Say Hi to the new guy.

I currently drive an extremely modded '02 MINI Cooper S, but I'm in the market for a Boxster to replace it.

I drove one for the first time yesterday, it was a bare bones '02 base model. I was completely blown away by the handling, the MINI is no pig in the twisties and I dialed out the understeer in mine with a rear sway bar, but it's still a wrong wheel drive drive car. Driving the Boxster was a totally different experience, the power is ok, but like most of you, I think more would be better.

I've had my share of high horsepower cars, a couple 5.0 Mustangs and a 96 Z-28 with a supercharged 383. I got rid of the Z-28 back in 2000 and of all things, I picked up a '98 Crown Vic with the police package. The only good thing about that car was it's ability to cause "trooper blindness".

When the MINI Cooper was introduced here I just had to have one, I owned a classic Mini as a teenager back in the 80's. I've always enjoyed small displacement, high performance cars and once my testosterone levels normalized Handling became just as important as power once again.

I need some advice from you folks: I was looking at 2000's due to the larger engine, but I came across an unbelievable deal on a '99. Is there a really big difference between the 2.5 and the 2.7?

Anything I should know about maintenance issues? Besides the cost

Thanks for any information you can provide.

X2

 

Glad that you enjoyed the Boxster. It's still the ultimate example of the roadster concept - light weight, good size, and good performance.
On paper there may not be too many differences, but, FWIW, I prefer the smoother operation & better hp & Torque curves of the 2.7. Makes the car easier to drive well. Also note that there were several other changes that reduced noise, vibration, & harshness.
Either way, you can't go wrong - but I'd hold out for the 2.7.
J

 

Always buy the newest one you can afford...

I have a 2002 base Boxster, LOVE IT!

 

If I get the '99, what kind of $$ am I looking at to upgrade the engine in a couple of years? The car I'm looking at only has 14K on the clock and is in pristine condition with a clean Car Fax and service history.

X2

 

Why not just buy a Boxster S? The power differance between the 2.5 and 2.7 are not much. The newer 2.7 has more HP then the first gen 2.7

The first gen 2.7 puts out 217Bhp , about 16 More HP then the 2.5
If you can get a Boxster S I would do that.


Your 96 Z-28 with a supercharged 383, sounds like a fun car to drive, but I was never a big fan of the mini, it reminds me of a circus car. The '98 Crown Vic sounds interesting too.

 

I think I may have to disagree with the others on this one. Up until now I have agreed with those that thought more power is better. Then I did my first race. Now I think it is FAR more fun to blow past the higher horsepower cars in my underpowered "Chic Car". Man, nothing has ever felt better than to have the guy that was driving the monster 911 I blew past in T1 and 2 come by after the practice session and say "Dude, what have you done to that car to make it so damn fast?" To which I responded "Nothing, it's completely stock" (of course with a smirk).

When Ferry Porsche designed the 356 and took it racing he wanted a low horsepower, lightwieght, excellent handling giant killer (the Chevy's and Ford's of the era). It worked. Today, with the 911 growing in power, wieght, and size the giant killer is the Boxster. People think the 911 is the "true" Porsche. But in the spirit of Ferry Porsche's original dream it is actually the 914, 944, and now the 986.

My advice is to take advantage of the good deal on the '99. Put some sticky tires on it, maybe some aero, and possibly a suspension. Keep your right foot in it, even when you don't think you can, and enjoy the heck out of how awe inspiring it will be when you tell them it's a stock 2.5L.

Of course I may not know what the heck I'm talking about as I have a '02 S .

 

Net makes a good argument for the 2.5L. Everyone always focuses on power, when in reality their track times would improve with more seat time and suspension mods.

That said, I got the 'S' and have not regretted the decision.

You should probably drive the different models before you come to a conclusion. There are plenty to choose from, so you should be able to find a good deal.

 

Thanks guys, I may go for the '99, it's 10k less than the '02 and I can use that money for mods. Even though it's a couple years older, it only has 4000 more miles on it.

X2

 

'Net - that's why my preference is for the 2.7 (newer versions) and the 2.5's. While the "S" variants are higher HP, the "regular" Boxster is just so well balanced and fun to drive that I just can't imagine any other car being as much fun to drive!!
J

 

If it's a true bargain, those are hard to pass up. I didn't!

 

My "true bargain" just turned into a nightmare. Check out the Car Fax report below.

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Report Generated for
Marlon C Mitchell
For Personal Use Only


Since its establishment as an independent company in 1986, CARFAX has collected the largest vehicle history database in North America. This database currently includes over 2.7 billion records from thousands of public and private sources.

A CARFAX Vehicle History Report is based only on information supplied to CARFAX. Other information about this vehicle, including problems, may not have been reported to CARFAX. Use this report as one important tool, along with a vehicle inspection and test drive, to make a better decision about your next used car.



ALERT! Severe problems (major accidents, fire, flood damage, major odometer problems or lemon history) were reported by a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568). This vehicle does NOT qualify for the CARFAX Buyback Guarantee.


CARFAX Talking CarTM
The story of this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568) according to our interpretation of the information reported to CARFAX:
This convertible has had 4 owners and was owned in Florida and Virginia. It was originally registered as a corporate lease vehicle. The leasing company actually owned this vehicle and collected payments from a company, like a bank or firm, until the vehicle was sold or the lease expired. These vehicles are typically used for business purposes.
It was severely damaged and issued a Salvage and Flood title by a DMV.
CARFAX found a potential odometer rollback of 4,167 miles. The readings suggesting this rollback were collected by a DMV or other verifiable source.
It was not reported to a DMV as a Manufacturer Buyback (LEMON).
It has no recalls that still require repair.
Its basic warranty has expired. You may want to discuss an extended warranty with your dealer.
Go to the Detailed Vehicle History for the complete history and a glossary of terms.


Report Summary
1. ACCIDENT CHECK

Total Loss Check Severe Accident or Total Loss Event Reported to DMV
Other Accident Indicators No Accident Indicators Reported
2. MILEAGE ACCURACY CHECK

Truth-In-Mileage Check No Odometer Problems Reported to DMV
Odometer Rollback Check Potential Odometer Rollback Found
Mileage Consistency Check No Inconsistent Odometer Reading Found
3. LEMON CHECK®
No Mfr. Buyback Reported to DMV
4. OWNERSHIP CHECK

Number of Owners 4 Estimated Owner(s)
Type of Owners Originally Registered as a Corporate Lease Vehicle
5. RECALL CHECK
No Open Recall(s) Reported
6. WARRANTY CHECK
No Coverage Remaining on Basic Warranty
DETAILED VEHICLE HISTORY 16 HISTORY RECORDS REPORTED
Tell us what you know about this vehicle







Year/Make/Model: 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER

Body Style: CONVERTIBLE
Engine: 2.5L H6 FI DOHC 24V
Fuel: GASOLINE
Driveline: REAR WHEEL DRIVE
Manufactured in: GERMANY
Safety Equipment: 4 wheel ABS, Dual air bags front and sides/active (manual) belts

Standard Equipment: Power Windows, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, AM / FM Cassette, Power Brakes


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Still looking for the perfect PORSCHE BOXSTER? Check out a list of them in your area.




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How safe and reliable is this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER?
Find out with the CARFAX Safety & Reliability Report.


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Get a complete, up-to-date list of CARFAX Certified Cars


What are other CARFAX customers saying about this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER?
Share what you know about this vehicle - Add a CARFAX Customer Rating & Comment.


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Get safe teen driving tips and information with the CARFAX Safe Teen Drivers Program.





Total Loss Check:


ALERT! Severe damage events were reported by a DMV for this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568). This vehicle does NOT qualify for the CARFAX Buyback Guarantee.

Salvage Title Reported No Loss Due To Fire Title Reported
No Junk Title Reported Flood Damage Title Reported
No Rebuilt/Reconstructed Title Reported No Hail Damage Title Reported
No Dismantled Title Reported No Canadian Total Loss Record Reported

Other Accident Indicators:


This 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568) had no accident indicators reported to CARFAX from its sources. This section checks for accidents and/or related damage reported from many public and private sources. Not all accidents are reported to CARFAX. A vehicle inspection completed by your dealer or professional mechanic is recommended.

No Salvage Auction Record Reported No Crash Test Vehicle Record Reported
No Fire Damage Record Reported No Airbag Deployment Record Reported
No Police Accident Record Reported No Damage Disclosure Record Reported


CARFAX depends on public and private sources for its accident data. Each one of these sources has different processing times. CARFAX can only report what is in our database on 01.Apr.2004 13:55:55. New data will result in a change to this report.
Not all accidents are reported to the Police. Tell us if you know of other fender benders, accidents or damage.

Accident Check FAQs:
Accident FAQs | Glossary | CARFAX Help Center





Truth-In-Mileage Check:


None of the following major odometer problems were ever reported by a DMV under the Truth-In-Mileage Act for this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568).

Not Actual Mileage Title - issued by DMV when the owner discloses mileage fraud or a broken odometer.
Exceeds Mechanical Limits Title - issued by DMV when the owner discloses an odometer rollover.


Odometer Rollback Check:


CARFAX found a potential odometer rollback for this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568). These readings were collected by a DMV or other verifiable source.

Reading reported on 01/11/2000: 9,783 miles
Reading reported on 03/22/2000: 5,616 miles
Potential odometer rollback of: 4,167 miles



Mileage Consistency Check:


CARFAX found no other inconsistent odometer readings in the mileage history of this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568).



Do you know this vehicle's current mileage? Tell us and help protect others from mileage fraud.

Mileage Accuracy Check FAQs:
Mileage Accuracy FAQs | Glossary | CARFAX Help Center






No manufacturer buyback was ever reported by a DMV for this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568).

Lemon Check FAQs:
Lemon Check FAQs | Glossary | CARFAX Help Center






Ownership History:


CARFAX estimates that this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568) had 4 owner(s). CARFAX analyzed this vehicle's title history and other supporting events to identify potential ownership transfers. In compliance with the U.S. privacy laws, CARFAX does not collect or report owner names or addresses.

Estimated Owners: Date: Location:
1st owner 11/05/1998 Florida
2nd owner 10/09/2000 Florida
3rd owner 07/08/2002 Florida
4th owner 08/14/2003 Virginia

CARFAX AdvisorTM
The cost of ownership varies by vehicle. Go to Edmunds.com to check the recommended service schedule and estimated costs for this vehicle.



Types of Owners:


This 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568) was originally registered as a Corporate Lease Vehicle.

No Personal Use Registration Reported Fleet Registration Reported
Lease Registration Reported No Commercial Registration Reported
No Rental Registration Reported No Non-Profit Registration Reported
No Government Registration Reported No Built to Non U.S. Standards Record Reported
No Taxi Registration Reported

Do you have information about how this vehicle was used or driven? Tell us what you know.

Ownership Check FAQs:
Ownership FAQs | Glossary | CARFAX Help Center






This 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568) has no recalls that still require repair.

Date: Source: Description:
04/01/2004 Porsche Cars North America No recalls open for repair

Recall Check FAQs:
Recall FAQs | Glossary | CARFAX Help Center




CARFAX estimated the remaining original manufacturer warranty coverage for this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568) using the date this report was generated (01.Apr.2004 13:55:55) and the last odometer reading reported to CARFAX.
CARFAX used time only to calculate the remaining warranty coverage because mileage problems were found in this vehicle's history. See Mileage Accuracy Check.

Estimated start date of warranty: 10/01/1998
Last reading reported on 11/24/2003: True mileage unknown
Today's Date: April 1, 2004

Type of Coverage: Original Warranty: Remaining Coverage:
Basic 48 months or 50,000 miles Coverage expired
Drivetrain 48 months or 50,000 miles Coverage expired
Emissions 24 months or 24,000 miles Coverage expired
Corrosion 120 months or unlimited mileage 54 months or unlimited mileage
Transferable Transferable at no cost Same
Roadside Assistance 48 months or unlimited mileage Coverage expired
Safety belt & inflatable restraint No data reported to CARFAX

CARFAX Warranty Check provides an estimate of this vehicle's remaining warranty coverage. It does not take into account some vehicle history events. For example, major accidents resulting in Salvage or Junk titles that may void the original manufacturer warranty or ownership transfers that may decrease warranty coverage. Complete warranty coverage information is available for this vehicle at the at the PORSCHE web site.


Warranty Calculator FAQs:
Warranty FAQs | Glossary | CARFAX Help Center



CARFAX searched more than 2.7 billion records from over 5,300 sources and found 16 record(s) for this 1999 PORSCHE BOXSTER (WP0CA2984XU622568).

Date:
Mileage Reading:
Source:
General Comments:


10/01/1998 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Sarasota, FL
Registered as
corporate lease vehicle


10/20/1998 17 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Sarasota, FL
Title #76496248
Odometer reading reported for title


11/05/1998 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Sarasota, FL
Title #76496248
Title issued
First owner reported


01/11/2000 9,783 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Fort Myers, FL
Odometer reading reported for title


01/19/2000 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Fort Myers, FL
Title #0076496248
Title issued


03/22/2000 5,616 Service Facility
Vehicle serviced
POTENTIAL ODOMETER ROLLBACK

CARFAX AdvisorTM
The readings causing this rollback were collected by a DMV or other verifiable source. Please verify the mileage with your dealer or a qualified mechanic.

09/12/2000 9,202 Auto Auction
Sold at auction
in Southeast Region
Listed as
a dealer vehicle


09/15/2000 9,230 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Lake Mary, FL
Odometer reading reported for title


10/09/2000 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Lake Mary, FL
Title #0076496248
Title issued
New owner reported
Loan or lien reported


07/08/2002 11,811 Florida
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Lake Mary, FL
Title #0076496248
Title issued
New owner reported


09/20/2002 12,542 Dealer Inventory
Maitland, FL
Vehicle offered for sale


09/23/2002 Dealer Inventory
Smyrna, TN
Vehicle offered for sale


10/21/2002 12,557 Dealer Inventory
Maitland, FL
Vehicle offered for sale


08/14/2003 14,510 Virginia
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Staunton, VA
Title or registration issued
New owner reported


11/24/2003 14,857 Virginia
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Virginia Beach, VA
SALVAGE TITLE/CERTIFICATE ISSUED
FLOOD DAMAGE TITLE ISSUED


04/01/2004 Porsche Cars North America No recalls open for repair
Tell us what you know about this vehicle

Detailed Vehicle History Definitions:

First Owner
When the first owner(s) obtains a title from a Department of Motor Vehicles as proof of ownership.

Fleet Vehicle
Vehicle was registered or sold to a company that manages vehicle fleets.

Flood Damage Title
States issue flood titles when a vehicle has been in a flood or has received extensive water damage.

Lease
When someone leases a car from a dealer, the dealer actually sells the vehicle to a leasing company. The leasing company then collects payments for the vehicle from the new owner for 24, 36, 48 or more months. A leasing company can be an independent car dealer or a car manufacturer.

Odometer Rollback
If a more recent odometer reading is less than an older reading, then the odometer may have been tampered with and "rolled back." The odometer readings triggering "Potential Odometer Rollback" are collected by a DMV or other verified source.

New Owner Reported
When a vehicle is sold to a new owner, the Title must be transferred to the new owner(s) at a Department of Motor Vehicles.

Salvage Title
A Salvage Title is issued on a vehicle damaged to the extent that the cost of repairing the vehicle for safe operation exceeds its fair market value; or a vehicle that has been declared a Total Loss by an insurer or other state or jurisdiction. Some states treat Junk titles the same as Salvage but the majority use this title to indicate that a vehicle is not road worthy and cannot be titled again in that state. The following ten States also use Salvage titles to identify stolen vehicles - AZ, FL, GA, IL, MN, NJ, NM, NY, OK and OR.


Detailed Vehicle History FAQs:
Detailed Vehicle History FAQs | Glossary | CARFAX Help Center




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CARFAX DEPENDS ON ITS SOURCES FOR THE ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY OF ITS INFORMATION. THEREFORE, NO RESPONSIBILITY IS ASSUMED BY CARFAX OR ITS AGENTS FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS IN THIS REPORT. CARFAX FURTHER EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. CARFAX®

Need help? Please visit our Help Center at www.carfax.com.

© 2004 CARFAX, Inc., an R.L. Polk & Co. company. All rights reserved. Patents pending. 01.Apr.2004 13:55:55

 

Yikes!!! Good thing you looked into it!

One (MAJOR) lemon aside, I still think you can find some really good bargains in the early cars and won't be disappointed with the "lack of power". I know I'm quite happy with mine.

Good luck!

 

You wont be dissapointed with a 2.5,I sold my 964 and bought a 2.5 and havent looked back.less power yes but much more fun with the boxsters awsome handling .

Paul

 

How much were they asking for this car? Could make for a good dedicated track/race car for someone.

 

They wanted $21,900 for it.

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...or=&cardist=29