Update July 31, 2020: This car is now SOLD

The mid-engined Boxster is Porsche’s answer to customers wanting both a fun and affordable sports car. Since its introduction in 1996, it not only contributed to saving the company from its financial troubles of the 90s, but has also gone on to be one of its best-selling models. Thus far, there have been four generations of Boxsters. With the current model finally being “fixed” by Porsche, I thought it would be a good time to discuss an example of Porsche’s purist offerings.

Shortly after face-lifting the 987-generation in 2008, a new model over the S was introduced just a year later. This new model, the Spyder, is meant to be a lightweight variant of the Boxster. In other words, what the RS is to the 911 the Spyder is to the Boxster. This meant putting the standard Boxster on a diet. For instance, a manual roof took the place of the automatic one. On the interior, unecessary components are gone, including the trim above the instrument cluster. Customers could still have their creature comforts if they wished, but they had to pay for them. In the end, the 987 Boxster Spyder weighs in at 1,275kg, making it at the time the lightest production Porsche.

The example in question is a 2012 model-year for sale at Ultimo Motors in Illinois. It is finished in Platinum Silver Metallic with Carrera Red Leather interior. This combination may not be of everyone’s taste, but it’s suffice to say that it is a solid combo. Jumping inside, this car has the essential interior options. This means the PCM system, A/C, and the Sport Seats. No RS-esque type of experience with this car then. Oh, and its got the 6-speed manual, an essential with such cars. The PDK transmission was an option, and there are cars with the latter transmission than there are the former.

Having only covered 6,928 mi from new, it shows that this car has not seen much driving. Compared to other examples currently for sale, this one has among the lower mileage ones. The current asking price of $64,900 USD is near the average 987 Spyder values of about $70K. This puts these cars in 997 Carrera, even Turbo, territory price-wise. Customers getting into Porsches for the first time would likely turn to the aforementioned cars. Thus, the only customer demographic for these cars would be the Boxster aficionados. That being said, it brings us to a crossroads pertaining to this price point. To have weight and power, or a lightweight body and great handling capabilities? As a 911 enthusiast, I would be looking at second-hand 997s at this price point.

If you enjoyed this post, take a look at my other “for sale” posts, or feel free to check out the rest of my website.

Sincerely,
Juan Reyes-Abreu

Credit goes to:
Ultimo Motors for information on the Boxster Spyder for sale.