What's an eco-conscious replacement for my Porsche Boxster?

I have owned a 1998 Boxster happily for about 10 years. It's a beautiful car, lots of fun to drive and I wouldn't be considering saying goodbye to it just yet but for the introduction of the ULEZ in London in April this year. Air quality is a serious matter so I've not got an objection to the idea that older polluting cars should be restricted in high-density areas. What is going to become of all the 'modern' classic cars? Is there a chance of a widely available hybrid replacement engine? And can you recommend a car - of any make - that might be an eco-conscious replacement for my Boxster?

Asked on 31 January 2019 by Virginia Buckley

Answered by Andrew Brady
First of all, don't hurry to sell your Porsche. Assuming you live in the ULEZ zone and are registered for the residents' Congestion Charge discount, you'll be entitled to a 100 per cent discount until October 2021. There are a few companies around converting classic cars to electric, but I'm not sure they'd offer a conversion for your Boxster. If you could find somewhere to store it outside of London, that might not be a bad idea - an early Boxster will be at the bottom of its depreciation curve, so might go up in value. There are quite a few about, though, so it probably won't become a serious investment any time soon - and you'll have to keep on top of maintenance, too.

I'm not sure you'll be able to find a direct modern, hybrid equivalent to your Boxster, unfortunately. The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is a very good hybrid car, but it's more of a family car than a two-seater convertible. A BMW i8 Roadster might appeal, but it's not cheap - starting at around £127,000. I'd look for something like a new Mazda MX-5 - it's petrol, not a hybrid, but it does meet the ULEZ standards so won't be subject to a charge.
Similar questions
I have a top of the range 4x4 2014 Skoda Yeti. When the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) in London is extended in August I will have to replace it. My main concern is that I like the height and the comfort...
Many of us are being forced to consider changing petrol cars to used hybrids. Could you tell me which Toyota Prius models/years from 2008 onwards qualify for free or reduced road tax, Ultra-Low Emission...
I want to purchase a second hand estate car. Our last car was a Skoda Octavia, which was perfect for space and running costs, including insurance. I would really appreciate advice on choice of estate...
Related models
Excellent handling makes it fun to drive. 1.5-litre model works very well on uneven UK roads. 2.0 as quick as many drivers would ever want. Well-equipped for the money.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer