Overview & Reviews

When it debuted for the 1997 model year, the Porsche Boxster ushered in an era of the more affordable high-end sports car, not to mention the more affordable Porsche. Featuring a finely balanced midengine layout and keenly responsive handling and steering, the Boxster quickly became one of the best-selling sports cars on the road.

Now in its third generation, the Boxster formula remains the same, yet Porsche has made evolutionary changes to better compete against its recently redesigned rivals. Comfort, improved build quality, classier styling and an increased number of convenience features all make the Boxster considerably better than before. If you can swing a sometimes pricey bottom line, there's no more compelling choice for a sports car, new or used.

Current Porsche Boxster
There are three models of the rear-wheel-drive Boxster. The base car gets a 265-horsepower 2.7-liter flat-6 engine that's mounted amidships for superior handling characteristics. The Boxster S features a 3.4-liter flat-6 good for 315 hp, while the GTS gets an upgraded version rated at 330 hp. All three are matched with a six-speed manual transmission by default, while a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual (known as PDK) is optional. A hill-holder function is included with either transmission choice to facilitate launching on a hill without inadvertently rolling backward.

This is the most comfortable and spacious Boxster yet, although standard equipment is a bit stingy -- particularly the base car's wimpy four-speaker stereo. Of course, Porsche will be happy to double the price with options, including multi-way adaptive sport seats and an upper-crust Burmester audio system. In any specification, however, the Boxster remains a pure driver's car, arguably more so than the Porsche 911. With its midengine layout and finely tuned chassis, few cars can deliver the same easily accessed driving joy as the Boxster. As long as you don't need more storage space than the small front and rear trunks provide (good luck transporting a golf bag or two), the latest Boxster is bound to please.

Used Porsche Boxster Models
The current, third-generation Porsche Boxster debuted for 2013 in base and S trims, with the sporty GTS and the optional Burmester audio system arriving for 2014. Its styling is crisper than that of the previous two generations, with relatively angular headlights and a unique full-width fin spoiler that bisects the more mature-looking taillights. The sumptuous cabin is larger and features the tall center console that has been adapted from the Panamera for the whole line of Porsche models. Although the newly added electric-assist steering isn't quite as telepathic as its predecessors, it's still sublime.

The previous, second-generation Boxster was introduced for 2005. This generation featured evolutionary but significant styling changes from its predecessor, including separate roundish headlights in place of the previous integrated headlight/turn-signal clusters. The interior underwent a major overhaul, receiving a cleaner dashboard design and richer materials. In addition, the torsional rigidity of the chassis was improved, resulting in noticeably better balance and control.

Originally, the base engine was a 2.7-liter flat-6 that produced 228 hp, and the Boxster S model's bigger flat-6 displaced 3.2 liters with an output of 258 horses. Transmission choices were a five-speed manual (base), a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. For 2007, the 2.7-liter was upgraded to pump out 245 hp and the Boxster S received a 3.4-liter engine with 295 hp. There were a few minor equipment upgrades made during this time period as well.

A more extensive refresh was implemented for 2009, starting with further upgrades for both engines. The base model now featured a 2.9-liter flat-6 good for 255 hp, while the Boxster S got a 3.4-liter flat-6 good for 310 hp. Both came standard with the six-speed manual, while PDK debuted on the Boxster's options list. Prior to this refresh, the optional navigation system was an older design, with a smaller screen and poorly designed controls. Items like ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, an iPod interface and satellite radio were also not available. The exterior styling was also slightly different.

For 2011, the Boxster Spyder was introduced. For this specialized lightweight model, Porsche removed the sound system and air-conditioning (you could add them back as options) as well as the power-operated top. The latter was replaced by a manually operated two-piece soft top that was more tarp than roof, and about as easy to erect as a tent. But what the Spyder lost in creature comforts, it gained in other areas, notably 10 hp and even sharper handling.

While the later Boxsters of this generation are obviously a little more appealing, there's really not a bad apple in the basket. Regardless of engine or equipment level, we'd happily take one on a spirited back road run, or utilize its double trunks on a weekend getaway up the coast. Moreover, prices have come down to quite appealing levels on the used-car market, particularly for pre-refresh examples.

The original Boxster debuted for the 1997 model year. At the time, it was considered to be a key release for the brand. Porsche had been struggling financially through the early and mid-1990s, and the Boxster's simplicity, affordability and sweet driving dynamics made it a huge hit.

The first-generation Porsche Boxster came with a power-operated soft top and a 201-hp, 2.5-liter flat-6 engine. In 2000, the big news was the addition of a second, even sportier S model. The Boxster S featured 250 hp, larger wheels and brakes and a more stiffly tuned suspension. For 2001, the tweaks mostly involved interior refinements in layout and materials quality. But underneath, the sophisticated Porsche Stability Management system was made available for both models. For 2004, Porsche increased the power output of both engines slightly.

First-generation Boxsters have a significant following in online forums, with many common maintenance procedures outlined in detail for those inclined to do their own work. You can pick one up for less than a new economy car these days, so the temptation has never been greater. If you do your homework and have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed, an original Boxster could make for an excellent weekend toy on a budget.

User Reviews:

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  I Love My Car! - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By DianeDavani - May 10 - 10:00 am

  This is such a fun car to drive... quick and NIMBLE... so much more fun than the Carrera. This thing turns on a dime - great! I have the upgraded 18" rims, sound package, xenon lights, and heated seats as well as full stitched leather. All around, this car has been a delight. Its perfect for a second car cuz every time you get in it after not driving it for a while, its SUCH a pleasant suprise!

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  Pure FUN! - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Robert - May 3 - 1:53 am

  Rock solid fun! This car has more than enough power to throw you back in your seat as you zoom around town, and the handling enables you to never take your foot off the gas. It has an interior that is larger than most of its peers, important to those of us with above average height, and a ride to go with this no-toy feel. Test drive on a real world street with lots of turns and opportunities to punch it and you will be hooked. Bring your check book!

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  Over 100k and still a fantastic drive! - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By jeremp - April 9 - 2:31 pm

  I purchased this beauty in April (2011). I Dr. traded it in at 100k miles. He did all the service religiously, and it works fantastically. The manual spoiler switch was broken when I bought it but a part from SunCoast Porsche fixed it. I do the work myself which keeps maint. costs down. I am a simple guy with a simple income but I feel rick driving the Boxster around town. I never put the top up, (I drive an 05 IS300 on rainy days) and I still get 24-25 MPG. I LOVE this thing!

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  987 vs 986 - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By gsd98jsh - April 9 - 4:06 am

  I owned 986 (2001 Boxster) and just upgraded to 987 (2005 Boxster). The sound of the new model is so much better. The new manual transmission is so tight and precise. The clutch is so much easier to operate than traditional Porsche models. The taller roll bar and lower seat allows tall person like myself (6 2") to fit in the car much more comfortably than before. I had one modification on my old 986, Becker Radio (CDR2200?) allowed me to install an auxillary line for iPod, but the new fiber optic digital audio system has to have FM transmitter in order to connect your iPod. In other words, the sound quality from your MP3 player really suffers. I guess I will have to begin burning many CDs.

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  Fun to drive when not in the shop - 2007 Porsche Boxster
  By topoff - April 7 - 5:03 am

  In the 4 weeks Ive owned the car, its been in the shop 4 times and going back again. Indicators showed low tire in the first 3 days of purchase. Had to buy a new tire. Wind noise around side windows, then controller went out for auto up driver window. While fixing that, they disconnected door side light. Dealer doesnt carry parts, so its always 2 trips for repair. BMW Z4 wasnt in shop this much in 3 years I leased it. But fun to drive when I have it. If this keeps up, next review will be titled "piece of crap." Evidently lots of understanding needed for intricasies of the brand.

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  99 Boxster is excellent 2nd owner car! - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By Maria Vitakis - April 5 - 10:50 am

  This older model, low-end Porsche drives better than any of the top of the line cars from other manufacturers. It is quick, solid and takes curves better than any other car on the road. After a year and a half my daily work commute is still an exciting experience. I can drive anywhere, park anywhere and the valets fight for my keys! If this is Porsches basic model, I cant even imagine what a Carrera must be like.

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  Sweet Car - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By greggroggendorf - April 5 - 9:40 am

  My Boxster is a blast to drive. I cant wait to go on a long road trip! It takes a little while to get the engine noise off your mind, but the pipes on the exhaust let you forget about it once you get on the pedal.

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  too good to be true - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By chandler - March 29 - 10:00 am

  This car has been everything I wanted and more. The one exception is the cheap plastic for the air vents and the front middle console has to be revamped for real use. As well the steering wheel could use a tilt. I have driven the car accross country twice, one in winter, and a tild would be of the greatest value. I would love to be a spokesperson for this car and as a father of two young ones, it is my everyday car. Price, handling, style and reliability all come for a price that I find very impressive. But thats what I always thought a Porsche would be ever since I first wanted one. At the age of about 6. Kyle Chandler.

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  WOW!!!!!!!!!! - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By KYM - March 29 - 10:00 am

  I Love this car!! I have waited my whole life for a Porsche. It is so amazing. I love listening to the engine more than the fantastic stereo.

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  So far, so wonderful - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By Dealin D - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Excellent driver, fast, and fun. No problems at 7,000 miles. Tires still excellent, never used a quart of oil. 25 miles to a gallon....tight body. This is my second Boxter, had great success with the first one too.