255ps Engine and Agile Body

The Porsche Boxster's allure has not faded. It remains true to the essence of a sports car: nimble, compact, and open-top. And its price is relatively accessible (having recently been reduced). Perhaps the Boxster is what truly preserves the values Porsche has traditionally upheld. While it can be seen as an entry into the Porsche world, it is a thoroughly satisfying car in its own right.

The Boxster lineup currently consists of three models.

・Boxster (from ¥5,630,000)
・Boxster S (from ¥6,950,000)
・Boxster Spyder (from ¥8,660,000)

The Boxster produces 255ps, the Boxster S 310ps, and the lightweight Boxster Spyder 320ps. All models are available with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed PDK (dual-clutch system).

This article features the base model, the Boxster. It is powered by a 2.9-liter flat-six engine mounted behind the driver, driving the rear wheels. The first generation debuted in 1996. At the time, models like the 924 and 944 with their four-cylinder engines left one with the lingering thought, "It's not bad, but it doesn't have to be a Porsche..." Therefore, the Boxster's solid chassis, dedicated engine, and full open-top concept were highly praised.



The full model change in 2004 brought about the current generation, enhancing its quality as a sports car and solidifying its position as a distinct model with its own unique charm, separate from the 911.

The Boxster has a 255ps engine in a body weighing approximately 1.4 tons. Initial acceleration might feel slightly underpowered, which may be unavoidable. However, once the engine revs climb above 3,000rpm, the car responds keenly to throttle inputs. With its straightforward handling and excellent cornering agility, the Boxster's charm truly shines in this range.

A key advantage of the Boxster is the quick response when turning the steering wheel, due to the engine and transmission being concentrated in the center of the car. While it can't match the sheer power of the 911, its agility and light-footedness are its strengths. Furthermore, being fully open-top enhances this sense of lightness. In colder weather, one can don a lambskin jacket and gloves to enjoy the pleasures of open-top driving, a distinct appeal of the Boxster. The desire to drive with the top down at all times is strong. It simply looks cool.

The MT That Delivers Fun More Directly

While the PDK-equipped model offers the direct feel of a manual transmission with the ease of an automatic, catering to a wider audience, the manual is undeniably more enjoyable. This is because, in addition to the comfort of open-top driving and excellent handling, it offers the further, unmissable pleasure of being able to control the engine yourself.

From a sports car perspective, the Boxster lineup includes the captivating Spyder model. Although it has a soft top, it is fundamentally designed for open-top driving. The interior is simplified, and the vehicle weight is reduced by about 100kg. It also features a larger 3.4-liter engine with greater torque. The balance of power and weight is exceptional, making it truly light and exhilarating.

However, looking at the price, as mentioned earlier, the difference between the Boxster and the Spyder is ¥3.03 million. The paradox of the Boxster is that pursuing more power leads to the increasing presence of the 911 (though the Spyder, comparable to the agility of a 911 from a couple of generations ago, is in a different category). Therefore, consider a different approach: what if you embraced the idea of enjoying the essence of a sports car with a sense of casualness? Even the base model Boxster will not disappoint.

PORSCHE Boxter | Porsche Boxster
Body | Length 4,340 x Width 1,800 x Height 1,230mm
Engine | 2.9-liter Flat-six
Max Output | 188kW (255ps) at 6,400rpm
Max Torque | 290Nm / 4,400-6,000rpm
Drivetrain | RWD
Fuel Consumption | 9.4ℓ/100km
CO2 Emissions | 221g/km
Transmission | 6MT
Price | ¥5,630,000
*Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are based on European data.