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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  2001 Boxster - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By 2001 Boxster - June 16 - 12:43 am

  This car is a joy to drive. They did an excellent job of designing the car so that you can carry on a conversation at normal voice levels with the top down. This car makes driving fun again! This is the closest I have felt to a car - since I was a young pup and bought a new 944. I am getting tremendous gas mileage. I got over 29 mpg on a day trip a few weekends ago.

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  Amazing - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By tourmalet1 - June 13 - 10:00 am

  This car has to be one of the most amazing cars ever built. Brings a whole new meaning to the words "fun to drive!"

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  This car is fantastic, powerful, and fun - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Smoovee - June 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is simply great! So far this is the best driving experience of my life. You cant beat this Porsche vehicle nothing else compares to this car - overall a well built and fantastic car. Wow!

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  Guaranteed Fun! Does Not Disappoint! - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By martini4me - May 24 - 8:20 pm

  Purchased a 2006 base Porsche Boxster with Tiptronic a couple of weeks ago. The driving experience is great! The engine is pleasantly loud. Ive found it quietest at about 65 mph, louder at low speeds in the 10-30mph range and fairly loud at 75 mph+. If youre looking for a sports convertible in the $50,000 - $60,000 range, look no further. The storage room is great with the front and rear trunks. I can get 2 sets of golf clubs in the rear (even with top down) and a nice sized medium piece of luggage in the front. Thats better than the BMW 3-Series or Audi A4 convertible, which, with top down would require using the whole back seat for storage as well. I put the top down at 55-60 degrees with the heat on, no problem!

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  Love This Car - 1997 Porsche Boxster
  By Pete - May 23 - 5:06 pm

  I have read horrors about the Porsche Boxster after I purchased mine, but it seems the problem are mostly on newer models manufactured in Finland (check driver side sticker). Mine is a 1997 Porsche Boxster with 101,120 miles, made in Germany and it is running GREAT! The only problem I am having is that the clock stopped working (digital clock) and I cant find which fuse (if it is the fuse) is out. Other than that, this is a great car.

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  Too much fun - 2008 Porsche Boxster
  By Jim - May 23 - 5:20 am

  Went to the local Porsche dealer to look at a used 95 Ferrari and spotted a Boxster S on the floor. I decided to take it for a spin and it now sits in my garage waiting for Spring. These cars are definitely built with the driver in mind. I doubt if there is a car made that is more well- balanced than a Boxster S.

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  disapointed - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By bummed - May 2 - 10:00 am

  This car sells by its looks only. My 1997 Jeep has more options on it. Dont plan to resell your Boxster because you will get half of what you paid. Thanks Porsche for shipping as many Boxsters as Ford shipped Taurus.

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  Different Porsche - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Brian Chaney - May 2 - 4:16 am

  Unlike other Porsches, this one has the older style, newer technology, and is more economic than ever.

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  One of the bettter Porsches of all time. - 2013 Porsche Boxster
  By clutchplate - April 7 - 10:06 am

  This is my 11th Porsche with most being 911s. Always wanted a Boxster but never liked the way they looked until now. The 2013 is stunning in person and is one of the best handling cars you can buy. The base model doesnt have much low end torque so you need to keep the engine between 4500 and 7000 rpms. Its plenty fast within that range but it brings the mpg to around 18 so you have to choose between power or mileage. You get 30 mpg as advertised with a very light foot. The handling is stupendous, cornering is quick and tight, the car feels glued to the road no matter how hard you push. My last car was a Lotus Elise, which had superb handling, the new Boxster could be better.

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  99 Boxster - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By dsb65 - April 2 - 2:00 am

  Recently purchased my boxster and have loved it. Purchashed without a warrently, so am a bit nervous but still loving it everyday.