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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  Fun, Fun, Fun - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By rob - March 19 - 6:43 pm

  I just bought my Boxster used with the assumption this car was a detuned, poor mans Porsche. Boy was I wrong. This car is a race bread performer! All I can say is, "pinch me" to make sure that Im not dreaming, when actually Im ," living the dream." Enjoy.

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  So much fun... - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By nola mike - March 16 - 6:43 pm

  Bought the car with 40k miles. Had been looking at a few other cars, Honda S2000 was close, and on paper seems better for the $$ (xenon, glass rear, reliability, great shifter), but I couldnt get myself to like it more. I was a little worried because this model didnt have PSM (stability control), but the handling is so good, and so neutral, that I havent had a problem. You can kick the rear out with ease, but its very easy to control. People have lots of complaints about the interior, but Im not sure why.

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  My second Boxster - 2008 Porsche Boxster
  By Susan - March 11 - 9:10 am

  I traded in my 05 Boxster (purchased brand new) for a new 08. I love my Boxster. Style, class, name, prestige, and oh yes, it is a hot little car. You wont be disappointed with this car. For me it handles better than a 911 because the engine is in the middle.

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  Ultimate ride - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By randy clark - March 8 - 3:20 pm

  This car has to be driven. Reading a review does not get it. After being hit from behind and hitting a tree then head on into a concrete wall with the top down, climbing out without a scratch this is one safe car so state farm wrote us a check and we got another one. So far so good but I use my mirrors more.This is a real sports car.Drive It!

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  Inexpensive super car - 2007 Porsche Boxster
  By chemprof98 - February 23 - 10:56 pm

  If you like to drive, then this is the car. Handling, speed and responsiveness are unparalleled. Had a MB SLK 280 and 240. Cute car but nothing like this. While you cant legally get to 150, this car will do it easily and quickly. A blast to drive and a strangely satisfying sound to listen to as you drive. Great purchase.

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  The Best Roadster! - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By DCMike - February 7 - 5:26 am

  The 06 Porsche Boxster is the perfect roadster! There is no other....the tag line says it all. The Boxster is perfect!

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  perfect - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By paul; - February 3 - 2:00 am

  for the price you cant do any better an amazing car.so fun to drive.

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  Too Fun For Words - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By DogMeat - February 3 - 2:00 am

  Just bought mine used. Took it on a 1500 drive from Portland, OR to Denver. I had more fun than a person has a right to be. I couldnt stop smiling! I rode most of the way at around 100mph and topped out at 125mph. The Boxster S purred like a kitten! Cant imagine why Boxsters cost less than 911? I drove my friends 911 and although I like it, I found the Boxster just as fun!

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  7 year old Boxster - 1997 Porsche Boxster
  By 60 yr old gear-head - January 3 - 4:30 pm

  waited 11 months after placing pre- production order for 1st year Boxter. I drove it to work everyday for 4 years and just as a fun 2nd car for the last 3 years: hence, the very low milage. very reliable, had a freaky problem with the folding top after warranty expired. Bill was $2,000. Porsche Corp. was actually embarrased and paid it in full! Impressive!

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  Looks and feels like a million bucks. - 2013 Porsche Boxster
  By foxster - December 29 - 6:59 pm

  Just took delivery of my first Boxster, (and first Porsche), which is unlikely to be my last. Mostly very happy with it thus far, not least because I took delivery of a car which Id ordered to my own specification, that included "only" about $7K in options.