History/Description: Porsche’s entry-level sports car, the Boxster, racked up sales with its ‘fun in the sun’ attitude, brand heritage, and efficient performance. Despite its 2-seat body, the Boxster’s mid-mounted engine enabled the placement of trunks both front and rear, making the compact drop-top ready for a road trip.
Feature content included xenon lights, Bose audio, remote access, cruise control, a driver computer, Bluetooth, navigation, heated power seats and more.
All models got a flat-6 engine, ranging in displacement between 2.7L and 3.4L. Horsepower output ranged from 240 to just over 300. Look for manual or automatic transmissions, as well as Porsche’s ‘PDK’ dual-clutch gearbox. The latter transmission entered the Boxster lineup for its 2009 refresh.
Note that the Boxster S models got the higher-output engines and a standard 6-speed manual in all years.
What Owners Like: According to many owners, the Boxster excelled where day-to-day functionality was concerned in a performance car. The 2 trunks made for adequate storage, while decent ground clearance, easy entry and exit and good fuel economy meant it was a car that could be used every day. Style, exclusivity, performance and driving pleasure rounded out the package.
What Owners Dislike: A stiff ride, limited on-board storage and cluttered control layout were common owner complaints. Some also wished for a less-fiddly hood latch mechanism and less expensive options.
Common Issues With A Used Porsche Boxster: Approach any used Boxster checking for signs of electronics or wiring-related problems. Before your test drive, ensure all motorized or electronic features work as expected – including the stereo, power seats, climate control system, instrument cluster and lights. Note any warning messages or ‘check engine’ lights present, which could indicate a variety of problems.
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| 2005 Porsche Boxster (Photo: Porsche) |
Feature content included xenon lights, Bose audio, remote access, cruise control, a driver computer, Bluetooth, navigation, heated power seats and more.
All models got a flat-6 engine, ranging in displacement between 2.7L and 3.4L. Horsepower output ranged from 240 to just over 300. Look for manual or automatic transmissions, as well as Porsche’s ‘PDK’ dual-clutch gearbox. The latter transmission entered the Boxster lineup for its 2009 refresh.
Note that the Boxster S models got the higher-output engines and a standard 6-speed manual in all years.
What Owners Like: According to many owners, the Boxster excelled where day-to-day functionality was concerned in a performance car. The 2 trunks made for adequate storage, while decent ground clearance, easy entry and exit and good fuel economy meant it was a car that could be used every day. Style, exclusivity, performance and driving pleasure rounded out the package.
What Owners Dislike: A stiff ride, limited on-board storage and cluttered control layout were common owner complaints. Some also wished for a less-fiddly hood latch mechanism and less expensive options.
Common Issues With A Used Porsche Boxster: Approach any used Boxster checking for signs of electronics or wiring-related problems. Before your test drive, ensure all motorized or electronic features work as expected – including the stereo, power seats, climate control system, instrument cluster and lights. Note any warning messages or ‘check engine’ lights present, which could indicate a variety of problems.
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| 2008 Porsche Boxster (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.TV) |