The Boxster S mid-engined convertible was powered by a 3.2-liter six-cylinder that produced 280 horsepower. The engine was located behind the passenger compartment but ahead of the rear axle, hence the mid-engine designation.
The Boxster S came with a six-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. A five-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, with a gate for manual shifting, was available as an option.
Standard features for the Boxster S included air conditioning, power windows, power steering, power door locks, leather seats (power adjustable in the front), a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a tilt/telescoping column, a trip computer, power heated exterior mirrors, an anti-theft alarm system, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo system with a CD player.
Anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, Macpherson struts, and 17-inch alloy wheels with performance tires were also part of the package.
In addition, the Boxster S was equipped with a lightweight, sound-insulating convertible top with a heated glass rear window.
Drivers liked the Boxster S's responsive handling, ability to hug the road at high speeds, easy-to-read instrument panel, sports-car exterior design, and interior styling. Some drivers were less than impressed with the car's stereo system, however. And drivers noted that while storage space in the Boxster was limited, it could be adequate with a little creativity when packing.