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Porsche Boxster (2012-2016)

Since its launch in 1996 the Porsche Boxster has been the benchmark for high-performance roadsters. Each successive update has only built on the abilities of this fast and agile roadster. The engine is at the back but unlike the 911 it is in front of the rear wheels making it much easier to balance the chassis. The latest Boxster is lighter than ever ensuring the responsive handling is thrilling.

The 981 generation Boxster introduced in 2012 was a major revision. A new smaller engine produces a little more power and greatly improves fuel efficiency and emissions. The chassis was improved further and the styling was also sharpened up. This is one Porsche that won’t be easily mistaken for an earlier model.

The Porsche Boxster is well put together and the fabric roof is well insulated, keeping wind and road noise down to acceptable levels. The flat-six engine is quiet when cruising but becomes pleasantly vocal when pushed making this a car suited to both high-speed cruising and twisty back-road fun.

The 981 Boxster’s styling reflects that of the 918 hybrid supercar and the interior is equally stylish. While there isn’t much storage space inside the cabin the two luggage areas (front and rear) give a surprising amount of practicality for a sports car. Porsche’s only problem with this car is trying to justify why you should spend so much more on a 911.

Porsche Boxster Details

Production Dates2012-2016
Length 4374 mm / 172 in
Width 1801 mm / 71 in
Height 1282 mm / 50 in
Wheelbase 2475 mm / 97 in
Luggage Capacity 280 litres / 9.89 cu ft
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 litres / 16.9 US gal
Warranty 3 years or unlimited miles
Service Intervals 20,000 miles

Porsche Boxster

Specifications

Fuel type Unleaded Petrol
Driven Wheels Rear-wheel-drive
Engine type Flat 6
Engine Capacity 2706 cc
Power 265@6700 bhp
Torque 206@4500-6500 lb.ft
Transmission type 5-spd manual / 7-spd PDK
UK Retail Price from £38,237
UK Insurance Group -

Performance

Max speed (manual) 164 mph / 264 kph
Max speed (auto) 162 mph / 261 kph
0-100kmph (manual) 5.8 seconds
0-100kmph (auto) 5.7 seconds

Economy and Emissions

EU Combined Fuel Economy (manual) 34.4 mpg / 8.2 L/100km
EU Combined Fuel Economy (auto) 36.7 mpg / 7.7 L/100km
CO2 Emissions (manual) 192 g/km
CO2 Emissions (auto) 180 g/km

Porsche Boxster S

The standard Boxster is going to be plenty powerful enough for most owners but for enthusiastic drivers the Porsche Boxster S gives more of the same. The taut chassis can easily take the extra power and manual gearbox gets a 6th speed. It feels even more eager to race ahead on twisting roads. The engine is wonderfully smooth and responsive filling a driver with confidence. The lightning fast PDK paddle-shift gearbox is far better than the lazy Tiptronic system it replaces. Part leather interior comes as standard, but the Porsche still doesn't have the equipment level of some competitors.The 2012 Boxster S was a major update for a car which has incremental changes since its introduction. An all-new lightweight body clothes a further developed chassis with increased wheelbase and track. The engine is tweaked to further improve performance, efficiency and emissions.

Specifications

Fuel type Unleaded Petrol
Driven Wheels Rear-wheel-drive
Engine type Flat 6
Engine Capacity 3436 cc
Power 315@6700 bhp
Torque 265@4500-5800 lb.ft
Transmission type 6-spd manual / 7-spd PDK
UK Retail Price from £46,112

Performance

Max speed (manual) 173 mph / 278 kph
Max speed (auto) 172 mph / 277 kph
0-100kmph (manual) 5.1 seconds
0-100kmph (auto) 5 seconds

Economy and Emissions

EU Combined Fuel Economy (manual) 32.1 mpg / 8.8 L/100km
EU Combined Fuel Economy (auto) 35.3 mpg / 8 L/100km
CO2 Emissions (manual) 206 g/km
CO2 Emissions (auto) 188 g/km
Driven Wheels null-wheel-drive Driven Wheels null-wheel-drive Driven Wheels null-wheel-drive Driven Wheels null-wheel-drive Driven Wheels null-wheel-drive Driven Wheels null-wheel-drive

Information last updated

One Owner Review

Do you drive a Porsche Boxster? Would you recommend it to others? This Porsche already has one owner review, continue the conversation and let us know what you think of the car.

  1. Avatar for charlie stewart charlie stewart says:
    14th Jan, 2013

    Ive recently swapped my 991 for the boxster s.WHY? easy for me,far more fun to drive,far better looking,fold down roof.2 boots.just as refined! Need I go on,ok and the big one 30K LESS !!!!!!!!
    YOU HEARD 30K LESS.Sorry 911 lovers but It’s a no brainer.

    Reply

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