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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  Great Roadster by Porsche - 1997 Porsche Boxster
  By Legion - February 17 - 2:56 pm

  I have had my 1997 Boxster for 5 years, I have a blast with this car, the engine note is music to anyone lucky enough to hear it. This car has been very reliable, this was the first year for this car and it was made in Germany, newer ones are made out of the country and still have great quailty and reliability. This car is great for a get away weekend or a nice sunday drive. This car also functions well as a daily driver. Two trunks give you plenty of room for shopping and getaways! On the track this car comes alive, with its mid engine design, it gives even the most basic drivers a sure footed feel. The best roadster of the bunch, this car is very well regarded in Europe.

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  Great car - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By Susan - February 15 - 11:30 pm

  Ive had this car 6 years and have really loved it. Mechanically, Ive really havent had any big issues outside of changing 7 headlights (this may be specific to the electrical system in my car). Also if you are hit and run while parked, I promise no one is going leave a note with insurance information (happened twice). Lastly probably as a result of the beautiful aerodynamic body design, I have had more dings in my windshield than I can count (I have 5 right now - Ill get to 6 and change out the windshield again). If you can see past these very minor issues, I would guess youd be very happy to own this car. I have been.

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  Nothing Better - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By Rob Wilson-Black - February 6 - 3:43 pm

  The Boxster is a great every day driving car, but ice can be a challenge without specific tire changes. Be careful never to let water into the air intakes on the side of the body, especially while washing your car, as this can lead to serious engine trouble. The classic body holds its beauty and theres nothing more fun to drive, except for the 911 obviously. This car is great for kids in the passengers seat because one can off the airbag. The 1999 year is among the best for engine reliability and Consumer Reports agrees with that in years past. What a value for the dollar. It loses only about $3,200 dollars per year in value. It is the cheapest sports car and there are tons of used ones are out there. European delivery was the best.

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  Flawless Reliability - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By william travis - February 6 - 3:46 am

  This car has been an amazingly reliable vehicle. I have had it for 4 years and have not had to return it to the dealer once for service. The radio had some problems and the dealer got a little snippy but I managed to fix it myself.

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  Boxster S...There is no substitute - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By EHN - January 29 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Boxster S for about 6 weeks and have put 2500 miles on it. This car is a hoot! Great power, although not overwhelming, skateboard like handling and the best manual transmission I have ever used. I traded in a Miata. The Boxster is a much more substantial car, solid, incredibly smooth on the highway. The howl of the engine at 3500 RPM+ is intoxicating. I love this car.

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  A Great Little Car - 2007 Porsche Boxster
  By Franko - January 14 - 6:56 pm

  I bought this car 11/06, it was a special order and now has 7000 miles on it. Prior to this I owned a Mazda Miata, prior to that a Triumph TR3B, before that a MG-TD. So far I have had no problems what so ever, it has been a great little car. My car has standard seats, which are fine, and navigation which is useful but expensive.

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  concern owner - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By otto ockleberry - January 9 - 10:00 am

  Car has been all that I wanted in a sport car. But I have some reservation about it being a everyday vehicle. Finding a resonable mechanic for mantenace and repairs is not an option.

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  The best car! - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Jill Lea - January 1 - 10:00 am

  I love my Porsche Boxster S convertible. It is the best car I have every owned. I think anyone considering buying one should.

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  boxsterS - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Doody - December 26 - 10:00 am

  What a fun car! It is definetley extremely fast, but I would like to see 300 horsepower in this little car in 2004, then it would blow any car off the road. I always have fun burning old corvetes and people with cars they think are hooked up. I always do 0- 60mphs and my best recent one was a 5.38 which is awsome and fasttttt, my best 1/4 mile was 13.39 which is also great. Get on the road with one today it rockkks.

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  One of My Best Cars - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By Florida Cowboy - November 28 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the best quality made cars I have ever purchased. I have had no problems with this car in 4 years. Servicing costs are on the expensive side. I would absolutely purchase another.