Boxster / Cayman
2005–2012
The base cars: a 2.7L with 240–255 hp, then a 2.9L on the 987.2 with 255–265 hp. A great way in.
Desirability
Buyer's Guide
Porsche 987 Boxster/Cayman
2005–2012
Overview
The 987 fixed most of what people disliked about the 986, and it added the Cayman, which may be the best-balanced Porsche of the 2000s. The dividing line is 2009. The 987.1 cars (2005–08) still carry the M96/M97's IMS bearing and bore-scoring risk. The 987.2 cars got a new engine family with no IMS bearing, and the S models got direct injection. If you can stretch to a 987.2, do it. If you can't, buy a 987.1 with a clean bore scope.
- Production
- 2005–2012
- Built
- ~150,000 worldwide
- Price range
- $20,000–$80,000+
- Best years
- 2009–2012 (987.2: no IMS bearing; direct injection on S models)
What to Pay
Prices checked January 2026. Rough US market ranges. Location, history, and options move these a lot.
Project
$15,000–$25,000987.1 cars with unknown IMS status or significant issues.
Driver
$25,000–$40,000Good 987.1 S or entry 987.2 examples. Daily driver ready.
Excellent
$40,000–$60,000Well-maintained 987.2 S, Cayman R, or Boxster Spyder.
Concours
$60,000–$100,000+Low-mileage Cayman R or Spyder with documentation.
Which One to Buy
Boxster S / Cayman S
2005–2012
The 3.2L or 3.4L with 280–320 hp, bigger brakes, and an optional limited-slip differential.
Desirability
Cayman R
2011–2012
Lighter, with 330 hp, stiffer suspension, and bucket seats. The one for drivers.
Desirability
Boxster Spyder
2010–2012
The lightweight roadster, with a manual top and 320 hp. Very desirable.
Desirability
Walk Away If…
- 987.1 with unknown IMS status
- Evidence of bore scoring
- PDK with shudder or rough engagement
- Water damage from clogged drains
- Salvage title without documentation
- Heavy track use on street car (Cayman)
Pre-Purchase Inspection
What I'd check on any 987 before buying, with a rough cost if it's bad. Print it and take it with you.
Engine (987.1) 3 checks
- IMS Bearing Status The 987.1 (2005–08) still has an IMS bearing: the retrofittable single-row type in 2005, then a larger, more durable one that can't be serviced without splitting the engine. Ask about its history, check the oil filter for metal, and consider an oil analysis. The 987.2 has no IMS bearing. If bad: $2,000–3,500 for retrofit
- Bore Scoring M97 engine can develop bore scoring. Listen for knocking, check for smoke. If bad: $10,000–20,000
- Oil Consumption Some consumption is normal. Excessive consumption indicates bore issues. If bad: Varies
Engine (987.2) 3 checks
- No IMS Concerns 987.2 (2009-2012) DFI engines have no IMS bearing. Major reliability improvement. If bad: N/A
- Carbon Buildup DFI engines can develop intake valve carbon deposits at high mileage. If bad: $500–1,000 for cleaning
- Direct Injectors DFI injectors can fail causing rough running. If bad: $800–1,500
Transmission 3 checks
- Manual Transmission The six-speed manual is tough and feels great. Test every gear. If bad: $2,000–4,000
- PDK (987.2) Dual-clutch is fast and smooth. Check for shudder or harsh engagement. If bad: $2,000–5,000
- Clutch Manual clutch should engage smoothly. Mid-engine makes replacement easier. If bad: $1,500–2,500
Body & Convertible 3 checks
- Convertible Top (Boxster) Test operation. Hydraulics and cables can fail. If bad: $1,000–2,500
- Manual Top (Spyder) Spyder has manual top. Check fabric and frame condition. If bad: $500–1,500
- Window Regulators Test both windows. Less problematic than 986 but can fail. If bad: $300–600
Suspension 2 checks
- PASM Shocks If equipped, test in all modes. Shocks can develop leaks. If bad: $2,000–4,000
- Control Arm Bushings Common wear item causing clunks and handling issues. If bad: $400–800
Worth Paying Extra For
- 987.2 (2009+) for no IMS concerns
- Cayman S or Boxster S for best performance
- Manual transmission for engagement
- Complete service documentation
- PASM adaptive suspension
- Sport Chrono Package
- Cayman R or Boxster Spyder for collector potential
Running Costs
- Insurance
- $1,000–2,000/year
- Annual maintenance
- $1,500–3,000 for regular service
- Common repairs
- $800–2,000/year typical
- Fuel economy
- 20–27 MPG
Before You Buy
- The 987.2 is the safer buy: no IMS bearing to worry about.
- Many people consider the Cayman the best-handling Porsche of its era.
- The Cayman R and Boxster Spyder are already collector cars.
- The manual is more engaging. The PDK (987.2 only) is quicker.
- 987 parts cost less than 911 parts.
- The mid-engine layout makes some jobs harder. The engine is reached through panels behind the seats and from underneath.
- Planet-9 and Rennlist both have excellent 987 communities.
- Running costs are noticeably lower than a 911 of the same age.
Own a 987?
Track it in My Garage
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