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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  All New Boxster - 2006 Porsche Boxster
  By HKG - June 21 - 8:03 pm

  This is my third Porsche Boxster. The 2005 has been completely redone compared to prior years. It has more power, more comfort, and an improvement on an already great design. Ive driven the car now for nine months and have no complaints.

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  Entry level Porsche - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By boxS - June 21 - 10:00 am

  Great handling car in Porsche tradition. Seats take getting used too. Pirelli tires noisy on road, swap for Michelin or Continental if purchasing new. Limited luggage space for travel. Salesman hyped loaner car during service, but reneged on agreement. Expect loss on resale or trade. Fun car to drive, especially at track.

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  there is no substitute! - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By kevin - June 14 - 2:53 pm

  The best roadster. Ive owned a number of sports cars and this is by far the best. Fast, quiet (for a sports car), comfortable, and mid engine handling, this car is the complete package. The car handles impressively on any road surface, except the most extreme pot holes roads, wet or dry pavement it does not matter. Comfortable on long cruises (10 states in 8 days inlcuding the Tail of the Dragon, 318 turns in 11 miles, Cherohala Skyway, Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge PArkway). World class car with world class fit, finish and build quality. My used Boxster blows away my new Honda s2000, different class of car. Buy to experience the P-car perma-grin.

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  Boxster review - 2008 Porsche Boxster
  By majormcf - June 8 - 11:03 pm

  Car is awesome and perfect balance of handling and power. I had the first generation boxster and this one is twice the car and I had no complaints with the first one. If youre going to buy one get at least a 12% discount off sticker or go to another dealer. My dealer was supposed to set the locks and headlights and failed to do so. Since I didnt buy it locally I will have to pay a couple hundred bucks out of my pocket for not checking. They also quoted me 50.00 on the tint and then charged me 139.00. Not a big deal but as a repeat customer I expected more, probably will by my next Porsche from someone else.

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  My baby - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By BarbaraB - June 3 - 2:00 am

  I love it! I just cant wait until spring to take the top down.

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  You gotta love it - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By Fun in the Sun - May 30 - 10:43 pm

  Porsche designs the best true sports cars that are accessible to the general public. You get spoiled by the braking, steering, quality of materials, power, etc. When I jump in our other cars (BMW 540i and Jaguar XJ6), I realize what makes the Porsche so special. I also own a 996 coupe, which I absolutely love driving, however when I have a choice of which key to grab, the Boxster wins out. The Boxster is a great daily driver. With the top down, the car is perfection! The Boxster also handles better than our 996. Mid engine design helps keep the car pointed in the right direction at insane speeds. We chose our Boxster over the Z4, S2000, Miata Speed, 350 Roadster, Crossfire SRT-6

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  Boxster S is awesome - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By tpdj - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Nothing but good things to say about the car. Handles exceptionally well. Fun to drive. Great weekend getaway car that can handle luggage for two people for up to a week or more on the road. Acceleration is smooth, not neck breaking. But can hit high speeds before you know it. The sound coming out of the pipes and the intakes is unique and music to the ears. Top is easy to put down and up, and when up is surprisingly well-insulated from wind noise.

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  Boxster at the top of the buyers - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By boxster buyer - May 12 - 5:06 am

  Great car. Overall perfect. Porsche could have made it a little faster and more powerfull but overall its a great car.

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  Golf Clubs may ride shotgun - 2003 Porsche Boxster
  By The Ironman - April 30 - 10:00 am

  Great German roadster with lots of attitude. You can weave through traffic, get to work, put in your hours, and still make tee time. If you play golf, certain bags will fit in the rear trunk, but you will have to remove the woods and lay them in seperately or let them ride shotgun. Bose system is a must if you plan on going topless. Ive had a few problems with the stereo and the dealership has tried to correct it the second time but was not successfull, I hope they will get it right the 3rd time around. Besides that, it has been a great addition in the garage.

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  WOW - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By Rhodes - April 25 - 10:00 am

  You cant touch this car without spending alot more money. A true toy for adults- and thats a good thing. People smile, give a thumbs-up and wave. Great handling, smart looks and a reasonable price.