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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  There is no better - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Pilot2519Juliet - December 10 - 1:06 am

  The car is the closest to perfection there is out there. The Boxster will outhandle anything out there now. Road and Track did a slalom run in which it blasted the Enzos (the Ferrari guy costing $700K) record. True it does not have an overabundance of hps but once you pounce on the accelarator you get usable power with unmatch driving dymamics. With a top speed of close to 170 mph I think it is fast enough.

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  Finally - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By L. Kelly - December 8 - 9:30 pm

  I have always wanted to own a Porsche, but like may, was unable to afford the hefty price tag. After owning a Miata, I decided to purchase a pre-owned Boxster. I love it! It corners on rails and looks fantastic.

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  Its a fine tuned machine... - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By DrDavid - December 8 - 10:00 am

  It provides a "Wow" driving experience that doesnt go away with ownership. From the first test drive to my drive to work today this car continues to provide a feeling of precision and balance. Suspension is very versatile and goes between sport/touring and sport/race very well. This one blows the Z4 away in the driving experience I tested both extensively and have never looked back. So much Porsche for so little cash!

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  Funster - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By Madisonman - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Makes the trip as much fun as the destination.

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  Jawdropper - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By WECoyote71 - December 8 - 12:10 am

  This is a fantastically designed ride with one-of-a-kind racecar-like power and handling. The 05 refresh augments the beautiful lines of the classic Porsche and carries those design elements into the interior cabin.

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  What a Sports Car - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Hawaii1628 - December 6 - 10:36 pm

  I am have an Acura and Benz, this Boxster S gives me chance to truly experience what a sports car is about. It corners very well and is fast. The 18" wheel makes you feel you are glued to the road. The two trunks are the biggest you can find in all convertible. The seat is pretty comfortable. If you are ever thinking about buying a Porsche, dont think any more, go get one ASAP. You only live once, do I have to say any more?

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  Definition of a sports car... - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By M.T. - November 15 - 7:56 pm

  Not only does this car handle incredibly, it fits any driver like a glove and provides them with a much better "feel for the road" than any huge, SUV will ever be able to do. The plain black interior, when accented with aluminum pedals and gauge bezels, is so stunning, that many of my car "afficionado" friends have said it looks better than most other over-blown sports cars. I think for 2005 theyre over doing the interiors of the Porsches....too much luxury...not enough "sports car"! Definately get the Pirelli P-Zero tire combination. Its the best. Its hard to beat a Boxster if you want to drive a modern version of a throwback to the past! Well done Porsche...how can you top this car?

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  Pure Driving Fun - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By runr53 - November 15 - 10:00 am

  My second Porsche in 15 years and its absolutely thrilling to drive. Mostly use in spring and summer but definitely a year-rounder if necessary. This is truely a fun car to drive...period. Performance and quality is #1. Zoom Zoom!!

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  Fun, When It Runs - 1997 Porsche Boxster
  By Michael - November 13 - 12:50 pm

  This car has a terrible engine design. The shafts explode on the inside of the engine and cost thousands of dollars a piece. Porsche just installs new engines at $20,000 plus labor a piece, so they dont mind. It is NOT UNCOMMON for a Boxster, of ANY year to blow an engine before 80,000 miles. The problem is that Porsche recommends changing the oil only once every 15,000 miles. Unfortunately, most people who drive these cars arent mechanically inclined and actually believe Porsche and then wait 15,000 miles. Problem is, if this is a weekend car, it takes two or three YEARS before they do their next oil change. The engine is practically shot by that time. If youve bought a Boxster, change your oil. If you havent, dont.

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  Too little, for too much - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By B L - November 3 - 10:36 pm

  I traded in my Audi A4 for a Porsche Boxter. I got an automatic with the sport package along with the premium package. It has been a fun car to have but the oil changes are $700.00 every 20,000 miles, and the Bridgestone tires wore out in 18,00 miles which were $1,500 dollars to replace. The interior is cheap for a Porsche, but the sounds system is awesome (Bose).