4 extras to retrofit on a used Porsche Boxster
Porsche first introduced its mid-engine sports cabriolet back in 1996. It was called the Boxster and its internal model designation was 986, a car that can now be bought for less than a budget hatchback. We have found 4 extras that you should fit to your 986 which will bring it firmly into the 21st century.
Touted as one of the cars that helped save the Porsche brand before the Cayenne, the Boxster has cemented its place within the Porsche line-up as an affordable, drop-top alternative to the iconic 911. For our purposes today we are looking at the first generation 986 Boxster models but must advise any buyers that purchasing any older sportscar comes with a risk. The list price may be tempting but maintaining any older premium car can become an expensive exercise, so do your research and approach with caution.
Since the 986 Boxster was produced from 1996 until 2004, all examples will out of their factory service plan and warranties decades ago, which means that retrofitting aftermarket parts may be an affordable way of modernising your Boxster. These optional extras are all quality products; however, we must insist that you please consult with a dealership or approved Porsche fitment centre before going ahead with the installation.
1.IMS bearing upgrade
Anyone who has toyed with the idea of purchasing a 996 911 or 986 Boxster will have encountered the IMS bearing failure issue when doing some research online. In short, the IMS or intermediate shaft is used to drive the engine’s camshafts using the crankshaft’s motion, and it is the bearings used on this intermediate shaft that fail, causing massive engine damage.
There are still many theories as to how many of the engines from this vintage are affected by this, however, for absolute peace of mind, replacing the OEM bearing will save you a destroyed engine at some point. Check the service records or ask the previous owner as the IMS work is often carried out when the vehicle’s clutch is replaced if the Boxster in question is a manual model. This will not be cheap; however, it will ensure that the car keeps performing for many kilometres to come.
2.Modern rubber
Modern vehicles produce more power and torque than ever, which has meant that tyre technology has improved dramatically, particularly since the turn of the century. A fresh set of high-performance tyres from brands such as Michelin or Pirelli will transform your Boxster’s handling, endowing it with more drip and superior traction. We are particular fans of the Pirelli P Zero Corsa and the Michelin Pilot Sport 4.
3.Sony infotainment system
Sony, among other brands, offers an 8.95-inch infotainment system that fits in the Boxster. This system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality while improving the sound quality versus the standard head unit.
4.Fabspeed exhaust system
Exhaust masters Fabspeed are renowned for their workmanship, however, their exhausts are certainly not cheap, but if you can afford their Competition Race Exhaust system from the 986 Boxster, it will change the car dramatically. In addition to saving 16.4kg and offering a lifetime warranty, the exhaust will allow you a pukka motorsport sound from the rear of your Boxster, something that will only improve with the roof down.
