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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  The Review - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By chriswcs - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I nice car! It is so cool! I love this car like I love my wife!

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  Boxster S - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By stlmc - March 25 - 10:00 am

  Overall, a fantastic car. Although there are faster cars for less $ out there, nothing handles like it. By far the best-looking convertible on the road in my opinion. Two problem areas Ive had though - terribly squeaky clutch that the dealer took 2 days to fix, and a minor exhaust leak that was also fixed. Otherwise, a great car. A 911 would be nice, but this car looks almost identical on the interior and the front half of the exterior, for $30k less.

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  A Blast! - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By Greg - March 21 - 11:20 am

  I bought my red Boxster w/55k miles for weekend fun. The problem is I cant keep my hands off of it. I find myself looking for excuses to run an errand just so I can take it out for a spin. The most fun car I have ever owned. Handling, engine note, brakes, styling are all incredible.

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  One Beautiful Sports Car - 2008 Porsche Boxster
  By James - March 14 - 11:13 pm

  Just got this car and stayed up half the night driving it around with the top down. It feels so good with the top down. The handling is top notch. You can feel the quality built into this car. Drove the 370z and even though it had more bells and whistles it wasnt near as fun to drive as the Boxster S. Plus chicks love a Porsche and that alone is worth the extra coin.

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  One of the worlds best sports cars - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By boxstar - February 27 - 10:23 pm

  This is one of the worlds greatest sports cars. The handling is both confident and communicative. The steering feedback is fantastic. The chassis is extremely stiff, especially for a convertible. The engine note is intoxicating and the power, although not amazing, is still very strong. More than enough to get you into trouble. Its relatively light compared to its contemporaries (and the 911). I love this car. I wouldnt hesitate to buy another.

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  rides on rails - 2007 Porsche Boxster
  By greg - February 20 - 3:30 pm

  This is a great car. Its not that fast but it handles like nothing else. Seems to be on rails and takes corners 10 times better than anything Ive driven. I only get 20 mpg and that was with conservative driving before my 2000 mile break-in period. The paint chips very easily, more easily than any car Ive had. And the seats are extremely narrow at the shoulders. If fact, they hurt and Im considering some after market seats. Seems you have to be a skinny teenager to fit in the seats. But overall its a thrill to drive down winding roads.

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  Porsche Boxster - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By jp - February 7 - 6:56 am

  My Boxster handles great and drives better on the highway than my wifes CLK 320 convertible. 3rd gear moves the car very quickly. Few cars can keep up with this car around corners or open road. Test drove the SL 500, 911, & Corvette before buying this car. Overall, this car is better than any of the other three. It has the power, handling and it is a blast to drive.

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  Funtastic - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Jeffish - February 4 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Boxster and the last one was super reliable, cheap to own (even after 90,000 miles, always fun and just the best handling car with fantastic brakes. Good resale value.

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  in love - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By oreo - February 4 - 10:00 am

  found the boxster to be everything the reports have indicated a pleasure to drive . only disappointment; front hood will get a fair share of road chips .

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  great - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By E - January 23 - 4:36 am

  It has great handling and has great turning. It can also accelerate very quickly.