2013 Porsche Boxster 2.7L Petrol · LR13 OBM

Fuel economy for the 2.7-litre naturally aspirated Boxster sits in the mid-30s mpg on a run, dropping into the low-20s around town — expect to budget around £1,400-£1,800 annually in fuel if driven moderately. Road tax is £290 per year for a petrol car of this engine capacity in band M, though classic vehicle status may apply if you reach 40 years old. Insurance tends to land in group 44-46, so quotes of £600-£1,000 are typical depending on postcode and driving history.

Routine maintenance is pricier than mainstream marques but reasonable for a premium sports car. An independent Porsche specialist service is around £350-£500, while a main dealer will charge £600-£900. Tyres every 6,000-10,000 miles on a sports car add £500-£800 per set, and brake discs/pads can run £600-£1,000 when both axles need attention. A realistic annual running cost including fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance is £2,200-£2,800 for occasional drivers, rising to £3,500+ for higher-mileage use.

The tyre perishing advisories on all four wheels in both the 2024 and 2025 MOT tests are the most useful data points to act upon. Even if new tyres have been fitted since November 2025, examine the spare and wheel-well area, and check the age code on any current tyres (DOT stamp) — rubber older than six years on a sports car is a safety concern. Also inspect the windscreen wiper blades and ensure the linkage operates smoothly, given the 2025 advisory on the nearside blade.

Lift the car on a ramp and look for oil leaks from the intermediate shaft seal (a known 981 issue), the rear main seal, and the coolant pipes running along the engine bay. Check the coolant tank for staining and verify the coolant has been changed within the recommended interval. Inspect the underside for corrosion — even though Boxsters resist rust well, salt contamination on a stored car can attack brake lines, handbrake cables and the exhaust mounting rubbers. Also check that the exhaust mounts are intact and there are no blowing gaskets.

Given the extremely low annual mileage, pay particular attention to: brake caliper slide pins seizing, handbrake mechanism sticking, battery state of health (replace if older than four years), and any signs that the fuel system has been running with old petrol. The model-level data shows windscreen wipers, anti-roll bar components and headlamps as common failure items — examine the drop links and anti-roll bar bushes for play, and check headlamp washers and alignment. Finally, verify the convertible roof operates smoothly and seals correctly, and listen for diff or gearbox whine on the test drive.