1997-2004 Porsche Boxster / Boxster S 986 Exhaust – Headers, Catback or Complete Kit

Choose the exhaust configuration that matches your 1997–2004 Porsche Boxster or Boxster S 986: Headers Only, Catback Only, or the complete Headers + Catback Kit. These options are designed for listed M96 2.5L, 2.7L, and 3.2L flat-six applications, with configuration-specific components and specifications depending on the selected Shape.

All listed configurations use stainless steel exhaust components designed around the Boxster 986 platform. Select the required Shape before ordering and verify your exact model year, engine, O2 sensor arrangement, exhaust connections, and package contents against the selected option.

Product Overview

This product page brings together the main exhaust options for listed Porsche Boxster and Boxster S 986 applications. The Headers Only option replaces the header section, the Catback Only option covers the rear exhaust section, and the Headers + Catback option combines both into one exhaust package.

Because specifications and package contents differ by Shape, review the selected product option and images before purchase rather than assuming every listed feature applies to all three configurations.

Vehicle Fitment

• Make: Porsche
• Model: Boxster / Boxster S
• Chassis: 986
• Year Range: 1997–2004 as listed
• Engine Family: M96 Flat-6
• Engine Sizes: 2.5L / 2.7L / 3.2L as listed by model year
• Exclusion: Does not fit 2001 Porsche Boxster S Convertible 2-Door 3.2L

Headers Only

Header Features:

• T304 stainless steel construction as listed
• 6-1 header layout
• Equal-length 42 mm (1-5/8") primary tubes
• F1-style merge collectors as listed
• Dual O2 sensor provisions with blanking plugs as listed
• CNC-machined flanges
• TIG / MIG welded construction as listed
• Polished stainless steel finish

The header configuration is intended for buyers replacing or upgrading the header section only. Verify your vehicle's O2 sensor arrangement, flange connections, surrounding clearance, and downstream exhaust configuration before installation.

Catback Only

Catback Features:

• Mandrel-bent T304 stainless steel construction as listed
• Straight-through exhaust design
• 1.9" inlet as listed
• 0 O2 sensor ports in the catback section as listed
• Dual 3" (76 mm) rolled exhaust tips
• Fully welded construction as listed
• CNC-machined connection flanges
• Polished stainless steel finish

The catback configuration is intended for buyers replacing or upgrading the rear exhaust section only. Verify the existing exhaust connection, inlet alignment, mounting points, and surrounding clearance before installation.

Headers + Catback Complete Kit

The complete kit combines the listed header assemblies with the matching catback exhaust components for buyers looking to replace both sections together. Header and catback specifications remain the same as described in their respective sections above.

Confirm that the Headers + Catback Shape is selected before ordering if you require both exhaust sections.

Fitment

Use the table below as the current fitment reference for this product page. Engine availability differs by model year, so verify the exact year and engine rather than relying only on the overall 1997–2004 range.

Package Includes

• Headers Only: Header assemblies and related components as shown for the selected Shape.
• Catback Only: Catback exhaust assembly and related components as shown for the selected Shape.
• Headers + Catback: Header assemblies plus the matching catback exhaust components as shown for the selected Shape.
• Gaskets, fasteners, clamps, and other installation hardware are included only where shown or listed for the selected configuration.

Package contents vary by selected Shape. Always confirm the selected option and product images before beginning installation.

Installation Notes

• Professional installation is highly recommended.
• Confirm the selected Shape before beginning installation.
• For header configurations, verify flange alignment, gasket seating, O2 sensor locations, and downstream exhaust connections.
• For catback configurations, verify inlet alignment, mounting points, exhaust tip position, and connection to the existing exhaust system.
• Check surrounding chassis, suspension, wiring, heat-sensitive components, and exhaust clearance before final tightening.
• Modified or previously repaired exhaust systems may require additional fitment checks or adjustment.
• Inspect all exhaust connections for leaks after installation.
• Recheck accessible fasteners after initial heat cycles where appropriate.

Before You Buy

• Confirm the selected Shape: Headers Only, Catback Only, or Headers + Catback.
• Verify your exact Porsche Boxster / Boxster S 986 model year and M96 engine size.
• Does not fit 2001 Porsche Boxster S Convertible 2-Door 3.2L.
• If selecting Headers, verify the vehicle's O2 sensor arrangement and downstream exhaust connection.
• If selecting Catback, verify the existing exhaust inlet connection and mounting layout.
• Specifications and package contents differ by Shape and should be confirmed against the selected option and product images.
• Performance gains, sound changes, installation difficulty, and final exhaust characteristics may vary by vehicle condition and overall setup.