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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First Timer - 2005 Porsche Boxster
By Patrick - October 20 - 7:30 pmI have waited a long time to purchase a Porsche. I have not been disappointed in the least. The available power and steering through sharp curves is incredible. I really feel as though I have total control of the car.
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Like driving a High Tech Video Game - 2008 Porsche Boxster
By James - October 17 - 1:33 amThis car is so fun to drive. It handles likes its on rails and sounds so good that Im always turning down the $1000 upgraded Bose stereo down so I can hear the 3.4 growl. I love going anywhere now. Havent said that in a while. This is my daily driver and with the traffic here in town chose the triptronic. I never thought that I would be saying this but I am so glad I went with the Auto. Its like driving a high tech video game. Flying around corners and shifting is a blast. I can also be holding hands with my date and still drive the car like it should be driven.
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This car ROCKS!! - 2007 Porsche Boxster
By Mark - October 4 - 5:26 amThe Boxster S has come into its own with this 3.4L 295HP Engine. What a Car! It has perfect balance and plenty of POWER! The exhaust note is intoxicating, it is just loud enough. The Cayman with the same engine is way too loud inside the car. I can not wait until the engine is broken in so I can really drive the car.
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Happy owner - 2005 Porsche Boxster
By mackay spears - September 30 - 12:06 pmThis is my first Porsche and definitely the finest automobile I have owned to date. It has been more fun to drive than I imagined and its quality and engineering continue to impress me.
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Awesome/Affordable Sportscar - 2005 Porsche Boxster
By tom_dz - September 18 - 8:55 amI purchased my 2005 Boxster in 2006 (then 9,000 miles; now 64,000). I have not looked back since. It is surprisingly comfortable for such a tight-handling car. It looks and feels as mean as it sounds. And to my surprise, maintenance issues have been few (air/oil separator replaced). I could not ask for a better all-around sportcars. I highly recommend the model and year.
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new boxster s owner - 2004 Porsche Boxster
By g monroe - September 9 - 2:00 amThe car handles & drives extreamly well. I have never driven / owned a car that had such a feel of connection with the road. When dirven,the car instills a sense of confidance. No lack of power at any speed. The interior of the car is very quiet for a convertable with the top up or down. This vehicle really is a true pleasure to drive. German technolagy at its best.
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S - The Poor Mans Expensive Porsche - 2002 Porsche Boxster
By sxg - September 7 - 10:00 amMy first Porsche Boxster S 6-sp. Had BMW 528i, 5-sp. Dealer experience – nothing special. Got options I wanted, except for CD changer. Buyers have to compromise on options. Car handling is exceptional, looks are a little ostentatious, but its a Porsche after all. Since car is still in break-in phase, cannot reach the superlative engine-note stratosphere, but will get there soon. Decided to go with this impractical auto instead of BMWs M3, which was a serious contender but lost out due to unavailability. Porsche certainly has its exclusive cachet, but other cars are offering better price/performance ratios.
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My Cherry Red Boxster - 2001 Porsche Boxster
By Frankie - August 30 - 1:16 pmI LOVE my Porsche!! It took me 20 years to get my Porsche. It is a dream come true! There is no substitute for this car. I have beaten dodge chargers, mustangs, etc. It takes a curb on a dime. I will never own another car.
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McNates Opinion - 2004 Porsche Boxster
By mcnate - August 29 - 10:00 amSimple great, a Porsche will always be a Porsche no substitute. Try it at sea level woow!
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All Porsche - 2000 Porsche Boxster
By joesephine - August 26 - 2:00 amHaving owned over 5 other makes and models of sports cars- this is the real deal. Great car,no problems and I love looking at it!
