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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  No regrets on 2003 S - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By mfinntn - October 12 - 10:00 am

  I have driven my 2003 Boxster S 3000 miles in two months. Im totally satisfied. The only negative about this roadster is the price; I justified this over the BMW Z4 primarily because the Z4 looks odd and the Boxster has a classic beauty. I guess the women at my office agree on the looks issue: Ive had more compliments in the last 2 months than Ive had in the last 25 years! But I really bought it for performance and it has not disappointed on that score.. at all.

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  Its not what I wanted but ... I cant help liking it! - 2007 Porsche Boxster
  By tomfla - September 29 - 6:47 am

  I really wanted an Elise, but ... I bought the Silver Bullet with 43K miles on her. I have had the base model 2007 Boxster for 3 months/ 7000 miles. I have had no mechanical issues with the car. I did have to replace the front brakes and rear main seal but that is to be expected in a used Boxster of this age. The black leather interior is quite nice, there are no cracks even at 50K miles. Interior comfort features are somewhat as space is at a premium. Build quality, fit and finish are better than I expected.

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  2004 BOXSTER S...YOU CAN BY LOVE. - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By TONY THOMAS - September 19 - 10:00 am

  BUILD QUILITY IS LIKE NOTHING IVE EVER OWNED BEFORE. ITS TOLERANCES WITH PANEL GAP CAN ONLY BE LIKENED TO A SWISS WATCH. THE TORQUES NOT THERE COMPARED TO A V-8, BUT WHAT HOWL THE EXHAUST MAKES AS THE REVS CLIMB TOWARDS RED LINE ARE A EXCEPTED TRADE OFF. GOOD ERGONOMICS..EVERY THINGS JUST IN REACH. NO XM RADIO IS OFFERED IS MY ONLY COMPLAINT. ALSO PRICE OF OPTIONS IS EXTREAMLY STEEP AND MORE SHOULD BE STANDERD AT THIS PRICE RANGE.

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  Perfect sports car - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Chris C - September 1 - 10:53 am

  The 2006 Porsche Boxster S has razor sharp, balanced handling, great power and torque from the new motor, awesome sound and driving experience, big brakes, short shifter, and an open top...what else could you ask for? This is my first Boxster and third Porsche (two 911s previously)...and I no longer consider the Boxster as a step down from a 911...its its own amazing car.

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  Das Gut - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By elliotgl - August 31 - 4:33 am

  The Boxster is great car - major fault/major advantage is that it can make you feel like you are a much better driver than you really are. The car is almost without vices - but it does go through rear tires as though they were made of butter.

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  You get what you pay for.... - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By sbathina - August 30 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. It is pricey but probably worth it. I drive a junker during the week so im constantly reminded of the excellent handling of the car. I drove a 350z last week for comparison. I wont be trading in my porsche! Plusses- Good acceleration no modifications meeded EXCELLENT brakes Minuses- Fit and finish sometimes lacking

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  2001 Boxster - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By 01BoxsterNM - August 11 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car, best I have ever owned.

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  2500 miles of joy - 2008 Porsche Boxster
  By drmikeic - July 31 - 10:33 pm

  My new RED 2008 Boxster listed for $53,960.00 was able to get it for $45,300.00 It is wise to shop around. There is no need to go for the "S" model, stay with 18" wheels.The car is perfect in every way. Excellent heat, cold in ct. I drive it in 40 degree weather and am very warm. Get the wind stop however. The finish, build quality is beyond BMW, last car was a 2006 mz4. The ride is comfortable at 80 mph on interstate or 30 mph around town. The two trunks carry everything a normal person would carry, I even put my backpack leaf blower in trunk. As far as visual it is a breathtaking auto from all angles. Watch out for "racers," they always want to race you. Smile and let them go, your car is a joy.

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  Fun to Drive - 1997 Porsche Boxster
  By Bill77 - July 19 - 10:00 am

  There is nothing better for a car lover than red, lots of power, no top and no back seat. I cant help but smile when driving this car. This was worth every cent.

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  Finally - 2013 Porsche Boxster
  By myspyder - July 16 - 5:29 am

  Finally the Boxster is worthy of being named a Porsche.