Newbie advice

[pacemaker1000]

hi all
i am thinking of buying a 2003 2.7 and want to know what to look out for and advice on where and where not to buy
i want the facelift model and as low a milage as i can get. as an enthusiast it must be in excellent condition
i presently own a vw eos and have got the convertible bug but my wife hates driving it cos all our other cars have been auto plus i am fed up changing cars every year so thought i would get a boxster for myself and keep it for a long while and get her a better car than she has as a family car and every day run around
should i be worried about running up a high milage over a few years i plan on getting a 20-30 k car and a average around 8k?
what running costs can i expect?
does the 2003 2.7 keep under the high road tax for emmissions like the new one?
plus anything else you think i should consider
thanks in advance
alan

 

[susiebox]

Hi Alan,

I bought my 2.7 Boxster from 911BOX in Keston, Kent nearly 3 years ago. All their cars are in great condition and Pat or Geoff are always happy to answer any questions. If you are interested their web site is www.911box.co.uk.

 

[THX911]

Your running cost:
Varies with individuals when it comes to tyres, brakes, clutch, etc as it would be a lot to do with the way you would drive; also some makes of tyres give better mileage than others...

Here is something you can start looking if you plan to keep up with Porsche Centre services:
http://www.porsche.com/filestore.aspx/default.pdf?pool=uk&type=download&id=porscheservice-servicepricing-type986&lang=none&filetype=default

Since you will be doing less than 9K a year, you can replace the minor service with a annual check (no oil or pollen filter change) which works out to be £151 every other year. Above will give you an indication of what is the most you will paid for basic servicing; using a reputable independent Porsche garage will always be less than the centres.

If you go private then get an inspection done. Also worth getting an official Porsche extended warranty in the price: it will cover things like RMS, engine problems, etc i.e. while you get to know the car for the first year...you can then decide whether to renew it or not...

All the best,

 

[Rob Edwards]

Hi Pacemaker
I would recommend a good Porsche specialist rather than an OPC (Official Porsche Centre) as they will be aware of any niggles and will have rectified them, plus they usually offer a warranty, so some peace of mind can be had there.
There are lots of specialists - Camtune/Paragon/Shirleys/Specialist of Maton to name but a few - have a look in one of the porsche magazines for further names and ones in your area.
Take your time, and choose carefully - there are LOTS of Boxsters out there so there's no rush.
The 2003 is a good choice as it has (I think) the glass rear screen which saves a lot of hassle and is clearer (and heated). I think the 2003MY also had a mild facelift, but I cannot be certain, so check.
Porsches are rugged cars, and properly looked after can take big mileages without complaint - just make sure yours is in top order when you buy, and think about an inspection by a specialist or a knowledgeable friend. You'll also get an idea of what they are worth from the magazines such as GT Magazine, 911 and Porsche World etc.
Have a look in the FAQ section for things to look for, and best of luck - Boxsters are practical, fast and handle brilliantly so you should not be disappointed.
Good luck
Rob