Why the 987 Generation Remains a Strong Choice
The 987 Boxster and Cayman — produced from 2005 to 2012 — represent one of the most rewarding entry points into Porsche ownership. They are mid-engined, well-balanced, and offer genuine driver involvement. Values have stabilised and in many cases risen for the better-specified examples, particularly the Cayman S and Boxster Spyder.
They are also cars that reward an informed buyer. There are specific issues to be aware of, and the service history matters considerably more than it might on a more conventional used car. Approach the purchase properly and you will find a Porsche that is genuinely enjoyable and relatively affordable to maintain. Approach it casually and problems may follow.
Engine Options and Key Differences
The 987 was offered with three main engine variants across its production run:
- 7 litre flat-six — base Boxster; adequate but the least engaging of the range
- 4 litre flat-six — Boxster S and all Cayman models (S and base); the engine most owners prefer
- 8 litre flat-six — Cayman GTS and Spyder variants; relatively rare and commands a premium
The 987.2 (2009–2012) brought the DFI direct fuel injection engine, revised suspension geometry, improved PDK availability, and — importantly — addressed some of the bore scoring risk that affected earlier cars. As a result, 987.2 examples are generally preferred by specialists, particularly in the S or GTS specification.
Known Issues: What to Look For
IMS Bearing (Pre-2009 Cars Only)
The intermediate shaft bearing issue — well documented on the 996 and early 997 — also affects early 987 engines. The IMS bearing supports the intermediate shaft in the engine and, in the original single-row design, can fail without warning.
The 987.2 moved to a different engine design that does not share this problem. For pre-2009 cars, the priority is to establish whether the IMS bearing has been replaced. If it has not, factor the cost of a replacement (typically done alongside a clutch or rear main seal job) into your purchase decision.
Bore Scoring
As covered in depth in a separate article, bore scoring — physical damage to the cylinder walls — is a known risk on both the 2.7 and 3.4 litre 987 engines, particularly the 987.1. It manifests as oil consumption, blue smoke, or a rough idle, but can also be present without obvious symptoms in its early stages.
A borescope inspection of the cylinders is strongly recommended on any pre-2009 car, and is worthwhile on 987.2 cars as well. This is a routine part of a proper pre-purchase inspection.
Coolant Pipe Failure
The coolant pipes on the 987 — particularly the plastic sections and the feed pipes to the rear heater matrix — are known to become brittle with age and heat cycling. A coolant pipe failure can cause rapid coolant loss, and if undetected, serious engine damage.
On inspection, look for any evidence of coolant residue around hose connections, the underside of the engine bay, or the rear of the car. Check the coolant reservoir level and condition. A car with an unknown coolant history is worth scrutinising carefully.
Air-Oil Separator
The air-oil separator (or cyclone separator) degrades over time and is a relatively straightforward replacement. A failed separator leads to oil-laden vapour entering the intake, which contributes to carbon build-up, rough running, and — in worse cases — bore scoring. Ask whether it has been replaced. If not, budget for it.
RMS (Rear Main Seal)
The rear main seal on the 987 engine is a known failure point. A weeping or leaking RMS will leave oil deposits at the rear of the engine and on the underside of the car. It is not catastrophic on its own, but the labour to replace it is significant as it involves removing the gearbox. If the clutch and IMS bearing are also due, doing all three at once makes sense economically.
Gearbox and Clutch Condition
The 987 was available with a six-speed manual, five-speed Tiptronic (early cars), and later the seven-speed PDK. The manual is generally the most straightforward to maintain, though clutch wear should be checked on higher-mileage cars. The Tiptronic is a conventional torque-converter automatic and tends to be robust if serviced. The PDK needs fluid changes as outlined separately — check whether this has been done.
What to Check Before Buying
Beyond the specific issues above, look for the following when viewing a 987:
- Full service history with evidence of regular oil changes — ideally annual or within Porsche’s recommended mileage intervals
- Records of any IMS bearing replacement, coolant pipe work, or air-oil separator replacement
- Evidence of PDK fluid changes on later cars (often missing)
- No warning lights on the instrument cluster — a PIWIS diagnostic check is worthwhile
- Clean engine bay with no evidence of oil weeping at the rear main seal area
- Correct tyre pressures and even wear across the axle — uneven wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues
- A test drive that includes hard acceleration from low revs — listen for any unusual noises or hesitation
Specifications to Favour
If you are buying for the driving experience, the Cayman S or Boxster S in 987.2 specification offers the best combination of performance, resolved known issues, and residual value. Manual gearbox cars hold a premium in the enthusiast market but are increasingly sought after.
The Cayman GTS (981 generation onwards) and Boxster Spyder are among the most driver-focused versions, but prices reflect this.
Avoid cars with no clear service history, significantly below-market prices without a clear explanation, or any evidence of major repairs without documentation. The 987 rewards a clean, well-documented example purchased at a fair price over a bargain with unknowns.
The Case for a Pre-Purchase Inspection
The 987’s known issues are all diagnosable with a proper inspection — they are not invisible. A pre-purchase inspection from a Porsche specialist, including a borescope check and a PIWIS diagnostic scan, gives you a clear picture of what you are buying.
The cost is modest relative to the purchase price and the potential cost of discovering a problem post-sale. We carry out pre-purchase inspections regularly and are happy to inspect any 987 — whether the car is with a dealer, a private seller, or held elsewhere in London or the surrounding area.
