The Boxster and Cayman are some of the best-balanced sports cars Porsche makes, and enthusiasts know it. Porsche has announced that the next generation will be electric, which has made the last gasoline cars, especially the flat-six GT models, more sought after.
This page covers the Boxster, Cayman and 718. For other Porsches and the full comparison of ways to sell, see the main Porsche guide.
At a glance
- Most sought after
- GT4, GT4 RS, Spyder and Spyder RS, plus the 718 GTS 4.0, especially with manual gearboxes.
- Biggest lever
- Engine and transmission. Flat-six and manual cars carry premiums.
- Common question
- IMS bearing and bore scoring on the 986 and 987.1.
- Best route
- Enthusiast auction or specialist for GT models and manuals. Dealer or private sale for the rest.
Which Boxster or Cayman do you have?
986 Boxster
1997–2004The original Boxster with the M96 flat-six. Buyers ask about the IMS bearing, so receipts for an IMS upgrade help a lot. Values are modest, so condition and records drive the offer.
987 Boxster and Cayman
2005–2012The first generation of Cayman arrived in 2006. 987.1 cars use the M97 engine (IMS and bore-scoring questions); 987.2 cars from 2009 use a direct-injection engine without an IMS bearing. The Cayman R and Boxster Spyder are sought after.
981 Boxster and Cayman
2013–2016Naturally aspirated flat-sixes and a new chassis. The Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder, both manual-only, are collectibles.
718 Boxster and Cayman
2017–presentTurbocharged four-cylinder engines in the standard cars, which some buyers avoid. The GTS 4.0, GT4, Spyder, GT4 RS and Spyder RS use flat-sixes and carry clear premiums.
What Boxster or Cayman buyers check first
- EngineA flat-six is worth much more to most buyers than a four-cylinder 718. The GT models and GTS 4.0 lead demand.
- TransmissionManual cars carry premiums, especially GTS 4.0, GT4 and Spyder models.
- Engine evidenceIMS bearing and borescope paperwork for 986 and 987.1 cars. The DME over-rev report for manual GT cars.
- OptionsSport Chrono, PASM, ceramic brakes, sport exhaust, bucket seats and Paint to Sample colors. A Porsche Certificate of Authenticity can confirm options from the VIN.
- Track historyDisclosed track use is normal on GT4s and Spyders. Be upfront and include brake and tire records.
Where to sell a Boxster or Cayman
GT4, GT4 RS, Spyder, Spyder RS and GTS 4.0
Online enthusiast auctions or a specialist. These cars draw competitive bidding, especially with manual gearboxes.
Standard 718s and 981s
A Porsche dealer, Porsche's own selling program, or a specialist buyer. Compare at least two offers.
986 and 987 cars
A private sale or a specialist buyer. Engine documentation sets the price.
Every route, compared side by side, is in the Porsche guide. Still paying off a loan or lease? See selling a Porsche with a loan or lease.
Documents that add value
- Window sticker or Porsche Certificate of Authenticity
- IMS bearing or borescope documentation (986 and 987.1)
- DME over-rev report (manual GT cars)
- Service records and both keys
Common questions
Is a six-cylinder Cayman worth more than a four-cylinder 718?
To most buyers, yes. The flat-six GTS 4.0 and GT models carry clear premiums over the turbocharged four-cylinder cars.
Which Boxsters have the IMS bearing problem?
The M96 and M97 engines in the 986 and 987.1 Boxster and Cayman, roughly 1997 to 2008. Cars from 2009 use a different engine without an IMS bearing.
Will the Cayman GT4 hold its value?
GT4s have been among the most sought-after modern Porsches, especially manuals. Values still depend on generation, mileage, spec and track history.
Is the next Boxster electric?
Porsche has announced that the next Boxster and Cayman will be electric, which has increased interest in the last gasoline cars.