My 2000 Boxster that I purchased 3 years ago with 58,000 mi. is probably my favorite way to get away from it all and just enjoy the simplicity and analog experience driving on the backroads. It’s definitely become a classic
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳 It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌 Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚 Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅ -------------------- The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍 (Exquisite, refined and truly priceless) ⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨 I appreciate the 2.5S over models with larger engines because of the power bandwidth-it requires and allows you to rev high and let that beautiful engine sing an exquisite song as you smile the whole way along! The bigger motors are heavier and maybe more of GT cars rebadged to keep the 911 the top tier model but the older lighter 2.5 flat 6’s like to be pushed and provide more of a connection with the car and driver while being quicker on its feet which keeps the Porsche spirit alive and keeps you smiling ANYTIME you drive (Light,perfect balance,great handling,high revving convertible=A PHENOMENAL&SPLENDID TIME🤩) People sleep on the 2.5’s and some even sleep on the Triptronic S transmissions but I have driven many cars and the 99’ 986 manual or Triptronic S’s are truly a hidden gem!!! Especially for those that love2drive😉 Forgot to mention it will always be a sharp, classy, iconic, refined and beautiful piece of engineering full of original Porsche spirit! A one of a kind Timeless piece of art indeed-👌 (The 986 was the first water cooled Porsche also making it apart of history forever! ICONS live forever⏳) Truly a timeless peice of engineering that is often overlooked but appreciated by those that truly value engineering&ear to ear smiles on the road from the backroads to the tracks
Just bought a 2001 Boxster S yesterday. I had a 2000 Base Boxster and wish I never sold it. Can't wait to drive it the S. Picking it up out of town in a week. Nice review.
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳 It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌 Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚 Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅ -------------------- The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍 (Exquisite, refined and truly priceless) ⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
@@dsrrecordsentCouldn't agree more sir! The reviewer is a 987 owner so... there you go; likely a little (or a lot) biased towards the later platform 😂 And the "OG" Original 986 Boxster only gets better with modifications/ upgrades... I've an 02, 3.2 liter, 6 speed Boxster S with a Numeric shifter, CAI, IPD Plenum/TB, headers (catless) Fabspeed Exhaust, Bilstein performance struts, H&R lowering springs, spacers, Polyurethane GT3 front bumper, side skirts etc. The fun and performance just keeps elevating to levels people with normal sports cars can only imagine. Like you said; it's literally a "hidden gem) among sports cars and it is what many experienced car enthusiasts believe to be the beginning of what was and remains one of the best sports car platforms ever produced! I enjoy it immensely every time I get behind the wheel and inch passed 5.2 rpms as Porsche variocam kicks in and takes you to another level of automotive, Porsche race inspired automotive bliss/excitement 😂 👍
The early 2.5 is the way to go for these 986. Cable throttle, zero lag. No IMS issue, no bore score. Close gear ratio, much more exciting. Performance wise very close to a stock S2000 to me, and a much much much better car than my NA miatas in term of speed and comfort.
They feel heavier, more GT car-ish and less playful, at first. I'd say in the long run the 986 is the more enjoyable and satisfying driver's car (provided it's not really, really knackered and provided it's a 3.2). The power train is on another level and the rightness of the chassis is very rewarding when you get to know it. The MX-5 is a bit more narrow in bandwidth. It's good fun on a B road. But apart from that, it's merely OK. A good 986 is a delight all the time due the lovely, lovely engine, the steering, the overall ambience. And it's great down a good B road, albeit in a more technical, less chuckable manner than an MX-5.
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳 It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌 Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚 Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅ -------------------- The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍 (Exquisite, refined and truly priceless) ⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
It’s impossible to compare Boxster generations without the caveat that age inevitably dulls the driving dynamics of older models. If that 986 had refreshed suspension, your handling summary would sound very different
Unfair to say turn in isn't great if its on all season tyres. Brakes need looking at if they're mushy, pedal should be firm. I guess if rear dampers are worn it will lighten up at the front. I've got m030 sway bars on mine and it's great on twisty UK roads. All new genuine Porsche parts and it drives like new.
My 1998 has now ~250000 km's. Still like new and still the best value for money for a cheap and easy to maintain lttl sports car. Al my kids grew up with it, tracked it had glorious fun at club days skid pad events etc. Still a daily and maintained to perfection. Not selling anytime soon. Not ever!
I've had my 2002 Boxster S since 2011 and it's as thrilling to drive now as it was then but the original halogen headlights are showing their age so it's time to upgrade to Litronic. When people ask me what kind of mileage I get I like to say it's not miles per gallon it's smiles per gallon because of the ear to ear grin you get while driving on twisty roads!
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳 It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌 Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚 Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅ -------------------- The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍 (Exquisite, refined and truly priceless) ⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
The 2.5L vs 2.7L "desirability" debate is nonsense. No one is explicitly paying more for a 97 model over a 02 model assuming the same mileage, care, and options on the basis that the early car has more air cooled roots.
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳 It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌 Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚 Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅ -------------------- The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍 (Exquisite, refined and truly priceless) ⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨 I appreciate the 2.5S over models with larger engines because of the power bandwidth-it requires and allows you to rev high and let that beautiful engine sing an exquisite song as you smile the whole way along! The bigger motors are heavier and maybe more of GT cars rebadged to keep the 911 the top tier model but the older lighter 2.5 flat 6’s like to be pushed and provide more of a connection with the car and driver while being quicker on its feet which keeps the Porsche spirit alive and keeps you smiling ANYTIME you drive (Light,perfect balance,great handling,high revving convertible=A PHENOMENAL&SPLENDID TIME🤩) People sleep on the 2.5’s and some even sleep on the Triptronic S transmissions but I have driven many cars and the 99’ 986 manual or Triptronic S’s are truly a hidden gem!!! Especially for those that love2drive😉 Forgot to mention it will always be a sharp, classy, iconic, refined and beautiful piece of engineering full of original Porsche spirit! A one of a kind Timeless piece of art indeed-👌 (The 986 was the first water cooled Porsche also making it apart of history forever! ICONS live forever⏳) Truly a timeless peice of engineering that is often overlooked but appreciated by those that truly value engineering&ear to ear smiles on the road from the backroads to the tracks 2.5 IS A DRAGON PERIOD-🏆🐲🏎️ (Light,perfect balance, short gear ratios, high revs=HIGHTIMES⚙️🥳) Your spirit connected with the spirit from Porsches engineering and cars that represented their true original glory will bring smiles and love to your stiry and your own person journey 😉
I just paid top dollar for a pristine 2.5. I only wanted a 2.5, not a 2.7, because I see the low torque and power as a feature, for the challenge of keeping up momentum. Also, the short ratio box appeals, as does the purity of the original first version. And the twin row IMS is the icing on the cake.
Imo, that was DEF a bit of under selling this timless, automotive masterpiece that is the 986 Boxster (S model, lets be specific). This machane literally ticks ALL the right boxes that true sports car enthusiasts look for and appreciate; whether it be the sound, the handling, the timeless looks, performance etc. Its literally at the top of the podium when it comes to all time greatest sports car platforms and its legacy and frame/bones/roots live on all the way up to the Boxster/Cayman/ Spyder RS renditions...
Bought a 2002 986 Boxster S at the end of Juli last summer, been waiting for winter to get over so I can bring her back out, but it does require some more work, I think I would like to do suspension just to properly feel how the car was meant to ride, and I am really not sure about the steering in mine. Feels rather heavy
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳 It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌 Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚 Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅ -------------------- The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍 (Exquisite, refined and truly priceless) ⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨 I appreciate the 2.5S over models with larger engines because of the power bandwidth-it requires and allows you to rev high and let that beautiful engine sing an exquisite song as you smile the whole way along! The bigger motors are heavier and maybe more of GT cars rebadged to keep the 911 the top tier model but the older lighter 2.5 flat 6’s like to be pushed and provide more of a connection with the car and driver while being quicker on its feet which keeps the Porsche spirit alive and keeps you smiling ANYTIME you drive (Light,perfect balance,great handling,high revving convertible=A PHENOMENAL&SPLENDID TIME🤩) People sleep on the 2.5’s and some even sleep on the Triptronic S transmissions but I have driven many cars and the 99’ 986 manual or Triptronic S’s are truly a hidden gem!!! Especially for those that love2drive😉
that's one well written opinion, but I can't for the life of me figure out in what way it corresponds to what I wrote in regards to my own Boxster. I made no mentions of a Mazda MX5@@dsrrecordsent
@@Anathriel S2000’s, MX5’s, MR2’s & other light weight convertibles (BMW/MERCEDES)-Are often compared to the older 986 Porsche especially in todays used marketplace and with the used market so that was just an example but as stated the 986 is incomparable, beautiful, timeless&classic🏆 (It’s an iconic feat of engineering with no competitors that is truly an extension of the driver while providing exquisite refinement-) Good choice! Enjoy your driving experience it’s one of a kind that can never be compared 🏆⚙️🏁🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨✅
I heard the tires squeal some... but yeah, take street reviews for what they are: sights and sounds, maybe descriptions of control feel are helpful... chassis dynamics are not on play, and shouldn't be judged.... those would all be unrecognizably changed anyway if you want the track/race car version...
@@streetfighter3k144 I guess it depends what you like. Exhaust wouldn't fix the problem I have with the 987.2 sound. It's the induction howl that makes the 986 sound so nice and for me Porsche flat sixes are about induction howl, not loud exhausts. Noisy exhausts just give the car a pretty generic roar.
My 2000 Boxster that I purchased 3 years ago with 58,000 mi. is probably my favorite way to get away from it all and just enjoy the simplicity and analog experience driving on the backroads.
It’s definitely become a classic
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳
It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌
Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚
Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅
--------------------
The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍
(Exquisite, refined and truly priceless)
⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
I appreciate the 2.5S over models with larger engines because of the power bandwidth-it requires and allows you to rev high and let that beautiful engine sing an exquisite song as you smile the whole way along! The bigger motors are heavier and maybe more of GT cars rebadged to keep the 911 the top tier model but the older lighter 2.5 flat 6’s like to be pushed and provide more of a connection with the car and driver while being quicker on its feet which keeps the Porsche spirit alive and keeps you smiling ANYTIME you drive
(Light,perfect balance,great handling,high revving convertible=A PHENOMENAL&SPLENDID TIME🤩)
People sleep on the 2.5’s and some even sleep on the Triptronic S transmissions but I have driven many cars and the 99’ 986 manual or Triptronic S’s are truly a hidden gem!!!
Especially for those that love2drive😉
Forgot to mention it will always be a sharp, classy, iconic, refined and beautiful piece of engineering full of original Porsche spirit! A one of a kind Timeless piece of art indeed-👌
(The 986 was the first water cooled Porsche also making it apart of history forever! ICONS live forever⏳)
Truly a timeless peice of engineering that is often overlooked but appreciated by those that truly value engineering&ear to ear smiles on the road from the backroads to the tracks
Just bought a 2001 Boxster S yesterday. I had a 2000 Base Boxster and wish I never sold it. Can't wait to drive it the S. Picking it up out of town in a week. Nice review.
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳
It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌
Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚
Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅
--------------------
The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍
(Exquisite, refined and truly priceless)
⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
Just bought a 2000 S last week. A wonderful car.
@@dsrrecordsentCouldn't agree more sir! The reviewer is a 987 owner so... there you go; likely a little (or a lot) biased towards the later platform 😂
And the "OG" Original 986 Boxster only gets better with modifications/ upgrades...
I've an 02, 3.2 liter, 6 speed Boxster S with a Numeric shifter, CAI, IPD Plenum/TB, headers (catless) Fabspeed Exhaust, Bilstein performance struts, H&R lowering springs, spacers, Polyurethane GT3 front bumper, side skirts etc. The fun and performance just keeps elevating to levels people with normal sports cars can only imagine.
Like you said; it's literally a "hidden gem) among sports cars and it is what many experienced car enthusiasts believe to be the beginning of what was and remains one of the best sports car platforms ever produced!
I enjoy it immensely every time I get behind the wheel and inch passed 5.2 rpms as Porsche variocam kicks in and takes you to another level of automotive, Porsche race inspired automotive bliss/excitement 😂 👍
The early 2.5 is the way to go for these 986. Cable throttle, zero lag. No IMS issue, no bore score. Close gear ratio, much more exciting. Performance wise very close to a stock S2000 to me, and a much much much better car than my NA miatas in term of speed and comfort.
How does this car compare with a modern MX-5 in terms of driving fun and dynamics?
Would like to know this as well
No LSD no fun😂 Porsches are too serious to be fun at the street IMO
It’s a Porsche
They feel heavier, more GT car-ish and less playful, at first. I'd say in the long run the 986 is the more enjoyable and satisfying driver's car (provided it's not really, really knackered and provided it's a 3.2). The power train is on another level and the rightness of the chassis is very rewarding when you get to know it. The MX-5 is a bit more narrow in bandwidth. It's good fun on a B road. But apart from that, it's merely OK. A good 986 is a delight all the time due the lovely, lovely engine, the steering, the overall ambience. And it's great down a good B road, albeit in a more technical, less chuckable manner than an MX-5.
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳
It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌
Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚
Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅
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The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍
(Exquisite, refined and truly priceless)
⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
It’s impossible to compare Boxster generations without the caveat that age inevitably dulls the driving dynamics of older models. If that 986 had refreshed suspension, your handling summary would sound very different
Unfair to say turn in isn't great if its on all season tyres. Brakes need looking at if they're mushy, pedal should be firm. I guess if rear dampers are worn it will lighten up at the front. I've got m030 sway bars on mine and it's great on twisty UK roads. All new genuine Porsche parts and it drives like new.
I've got a 2.5. The brake pedal feels solid.
My 1998 has now ~250000 km's. Still like new and still the best value for money for a cheap and easy to maintain lttl sports car. Al my kids grew up with it, tracked it had glorious fun at club days skid pad events etc. Still a daily and maintained to perfection. Not selling anytime soon. Not ever!
Great review that captures the character of the 986
I've had my 2002 Boxster S since 2011 and it's as thrilling to drive now as it was then but the original halogen headlights are showing their age so it's time to upgrade to Litronic.
When people ask me what kind of mileage I get I like to say it's not miles per gallon it's smiles per gallon because of the ear to ear grin you get while driving on twisty roads!
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳
It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌
Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚
Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅
--------------------
The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍
(Exquisite, refined and truly priceless)
⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
how does this compare to the gR 86 that you used to own?
"chatty steering" hilarious description
The 2.5L vs 2.7L "desirability" debate is nonsense. No one is explicitly paying more for a 97 model over a 02 model assuming the same mileage, care, and options on the basis that the early car has more air cooled roots.
TIL 👍
2.5L has a 1% IMS failure whereas the 2.7L has 7-8%
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳
It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌
Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚
Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅
--------------------
The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍
(Exquisite, refined and truly priceless)
⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
I appreciate the 2.5S over models with larger engines because of the power bandwidth-it requires and allows you to rev high and let that beautiful engine sing an exquisite song as you smile the whole way along! The bigger motors are heavier and maybe more of GT cars rebadged to keep the 911 the top tier model but the older lighter 2.5 flat 6’s like to be pushed and provide more of a connection with the car and driver while being quicker on its feet which keeps the Porsche spirit alive and keeps you smiling ANYTIME you drive
(Light,perfect balance,great handling,high revving convertible=A PHENOMENAL&SPLENDID TIME🤩)
People sleep on the 2.5’s and some even sleep on the Triptronic S transmissions but I have driven many cars and the 99’ 986 manual or Triptronic S’s are truly a hidden gem!!!
Especially for those that love2drive😉
Forgot to mention it will always be a sharp, classy, iconic, refined and beautiful piece of engineering full of original Porsche spirit! A one of a kind Timeless piece of art indeed-👌
(The 986 was the first water cooled Porsche also making it apart of history forever! ICONS live forever⏳)
Truly a timeless peice of engineering that is often overlooked but appreciated by those that truly value engineering&ear to ear smiles on the road from the backroads to the tracks
2.5 IS A DRAGON PERIOD-🏆🐲🏎️
(Light,perfect balance, short gear ratios, high revs=HIGHTIMES⚙️🥳)
Your spirit connected with the spirit from Porsches engineering and cars that represented their true original glory will bring smiles and love to your stiry and your own person journey 😉
I just paid top dollar for a pristine 2.5. I only wanted a 2.5, not a 2.7, because I see the low torque and power as a feature, for the challenge of keeping up momentum. Also, the short ratio box appeals, as does the purity of the original first version. And the twin row IMS is the icing on the cake.
Drive a low mile well maintained 986. Perhaps the most underrated car of all time. I love my base 01.
how many miles? What is a decent mileage 986 base?
@@musaahmed2431 I bought mine with 34k miles.
Imo, that was DEF a bit of under selling this timless, automotive masterpiece that is the 986 Boxster (S model, lets be specific).
This machane literally ticks ALL the right boxes that true sports car enthusiasts look for and appreciate; whether it be the sound, the handling, the timeless looks, performance etc. Its literally at the top of the podium when it comes to all time greatest sports car platforms and its legacy and frame/bones/roots live on all the way up to the Boxster/Cayman/ Spyder RS renditions...
Judging by all the noises, there is a lot of component wear. That would explain the issues you describe.
Bought a 2002 986 Boxster S at the end of Juli last summer, been waiting for winter to get over so I can bring her back out, but it does require some more work, I think I would like to do suspension just to properly feel how the car was meant to ride, and I am really not sure about the steering in mine. Feels rather heavy
The 986 beats the living heck out of the Modern MX5 in every way! I love the little light moderns Mazda’s but the 2.5 Flat 6 in the 986 is a pure pleasure to drive with a 5 speed manual or even with the triptronic transmission it always puts a smile on your face! I would not agree it’s a “cruiser” not a “Sharp sports car” as the video suggest, it’s a car with a spirit and personality that you have to learn in order to make the human connection with this mid engine, perfectly balanced and weighted delight if a machine and German engineering! The balance is impeccable and they even had to down grade the performance so it would not compete with the 911! Both the Mazda MX5 and 986 are light on their feet and handle phenomenally, the 986 has much more performance but actually requires precise drivers input versus the MX5 which seems like easy to drive and handle after a few runs! The 986 has better balance, more power with high revving linear power&WAY more refined fun⚙️🥳
It’s a car that not only grows with you day by day as you bond with it but a car that grows on you as you appreciate its refined and exquisite performance! The car’s abilities are far more advanced than the drivers ability which makes it’s a fun car that’s quick on its feet with perfect balance but also a tool that is an extension of the driver that provides ability and a charm that is just lacking with the Mazda’s-It’s impeccable 👌
Ps. If you know you know! Perfect balance, perfect powerband, exquisite style and personality with amazing German engineering and charm that you will appreciate day by day as you and the car become 1-💚
Ps. If you are a driver you will appreciate a car that has the perfect balance, character and charm of the 986-it’s a pricless and ever growing experience and journey of love and life! The 986 still has the spirit of the original Porsches and those that drive them have a relationship where not only is that spirit evoked from the car but a journey is started with the driver constantly refining the drivers abilities in a marvel of engineering and a hidden gem in the car community with smiles ear to ear included 🥳✅
--------------------
The experience of a mid engine, flat 6 convertible with a high revving motor and perfect balance is one that cannot truly be put into words but only experienced and enjoyed! 🤩👍
(Exquisite, refined and truly priceless)
⚙️🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨💨
I appreciate the 2.5S over models with larger engines because of the power bandwidth-it requires and allows you to rev high and let that beautiful engine sing an exquisite song as you smile the whole way along! The bigger motors are heavier and maybe more of GT cars rebadged to keep the 911 the top tier model but the older lighter 2.5 flat 6’s like to be pushed and provide more of a connection with the car and driver while being quicker on its feet which keeps the Porsche spirit alive and keeps you smiling ANYTIME you drive
(Light,perfect balance,great handling,high revving convertible=A PHENOMENAL&SPLENDID TIME🤩)
People sleep on the 2.5’s and some even sleep on the Triptronic S transmissions but I have driven many cars and the 99’ 986 manual or Triptronic S’s are truly a hidden gem!!!
Especially for those that love2drive😉
that's one well written opinion, but I can't for the life of me figure out in what way it corresponds to what I wrote in regards to my own Boxster. I made no mentions of a Mazda MX5@@dsrrecordsent
@@Anathriel S2000’s, MX5’s, MR2’s & other light weight convertibles (BMW/MERCEDES)-Are often compared to the older 986 Porsche especially in todays used marketplace and with the used market so that was just an example but as stated the 986 is incomparable, beautiful, timeless&classic🏆
(It’s an iconic feat of engineering with no competitors that is truly an extension of the driver while providing exquisite refinement-)
Good choice! Enjoy your driving experience it’s one of a kind that can never be compared
🏆⚙️🏁🏎️🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨💨💨✅
please keep these a secret lol
Always has been and always will be
Don’t suppose cross climate tyres would help with feel and grip…
Do Decker Canyon Malibu.... ❤🎉
You need the car inspected. My Boxster has much better steering. Also check your hand position, it's way off.
9 and 3 hand position is way off? lol ok
Commuting speeds.joke
I heard the tires squeal some... but yeah, take street reviews for what they are: sights and sounds, maybe descriptions of control feel are helpful... chassis dynamics are not on play, and shouldn't be judged.... those would all be unrecognizably changed anyway if you want the track/race car version...
God, I wish my 987.2 Cayman S sounded as good as a 986. So musical.
My 987.2 Boxster sounds fantastic. Carnewal exhaust is responsible for that! Gr. from Belgium.
@@streetfighter3k144 I guess it depends what you like. Exhaust wouldn't fix the problem I have with the 987.2 sound. It's the induction howl that makes the 986 sound so nice and for me Porsche flat sixes are about induction howl, not loud exhausts. Noisy exhausts just give the car a pretty generic roar.