2003 Porsche Boxster: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

More power and detail changes inside and out highlight 2003 for the entry-level Porsches. Boxsters are 2-seat convertibles with a midmounted, horizontally opposed 6-cyl engine. The base Boxster has a 2.7 liter with 228 hp, a gain of 11 for '03. The Boxster S has a 3.2 liter with 258 hp, a gain of 8. Base models come with a 5-speed manual transmission, the S with a 6-speed; both offer an optional 5-speed automatic with manual-shift steering-wheel buttons. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. A traction/antiskid system is optional. All Boxsters come with side airbags and a power soft top, which for '03 exchanges a plastic rear window for one of heated glass. A removable hardtop is optional. Both models for '03 get 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. The base model has 16-inch wheels; it's available with the S's 17s; 18s are optional for both. The 17s and 18s are of a new, lighter-weight design.

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. Chevrolet Corvette is fast, comfortable, and reasonably affordable, but it doesn't beat you up with a hard ride, and it will cruise quietly at highway speeds. Our other Best Buy, Mazda Miata, is a bare-bones roadster with few frills at a great price. For weekend fun on a twisty back road, it's hard to beat.

A Recommended selection, Honda S2000 offers up all the performance and thrills of a traditional sports car without the intimidating price tag. Audi's TT is solid, stylish, and loaded with features making it fit for the Recommended list as well. Like no other in its class, TT offers the all-weather advantage of available quattro AWD at a great price. New this year is the Nissan 350Z. It offers heart-stopping performance and civility at a very reasonable price. After additional tests we may well move this vehicle to a Best Buy.