Porsche - Boxster 986 [96-04] (1997)

Discover the allure of the Porsche Boxster 986 [96‑04]—a sleek, mid‑engine sports car that captured the imagination of driving enthusiasts in the late 1990s. Whether you’re hearing about its Porsche Boxster 986 [96‑04] price for the first time, or you’re a racing veteran looking to buy a 1997 Porsche Boxster 986 [96‑04] price guide, this overview gives you the key facts, realistic depreciation insights, and a snapshot of how the model sits in today’s market.

• Model Year: 1996‑2004 (including the 1997 breakout year)
• Engine: 2.0L—2.8L 4‑stroke, flat‑4, naturally aspirated (varies by generation)
• Power: 140 hp–240 hp (depending on the specific 986 variant)
• Torque: 139 lb‑ft–186 lb‑ft
• Transmission: 6‑speed manual (standard), 5‑speed manual (early models), 6‑speed automatic (optional in later years)
• Drive: Rear‑wheel drive, mid‑engine layout for optimal balance
• Fuel Type: Premium gasoline
• Fuel Economy: Approx. 17–19 mpg city / 23–25 mpg highway
• Dimensions: 4,346 mm (L) × 1,721 mm (W) × 1,132 mm (H)
• Wheelbase: 2,508 mm
• Weight: 1,285 kg–1,350 kg (depending on options)

Want to know the used Porsche Boxster 986 [96‑04] price you can expect? Prices range widely, reflecting mileage, service history, and market demand. A seasoned 1997 Boxster in excellent condition can command a premium, while more heavily driven examples are often priced lower. Generally, the best way to gauge the exact price for your local market is to browse reputable listings—most give a range rather than a fixed figure.

Depreciation – How the Boxster Falls in Value

Depreciation is a core factor when converting nostalgia into a smart investment. The Porsche Boxster 986 [96‑04] depreciation profile shares common traits with other rare mid‑engine models:

• First year: typical loss of 15‑20% of original invoice value.
• Year 2‑3: depreciation slows to 8‑12% per year.
• Years 4‑7: each year you’re likely to give up 4‑7% in resale value.
• Beyond 10 years: the vehicle can hold or even grow in value if it’s well‑maintained and EMI‑free.

Because the Market places a premium on classic performance cars that remain mostly unchanged, a 1997 Boxster that arrives in state – with its original engine, chassis, and minimal mileage—can retain a large share of earned value, especially compared to newer, more heavily modified vehicles.

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