> MODEL PROFILE
Model: Porsche Boxster 2.5
Year: 1997
Engine: 204bhp • 2480cc • flat 6
Performance: Top speed: 149mph • 0-60: 6.9s
Extras: Sound pack; Lux pack; wind deflector
Modifications: Ruf sports exhaust
Expect to pay: Fair: £15,000 Mint: £18,500+

> OWNER PROFILE
Name: Paul Langford
Profession: Media
Years with Porsheworx: 4

> TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAR
I have an early 'entry level' Boxster - the two and a half litre model that was replaced by the 2.7 just two years into the model's existence.

This car is no slouch, though, and it should make the sprint to 60 faster than any hot hatch. However, to insure against embarrassment off the lights, I had Porsheworx add a Ruf sports exhaust which they estimate has increased the power by at least 15bhp. I reckon performance is now on a par - if not better - than the 2.7. In fact, the mechanic who returned it said if I'd also changed the badge on the boot he would have mistaken it for a Boxster S.

Another advantage of the twin steel pipes is that the glorious flat-six tone is amplified and enhanced, causing the softer sound of the Boxster to mimic that of the classic air-cooled Porsches, with a deep, throaty voice singing from the rear each time you depress the throttle.

> WHY DID YOU BUY THIS PARTICULAR CAR?
This model is ex-demo so came loaded with just about every conceivable extra: better seats, air con, electric everything and, most importantly, it's in the best colour - Arctic Silver. They look great in deep blue with tan interior, but just as Ferraris should be red, I think Boxsters should be silver. I spotted a horrid turquoise one recently and I'm sure the choice will cost the owner £5k on sale.

When buying these second hand, it's worth looking out for two things: 'lux pack', as this means you get climate control, leather everywhere and much better wheels than the nasty standard 16-inchers; and the 'sound pack', which means you get a beefy amplifier hidden under one of the seats which pumps out volume levels capable of leaving you with permanent tinnitus.

But most will prefer the stereo off, as with hood down you'll be treated to one of the best soundtracks available, since all 6 cylinder Porsches make a unique and very addictive noise. And who will want a Cayman - motoring down a country lane with the roof down is surely one of life's great joys?

The Boxster is my second Porsche, the first being a mint 1983 911SC, which surprisingly I was able to run on a shoe-string budget. For a while I had both cars, until I lent the 911 to a good friend who enjoyed it a little too much and wrapped it round a tree.

I miss the 911, but if I'd had to choose between the two, I'd probably take the Boxster for its comfort, handling and removable roof. It would be a close call, though. The SC is a hugely underrated model - it has true supercar performance, is a doddle to drive and the build quality of these models is truly outstanding. The chocolate brown interior also had bundles of charm! These cars are bargains now, and good ones can be had for little over £10k.

> WHAT'S THE BEST CAR YOU'VE OWNED/BEEN IN?
The Boxster is the best car I've owned - it just leaves you wanting nothing. It grips the road like it's operated by Network South East, has all the power you'll ever demand, but is also the most roomy and comfortable car I've driven.

> DO YOU PREFER CLASSIC CARS TO NEW CARS?
Definitely. In the same way as bygone eras gave us the greatest music of all time, the same applies to cars. Compare the style of, say, Jaguars in the 60s or Ferraris in the 70s, sporty Audis in the 80s and TVRs in the 90s, to today's equivalents, and you'll get an idea of where I'm coming from.

> WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE CAR?
If it had to be one car, it would probably be Steve McQueen's 911, which his son now owns. It's an early 70s model in the best colour (charcoal grey) and this generation 911 is probably the finest of the fine. Other than perhaps a 993 targa, that is, in deep blue with the S kit, tan leather and heated seats to keep the missus happy. I've also always yearned for a 928, in particular the GTS. I swear if Porsche had released the 928 in 2006 rather than in 1978, people would still have been stunned by the design, which I think still looks modern and fresh to this day. I'd also love to get my hands behind the wheel of a 2.7 RS, surely the greatest 911 variant of them all.

> WHY DID YOU SWITCH TO PORSHEWORX?
The car was previously serviced by AFN, but I decided to switch as I wanted to use a specialist with a more personal touch and who was truly enthusiastic about Porsches. Also, I felt AFN's prices were becoming silly.

The Boxster has now been meticulously maintained by Porsheworx for the last three years, and they've helped keep running costs to a minimum. Although I can always rely on the team to advise me what is least painful for my wallet, there's never a compromise in terms of what's best for the car.

I'd definitely recommend them.