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 it, but - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By tonyrocker - September 28 - 6:33 am

  I love this car. It is my first Porsche and I have it just over 2 years. Will "upgrade" to the 911 soon. The car has had its problems. After 6,000 miles engine blew for no reason (new engine put in but covered under warranty), clutch went after 7,000 miles (maybe that was the wife driving??). Now the convertible roof has stopped working and is currently in the shop getting fixed. With all that I still love this car.

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  Best pure sports car anywhere - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By Chris C - September 20 - 2:30 pm

  Porsche has finally given the Boxster its own terrific style and the performance it deserves. This car has unequalled handling, the best braking and slalom times in magazine tests, usable cargo space, amazing seats and upmarket interior, drop dead roadster style ala Carrera GT. For me the Boxster S is so good it is a steal compared to the base Carrera Cab at $30,000 more! Its quality has been excellent, service is reasonable...but buy it for the pure sports car driving experience. I traded a BMW M3 on my 987S because some German cars have forgotten that less weight is more fun than more hp. Porsche has the perfect recipe for performance, style and prestige with the new Boxster!

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  Thats my car! - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By LVTODRV - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Every time I get in my car to go anywhere I say to myself I love my car! It just fits my style and need for speed. Best driven on the open road with the convertible top down. It doesnt get any better than that. Great stress reducer! Great for the tan! I driver it year round, but desperately need snow tires. The car wash people love when I come through for detailing. Will upgrade the engine before I trade this car in!

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  I Love it! - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By M - September 11 - 11:00 pm

  I Love my Porsche Boxster. She purrs perfectly, has sleek curves and drives the way a high performance vehicle should. She has more than enough storage space, front and back and looks sexy!

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  Best overall sports car - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By biscon - September 10 - 5:10 pm

  The 05 Boxster S is the best sports car on the market for the money. Why? It has performance, styling, ride, utility (2 trunks fore and aft), economy (23 mpg overall)and technology (top stores in 10 seconds).I still get positive comments from passersby after 3 yrs with this car.

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  my first porsche - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By ccmcgee - August 23 - 10:00 am

  I entered my 30s and decided to leave behind all that went with my 20s especially, my 95 toyota camry. Am I ever glad that I did. Driving the Porsche Boxster S is like being transported from the mundane to the extraordinary. Im afraid that I will overuse the convertible top. Ive yet to feel even a bit of buyers remorse.

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  A Totally New Boxster That Will Thrill - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By David - August 18 - 9:16 pm

  This is my second Boxster and fourth Porsche. My last one was a 2002 that was great but this 2006 is a totally different car. I am more impressed with this car than any I have ever owned, including a new BMW Z4 3.0 that I bought last March (2005). The interior is much higher quality that previous years. The car "breathes" as you accelerate with the silky smooth 5 speed transmission. The Bose stereo is exceptional! The price was a true value. I highly recommend this car with great enthusiasm.

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  almost flawless - 1999 Porsche Boxster
  By Dr. Lloyd - August 17 - 10:00 am

  Every time I get an itch to upgrade to a 911, I just go out a take a spin in my Boxster. This car has the handling, the brakes, the top down fun, and plenty of storage space (two trunks!) The steering is super responsive. At 3500 rpm, the engine sings. Every time I get in this car, it makes me smile. Whenever Im done driving I have what boxster owners call permagrin, I cant wipe the smile from my face. This car is best in the twisty mountain roads, where almost nothing can beat it. From the doors forward, the Boxster is almost the same as the 911. The only problem is that the 911 has the larger engine, and who needs rear seats?

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  Blue Boxster - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By gregs bb - August 14 - 6:00 am

  This car is a blast to drive. Puts a smile on your face. Handling is exceptional and very forgiving. Power is good, but there are lots of cars that will beat you. Feels great at speed and is a real confidence builder. Engine is tied tighly to rest of drive train and is very responsive. Great looks and a real head turner. Seats are very comfortable (get the power seat option) and driving position is excellent. Visibility is great too. Engine makes that wonderful sound. Make sure you use premium and a little octane boost does help. I have had an issue, the passenger side power window stopped lowering when you grab the door handle (needs to do this with the top up, since the window binds).

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  Its hard to do better. - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By Sabastian - August 10 - 3:16 pm

  This car was purchased about a month ago with around 34,000 miles on the clock, but I have to say that it feels and drives like a brand new car. The steering is direct and full of feel. The engine pulls urgently from 3,500rpm and sounds fantastic doing it, and the 6-speed manual is a model of precision. The seats are comfortable, and the interior still looks great even eight years after the car was built. I would have no trouble recommending a Boxster S to anyone in the market for a two-seat drop top.