quickly and easily. Good luck!

@kylebome1999

8 жыл бұрын

HA! I'll have you know I bought my 2001 S for $8500 and so far I've ONLY spent $14,500 after everything. Where's your $15k theory now?!?!

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

Ouch! Tell me more.

@hwillia204

7 жыл бұрын

If you are in Northern California Eurotrend Auto Repair in Cere, Ca mechanics are Excellent! You could have saved yourself $5,000 on repairing IMS. I still have my 2000 Boxster S with 290,000 miles and runs great!

Hi Mike, it seems your 986 S is one of the rare ones without PSM nor ASR. Isn't it? Greetings from Italy.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Saeado Nostran I'm not sure that's rare on one of my vintage, but I don't have a strong opinion on it. It's only a year 2000.

@saeadonostran8908

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas The two systems were both optional at that time, with the PSM including what provided by the ASR. Maybe it's easier to find a year 2000 986 S equipped with ASR instead of PSM, but it is not so common to find one like yours. Without any kind of stability control, your 986 S driving experience is the purest possible on a 986. Oh, and it is also quite touching to see that your 18" Turbo Look 1 alloy wheels, crafted in a factory 5 miles away from my house, are featured in a car driven over the ocean: so, beside a mighty car, you also own four little pieces of my country superb craftmanship :-)

I want one. silver/red or speed yellow w black wheels

Have you had the 2nd gear synchromesh issue yet

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

Not really. And unfortunately, the car is sold on to another owner. However, we have an agreement that I have first refusal if he ever sells it.

@TheFlemburger

7 жыл бұрын

Mike Thomas ah ok, what's the mileage on if you know, also you should consider getting another one of that one back, I think they may start creeping up in value soon.

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

I believe it was somewhere just north of 65k miles. I agree there's a decent chance of these climbing in price, since almost all the 911 varieties are becoming "untouchable". Those that really want a Porsche are going have no alternative but Boxsters for a while, and that might drive the Boxster prices up. I really should have hung on to my 911SC, but as it increased in value I drove much less often, and I'm not a car collector. If we can ever find a house we like with a good 3rd car parking scenario I will probably get another Boxster or a 996 of some variety.

@TheFlemburger

7 жыл бұрын

Mike Thomas yes that would be ideal, I have the same space issue with my Boxster but I refuse to sell it, I just keep parking it on my road. It is a shame you sold the 911 but you can always start again with another Boxster 986 but make sure it's the S, the others are good too but the S seems to be showing good in terms of holding value

Check your owner's manual - you are not even supposed to operate the roof at low temperatures, as the rubber in the top gets stiff and may crack when folded. I don't know what the temp is for the 986, but for the 981 it is something around 5-7C; with age the roof gets stiffer and more brittle anyway,... that is just a natural phenomenon and you really should not operate any soft top at low temps or you will damage it. It is is cranky at cold temps it is definitely too cold to operate.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Baerchenization According to the manual it's 0C/32F. However, I don't do it below 45F, personally. And when I do it in cooler temps, I do it with pauses along the way to (hopefully) help prevent cracking.

@Baerchenization

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas But maybe not after 15 years... all rubber gets old and brittle with time.

did you buy from a dealer or private party?

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

Private party.

@billdollarmovie140

7 жыл бұрын

I was looking at MR2 Spyders, but it doesn't hold a candle to this,& I have an 80s mr2

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

Bill Dollarmovie In driving, I think you'd find the Boxster is completely in another class, especially the 'S' model.

@billdollarmovie140

7 жыл бұрын

would you ever get another one?

@mike.thomas

7 жыл бұрын

Bill Dollarmovie Definitely.

i think the steering wheel does move

I have never seen a green s model

why did u sell it........

@mike.thomas

4 жыл бұрын

time traveler are we there yet Lost the garage space where I had been keeping it, mainly.

You can't tilt the wheel on a 2000? I can on my 99. Keep the reg and insurance snug in the frunk. I get 20 city going hard, 30 highway, and 34 if I keep it under 75. But it's not an S.

how many miles on the car?

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+JG Currently about 63k I think.

@andynickles7505

2 жыл бұрын

@@mike.thomas how has long term cost of ownership been? Do you still recommend it?

no ims issue or ams issue? how about coolant leaking?

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

No issues of any sort after the initial work I had done (including IMS bearing replacement). There is another video that I made when I first got the car, with advice and expenses: kzread.info/dash/bejne/nZef0dOsqdfemMY.html

@nova12332

6 жыл бұрын

just watched it. i wish i saw it two days earlier. just bought an 986 out of impulse and dont know what im getting into lol

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

Yeah, the 986 is not a great impulse buy ;-). However, once sorted they can be VERY good. I drove my car for two years after the initial services with zero issues. I'm still in contact with the buyer and HE's still happy with it after another year. My mechanic agrees they're solid so long as you take care of the known issues.

@nova12332

6 жыл бұрын

good to know thank you. it is slowly, very slowly starting to grow on me. it just sucks that you have to do literally everything at once with the ims ams clutch at the same time which is very costly.

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

Yeah, that's a tough combo. Fortunately that's something you do only once, since it's unlikely your car will ever need another clutch (unless it's your main ride and you do gobs of miles). Re the bearing, strongly consider the LN Engineering ceramic one. My service guy won't use anything else.

Are you selling this right now? 😬😎

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

Nunya Bizness No. it’s long gone, sadly (I do have first refusal if the current owner decides to sell).

@nunyabizness8226

6 жыл бұрын

Mike Thomas How much did you sell it for? I am looking around for something similar and want to make sure I don't overpay.

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

Nunya Bizness it was a few years ago and this car was actually in fantastic shape (uncommon when I was shopping). I think I sold it for around 14k, maybe a bit less.

@nunyabizness8226

6 жыл бұрын

Mike Thomas I can tell it was. There are a few out there if you keep your eyes open. PCA classifieds are a good resource.

Am I the only one who is annoyed by the offset center console? It has less lateral leg room on the driver's side. It puts pressure on a lateral calf nerve! Uncomfortable! Otherwise best handling car I've owned!

@mike.thomas

5 жыл бұрын

Papa Torr I’m pretty sensitive to that kind of thing, but in my case I don’t recall it being an issue with the Boxster. But everyone’s physical build and seat setup/preferences are different, so maybe I got lucky in this case. I’ve definitely refused to consider cars that interfere with comfort on my right leg (prior generation Volvos with the “waterfall” dashboard I’m thinking of you!).

@papatorr3669

5 жыл бұрын

@@mike.thomas The console offset to the left up against my right leg is the main reason I consider selling it about once a month. Then there's the amazing handling and I put up with it another month. Other reason is that it's triple black, boring, but I got it super cheap; paid more for my MX5! You had a beautiful color combination.

One reason that Boxster sounds better is because the engine is closer to the driver.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Stark That's what I've heard, but mine seems to have a better exhaust note, too. Could just be intake location, though.

@TheBIGJake111

8 жыл бұрын

+Stark the intake noise is heaven, i definitely think that the intake is why it sounds so good though because its noticeably better sounding in the drivers seat than in the passenger.

@Kylo_Ren_2033

8 жыл бұрын

+Stark I used to own a 2006 base model for over 2 years

Boxster 986 cost like $6000 great for teen car that want more than a Miata

Jeez! Such a whingebag. Drive sensible tyres last fine, you don’t need to race anyone, just cruise. My visors don’t rattle. I have the same dry ball joint issue, just make a tiny hole and fill with WD40 until you need/want to replace. I’m 6’5” 34 leg and I’m fine. Cabin is slightly smaller than the 996 but I don’t have the issues you do with size. On my S the seats tip forward like on a 996 (so you could use the rear seats) so you have rear front seat storage and obviously door and console storage. Don’t the cops in America check your details online? In UK they do and if you have to produce you get 7 days to go to a police station so most people don’t carry anything except their licence.

@mike.thomas

5 жыл бұрын

Edd Herring Funny how if anyone hears anything other than glowing about their favorite thing, *they* whinge about it. Cameras, cars, sports teams (for gods sake), etc. Somebody saying something less than worshipful is somehow taken as attacking other owners/fans of the same item. Different people have different standards, so if the car is absolutely perfect for you, good on you. Move along. No need to get butt hurt and defensive about it in a KZread comment. Even better, spend a few hours of your own personal time to create your own video about how amazingly perfect your choice was. Or is that too much work? That said, WTF does “drive sensible” even mean? It’s a sports car! It wears rear tires quickly if you put good summer tires on it, and drive it with spirit. It’s a well-known thing. I’m basically letting people know the things a) they might like to know before buying, and b) things I didn’t love about the car. I have very high standards. I loved everything else about the car. I don’t have to convince myself that anything I choose is perfect - I’m not particularly prone to cognitive dissonance, so I’m OK if something I pick is imperfect. I’d buy the car back if/when the guy who bought it decides to sell. That’s how much I liked it overall, even with imperfections. Oh, and if you don’t like the tone of my response, you might consider your own tone when communicating with strangers on the internet. Enjoy your 986!

@eddherring4972

3 жыл бұрын

Mike Thomas so I called you for whinging which is what you’re doing. I have longer legs and no issues. My steering wheel is adjustable, I don’t know why yours wouldn’t be. Your embarrassing squeak is most likely the coffin arms, a well known and inexpensive fix. You talk about having things right yet drive around with a taped roof. I can’t take you seriously. I’m fully aware that there are shortcomings in the Boxster but your issues are with your specific vehicle, not general issues, except the squeaking. Forgetting to put the roof up? You must be very absent minded. FYI I have no issue with someone typing stuff, it’s just words, doesn’t bother me in the slightest.

I love to drive these, but the overall quality of them is surprisingly low beyond mechanical engineering, the interior especially is shockingly average. Even if you put it against $15-25k 2000 MSRP cars it can't even beat most of those beyond the seats.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

Yeah, that's true. Even worse is that the 986 of the same vintage shared a lot of the parts (like the whole front-end). Pissed of a lot of 911 fans, I think. But the interior is "good enough", and it's still an awesome car to drive.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Thomas Duh, meant to type "996" above.

Jeez when the cops ask for papers in Australia we tell em to piss off an get a real job

Look at 10:00 to your right. My car.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

+Hu “cillyede” Ko But not actually *you* in it, I assume? :-D

@cillyede

8 жыл бұрын

No, unfortunately not. I'm at home in Germany. My wife drives a Porsche. That car is much to low for me. I can get in, but not out easely. Have fun with you car.

if your 6 1 tall your fine..anything over that ya..knees will be in the way....

that´s no driving.....

all you do is talk and don't even show your car. Boring.

@mike.thomas

6 жыл бұрын

paul Drake All you do is complain and don’t even have content of your own. Boring.

You make me embarrassed to own a Boxter. You have a 986 and a 911 and you whine about the cost of things? And while we're here, you say you don't drive it long distances but you gun the accelerator every time you take off. Well your inability to drive smoothly is probably a major factor in your excessive tyre wear and low mpg. I'd hate to hear your bellyaching if you owned a twin turbo S4. I have a Honda Super Blackbird for the thrill of acceleration (0 to 60mph in 2.7). As for your squeaking suspension, go have that checked because they aren't supposed to do that. Your bushes are probably shot. And doesn't your car have those giant door pockets (like I have on mine) for your rego papers and other goodies? Sell the Porsches and buy something that might suite you better, like a Pinto. Seriously bad review.

@mike.thomas

8 жыл бұрын

Do you feel better now?

@jimgee2221

4 жыл бұрын

Ron. He lives in Denver I believe? Not to many bushes there. Maybe boxwoods, but not a lot else. Quit worrying about his bushes would you? That's just creepy.