2001 Porsche Boxster: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The entry-level Porsches are 2-seat convertibles with mid-mounted horizontally opposed 6-cyl engines. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, side airbags, and a power soft top are standard. The base 2.7-liter Boxster comes with a 5-speed manual transmission, the more-powerful 3.2 S a 6-speed; both offer optional 5-speed automatic with manual-shift buttons. The S also has larger brakes, firmer suspension, dual exhausts, 17-inch wheels instead of 16s; 18-inchers are available for both. Besides minor trim changes, 2001 Boxsters get three new options: Porsche Stability Management traction control/antiskid system, polished wheels, and self-dimming inside/outside mirrors packaged with rain-sensing wipers.

COMPETITION

This class features an interesting mix of hard-core performance models and more luxurious touring convertibles. Our Best Buys give you a little of both worlds. The Chevrolet Corvette is fast, comfortable, and reasonably affordable. Unlike previous models it doesn't beat you up with a hard ride, and it will cruise quietly at highway speeds. Our other Best Buy, the Mazda Miata, is a bare-bones roadster with few frills and average acceleration, but for weekend fun on a twisty back road it's hard to beat.

If you don't mind spending a few more bucks, we recommend you take a look at the Mercedes-Benz SLK. The Mercedes offers an interesting mix of performance and luxury. It also has a retractable hardtop, making it more of an all-weather car.