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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  Incredible car - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By boxsterkidsj - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned my Porsche for 4 mos now. Ive put about 4500 miles on it, and love it to death. My other car is a 2001 Audi A4, and there is no comparison. The car came w/ almost every option you can think of besides the navigation system. The PSM is worth the $1230. No complaints.

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  Cure for mid-life - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By delano - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Driving this car puts a smile on my face.. Even after a not so good day !!

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  Disappointing number of rattles - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By BillinCO - July 29 - 10:00 am

  Yes, its a convertible, but Toyota and Lexus convertibles seem to not suffer from the number of squeaks and rattles the Boxster does, especially with the Hard Top option. But in a nutshell. no other vehicle handles like the Boxster. When taking turns on twisty roads you will think the car is violating the laws of physics as there is no excitement, the car just TURNS. The phrase "corners as if on rails" is overused, but in the case of the Boxster its as if the car is riding atop a monorail. You will need to find new roads to conquer as all your old favorite twisties will, to be blunt, become BORING in the Boxster.

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  lil car - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By richard calhoun - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Great car to drive. Cannot get air bag light to shut off.

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  Never again - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By CO_Steve - July 8 - 10:46 pm

  While I agree with all the positive comments about the Boxster my bought new 2000 suffered a bearing failure at 22,000 miles and five years which required total engine replacement. Factory 3/36 had run out. No consideration from Porsche. Known problem. I could have bought many more Porsches in my life but never again.

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  Raucous Fun in the Sun - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Speed Yellow - June 8 - 8:33 am

  I feel that the outstanding sense of balance is a Boxsters trademark. Its not the fastest of two seat roadsters (even in S form), but it is surely the most fun to drive. The cars handling instills confidence in even the most tenuous of drivers. Cornering is effortless; the cars center of gravity feels like it is located under your seat. The the suspension communicates precisely what you need to know and it transmits your steering and throttle inputs with a smooth competency. The engine sings at higher RPM and begs to be revved to its limits, thats where the power band is and thats where the whole driving experience comes together, putting a big, goofy grin on your face. Its Heaven.

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  Is this heaven? - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By ds2k1 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  Havent had my Boxster S long, but I cant imagine a better first impression. Handles unbelievably, has excellent power and torque, is absolutely gorgeous to look at, has an excellent amount of storage for its class, is pretty roomy inside, and provides about 95% of the thrills of a 911 cabrio for at least $30K less. And for me, it is an absolutely livable everyday driver, whereas the S2000 (the other car I considered) is not. If youre thinking about the Boxster, just do it - you wont regret it!

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  Boxster S "A Hedonistic Dream" - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By Claud in DC - May 24 - 10:00 am

  This car is the most fun to drive car I have ever owned. It isnt the quickest off the line and it isnt cheap. However, it is the best handling stock performance car available for under 55K and its a Porsche. The stability (even is adverse conditions) is remarkable and it has been reliable to boot thus far. Not cheap to maintain, but given the fact that maintenance is due every 15,000 miles makes the high price reasonable.

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  It only gets better - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By T E Walker - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Driven 45,000 miles in 3 years. Snow, blizzard, sun and rain. Absolutely better each month Ive owned it.

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  quality not there - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By knuckles - May 22 - 10:00 am

  too many problems--rear seals seem to have problem on their bulletin boards, clutch is weak, hydraulic front hood that needs to be jumped to open if the battery is dead is a poor design feature