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The Porsche Boxster has come a long way since its introduction in September 1996. It saved the financially struggling Zuffenhausen-based company from being solely reliant on the iconic 911, specifically the Type 993. Porsche took a risk by creating an affordable small convertible aimed at a wider audience, which didn’t sit well with their purist fanbase. However, the Boxster proved to be a turning point for Porsche, revolutionizing their production process and significantly reducing costs.
But the idea of a small mid-engine roadster wasn’t new for Porsche. They had previously explored this concept with the 550 Spyder in the 1950s and the 914 in collaboration with Volkswagen in the 1970s. The Boxster simply added to this lineage, and its success played a crucial role in establishing Porsche as the brand it is today. In France alone, 15 different Boxster models have been sold since 1997, from the 986 to the 981, including special editions and a Spyder. The used Boxster market is therefore abundant, offering numerous options compared to other Porsche models. So, which Porsche Boxster should you choose? Let’s dive into the genealogy of the Boxster and find out.
Porsche Boxster Type 986
What makes a Porsche special? It evolves but never goes out of style. The first-generation Boxster, known as the Type 986, was produced from 1996 to 2004. It’s the most affordable Boxster model, but it also requires more maintenance and consumes more fuel. Keep this in mind when planning your budget. These cars need regular use to stay in top shape, so low mileage alone doesn’t guarantee reliability. There aren’t any specific Porsche models to avoid, although cars with the M86/M87 and M96/M97 engines may have a higher risk of issues due to a weak distribution bearing, although this is a marginal concern. Additionally, finding spare parts for a Boxster is relatively easy.
Boxster 986 2.5L (1997-1999)
The original Boxster featured a 2.5-liter engine with 250 horsepower. It was criticized for not fully delivering on the driving pleasure expected from a small convertible. However, it offers a compromise between sportiness and an enjoyable driving experience.
Boxster 986 2.7L (2000-2002)
To address the engine’s perceived lack of power, Porsche equipped the Boxster with a 2.7-liter engine. These models are available in good numbers on the used car market, and opting for a higher mileage example can help reduce the price.
Boxster 986 S 3.2L (2000-2002)
The Boxster S was a game-changer for the Type 986. The early Boxster S models featured a 3.2-liter flat-six engine with 252 horsepower and a 6-speed manual gearbox. It offered impressive performance, surpassing even the 911 Type 930 3.0L Turbo. This version remains highly coveted among enthusiasts, and its value on the used car market reflects its desirability.
Boxster 986 S550 (2003)
Porsche paid homage to the iconic James Dean Spyder 550 with the limited-edition Boxster S550. This model featured a range of special equipment and only 1953 units were produced, making it highly sought after.
Porsche Boxster Type 987
The Porsche Boxster Type 987 was produced from 2005 to 2011. Its design still looks modern, and its maintenance costs are lower than those of the Type 986. The ultimate version is undoubtedly the 987 S with a manual gearbox. If you’re looking for a more affordable Boxster from Germany, check out our offers.
Boxster 987 2.7L (Phase 1 2005)
The entry-level second-generation Boxster features a new 2.7-liter engine producing 240 horsepower. It can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and has a top speed of 258 km/h. Compared to the 986, the 987 offers significant improvements in terms of build quality and materials. It also allows for top-down driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h. Prices for the second-generation models have increased, but they still remain reasonable, starting at around €20,000.
Boxster 987 S 3.2L
Introduced alongside the base model, the 987 S boasts even more power. It is equipped with a 3.2-liter engine producing 280 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 260 km/h. The Boxster S Type 987 is highly regarded for its sportiness, acceleration, and overall exceptional driving experience. As a result, its value on the used car market remains high, with prices starting at around €30,000.
Boxster 987 2.9L (Phase 2 2009)
In 2009, the Phase 2 models were introduced, featuring notable changes to the engine. The new 2.9-liter engine produced 255 horsepower and incorporated Porsche’s VarioCam Plus system and direct injection technology inherited from the 911. It achieves a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds.
Boxster 987 S 3.4L (Phase 2)
The Phase 2 S version features the same improvements as the base model. It is equipped with a 3.4-liter engine producing 310 horsepower, allowing for a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 5.3 seconds. The Phase 2 models are also available with the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission, replacing the previous Tiptronic S. The value of the Phase 2 987 S remains high, and it’s not easy to find one for less than €30,000 on the used car market.
Boxster RS60 Spyder
In 2008, Porsche introduced a limited edition to pay homage to the legendary Spyder 550 driven by James Dean. The RS60 Spyder featured a range of special equipment, making it highly sought after and driving up its prices.
Porsche Design Edition 2
In 2009, Porsche offered the Design Edition 2 based on the Boxster S. As the name suggests, this model received special design touches, including a Carrara White body, a grey convertible top, 19″ Sport Design alloy wheels, and an enamel central emblem. These models typically sell for around €40,000.
Porsche Boxster Type 981
The Type 981 models were produced between 2012 and 2015. Unlike the 987, which shared its chassis with the 986, the 981 was built on a new platform. It introduced an automatic transmission, stop-start technology, and an energy recovery system. The 981 maintained the Boxster’s position as a top seller for Porsche by offering a longer wheelbase, wider front wheels, and a more spacious cabin. Its timeless design is a winner.
Porsche Boxster 981 2.7L
The third-generation Boxster features a 2.7-liter flat-six engine with direct injection, producing 265 horsepower. It’s a roadster designed for leisurely drives but still packs a punch, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. Compared to the 987, the 981 is lighter, which is significant for a small convertible.
Porsche Boxster 981 S 3.4L
The S model, launched alongside the base model, offers increased power. Its 3.4-liter engine produces 315 horsepower, allowing for a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5 seconds. It’s worth noting that the PDK 7-speed automatic transmission was introduced as an option with the 981 models.
Porsche Boxster GTS
The Boxster GTS is the epitome of excellence. Equipped with a 3.4-liter flat-six engine producing 330 horsepower, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5 seconds. With the Sport Chrono package, this drops to 4.7 seconds. The interior is equally impressive, combining leather and Alcantara, with the latter even covering the SportDesign three-spoke steering wheel. The GTS stands out with its Carrera S 20-inch wheels. Buying such a high-performance vehicle, even used, is a significant investment. To get the best price, consider looking for a Boxster GTS in Germany.
Porsche Boxster Spyder
The Boxster Spyder inherits the 3.8-liter flat-six engine from the 911 Carrera S, delivering 375 horsepower at 6700 rpm. It achieves 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds with the 6-speed manual gearbox. It remains the most powerful model in the 981 lineup. The Spyder’s exceptional handling, thanks to the Porsche Torque Vectoring system, ensures minimal understeer, even when pushing hard through corners. The model has retained its value on the used car market and still commands prices above €100,000. For the best price, look for a used Boxster Spyder in Germany.
Porsche Boxster Black Edition
While the Black Edition shares the same engine as the base Boxster model (2.7L, 265 horsepower), it stands out with its all-black appearance and generous standard equipment, including PCM with navigation module, SportDesign steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, 20-inch Carrera Classic wheels, and Bi-Xenon headlights with PDLS.
Porsche Boxster Type 718
The Type 718 Boxster was introduced in 2016 with a new 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, marking a departure from the previous models. Today, the Boxster is no longer Porsche’s best-selling model, with that title now held by the Porsche Cayenne. This has allowed Porsche’s engineers to push the boundaries.
Boxster 718 GTS
Porsche Boxster 718 2.0L
The base Boxster model features a 2.0-liter flat-four turbocharged engine with 300 horsepower. It achieves a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds.
Porsche Boxster 718 T 2.0L
Similar to the 911 T, the Boxster is also available as a Touring version. This model appeals to purists who appreciate a no-frills driving experience. It is powered by a 2.0-liter flat-four turbocharged engine with 300 horsepower. The Boxster 718 T includes the Sport Chrono package, Porsche Torque Vectoring with a limited-slip differential, and PADM (Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts) which reduces engine vibrations based on driving conditions. It’s an essential option for any Porsche enthusiast. To get the best price, consider looking for a used Boxster T in Germany.
Porsche Boxster 718 S 2.5L
The Boxster S is equipped with a 2.5-liter flat-four turbocharged engine producing 350 horsepower. It achieves a 0 to 100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds, surpassing even the Corvette Stingray. Some may lament the switch from a 6-cylinder engine to a flat-four, but the numbers speak for themselves. The new S model remains firmly planted, responsive, and agile in all situations. Porsche has successfully met the environmental challenges while maintaining their high standards.
Porsche Boxster 718 GTS 4.0
The GTS returns to a 6-cylinder engine, now with a 4.0-liter displacement and 400 horsepower. It achieves a 0 to 100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The Sport Chrono package offers four different driving modes, allowing for a seamless transition between comfort and intense sporting performance. It strikes the perfect balance, as always with Zuffenhausen’s grand tourers, between daily comfort and exhilarating sportiness.
Porsche Boxster 718 25th Anniversary Edition
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the iconic roadster, Porsche has released a limited edition variant of the GTS 4.0, limited to 1250 examples. It features the same 400 horsepower engine and pays tribute to the original Boxster concept from 1993 with its Neodyme color, a copper-brown hue.
In summary, choosing a Porsche Boxster depends on your budget, preferences, and desired driving experience. Whether you decide on a historic Type 986, a refined Type 987, a modern Type 981, or the latest Type 718, you can’t go wrong with a Boxster. Visit Ratingperson to find your dream Boxster at the best price.
Frequently Asked Questions
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