1997-2004 Porsche Boxster: Overview

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.