Approx. 1700-1750 kg (depending on engine/options)
Towing Capacity:
Not Specified/Recommended
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger)
IIHS Front Offset:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Bosch 5.0 ABS/Traction Control System)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (PSM - Porsche Stability Management) on later models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags (optional)
Roll Over Protection:
Integrated roll-over bars behind seats, pop-up rollover protection system (PRC - Porsche Roll Over Capture) standard.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Porsche CR-220/CR-31 (factory radio), CD player, optional CD changer.
Speakers:
Standard speaker configuration, optional Bose High-End Sound System.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Parking Sensors:
Optional
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Limited; early models may have had provisions for optional car phones or Bluetooth modules added aftermarket.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Km:
15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first
Major Service Interval Km:
30,000 km or 24 months (includes spark plugs, filters, brake fluid flush, etc.)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (Porsche A40 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
8.5 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Glysantin G48 or equivalent (Blue/Green Ethylene Glycol based)
Coolant Capacity Liters:
Approx. 18 Liters
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1, check manual for specifics)
Known Issues
Intermediate Shaft Bearing Ims:
IMS failure is a known, albeit infrequent, major concern. Manual covers inspection and potential preventative measures/replacements.
Rear Main Seal Rms:
Rear Main Seal leaks are common, particularly as mileage increases. Manual details replacement procedures.
Oil Separator Pcv System:
The crankcase ventilation system can become clogged, leading to oil leaks or smoking. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Plastic Radiator Tanks:
Early models had plastic-tank radiators that could crack. Manual covers coolant system maintenance and radiator replacement.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
The electric convertible top mechanism and hydraulic lines can require maintenance or repair. Manual details its operation and servicing.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Porsche Legacy:
Founded by Ferdinand Porsche, renowned for sports car engineering, racing success, and iconic models like the 911.
Model Evolution
986 Introduction:
Introduced in late 1996 for the 1997 model year as a 1997 model, replacing the 968. Designed to be Porsche's accessible entry-level sports car.
Updates Facelift:
Facelift occurred for the 2003 model year, introducing updated bumpers, headlights, taillights, and interior trim. Engine sizes were also revised.
Engine Lineup Changes:
Initial 2.5L base, followed by 2.7L and 3.2L (Boxster S) engines. The 2003 facelift introduced the 3.2L as the base and a larger 3.4L for the Boxster S.
Production
Production Location:
Valmet Automotive plant in Uusikaupunki, Finland
Production Years:
1996-2004
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Award:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Esquire Car Of The Year:
Esquire Magazine's Car of the Year (1997)
Popular Mechanics Car Of The Year:
Popular Mechanics Car of the Year (1997)
Ratings
Overall Driving Experience:
Highly praised for its handling, balance, and driver engagement, often considered a purer driving experience than contemporary 911s.