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Porsche

Porsche - Boxster 986 [96-04] (1998)

Looking for the definitive overview of the Porsche Boxster 986 [96-04] and its pricing? Whether you’re researching the Porsche Boxster 986 [96-04] price for an upcoming purchase, curious about the 1998 model’s value, or comparing used options, this description gives you clear, keyword‑rich insight into what you should know before you decide.

The Boxster 986 was Porsche’s first mid‑engine roadster, introduced in 1996 and sold through 2004. Its lightweight chassis, balanced handling, and intuitive driving experience made it a favorite among enthusiasts. While the Porsche Boxster 986 [96-04] 1998 price varies by condition and mileage, understanding the model’s depreciation curve can help you gauge the true cost of ownership and find a fair deal on the used market.

  • Engine: 2.7‑ flat‑6, 280275 lb‑ft torque
  • Transmission: 6‑speed manual (optional 6‑speed Tiptronic)
  • Fuel type: Premium gasoline
  • Drive layout: Mid‑engine, rear‑wheel drive
  • Dimensions: Length 167.7 in | Width 70.2 in | Height 51.4 in | Wheelbase 90.9 in
  • Weight: Approx. 2,580 lb (dry)
  • Performance: 0–60 mph in 5.7 sec (manual), top speed 155 mph
  • Suspension: Independent MacPherson strut front, rear multi-link push‑rod
  • Brakes: 4‑wheel ventilated disc brakes; optional larger brakes with Brembo
  • Fuel economy: EPA 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway

Depreciation Insight

The Porsche Boxster 986 [96-04] depreciation profile is typical of early Porsche roadsters. In the first year after purchase, a new boxster usually loses about 15–20% of its original value due to initial market absorption and early‑owner trading. For example:

    Initial curb value: 100 % of MSRP
  • Year 1: −15 % to −20 %
  • Year 2–3: −10 % per year, especially if maintenance records are solid
  • Year 4–5: Depreciation slows to around 5 % annually as the model reaches historic status

Owners with proper maintenance logs and low mileage often see the model hold closer to the 80 %–85 % mark after five years. Imported with 1 %–2 % of the original annual depreciation rate, these cars tend to remain valuable longer, thanks to Porsche’s strong brand recognition the inherent desirability of the Boxster’s mid‑engine layout.

Why Comparisons Matter

When you ask, “What is a 1998 Porsche Boxster 986 [96-04] worth?” you’re likely comparing to contemporaries such as the 2002 Porsche Boxster 986, the Honda Acura NSX, and the Ferrari 360. In the used market, the Boxster is typically priced 25–30 % lower than the newer Ferrari or NSX while offering comparable performance and a mid‑engine driving feel.

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