Choose the engine and gearbox after driving both, then buy on condition. A well-kept 2.7 can be a better road car for your budget than an S with cooling, roof and tyre work due. Make a full roof cycle and a lift inspection part of the viewing.
Which Porsche Boxster 981 should you buy?
Porsche’s Boxster history identifies the 981 generation introduced in 2012. The 2.7, 3.4 S and 3.4 GTS are naturally aspirated flat-sixes. Confirm manual or PDK, suspension options and fitted brakes. Price the Spyder separately and distinguish the 981 from the earlier 987 and later 718.
UK asking prices
On 6 November 2026, PistonHeads listed a 2014 2.7 manual at £22,500 with 67,057 miles, a 2015 2.7 PDK at £32,490 with 28,800 miles and a 2015 S PDK at £33,995 with 53,200 miles. These are asking prices. Compare engine, gearbox, equipment and condition.
Common problems and inspection points
Roof, drains and air conditioning
Cycle the hood fully and check fabric, window operation, seals and the spaces behind the seats for moisture. Ask about drain work and trace any leak. Test air conditioning after a drive and look for damage or debris around condensers and radiators.
Engine and gearboxes
Observe cold start and hot idle. Check levels, cooling and visible leaks. On a manual, check selection and clutch slip. On PDK, assess cold engagement and warm low-speed shifts, and request gearbox invoices. Get persistent noises or warning messages diagnosed.
Suspension, brakes and underside
Inspect dampers and test PASM if fitted. Check inner tyre wear and wheel damage and ask whether the alignment adjusters move freely. Match brakes by the actual option and get a lift inspection of jacking points and underside.
Maintenance and parts
The flat-six uses timing chains and a separate accessory belt. Confirm oil, plugs, brake fluid and transmission work against Porsche’s schedule and actual equipment.
Affiliate disclosure. We may earn a commission on purchases through the eBay links below. These are indicative UK parts-only allowances. Confirm the OE number and get fitted quotes separately.
| Part | Allowance | Fitment check |
|---|---|---|
| Oil kit | £65–£145 | Confirm engine. |
| Spark plugs | £55–£145 | Check fitment. |
| Ignition coil | £30–£85 | Diagnose first. |
| Alternator | £175–£470 | Match OE number. |
| Accessory belt | £40–£150 | Check routing. |
| AC condenser | £75–£205 | Confirm side and leak. |
| Radiator | £115–£300 | Check side and equipment. |
| Front brakes | £190–£510 | Verify fitted brakes. |
| Manual clutch | £240–£620 | Quote flywheel separately. |
| PDK service parts | £120–£310 | Verify service scope. |
| Roof seal | £45–£190 | Trace leak and confirm position. |
Hidden ownership costs
Get fitted quotes for condensers, roof work, premium tyres and brakes. Ask what a pre-purchase inspection covers. Price PASM and gearbox symptoms separately rather than assuming routine servicing will solve them.
Viewing checklist
- Confirm VIN, build, equipment and service history.
- Inspect from cold and road test fully warm.
- Check tyres, brakes, underbody and warning history.
- Get itemised estimates for work due.
- Check MOT history and obtain written repair estimates.
Porsche Boxster 981 FAQ
Does the 981 have a turbo engine?
The 2.7, S and GTS covered here are naturally aspirated.
Should I choose manual or PDK?
Drive both and compare the actual histories.
What should I check on the roof?
Full operation, seals, drains and any moisture behind the seats.
