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 Car! - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By Alan - August 4 - 10:36 am

  Ive had this car since 2003, and to this day I still love it. I was one who used to change cars every few years, Ive owned a BMW 5 series, Z3, 323i convertible, and a 318. Ive also owned a clk430, c320 and a 1999 beetle. So as you can tell I love cars(!) and this so far has been my favorite one. Its never given me any mechanical problems, everything still works, nothing is broken. Wait... the only thing that did tear was the convertible top window, it came unstitched. Aside from that everything works fine. To anyone thinking of buying a car like this one, you wont be disappointed. If possible get one with the upgraded Porsche exhaust... it makes this puppy purrrrr.

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  An Excellent Sports Car - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By go - July 24 - 10:00 am

  From the steering feel, to the velcro handling, to the engine melody ... nothing about the driving experience disappoints. Only two problems have cropped up: A minor oil leak, and a faulty sending unit that left my drop-top in the dropped position. Both fixed under warantee. Regular maintenace at the dealer, however, will cost a bundle. Still, for the money, I have yet to find a car that brings as big a smile to my face as the Boxster.

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  Boxster S is a Blast - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By Henry - July 21 - 1:30 am

  Looked at Z4 and even the new 911, but I thought the Boxster had the best styling. New 280 HP engine just rips and mid-engine design make handling world-class. Seats are very comfy, the automatic top (with glass rear window) is awesome. Boxster used to remind of SLK--a bit of a girls car. No more--new Boxster is one of the worlds best sports cars.

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  the good, the not so good but not bad - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By blue - July 19 - 10:00 am

  The Good: Excellent handling especially around turns, fun with the top down, overall design, steering wheel, cup holders, quick, good engine sound, Dealership response to problems usually within the same day. The not so good: plastic rear window, rattle in door, manual seat adjustments, minor electrical issues. They dont call it a boxster for nothing. What you buy is the box...everything else is extra. For the money, some things should be included (wheel emblems, floor mats, etc.). It just feels like they are nickel and diming you.

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  the good, the not so good but not bad - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By Blue - July 19 - 10:00 am

  The Good: Excellent handling especially around turns, fun with the top down, overall design, steering wheel, cup holders, quick, good engine sound, Dealership response to problems usually within the same day. The not so good: plastic rear window, rattle in door, manual seat adjustments, minor electrical issues. They dont call it a boxster for nothing. What you buy is the box...everything else is extra. For the money, some things should be included (wheel emblems, floor mats, etc.). It just feels like they are nickel and diming you.

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  Porsche bliss - 1998 Porsche Boxster
  By riverdale21 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I have driven some nice cars in my time. For quite some time now I have been obsessed with Audis powerful sedan the 2002 S4. Having driven a Porsche for the first time today I immediately fell in love. The Porsche Boxster is a excellent addition as a second car for anyone looking for a car that is loads of fun to drive in the twisty mountain roads, yet is still comfortable and roomy and can hold a set of clubs in the trunk. The Audi can be my family hauler, but my Porsche is my get-away car.

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  Top Roadster - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By vignalij - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Before I bought the S, I looked and test drove a new Honda S2000 & Nissan 350Z, and a used BMW Z4, Boxster S, Audi TT, and Mercedes SLK. The characteristics important to me were: 1.Fun, 2. Style 3. Overall driving feel 4. Performance 5. Cost The Boxster S edged out the S2000 even with cost factored in. Bottom-line -- None can quite measure up to the overall performance, feel, and style of the Boxster S. Now I know why Porsche says “There is no substitute” – it’s true.

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  Boxster - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By Pollard - May 30 - 2:00 am

  What a super car. I always wanted an old speedster and boy am I glad I did not find one, and selected this car instead. This is all of the fun of a speedster but with all of the modern conviences

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  Cool Mid-life Crisis Car - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By Dan - May 28 - 4:13 am

  I bought my Boxster on a whim. It is my first Porsche. It is a beautiful car and it is fun to drive. I got quite a deal, but in the three weeks I have had it, my starter went out as did the oxygen sensor.

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  Accept no subsitutes... - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By Derrick - May 26 - 9:26 pm

  As a former BMW owner, this has got to be one of the best cars I have ever owned. Execellent styling and handling. Bought my 2002 model boxster in in 2005 and I can only imagine how wonderful it could have been brand new. In my reseach this car was described as the "Honda" of the Porsche family. If you are shy dont buy one, this car attracts stranger and many curious on-lookers.