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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  Love my Boxster - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By tony p - May 24 - 8:50 pm

  My Porsche Boxster does not have as much muscle as my old 1999 Chevrolet Corvette but it has adequate power for me. It certainly is a lot more fun to drive and more comfortable. It has no roll on the curves. It feels like you are attached to the road surface.

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  GREAT car - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By Mizzou Grad - May 20 - 10:00 am

  More fun than one should have with clothes on!

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  Fun Machine - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By Cory - May 6 - 2:06 am

  I purchased a used 2000 Boxster S several years ago with low mileage. Everything has been fantastic including the dealer service in Palm Beach FL. I made due with the cup holder that latches onto the driver vent as well....

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  M3 killer? - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By tmc - April 19 - 9:46 am

  I owned an E46 BMW M3 convertible (current M3 for those who dont know) and this car blows it away. How can 276 hp beat 333? Its lighter and handles amazingly through the curves. I compared it to a Z4 3.0i and the Boxster S won hands down. Its hard to find the limits of this car in a turn, its just that planted. And the engine sounds great! My only regret is I wish I had gotten sport chrono for the remapped accelerator option, but thats not all that important in the scheme of things. Suggestion to anyone buying one: get a good radar dectector!

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  Boxster Fun - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Mitch - April 13 - 1:46 pm

  The Boxster is a fun to drive car. I have an automatic. The ride is firm and it hugs the road.The top is a breeze to put down and the windows lower when ever you open the door or put the top down. It gets manny a looks by other drivers and it has get up and go with a push of the pedal. This is such a great car that we ordered a second one for my wife .

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  10 - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By guest - April 12 - 2:00 am

  What can be said for heaven on earth? Insurance costs stink but I can not blame Porsche for that!

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  This car cant miss.... - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By Car Expert - April 2 - 4:46 am

  If its the best sports car convertible for the money you are looking for...the Boxster is the car to get. It out handles most every other automobile on the road...including some exotics! While the "S" model is the one to own if extra horsepower is what you want...the standard Boxster has plenty of power to dust off most wanna be sports cars....like their marketing campaign says...Porsche..there is no substitute!

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  Proud Owner - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By Val Taylor - March 31 - 12:50 pm

  This car is the funnest car that I have ever driven. So balanced that it reminds me of the racing carts I had when I was in my teens. The only problem I have had with it is the ignition switch had to be replaced (factory recall or something). Car is reliable, high performance, and certainly lives up to the Porsche reputation. Have driven some friends 911s and the Boxster definitely handles better.

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  2000 Boxster, 5-speed - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By Jim Arnold - March 18 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Porsche and the one thing I didnt anticipate was that the car would be so well made and reliable. The car had no flaws whatsoever when I received it and to this day, Ive had only very, very minor repairs. The car is an absolute pleasure to drive, it performs well and runs as smoothly and as tightly as the day I got it which is amazing considering I drive it every day to work in heavy traffic, starting and stopping constantly. The car currently has 36,000 miles on it and I have no hesitation to buy it outright when my lease is up in a couple of months. I would highly recommend this car to anyone!

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  Tight and Nimble - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Craig Dickinson - February 25 - 12:00 pm

  This car seems to be well thought out with easy to see displays and a trip computer that provides exceptional trip information. It is fast off the mark, smooth at speeds over 70 mph, and sticks to corners like glue. I use for business trips <250 miles. The two trunks are still small, but I find that, with creativity, all needed items can be stored. The two coat hooks on the back of the seats let me store my suit coat. The seating positioning is comfortable, but only for those who are 6 feet tell and under. I suggest adding protective coating (option) to protect front and wheel areas from nicks from stones, etc.. I have put 2,300 miles on mine in 10 days, enjoying the journey as much as destination! Buy it!