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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  Best car you can buy! - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By Ginzaman - November 15 - 2:10 am

  I had my own problem. Starting with Engine failure due to broken intermediate shaft. Dealer took it for few weeks and put a new engine after 21k. I had few other things going bad but still love my Porsche. Went to dealer probably about 10 times for minor things after that. I will probably get something like GT3 or 997S model next time. I think they could have done a better interior job but you get what you pay for. Love my car top down and still able to beat many cars like G35, 350Z, BMW 335ci and many many more. Can keep up with old M5 and Vantage. Its pretty impress for the money. Need grippier tires, like Vredstein.

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  My review - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By djf_13 - November 9 - 2:00 am

  An absolute blast to drive!

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  Wonderful Boxster - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By alwild - October 30 - 10:00 am

  I have a Tiptronic Boxster, which not an option in the dropdown. Even with Tiptronic, the gear shifting using the switches on the steering wheel is a dream and "I am in a racing car". I have wanted a Porsche all my life, and this makes my commute enjoyable for the first time. The engine is wonderful, the exhaust sound marvelous, and it as if the car is on rails when cornering. Lots of luggage space. Convertible top is easy to use. Great value for money and the best car I have ever had and a tribute to Porsche.

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  Great Car - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Ben - October 6 - 3:40 am

  Folks who claim this car is a chore around town are just wrong. This car is no more difficult to drive around town than ANY other small car with a manual transmission. And the fun factor on this one wins out every time. There are faster cars out there, but overall the Boxsters performance at this price is a huge plus, not to mention that you dont see Porsches on every corner like other cars in the same price range.

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  Stellar. Wow. Great only car for 2. - 2010 Porsche Boxster
  By Bailey - September 9 - 10:00 am

  This car has been a revelation. The build quality, design, and performance consistently and continuously impress. This car is something special. This is our only car. We have rely on it to perform all missions under all conditions. After 4 months, 8000 miles, and a few multi-day road trips, we have no regrets. It is comfortable, capable, safe, well designed, beautifully made and finished, and does everything. Golf clubs fit. Luggage for 2 fits easily. Go-crazy shopping trips, speed bumps, steep driveways, dirt roads and rain are no problem. The Porsche Boxster adds an element of beauty and excitement and beauty to everyday life that everyone should experience.

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  SSSSSuper - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By mdb - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this used last June. It is awesome. It is like hitting to within 1 foot of the pin on a par three every time I get in it!

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  Hits the "Sweet Spot." - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By E. Ward - August 25 - 12:43 pm

  A absolute joy to drive. It is stylish,responsive and powerful. Distinctly superior to every other car Ive owned, which includes not only a current model BMW M3 and an Audi TT 3.2 but also a Porsche 911 (996).

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  All-Around Performer - 1998 Porsche Boxster
  By Tim Stoops - August 22 - 11:23 am

  I bought my 1998 Porsche Boxster used with 45,000 miles and sold it recently with nearly 110,000. It was a wonderful car. So good, that we bought another newer one. The Boxster provides excellent performance and sophisticated engineering that can be easily used as a reliable daily driver. I needed to perform very little service on it. It only needed one pricey repair, an a/c evaporator. Buy one and startle the non-car people with the two trunks!

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  Awesome Sports Car - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By lakeman - August 11 - 2:06 am

  I was looking for the best handling, convertible sports car I could afford and I found it. The Boxster is awesome. I tested and reviewed BMWs, MBs, Mustangs and Miatas, new and used. I also looked at older Boxsters, but the moment I tested the new Boxster I knew it was the perfect car for me. The 2006 base Boxster has a much nicer interior, better sound system with the Bose (crucial as an audiophile), and with 18" wheels appeared faster than the 2004 S I had tested. The unexpected features that I like are how the top can be raisied and lowered at speeds under 30 with one touch, the surprisingly good fuel economy of 28 mpg, the comfortable ride for a sports car, and most importantly the excellent build quality.

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  Boxster S - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By boxster008 - August 11 - 2:00 am

  If you like to drive, buy a Boxster S. The regular Boxster is almost as good, but the "S" gives you just enough extra power to pass on an uphill curve in 6th gear. This is my first convertible and I wonder why I never bought one before. I drive it to work every day, rain, shine, snow or sleet. Even though the rear end slides a little when it is slippery, it never gets stuck. Indeed, the fun of a little drift is one of the reasons I bought it without traction control. Why let a computer drive your car for you? I cant understand why some drivers put these cars in the garage all winter--it means you dont have fun several months per year. I guess that is why Porsche made the Cayenne.