Porsche collectors almost always have their own personal favourite model – and there are, of course, those rare and vintage Porsches that carry a high resale value due to scarcity, limited remaining vehicles being traded, and having a special history or backstory.
One of the less common Porsches to be considered an iconic feature in any collector's garage is the 987. Still, this overlooked model may be a great option for those keen to expand their Porsche collection, and without requiring the budget or time to scour the globe for very hard-to-find models.
Experts in all things Porsche, Design911, have shared some thoughts and insights to clarify why the 987 could be well worth considering, and why it’s a potentially very lucrative addition to your garage, especially if you’re looking for Porsches that have a strong likelihood of price appreciation.
What Makes the Porsche 987 Appealing to Enthusiasts?
The Porsche 987 is one of those underrated Porsche models that’s frequently disregarded for the more obvious collectables – think the 911 GTI, the 356, Porsche’s very first edition, and the 917K that became famous after being used in the Le Mans movie.
If you're not well-versed in the history of the 987, it first hit the market in 2005 and was designed based on the 986 Boxster but incorporating some of the features synonymous with the Cayman. That resulted in a significant update, with a mid-engine layout that offers exceptional balance and handling, a characteristic that silenced critics who had previously only perceived rear-engine Porsche models as worth investing in.
With a more dominant, aggressive body and sleeker design finish, the 987 Cayman didn’t exactly take over from the ever-popular 911, but offered buyers, drivers and collectors an alternative.
Why Would a Porsche Collector Invest in a 987?
On to the question of collectable value, and there’s no doubt that the 987 has been garnering greater interest, and that’s largely because it’s not been seen as a high-demand item for big-spending investors, hasn’t been extensively traded, and therefore is still very much affordable.
That is beginning to change slightly, but the 987 hasn’t seen anything like the upticks in pricing that have impacted the 911 market. With the option between the nippy Boxster Spyder and the powerful 3.4-litre Cayman S, there's a 987 for everyone.
Porsche enthusiasts increasingly recognise that models like the 987, with its naturally aspirated engine, offer a traditional driving experience that purists love, particularly those who prioritise a classic steering feel.
Much of that is down to the mid-engine layout we’ve mentioned, which gives the 987 a fantastic level of handling, making it a reliable, exciting and agile car to drive even on steep curves and hairpin turns – a feature anybody who collects Porsches to drive rather than to show wants.
Are There Issues With the Porsche 987 Buyers Should Know About?
Every Porsche has its quirks, but whether they matter depends on what you're looking for and the reasons you might pick one Porsche over another.
Because the 987 has, for a long time, been regarded as a more entry-level car without the reputation of the 911 and other models, it's probably not going to be your go-to if you are a dedicated collector who makes decisions solely based on rarity.
Likewise, earlier 987s suffer from the well-documented issue causing IMS bearings to fail, which could mean a 987.1 will need further investment. However, if you buy a 987 that already has the bearings replaced with upgraded components, or are prepared to do this yourself, you'll be able to steer clear of the risk of an engine failure.
Alongside an IMS bearing upgrade kit, we’d recommend buyers think about Porsche suspension upgrades to keep the handling on their 987 as it was designed to be, and performance exhausts that give the 987 a throaty roar.
Older 987s necessitate a little maintenance and upkeep, and for the best driving experience, or to ensure your 987 is easily sellable, it’s also a good idea to look into a high-quality brake kit comprising a set of fresh brake discs and pads.
Which 987 Models Are Most Collectable or Sought After?
You’ll know that each Porsche model, design, and edition has a few gems, from special limited-scope models that hold their value better, and interesting trims and kits that make one 987 worth more or help it sustain its value for longer.
The Cayman S is the best 987 for balance for many, as a leading line-up within the 987 range, based on its sharp handling and 3.4 litre flat six engine. Buyers and collectors who want the raw, unpolished Porsche driving experience are better advised to look at the Boxster Spyder, with its lightweight body and stripped-down finish.
Last but not least, if your passion is racing and track days, the Cayman R may be ideal for you, with a lean, light and tight build. This model is, however, one of the rarest 987s and is tricky to come by, with pricing levels to match.
Expert Insights Into Adding a Porsche 987 to Your Collection
The trick to buying a 987 that is great fun to drive, continues to deliver that Porsche handling and performance, and carries a price tag you can justify is to ensure you do plenty of research, staying on top of servicing and maintenance updates to keep this underestimated Porsche in excellent shape.
With rising prices and a market that’s turning to less obvious Porsches, it’s also best to act fast if you want to welcome a 987 to your garage, and to order all the upgrade components and aftermarket parts you need, so you’re not waiting around to take your new collectable for a spin!
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About Design911
Design911 has established itself as the market leader, offering trade and retail customers a full range of OEM and aftermarket Porsche parts for general servicing and rebuild as well as restoration and tuning. The company supports customers in the UK, EU and world-wide to include USA, Spain, Italy, Germany, France and the Netherlands.
The Design911.com website now sports a Porsche parts finder to help you get the exact aftermarket Porsche part you need. The company's impressive 34,000 sq. ft Essex headquarters comprises a sales department, warehouse, workshop and body shop, as well as a showroom of classic Porsches for sale. In addition a European warehouse - based in Heijningen, Netherlands, secures fast delivery across the EU for a vast range of branded Porsche car parts.
