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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  Porsche Bostwer Review - 2008 Porsche Boxster
  By Katty Luis - October 1 - 6:40 am

  The 2008 Porsche Boxter is a great one person car that is fuel efficient and extremely comfortable. It is a great purchase if you are looking for a one person car.

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  3 years coming to an end - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By dmtaylor - September 29 - 10:00 am

  Boxster is everyhting I hoped it would be.

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  Porsche Boxster - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Frank - September 22 - 12:13 pm

  This car is very fun to drive, just a slight push on the gas petal tells you why...The first scheduled maintenance is two years or 20,000 miles...Can you believe that! Oil changes every 20K no way...The dealer advised not to drive it over 120 mph during the first 2,000 miles for brake in..Holy cow...That is as fast as you need to be on U.S.A. roads

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  Uber Shweet - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By Raiffe - September 20 - 10:03 pm

  The car is great! I drive from my home to class mon-fri and not a day goes by when people dont stare! It easily cruses at 100mph and has great highway acceleration in 5th gear. I found that the exhaust wasnt loud enough so I installed one myself and it sounds like a beast. Gas consumption is also amazing for a sports car, I get 26.8 avg. but who really cares! Get it!!!

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  First impressions - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Cricket - September 15 - 12:36 pm

  Just drove the car 1700 miles in 3 days, so heres my first impression: This car is a blast to drive. I have a couple pet-peeves already, but I have no regrets about my purchase!

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  Great Car. - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By dhaleat - September 12 - 10:00 am

  I tested about everything before getting the Boxster S; Audi TT, BMW Z, Ferrari, MB, 911, etc. All things considered, the S was the clear winner. I guess the bottom line is, If I were buying today, I would still choose a Boxster. Although I would probably buy a used one that was low milage.

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  Perfect Sports Car - 2007 Porsche Boxster
  By Porsche Nut - September 5 - 11:00 am

  My bride and I ordered this car in June of 2006 as our wedding gift to each other. Even though we bought the "base" Boxster, we optioned it up with all the goodies including the hardtop to a list of $67000! We got the base as it has plenty of power, great performance and really does get over 30 mpg on the highway. It is great for tooling around the backroads of Pennsylvania, Virginia, West (by God) Virginia and Maryland and can hold enough luggage for a week and still have room left for making frequent stops at the wineries! The overall performance is superb. I have owned Alfas, Fiats, Lancias, Triumphs and nothing compares to the Porsche. Expensive yes, but well worth it.

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  Porsche there is no subsitute - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By Tesqua - August 21 - 11:13 am

  The Porsche Boxster is an extension of the driver. The steering is precise, the brakes are right there, the midship mounted engine is very responsive, and the car is well balanced. Mine is a daily driver that handles driving slowly in town and at speed on country roads equally well.

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  It makes me smile - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By sam wilson - August 9 - 10:00 am

  We do not drive it unless we can put the top down. It is a great joy to drive, strong acceleration, smooth gearbox that I enjoy double clutching, and incredible grip. We seek out roads with curves just to feel the lateral force when it is accelerated out of curves. Dealer has been very good, although parts are pricey. I had to replace an ignition cylinder and it was $400.00. Two of us who do not pack very well can fit enough luggage for a long weekend, including carrying the car cover. Exceptionally strong air conditioner allows top down driving on hot summer days. This is my first Porsche but I know now why Porsche owners are so fanatical.

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  Porsche thinks out of the Box..thank you - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By appliedrx - August 9 - 10:00 am

  usually use it as a weekend driver. very, very fun to drive. perfect for body frames around 56 to 60. car fits like a glove, handles like a roller coaster and has nice vintage lines with just enough modernism to let you know it is new.