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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  A REAL Sports Car - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By C. Blackman - Texas - June 11 - 10:20 am

  The new Porsche Boxster is their "BEST TO DATE" sports car. Previous models have been fine, but this car is way outstanding. Fast, Fun to drive, quiet with the top down and you can drop the top while you are driving under 30 mph. I have had the car for two weeks and it "turns heads." Bose stereo is great. Terrific "Ice cold" air conditioner (a must for Texas). Interior finish work is as fine as Mercedes; very well laid out instrumentation, etc. I checked out several convertibles and this car was the best all around car.

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  A car that puts a smile on my face - 2007 Porsche Boxster
  By metroflyer - June 2 - 8:43 pm

  Ive had the car since new and have done nothing but enjoy it. It is great fun to drive, I almost always drive on side roads and not the freeway, just keeps the rocks and debris off the front end. The car handles great, feels like it is on rails when going around sharp corners. I am getting very good gas mileage, close to 30, keeping the RPM down helps.

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  Boxster S Fun, but not best for $60k - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By Tim Gaither - May 30 - 2:00 am

  Bought Boxster S preowned w/9k miles. Great looks and top easy to drop. Tiptronic acceleration not to good - 0- 60 at 5.9 secs. Handling is cars strength. Interior is very plain even with sport touring package. Cabin is a little tight for me at 6" 3". Still fun to drive. Wish engine compartment was easier to access.

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  Porsche Boxster - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By msy - May 21 - 10:00 am

  Great car for the value. Gets lots of looks. I would recommend spending the extra cash for an S model, because the regular lacks the punch...

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  Boxster - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By SSS - May 21 - 10:00 am

  Excellent fun. Needs more power. Excellent handling. Some rattles.

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  The best roadster in its class - 2010 Porsche Boxster
  By Lead foot - May 6 - 2:46 am

  Just bought this car last week, fun to drive and super nice to look at. Im most impressed by its speed, hugs the road on turns. I took few turns at high speeds, car responded beyond my expectations! 7-Speed Porsche Doppelkupplung is a blast. This car will turn heads.

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  catch me if you can - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By r.t.batky - March 30 - 2:00 am

  great cornering ,handeling,speed.no legroom

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  The Review of the Porshe Boxter - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Lissa Green - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I love this car.Its the best car ever.I think that everybody needs to get one of these cars.They have excellent handling-even on slick roads- ,they run great, and the design is great also.the only thing that I do not like about mine is that it is a 5 speed I would much rather have an automatic.Thank you for reading this review.

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  Great - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By TriGem - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Greatest Sports car for the price, Nothing can compare. Never driven a car that has everything i wanted such as Power, Torque, Style, and being fun to drive. Would recomend it to anyone lookin for a sports car

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  PostAlimony Thrill - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By threeputtsnomore - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I studied and shopped for this car for literally months before I found the right one. Ocean blue/metropol with almost all of the bells/whistles. My patience was rewarded by the euphoria of a fun-to-drive head-turner that will run all day without breathing hard. The Tiptronic is great for both wife and me (bad backs)and we look forward to years of fun with our Boxster.