Used Porsche Boxster for sale nearExeter

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 15.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 175
Average Price: N/A

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 986 is Porsche's entry-level sports car: a two-seat, mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive convertible powered by a classic flat-six engine. It's the car that made owning a Porsche far more accessible than ever before, and remains one of the most affordable Porsches to buy second-hand. Known among enthusiasts as the 986, after its development code, the first-generation Boxster is one of the best performance-car bargains available, though as more people discover it, prices may not stay low for long.

The Boxster delivers an exquisite driving experience with crisp steering, a beautifully balanced chassis, and a rasping engine that carves through corners with exemplary precision. Whilst some find it lacks drama, those who enjoy a clean, responsive drive will find it immensely satisfying. Practicality is surprisingly good for a two-seater, with dual boots offering adequate storage for weekend trips. However, maintenance costs can be steep, and finding a well-serviced example with a full service history is essential. A metal timing chain is a cost-saving advantage over rivals. The Boxster delivers serious driving pleasure and Porsche cachet at a relatively modest budget, provided you purchase carefully and budget for maintenance.

Best for: Driving enthusiasts seeking affordable Porsche ownership, those who value responsive handling and precision engineering, and buyers willing to invest in proper maintenance.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising low running costs, buyers uncomfortable with potentially expensive repairs, or those seeking a practical four-seat convertible.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Boxster if: You're a driving enthusiast seeking affordable Porsche ownership, value responsive handling and precision engineering, and are willing to invest in proper maintenance.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise low running costs, are uncomfortable with potentially expensive repairs, or need a practical four-seat convertible.

Competitive Position: The Porsche Boxster 986 stands out among contemporary roadsters for its exquisite driving dynamics and Porsche heritage, commanding the highest expert rating amongst its rivals. Whilst the TVR Chimaera and Nissan 370Z offer better value for money, the Boxster delivers superior handling precision and a more refined driving experience. The BMW Z3/Z4 comes close in overall rating, but the Boxster's mid-engine layout and flat-six engine provide a distinctly different and engaging character. For those willing to navigate maintenance costs and seek a well-maintained example, the Boxster represents an exceptional opportunity to own a modern classic with serious driving credentials at an accessible price point.

Read our full Porsche Boxster Review

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