Porsche Boxster, Cayman 1996-2005

The first-generation Porsche Boxster and Cayman, produced from 1996 to 2005, marked a significant milestone for the brand as it ventured into the mid-engine sports car segment. These models shared a platform and many design elements but were distinguished by their body styles, with the Boxster being a convertible roadster and the Cayman a coupe. They featured a sleek and aerodynamic design, showcasing the classic Porsche styling cues with smooth lines and a mid-engine layout.

These early Boxster and Cayman models offered superb handling and balanced performance underneath the bodywork. Their lightweight construction, rear-wheel-drive configuration, and well-tuned suspensions made them incredibly agile and enjoyable to drive. While their flat-six engines varied in power output, they all delivered a distinctive Porsche exhaust note. Inside, the cabins were driver-focused, with comfortable seats and high-quality materials. The first-generation Boxster and Cayman established Porsche's continued success in the mid-engine sports car segment, offering an accessible entry point into the brand's performance-oriented lineup.

Porsche Boxster Cayman specification, engine oil capacity, spark plug gap, safety rating, fuel consumption, transmission, and light bulb sizes.

Chassis

• Type: 986

Engine 2.7L 6-Cylinder DOHC

• Recommended Oil viscosity: 0W-40
• Recommended Engine Oil: API
• Drain Plug Torque: 37FT-LBS
• Oil capacity: 8.2 qt

Spark Plug Gap

• 2.7L 6-Cylinder: 0.032”

Engine 3.2L 6-Cylinder DOHC

• Recommended Oil viscosity: 0W-40
• Recommended Engine Oil: API
• Drain Plug Torque: 37FT-LBS
• Oil capacity: 8.2 qt

Spark Plug Gap

• 3.2L 6-Cylinder: 0.032”

Fuel

• Capacity: approx. 16.9 U.S.gallons (64 liters), of which approx. 2.64 U.S.gallons (10 liters) is reserve.

Windshield washer

• Capacity: 
  • without headlight washer: approx. 2.6 quarts (2.5 liters)
  • with headlight washer: approx. 6.3 quarts (6.0 liters)

Powertrain

Engine

• 2.5 L Porsche M96.20 flat-6 (1996–1999)
• 2.7 L M96.22/M96.23 flat-6 (1999–2004)
• 3.2 L M96.21/M96.24 flat-6 (1999–2004)

Transmission

• 5-speed automatic
• 5-speed manual
• 6-speed manual

Fuel Consumption

Front Lights

• Front Fog Light Bulb: H8-35W
• Front Sidemarker Light Bulb: 2821
• Front Turn Signal Light Bulb: 12496
• High Beam Headlight Bulb:
  • H9-65W
  • H11-55W
• Low Beam Headlight Bulb:
  • H7-55W
  • HID-D1S

Rear Lights

• Back Up Light Bulb: 7506
• Brake Light Bulb:
  • 7225
  • 7528
• Center High Mount Stop Light Bulb: LED
• License Plate Light Bulb: 6418
• Parking Light Bulb: 2825L
• Rear Turn Signal Light Bulb: 12496
• Tail Light Bulb:
  • 7225
  • 7528

Interior Lights

• Courtesy Light Bulb: 2825
• Dome Light Bulb: 2825
• Engine Compartment Light Bulb: 6411
• Map Light Bulb: 2825
• Trunk Light Bulb: 6411