Representing the finest example of German precise engineering, this car is the epitome of minimalist understated elegance. It is the pinnacle of automotive refinement.
This car is a peach.
The raw raspy sound of its engine is something to behold.
It has all the characteristics of a Porsche mid engine masterpiece; it has razor sharp steering. In the Porsche world, it’s light and nimble. It has the perfect power to weight ratio. It has plenty of power and speed if called on to provide it. Driving this car is an incredibly engaging experience. It’s intuitive it’s as though the car knows what you want when you want it.
The car sits on four 18 inch wheels which makes city driving enjoyable and bearable. You will get out of the car without a sore back.
I am the second owner of this car. It has only travelled 17,000 km. It has never been tracked.
The car has the famous MA1.22, 2.7 litre flat 6 horizontally opposed non turbo engine. This is what the authorities say about the MA1.22 engine.
The Porsche MA1.22 engine (part of the MA1/9A1 engine family) is generally considered an excellent, reliable, and high-performance power plant. It is the 2.7-liter flat-six engine used in the base model 2013–2016 Porsche Cayman and Boxster (981 generation).
Here is a breakdown of why it is highly regarded:
Performance and Character
High-Revving Naturally Aspirated: Unlike the turbocharged engines that followed it, the MA1.22 is a naturally aspirated flat-six that loves to rev, offering a linear power delivery and a classic, soulful Porsche sound.
"Engine of the Year": The 2.7-liter variant was awarded “Engine of the Year” in its displacement class, praised for its flexibility, responsiveness, and balance.
Driving Experience: It is frequently cited as the ideal engine for drivers who enjoy pushing a car to high RPMs, offering a "momentum car" experience.
Reliability and Engineering
Fixes Previous Issues: The MA1 series (introduced in 2009 for the 987.2 and continued in the 981) was redesigned to address the major, well-known issues of the earlier M96/M97 engines. It does not have an Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing, and it features a closed-deck construction that significantly reduces the risk of cylinder bore scoring.
Robust Daily Driver: These engines are considered very robust, often capable of high mileage (exceeding 100k+ miles) with proper maintenance.
Direct Injection (DFI): The 2.7-liter engine utilizes direct fuel injection, which provides better efficiency and power.
Potential Issues and Maintenance
While reliable, it is still a high-performance engine that requires diligent maintenance:
Water Pump & Thermostat: These are considered wearable items on this engine and should be checked or replaced preventively, sometimes recommended around every 50k miles.
Coil Packs: Ignition coils can crack over time, leading to misfires, so they should be inspected periodically.
Oil Consumption: While less prone to issues than earlier models, some engines may experience higher oil consumption as they age.
Service Costs: Although reliable, it is a Porsche, and maintenance (spark plugs, belt changes) is more expensive than standard vehicles.
Summary:
If you are looking for a reliable, naturally aspirated, modern Porsche engine that is excellent for both daily driving and track use, the MA1.22 in the 981 Boxster/Cayman is an outstanding choice.
The beauty of this car is that it doesn’t try to be anything else, It doesn’t try to be a 911. It has its own timeless unique character.The car is almost 11 years old, but it truly still holds relevance in today’s automotive world. The car is almost 11 years old, but it truly still holds relevance in today’s automotive world. Some people say that the most
FEATURES THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL LOVE:
- USB audio input
- Leather steering wheel
- Hill holder
- Satellite navigation (GPS)
- Leather gear knob
- Remote central locking
- Heated front seats
- Front power windows
- Ventilated drilled/grooved front disc brakes