Porsche Boxster

Overview: Is the Porsche Boxster a Good Sports Car?

The Porsche Boxster brings balanced mid-engine roadster performance to the masses. The driver-focused Boxster, a two-seat convertible, employs flat-six engines placed mid-chassis for optimal handling. Meanwhile, models with four-cylinder powerplants provide a more affordable but still compelling option. Numerous suspension and transmission upgrades enable fine-tuning to preference or skill level. Now in its fourth generation, the Boxster legend thrives by staying true to Porsche purist principles.

Although the Boxster launched in 1997, this overview focuses on models built since the second generation (2005 and later). The most recent editions are referred to as the 718 Boxster. Regardless of the year, the Boxster roadster, along with the Cayman hardtop coupe, serves as the gateway to Porsche’s legendary sports cars. It is the anchor to a lineup that includes the 911 Carrera, 911 Carrera GT, 911 Carrera GTS, 911 GT3, Cayman GT4, Panamera, Taycan, Macan, and Cayenne.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Porsche Boxster cars for sale.

Find a used Porsche Boxster near me.

Related: Here Are The Porsche Boxster Years To Avoid - CoPilot and The Best Year For The Porsche Boxster

Key Features

The Porsche Boxster offers:

• Two-door convertible (cabriolet) body style
• Turbocharged flat-four (fourth generation) or flat-six (all generations) engines
• Manual transmission or automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive

Trims

Trims for the Porsche Boxster include the S, GTS, and Spyder variants. The Boxster and Boxster S trims designate four- or six-cylinder models, while GTS and Spyder grades add track-inspired touches. Special editions like the 718 Boxster 25 Years release intermittently.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The intimate cabin makes no apologies for space efficiency, but available extras like heated and ventilated front seats can make longer journeys more comfortable. Infotainment comes courtesy of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) in newer models, while older Boxsters are focused on the basics. Among the Boxster’s many strong points, ample cargo space is not one of them.

How It Drives

Like every modern Porsche sports car, the Boxster has an engaging and inspiring ride-the-rails quality. Even Boxsters with base engines with Tiptronic transmissions provide ample acceleration, but more powerful editions make for an exhilarating ride.

Safety

The Porsche Boxster has yet to undergo testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Reviews

Based on Porsche Boxster reviews via Kelley Blue Book, owners love their cars. Ratings range from a near-perfect 4.9 to a flawless 5.0, depending on the generation. The Boxster gets top marks across all categories, including reliability, performance, and styling.

Learn More: Do Porsches Hold Their Value? What To Know About Resale & Depreciation

FAQs

Is the Boxster discontinued?

No. Although an electric version is reportedly in the works, Porsche continues building the Boxster.

What year Boxster is best?

Porsche added more horsepower, tech features, and improved handling over each generation, so newer Boxsters with lower miles typically make the most sense for shoppers. Target 2006 or later used Porsche Boxsters, which bypass the well-known intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing issue.

What's the difference between Boxster S and T?

Among later models, the primary difference is that the “S” comes with a larger, more powerful turbocharged Porsche Boxster engine (350 horsepower versus 300 horsepower in the Boxster T).

How many miles will a Boxster last?

Properly maintained, the mid-engine Porsche Boxster powertrain should outlast 150,000-200,000 miles or more. Budget for pricey maintenance bills to prolong longevity, however.

Check out a Porsche Boxster for sale.