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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  One of the funnest cars at any price - 1998 Porsche Boxster
  By Lordblood - July 18 - 4:03 pm

  I got this car 2 months ago, and so far its been absolutely amazing. I upgraded from Nissan Altimas and Toyota Camrys, so I know reliability. The only thing that went wrong with my Boxster is that the left window regulator is broken, but that happened before I bought it. It is a bit pricey to run, you do have pay well out of your pocket for small repairs. But it is one of the funnest cars you can buy, no matter what price level you look at. Its mid engined, so it is perfectly balanced and provides for fun in every corner. Its a bit underpowered, mine produces around 215 HP because of a better exhaust, but 0-60 in around 6.7 seconds is pretty brisk. Worth buying!

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  My Boxster has no substitute - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By Tig Nash - July 9 - 9:40 pm

  After many hours of research on a convertible I thought a Benz was the way to go. Fortunately, I test drove the Boxter as well. No comparison! This car handles like nothing I have ever driven. And the response of the engine is that of a finely tuned machine. The design is sleek, sexy and powerful and taking a curve at 60+ miles and hour instead of the posted 25 is the best weekend thrill! This is what driving is all about and those that think an SUV is the way to go, well, you have no idea what youre missing. There is no substitute - Porsche has it figured out.

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  Yeow - 2008 Porsche Boxster
  By Scott - June 25 - 5:03 am

  Stunning looks and performance to match. Sold my 2001 Boxster to get this one. The RS60 is light years ahead. I was surprised at the amount of improvement over what I thought was an already outstanding vehicle. The RS has the 303hp engine and it goes like a scalded cat. Passed my wife on the interstate at xxx mph and she said it sounded like we were at the racetrack. Handling is scarcely believable, especially in sport mode. Acceleration is unexpectedly strong, like being tied to the space shuttle. Its a little slippery on wet roads, but stable unless you do something seriously juvenile. The brakes: phenomenal, really kind of otherworldly in their ability to get you to zero in a hurry.

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  best of the sports convertibles - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By GF - June 18 - 3:13 pm

  Owned it from new; only car I kept this long (7+ years), it works fine as a daily driver not just for weekends. Can be expensive to own in terms of dealer maintenance costs and out or warranty work. Delivers on the promised fun quotient and design aged very well, still very current vs. 2010 model. True sports convertible, not just for boulevard.

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  Excellent Upgrades to a Sweet Ride - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By Bonzai - June 18 - 5:36 am

  With the upgrades made to the new 2005 Boxster S, Porsche has made a great car a truly excellent car. The balance and handling of this car is spectacular. Although horsepower is lower than some rivals (i.e a Corvette), the engine is super smooth and pulls really well through most of the rpm range, doing 0-60 in 5.0 seconds. The interior finishing is much better, and the exterior makes the car look a lot more muscular. If I lived in an area with lots of straight, open roads, I might be tempted by a 400+ horsepower car. However, I live in an area with lots of winding mountain roads and wouldnt choose anything different. The Elise would handle as well but is too unrefined to drive every day.

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  Ignition switch replacement - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By Luckysdad - June 2 - 4:36 am

  My Boxster needs an ignition switch replacement and my research indicates that the part sells for approximately $35. The dealership I go to informed me this morning that there has been a change in how they replace them now. They cannot just change that one part; they must do the entire assemby. Quoted me over $600. Can anyone tell me if this sounds realistic? Thank you.

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  A pleasure to drive - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By Prima - June 2 - 2:00 am

  This car is absolutely fun to drive. My wife was somewhat concerned when I bought the car. Now I cant keep her out of it. She said "I didnt know it would be this much fun".

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  the best - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By Howling on high - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Great driving experience, would suggest it to any driver...have had alpha, fiat, Corvette and mustang Gt and this beats them all

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  Boxster -- Youve got to get one. - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By Heidinger - May 26 - 10:00 am

  Great car that is a absolute blast to drive! Perfect drivers car!

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  Excellence all around - 2015 Porsche Boxster
  By JohnCBullen@GMail.com - May 22 - 10:57 pm

  I traded in my 08 911 (997.1) C4S cabriolet on a 2015 Boxster S. The Boxster is head and tails ahead of the 911 in fit, finish, interior quality, handling, and interior noise. The PCM (entertainment, communication, nav) system on the Boxster is several steps ahead of what what was in the 911. While the 911 is iconic and has a sex appeal superior to the Boxster, the Boxster shines in performance over the 911. This is my third Boxster, and I am of the opinion that the Boxster S is a better balanced car with its mid-engine and weight distribution than the 911, and the power to weight ratio is well within anyones power requirements.