One of the most significant cars in Porsche’s history, the Type 986 Boxster can be held responsible for reversing the fortunes of the legendary Stuttgart firm, steering it towards the highly profitable success story it is today. In 1992, Porsche sales numbers bottomed out at a scant 4,131 units across the North American market as a result of a stagnant model lineup, which included heavily revised versions of cars which had been in production for over a decade: the 944/968, 911, and 928.

Efforts soon began to develop a new entry-level Porsche, and the Boxster concept was presented at the 1993 North American International Auto Show to great fanfare. Harkening back to the 356 speedsters and 550 Spyders of old, the Boxster featured a midengined roadster configuration much like the popular 914 of the 1970s. Series production began mid-1996 and with advisement from Toyota, the platform shared many components with the new Type 996 911 including the front fenders, hood, and headlights, as well as elements of the interior and engine, in order to streamline complexity and costs.

At launch the Boxster was powered by a 2.5-liter water-cooled flat six-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower, which could be mated to either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic gearbox. In the year 2000, the Boxster S was introduced with a larger 3.2-liter engine outputting 247 horsepower and was further equipped with larger brakes from the 911, a six-speed gearbox, revised suspension components, and a third radiator behind a central opening in the front bumper.

On offer is on such example of the first-model-year Porsche Boxster S. Exceptionally well-optioned, the exterior is finished in desirable Viola Metallic paint over a full Black leather interior with supple leather power, heated seats. The exterior is equipped with the Aerokit, 18-inch Turbo-look alloy wheels, headlight washers, rain sensing wipers, roll bars in exterior color, a hard top, and Xenon headlights. Interior appointments include the Dark Burr Maple package, a three-spoke steering wheel with dark wood, remote CD changer, digital sound package, footwell lighting, cruise control, and a windstop.

Over the past 20 years, this Porsche has benefited from single-family ownership and covered just 4,522 miles at time of cataloguing. Prior to the auction the car will be serviced, and once completed, invoices will be on file.

Boxsters are rarely seen with such an extensive option list, and with this low of mileage, making this example an exciting opportunity not to be missed.