15k-Mile 1997 Porsche Boxster 5-Speed

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1997 Porsche Boxster represents a momentous chapter in Porsche’s modern history—a car that redefined the brand while staying true to its sporting soul. Introduced that year, the Boxster emerged at a critical moment, helping stabilize Porsche financially and expanding its appeal to a new generation of enthusiasts.

The 1997 Boxster (internal designation 986) featured a mid‑engine layout, a configuration Porsche had not used in a production road car for decades. Power came from a 2.5‑liter horizontally opposed six‑cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower and 181 lb-ft. of torque, paired with either a five‑speed manual or optional Tiptronic automatic transmission. This layout provided excellent weight distribution and handling balance.

Designed by American Grant Larsen, the Boxster combined modern design with classic Porsche elements, including rounded bodywork and cues inspired by the 356 and 550 Spyder. The interior emphasized functionality, with a driver‑focused cockpit and high material quality for the segment.

Showing only 14,800 miles, this Boxster is finished in Arctic Silver Metallic paint accented with 17 inch 996 Carrera-look twist-spoke wheels. Notably, the IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing was replaced under previous ownership, and the car is fitted with a desirable factory five-speed manual transmission.

This low-mile, unmodified 1997 Porsche Boxster is now offered by the selling dealer with a CARFAX history report and a clean Pennsylvania title.

Highlights

• Offered from Collectible Classics

• First-year Boxster showing 14,800 miles

• 2.5‑liter water-cooled flat‑six

• Five speed manual transmission

• Unmodified example

Factory Equipment

• Finished in Arctic Silver Metallic (X1) paint

• Black partial leather interior

• Black power‑operated soft top

• Four‑wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS

• Integrated rollover protection

• Two‑seat, driver‑focused cockpit

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel

• Power windows, central locking

• The option sticker decodes as:

  • L92U – Arctic Silver Metallic paint

  • AS – Black partial leather upholstery

  • C02 – Version for US

  • 139 – Seat heating, left

  • 231 – Internal production code related to tires

  • 273 – Door mirrors electrically adjustable and heated

  • 340 – Seat heating, right

  • 396 – 17″ 996 Carrera-look twist-spoke wheels

  • 441 – Radio preparation

  • 454 – Automatic speed control

  • 490 – Sound system (6 speakers)

  • 535 – Alarm 315 MHz

  • 551 – Wind deflector

  • 582 – Storage pocket on engine cover

  • 688 – CD-radio Becker Porsche CDR-210

  • 692 – 6-disc CD changer Becker Porsche CDC-3

Servicing & Documentation

• May 2025: Spark plugs replaced

• The IMS bearing was reportedly replaced under previous ownership with an LN Engineering kit (serial number: IMSR21519)

Known Imperfections

• Exterior imperfections are highlighted in a YouTube video below

• The included CARFAX history report lists the following (see report for full details):

  • May 2011: Accident reported involving right front impact with another motor vehicle, vehicle was not damaged

Ownership History

The accompanying CARFAX history report shows this Boxster being sold new in New York. It has remained registered in Pennsylvania since 1999.

Included Items

• Tool roll