Sorry you never got a reply, I don't really read this section of the forum as I don't have a Boxster, but I can let you know what I found out when I researched buying a 996. As you are looking at a 986, there should be some similarities. They can smoke on start up, they don't all do it, but from what I read, it's not the end of the world, only a quirk of the flat 6 engine. Smoking all the time and under acceleration is quite different, PM Barry Hart of Hartec for more info' on this. The IMS and RMS issues are quite a problem if not sorted, I believe Jon Mitchell described it on this forum as a hand grenade with a loose or missing pin. The car should have a had a clutch, pads and discs, front radiators and AC condensers by now, unless exceptionally low mileage. The service schedule is 12,000 miles or 12 months regardless.
I thought someone started a buyers guide in the section, but like I said, I don't spend much time here at all. Try searching for it, if it exists at all?
Sorry you didn't get a reply, perhaps all the Boxster guys are on holiday? Speaking of which, you might pick up a bargain this time of the year.
