1997-2004 Porsche Boxster: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2004 Porsche Boxster
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1997-2004 Porsche Boxster ▼
- Price Range: $9,200 - $26,200
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Side airbags (1998-up)
- Braking
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Noise
- Ride
- Passenger room
Vehicle Highlights
An "entry-level" Porsche debuted for 1997, serving as the company's reply to popularity of "retro" 2-seaters. First previewed four years earlier as a show car, introduced after the start of the 1997 model year, it was the company's first all-new model in 19 years. Named in part for the flat "boxer" (horizontally opposed) configuration of its midmounted water-cooled engine, the Boxster was a 2-passenger roadster. Porsche intended to compete against the Mercedes-Benz SLK and BMW Z3, and perhaps attract a few buyers who might otherwise fall for a Mazda Miata (which cost considerably less). Mounted just behind the cockpit, Boxster's 2.5-liter dual-overhead-cam 6-cylinder produced 201 horsepower and drove the rear wheels through either a 5-speed manual gearbox or an optional 5-speed "Tiptronic" transmission--an automatic that permitted manual shifting. A power-operated soft top and antilocking 4-wheel disc brakes were standard. Most maintenance work had to be done from the underside. The only other service access consisted of a behind-the-seats port for checking coolant level and replenishing engine oil. High-performance Z-rated 16-inch tires were wider in back than up front. The power top fit behind a hard cover. One small trunk sat at each end of the car, offering combined capacity of 9.1 cubic feet of lockable cargo space. Options included 17-inch wheels/tires, traction control, and a cockpit "wind blocker." A 55-pound aluminum hardtop also was available, as was a roof storage system for toting skis or bicycles (with the top up or down). An automatic child-seat detection system could be dealer installed.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Porsche Boxster Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 1 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 34 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster.
Year to Year Changes
1998 Porsche Boxster:
Two safety-related changes marked the 1998 season: standard door-mounted side airbags, and an optional child-seat detection system. The latter system automatically deactivated right-side airbags when a special child safety seat was installed.
1999 Porsche Boxster:
Nothing of consequence changed for 1999 with Porsche's "entry-level" model.
2000 Porsche Boxster:
A new high-performance Boxster S model debuted this year, while the base engine grew a bit and gained power. The base engine grew to 2.7-liter displacement and 217 horsepower (up 16). A 250-horsepower, 3.2-liter flat 6-cylinder engine went into the new Boxster S, which used a new 6-speed manual transmission and 18-inch tires (optional on the base model to replace the usual 17-inchers). The Boxster S also benefited from larger brake discs, suspension upgrades, and dual exhaust outlets.
2001 Porsche Boxster:
Newly optional for 2001 was the Porsche Stability Management antiskid system. Boxster also got revised gauges, new standard electric front and rear trunk releases, softer rollbar coverings, and LED "orientation lights."
2002 Porsche Boxster:
The few additions for 2002 included an in-dash cupholder in place of a clip-on, and an in-trunk emergency release.
2003 Porsche Boxster:
Base engine gained 11 horsepower to 228 and S engine gained 8 to 258. A glass rear window replaced plastic in the convertible top. All models got modified front air intakes, body-color vs. black side scoops, and "smoked" plastic turn-signal lenses. Climate controls are relocated and Boxster's first conventional dashboard glovebox is added.
2004 Porsche Boxster:
The only addition to the 2004 Boxter is the newly available optional sport exhaust system.
Our road test for the 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Looks are just the starting point of the Boxster's appeal. It may be the latest "budget" Porsche, but the Boxster is no less a thoroughbred sports car than its big-brother 911. This roadster entertains most on twisty roads, tracking with grippy sure-footed stability, little body lean, and sure control, aided by rifle-quick steering with ample feedback. Unfortunately, the penalty for this handling prowess is an annoyingly stiff ride, with constant minor pitching on some freeways, and lots of thumpy jiggle over tar strips and patches. Add in marked noise from engine, wind, and tires, and the Boxster would be wearing on a long Interstate trip. Although the engine is strongest at higher rpm, there's enough low-end torque for punchy standing starts and quick passing sprints. Still, our manual-shift test car disappointed slightly in the 0-60 mph test at 7.5 seconds (Porsche claims 6.7). Fuel economy is excellent for the performance, however. We averaged a laudable 21.7 mpg in spirited city/highway driving. "Panic" braking is arresting-cable swift. Mash the pedal and the Boxster just hunkers down and stops. Some drivers feel cramped in a Boxster, even with the top down, while others have no complaints. Audio and climate controls are handy but confusing. Many drivers would prefer a tilt steering wheel instead of the standard telescopic adjustment. As it is, the wheel rim tends to mask part of the tachometer face. Additional gripes: an old-fashioned floor-hinged gas pedal; analog and digital speedometers; no in-dash glovebox; and no top-side engine access other than three "service" ports in the rear trunk. On the plus side, the Boxster's two cargo holds (front and rear) take a fair bit of stuff for a 2-seater, the seats are supportively comfortable, and visibility is okay despite a "bathtub" driving position and the soft top's fairly blind rear quarters. That top works quickly and seals well, but isn't completely covered when folded under its lid. Also, the plastic rear window seems cheap at this price. The optional behind-the-seats wind blocker is effective, but cumbersome to remove or install. Boxster is solid and rattle-free for a modern ragtop. One test car had some body shake over railroad tracks, though paint was gorgeous and panel fits precise--a sharp contrast to the thin, cheap-looking black plastic used on the dashboard and console.
Value for the Money
As a more affordable Porsche, the Boxster is mainly for those who appreciate a Porsche's special virtues. BMW's 6-cylinder Z3 2.8 is a more "traditional" sports car that's close in performance, while some observers favor the Mercedes-Benz as the best all-around machine. All are good in their way, and cost about the same, so take your pick. No, it's not perfect; but Boxster is a genuine sports car, and genuinely entertaining on the road.
As a more affordable Porsche, the Boxster is mainly for those who appreciate a Porsche's special virtues. BMW's 6-cylinder Z3 2.8 is a more "traditional" sports car that's close in performance, while some observers favor the Mercedes-Benz as the best all-around machine. All are good in their way, and cost about the same, so take your pick. No, it's not perfect; but Boxster is a genuine sports car, and genuinely entertaining on the road.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Porsche Boxster Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 1 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 34 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Porsche Boxster includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Porsche Boxster .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Check-engine light:
Leak in oil filler hose between crankcase and service unit might cause check-engine light and engine roughness. (1997-2000)
Dashboard lights:
The check-engine light may come on due to a loose gas cap or damaged gas-cap seal. (1998-99)
Engine misfire:
An engine miss might be caused by water in the air-cleaner housing. A water-separator bowl must be installed in the housing intake. (1997)
Oil leak:
A steel plug in the cylinder head may cause an oil leak. An aluminum plug is available to correct the problem. (1997)
Vehicle noise:
On cars with a manual transmission, the power-steering-pump belt may squeal during parking maneuvers. Replacing the original aluminum pulley with a steel pulley eliminates the noise. (1997-98)
Vehicle shake:
If the hardtop rattles, replacing the centering-pin caps with redesigned caps might correct the problem. (1997)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $760 |
| Alternator | $430 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,460 |
| Brakes | $745 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $765 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $2,150 |
| Exhaust System | $870 |
| Radiator | $890 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,600 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $850 |
Our price chart for this generation Porsche Boxster details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 2004 | |||
| Boxster | $22,500-24,500 | $20,700-22,500 | $14,600-15,900 |
| Boxster S | $26,500-28,200 | $24,600-26,200 | $17,500-18,600 |
| 2003 | |||
| Boxster | $18,500-20,000 | $17,000-18,400 | $11,800-12,800 |
| Boxster S | $22,000-23,700 | $20,200-21,800 | $14,300-15,400 |
| 2002 | |||
| Boxster | $16,000-17,500 | $14,600-15,900 | $10,200-11,200 |
| Boxster S | $19,000-20,500 | $17,500-18,900 | $12,400-13,300 |
| 2001 | |||
| Boxster | $14,500-16,000 | $13,200-14,600 | $9,000-9,900 |
| Boxster S | $16,800-18,300 | $15,500-16,800 | $10,800-11,700 |
| 2000 | |||
| Boxster | $13,200-14,500 | $12,000-13,200 | $7,800-8,600 |
| Boxster S | $15,500-17,000 | $14,100-15,500 | $9,900-10,900 |
| 1999 | |||
| Boxster | $12,000-13,000 | $10,800-11,700 | $6,700-7,300 |
| 1998 | |||
| Boxster | $11,000-12,000 | $9,900-10,800 | $5,900-6,500 |
| 1997 | |||
| Boxster | $10,200-11,200 | $9,200-10,100 | $5,300-5,800 |
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Porsche Boxster include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 95.1 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 169.8 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.1 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 50.8 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2755 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 9.1 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.3 | |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.4 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Mounted behind the cockpit, the initial 2.5-liter, horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine developed 201 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard. Boxsters might instead have Porsche's 5-speed "Tiptronic" transmission, which allows manual (but clutchless) gear selection. Two new dual-overhead-cam engines emerged for 2000: an enlarged (2.7-liter) base six, and a 3.2-liter six for the new high-performance S model, which got a 6-speed manual gearbox. For '03 base engine gained 11 horsepower while the S engine gained 8.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc H6 | 2.7 / 164 | 217-228 | 192-192 | 5-speed manual: 20/28 5-speed automatic: 17/25 |
5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: 18.2 |
| dohc H6 | 2.5 / 151 | 201 | 180 | 5-speed manual: 19/26 5-speed automatic: 17/24 |
5-speed manual: 21.7 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc H6 | 3.2 / 194 | 250-258 | 225-229 | 6-speed manual: 18/26 5-speed automatic: 17/24 |
6-speed manual: 19.4 5-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: transverse mid-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Porsche Boxster include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1997-98:
Contact buckle supplied with child-seating system airbag-deactivation kit does not deactivate the airbag.
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