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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  My Car - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By harry - December 26 - 11:03 am

  The 2000 Porsche Boxster is a fantastic car. Im a regional salesman and do well over 30,000 miles a year. This car has never broke down and it still looks great.

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  like no other...period! - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By Mr. cars.... - December 24 - 7:20 am

  There are many 2-seater convertibles out there for a variety of prices...most are more affordable than the Porsche Boxster...but none are more fun to own and drive! This vehicle handles incredibly and although it has sufficient power for our taste...the "S" version should provide sufficient power for the most decerning enthusiast. While the Corvettes are slightly faster to 60 mph...you dont get there in as classy a car as the German Porsche. The Bose sound system is exceptional as well....making the entire top down experience something to look forward to everytime we take it for a drive. There is no substitute!

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  Real upgrade over the 987 - 2013 Porsche Boxster
  By quierodormir - December 3 - 9:47 pm

  Just replaced my 2007 Boxster with the 2013. Its a real improvement in almost every way over the previous generation. The design of the exterior and interior are significantly enhanced (in particular the interior, which previously I felt had a tendency to feel cheap in terms of materials) I know the electric steering has received some criticism, but I cannot tell a difference with the old hydraulic setup. Both are fantastic opinion. The only minor difference Ive noticed is that the exhaust note in the 2013 isnt as pronounced as the 2007 at lower RPMs. This may be due to the fact that my 07 had the sport / PASM package while the new one doesnt.

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  Boxster Review - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By POPGATOR - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful car, fun to drive, engine sound is awsome

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  Boxster Standard, Y2k model - 2000 Porsche Boxster
  By ttheobald - December 1 - 10:00 am

  To date, this has been a remarkable car. I am still somewhat surprised - almost alarmed - that it only requires service every 15000 miles (including oil changes!). The vehicle is solid, easily kept, and drives like flight. It has an extremely quiet engine - and a throaty voice that comes out at 4k- 5k RPM, which is where your real neck- snapping power is. This vehicle eats noisy custom Hondas without breaking a sweat, despite their drivers testosterone rush at the sight of you. The joy here isnt in your fast takeoffs - its in the neck-snapping power youve got in high RPMs. In one word: Wow.

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  Best Upgrade from 986 - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By gsd98jsh - November 29 - 8:16 pm

  I had 2002 Boxster (986) and upgraded to 2005 Boxster (987). So far I have 16,500 miles on the new 987. There are so many improvements done to the new model. Besides the obvious new look on both exterior and interior, now a tall person does not have to hunch due to the lowered seat. The gear shifter is shorter and more precise. The suspension is also tighter and feels much better. Overall, I am so glad that I upgraded from the 2002 986 to the new 987. I will probably end up purchasing 988 if such model comes up from Porsche.

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  attitude in a convertible - 2004 Porsche Boxster
  By ocedavid - November 29 - 10:00 am

  The S Boxster is fun and a real attention getter. the torque is amazing and the acceleration will keep you in your seat. Tight cornering and braking are enequaled. I have had Porsches for 30 years and this is the best.

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  The Most Fun Car I Have Ever Owned - 2001 Porsche Boxster
  By NorCal Enthusiast - November 26 - 10:30 pm

  Ive owned many sports cars in my time -- and convertibles too -- like my MG, and more recenly like my Miata. Both were fun. But graduating to the Boxster is like one day waking up with super powers. It is just that startling. The handling is sublime, the road feel and gearing are wonderful, the whole package is great. The torque curve is well, nonexistent. The engine and gearing are such that you just accelerate smoothly and very quickly. It has been a year, and I am still madly in love with driving this car. It is demanding to drive -- yes - can take your total concentration, but if you live in an area with twisty roads and a benign climate, the it rewards you on a daily basis.

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  always a blast - 2002 Porsche Boxster
  By AMK - November 14 - 2:00 am

  I drive my car every day, and it is always fun. It handles every situation with finesse. Nothing could be better than a sunny day with the top down, but it handles rainy weather with confidence. It is more practical than one would expect from a two- seater sports car, but plenty of room with the two trunks. Its my only car, and the only car I need.

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  Defying the laws of physics - 2005 Porsche Boxster
  By j. zolyn - October 24 - 4:43 am

  This is my first Porsche and the best car I have ever owned. The main feature that I enjoy the most is taking turns at 65 mph when the yellow caution sign states 30 mph. I have to fight my wife when it comes to who gets to drive and she hates to drive...until now.