Porsche Boxster (1997 - 2003) Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Best handling car I have ever owned. Very reliable. Built with quality components. Could use a bit more horse power. Used prices are exceptionally low for a car of this quality. Looks good too. Intermediate shaft bearing issues overblown. Less than 10% of vehicles suffer any negative effects. Frequent oil changes with quality synthetics reduces that percentage even further.Mar 10, 2021

Like many of us, I had always wanted a Porsche. Like many of us, I had always wanted a convertible. Like many of us, I couldn't afford to spend a fortune on a car. This 2002 Porsche Boxster was my answer. As the least expensive model in the Porsche line-up, a low mileage 986/987 Boxster can be found for no more than a new family car. But it drives and handles and brings a huge grin to your face far more than any typical family car out there! There's a couple of things you should know: - The non-S version feels quick, but it isn't outright fast. Power is more-than-adequate 95% of the time. For comparison, it's much faster than a 328i, but a bit slower than a 335i. - Handling is just as good as the S version. In fact, this car makes you look like a much better driver than your really are. Mid-engine layout pays off big here. - You'll pay a lot less (both in purchase and in maintenance/repairs) for the non-S. Porsche repairs can be VERY expensive. - If you do a lot of highway cruising (not really the point of this car), you'll wish the non-S had the S's 6-speed. - This is NOT a family car. If you have kids or a spouse, you can only choose one passenger at a time. This can be limiting. - This is NOT a winter car. It's a great 2nd (if you are single) or 3rd (if you are married) car, but I store mine when the salt comes out. If you live where it snows, it's a 3-season car at best. - There are two trunks. No kidding. If you pack well, you can bring whatever you need for that long weekend (short of a set of golf clubs), and it'll fit. Try that in a Z3/Z4, SLK or S2000. I've had this Porsche for 7 years (purchased CPO), and for the right occasions, it's perfect. I only wish that between work and family and travel and lousy weather, there were more of those occasions. May 21, 2012