The Porsche Boxster is a luxury sports car that was offered from 1997 to 2016 (not to be confused with the Boxster 718, which started out as a 2017 model year.
It has stellar handling, an upscale interior, and a competent engine.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at all of the best and worst model years of the Boxster.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Porsche Boxster Are:
The best Porsche Boxster model years are 2016, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2004. The worst model years of this model are 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2013, and 2015. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Porsche Boxster?
2016 Porsche Boxster
The 2016 Boxster is a third-gen model and is the final version ever produced (as the “Boxster” line was replaced by the “718 Boxster” from 2017 onwards).
Despite marking its exit, this model introduced a few new things:
- Black Edition variant (based on the Base trim but with better equipment and features)
- Spyder variant (powered by the engine of a Porsche 911 Carrera S)
This brings the total trim count to 5: Base, Black Edition, S, GTS, and Spyder.
The Base and Black Edition trim levels are fitted with a 2.7-liter 6-cylinder engine (265 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque).
The S utilizes a 3.4-liter 6-cylinder engine (315 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque).
The GTS gets an upgraded 3.4-liter 6-cylinder engine, with an output of 330 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.
The top-of-the-line Spyder is powered by a massive 3.8-liter 6-cylinder engine that is good for 375 horsepower and 309 pound-feet of torque.
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 5.0 / 5.0
- JD Power: 90 / 100
2016 Porsche Boxster, Edmunds Review:
“After driving a 2003 Boxster for the past seven years, I was ready for a change. Something larger and more practical was in order. Not another two seat roadster – I was moving on. Then, out of curiosity, I test drove the new Porsche Boxster. I was instantly hooked. It is hard to describe just how much better the new version of the Boxster is versus its predecessor. It is better in every way – substantially better…”
2014 Porsche Boxster
The 2014 Boxster boasts stellar handling, engaging transmission and engine systems, and an artfully designed interior.
It is leagues above its predecessor (as far as reliability is concerned), the 2013 model year, and introduces minor increases to horsepower and torque for the GTS trim level.
An optional Burmester premium audio system and a few exterior body colors have also been added for better customizability.
Owners, based on their online reviews, praised the following aspects of this car:
- Appearance
- Handling
- Steering
- Transmission
- Engine
- Driving experience
- Value for money
- Interior
- Comfort
According to the EPA, owners can confidently expect around 23 MPG to 24 MPG under combined city and highway driving conditions, which is great for a sports car.
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 5.0 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2014 Porsche Boxster, Edmunds Review:
“I purchased a new 2104 Boxster on 10-2-14 at Checkered Flag in Va Bch. I drove both S and base cars, thinking that I would surely want the S: I was wrong. The base car does not have, as the Edmunds ‘con ‘headline asserts ‘mediocre acceleration.’ It may be somewhat slower than the S version, but it is far more than adequate for normal use. In fact, it is faster than the 2006 Cayman S that I once owned…”
2012 and 2011 Porsche Boxster
The 2012 and 2011 Boxster model years are the final versions to represent the second generation of the lineup.
These models offer sublime handling, competitive steering mechanics, impressive fuel economy, and ultra smooth transmissions.
Bluetooth and an iPod interface have been made standard across all trims.
Speaking of which, there are a total of 4 trim levels: Base, S, Black Edition, and Spyder.
2012 Porsche Boxster:
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2011 Porsche Boxster:
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2011 Porsche Boxster, Edmunds Review:
“The Boxster is an outstanding vehicle. Comfortable, stylish and a dream to drive with the top up, and exhilarating with the top down. The car holds the road with uncanny grip, allowing the driver to take curves at twice the posted speed with confidence. I am nearly 6’3″ tall, and I have never been in a more comfortable driving position.”
2010 and 2009 Porsche Boxster
The 2010 and 2009 Boxster introduced a handful of improvements that have helped the Boxster line stay relevant to this day.
Upgrades and changes include:
- Optional 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission (an earlier version of the PDK transmission system)
- Enlarged 2.9-liter base engine with a standard 6-speed manual transmission
- More powerful direct-injected engine (for the S trim)
- Revised suspension tuning
- Styling tweaks
- Upgraded (optional) Porsche Control Management system
- Sharper steering
2010 Porsche Boxster:
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2009 Porsche Boxster:
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2010 Porsche Boxster, Edmunds Review:
“This car has been a revelation. The build quality, design, and performance consistently and continuously impress. This car is something special. This is our only car. We have to rely on it to perform all missions under all conditions. After 4 months, 8000 miles, and a few multi-day road trips, we have no regrets. It is comfortable, capable, safe, well designed, beautifully made and finished, and does everything…”
2008 and 2007 Porsche Boxster
The 2008 and 2007 Boxsters, despite their age, provide perfectly balanced handling, pinpoint steering, world-class braking, and lots of strategic cargo compartments.
The S trim gets a slightly larger engine (3.2-liter to 3.4-liter) and now hast 295 horsepower.
The 2.7-liter engine of the Base trim gets a humble 5-horsepower boost, bringing the total output to 245 horsepower.
An optional Tiptronic automatic transmission has also been improved thanks to new hydraulics and electronics for optimized responsiveness.
A standard tire pressure monitoring system and a slightly re-contoured cargo compartment have also been implemented across the board.
2008 Porsche Boxster:
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2007 Porsche Boxster:
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2007 Porsche Boxster, Edmunds Review:
“Excellent all around car. Fun to drive. Great performance with good gas mileage. No maintenance issues whatsoever in three years of ownership.”
2004 Porsche Boxster
The 2004 Boxster is the final first-gen model ever produced.
It is one of the few sports cars (during its time) to have a great combination of supreme handling, lots of available power, and generous cargo capacity.
Based on owners’ reviews, these are the positive areas worth noting:
- Handling
- Steering
- Appearance
- Value for money
- Interior
- Reliability
- Manufacturing quality
- Driving experience
- Engine power
To make things even better, the EPA estimates anywhere between 19 MPG and 21 MPG for this car under combined city and highway driving conditions.
- Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2004 Porsche Boxster, Edmunds Review:
“I recently bought a 2004 S model. It is a really great performing roadster and by far the most comfortable sports car I’ve owned, and I’ve owned a dozen of various makes. This car is way faster than most people need and handles like it is on the proverbial rails. The quality of the fit and finish is very high…”
Consumer Scores For Best Porsche Boxster Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2016 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 5.0 / 5.0 | 90 / 100 |
| 2014 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 5.0 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2012 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.9 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2011 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.9 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2010 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.9 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2009 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.9 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2008 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.9 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2007 Porsche Boxster | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.9 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2004 Porsche Boxster | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: 8 Best & Worst Porsche Boxster 718 Years (With Facts & Stats)
What Are The Worst Years For The Porsche Boxster?
1997, 1998, and 1999 Porsche Boxster
The 1998, 1998, and 1999 Boxsters, the first of their kind, are the most problematic model years ever produced.
There were 3 widespread issues, based on reports online: Airbag, Engine, and Door.
Due to a faulty seat belt buckle, owners have experienced a consistent flashing of the airbag warning indicator.
While it has not been determined to cause any malfunction of the airbag itself, it is still considered a major safety risk, especially in the event of major accidents or collisions.
“The airbag light illuminates on the car spontaneously and stays lit at all times indicating a fault in the system. From all reports on various Porsche discussion forums (thousands of incidents that have been reported and discussed), this is a common problem in the first generation Porsche Boxsters…” – CarProblemZoo.com
The engines of these vehicles would also seize due to an intermediate shaft (IMS) failure. This is a component that is responsible for the proper motion of the camshaft and crankshaft, the parts that make the engine operate and deliver power.
“ … After researching on the web, this appears to be a pretty common problem with the 97-99 Boxsters. The cost to replace the motor with a used motor was approx 9k and they would be using the same type of motor with the same design flaw. The car has been taken to the salvage yard and we are out quite a bit of money.” – CarProblemZoo.com
Last but not the least is a defective door. Based on multiple reports, the cable that assists with the opening and closing of the driver’s door broke/snapped.
“The defective door cable makes it impossible to open the driver side door from the inside.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 1997 Porsche Boxster had a total of 30 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1998 Porsche Boxster had a total of 43 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1999 Porsche Boxster had a total of 2 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 34 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Premature clutch wear
- Engine failure
2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003 Porsche Boxster
While none of these model years had as many problems as their predecessors, the 2000 to 2003 had their own set of issues that made the sports-car-owning experience quite horrible.
Outside of the previously discussed intermediate shaft (IMS) issues, owners of these models complained heavily about various engine-related issues, including:
- Sudden stalling
- Loss of power
- Engine misfiring
These issues have also been accompanied by a variety of other problems, such as:
- Sticky clutch
- Loss of brake power
- Difficulty steering
“Motor failed while trying to start it. All valves bent. Replaced at my expense. I bought the car new and it was serviced as per factory recommendations.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2000 Porsche Boxster had a total of 6 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 8 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2001 Porsche Boxster had a total of 4 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 25 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2002 Porsche Boxster had a total of 5 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 14 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2003 Porsche Boxster had a total of 7 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 22 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Engine failure
- Water leakage
- Loss of engine power
- Intermediate shaft failure
- Oil leakage
- Engine will not shut off
- IMS (bearing) failure
- Broken cables
- Excessive oil consumption
- Rattling noise in the engine
- Ignition key not turning
2005 and 2006 Porsche Boxster
The 2005 and 2006 Boxster extended Porsche’s streak of severe and widespread engine-related problems.
Specific to these model years are various abnormal sounds and odors originating from the engine bay.
These issues were reportedly caused by defective components, such as:
- Manifold
- Header
- Muffler
- Tail pipe
This has forced owners to shell out money in order for dealers to carry out the necessary repairs/replacements.
“The contact owns a 2005 Porsche Boxster. The contact stated while traveling approximately 55 mph, the engine made a loud noise, various warning lamps illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The technician diagnosed that the motor needed to be replaced…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2005 Porsche Boxster had a total of 2 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 23 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2006 Porsche Boxster had a total of 6 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Intermediate shaft bearing failure
- Electrical malfunctions
2013 Porsche Boxster
If you guessed that the 2013 Boxster would still have engine-related problems, then you guessed right.
According to multiple reports posted online, the engine system and related equipment/features were unreliable.
There were numerous warning lights flashing, vehicle stalling, and a malfunctioning auto start-stop feature.
Another interesting problem was chewed out wiring (which may even be related to the engine-related ailments experienced by owners).
“My 2013 Boxster is currently at the dealer for repairs for the 7th time due to rodent damage to wiring. Porsche used a soy based compound on its wires which is extremely attractive to rodents. Porsche Germany and Porsche North America deny the use of these products. An email yesterday stated ‘we do not have any information that indicates we currently or previously used a soy based product in our wiring.’ The damage occurs in our garage which is not enclosed. This damage has been ongoing…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2013 Porsche Boxster had a total of 1 complaint on CarComplaints.com and 14 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Defective backseat cushion
- Engine issues
- Rodent chewed wiring
- ECU failure
2015 Porsche Boxster
While a minimal amount of vibration and shaking can be observed in most (if not all vehicles), several owners of the 2015 Boxster reported excessive vibration.
This issue is very intriguing because owners reported severe vibration from different areas of the vehicle, including:
- Suspension
- Wheels
- Steering
- Transmission
- Engine
“ … The contact owns a 2015 Porsche Boxster. The contact stated that while driving at a low speed, there was violent vibration and noise in the front end of the vehicle without warning… the technician stated that the vehicle performed as expected. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the vehicle performed as designed. The failure was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 3,200.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2015 Porsche Boxster had a total of 5 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Steering problems
- Faulty engine
- Excessive vibration
- Suspension issues
- Abnormal noise
Related: 17 Sports Cars with Ventilated Seats (With Pictures)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Porsche Boxster | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| 2015 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 5 | 2 |
| 2014 Porsche Boxster | 1 | 3 | 3 |
| 2013 Porsche Boxster | 1 | 14 | 1 |
| 2012 Porsche Boxster | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 2011 Porsche Boxster | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| 2010 Porsche Boxster | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| 2009 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| 2008 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2007 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| 2006 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| 2005 Porsche Boxster | 2 | 23 | 0 |
| 2004 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 4 | 3 |
| 2003 Porsche Boxster | 7 | 22 | 4 |
| 2002 Porsche Boxster | 5 | 14 | 4 |
| 2001 Porsche Boxster | 4 | 25 | 4 |
| 2000 Porsche Boxster | 6 | 8 | 3 |
| 1999 Porsche Boxster | 2 | 34 | 3 |
| 1998 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 43 | 4 |
| 1997 Porsche Boxster | 0 | 30 | 6 |
What Problems Do Porsche Boxster Have?
- Premature clutch wear
- Engine failure
- Engine failure
- Water leakage
- Loss of engine power
- Intermediate shaft failure
- Oil leakage
- Engine will not shut off
- IMS (bearing) failure
- Broken cables
- Excessive oil consumption
- Rattling noise in the engine
- Ignition key not turning
- Intermediate shaft bearing failure
- Electrical malfunctions
- Defective backseat cushion
- Engine issues
- Rodent chewed wiring
- ECU failure
- Steering problems
- Faulty engine
- Excessive vibration
- Suspension issues
- Abnormal noise
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Porsche 911?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Chevrolet Corvette | 9.0 | $68,300 – $130,650 | City: 12 – 16 /Highway: 19 – 25 |
| BMW M2 | 8.6 | $63,200 | City: 16 /Highway: 23 – 24 |
| Audi R8 | 8.5 | $158,600 – $222,100 | City: 13 – 14 /Highway: 18 – 23 |
| BMW 8-Series | 8.5 | $90,800 – $149,300 | City: 17 – 21 /Highway: 24 – 29 |
| BMW Z4 | 8.5 | $53,600 – $66,300 | City: 23 – 25 /Highway: 31 – 33 |
| Porsche 911 | 8.5 | $114,400 – $290,000 | City: 13 – 18 /Highway: 18 – 25 |
| Porsche Boxster | 8.5 | $70,400 – $160,700 | City: 17 – 21 /Highway: 24 – 27 |
| Porsche Cayman | 8.5 | $68,300 – $162,000 | City: 15 – 21 /Highway: 19 – 27 |
| Toyota Supra | 8.4 | $44,640 – $58,345 | City: 19 – 25 /Highway: 27 – 31 |
| BMW M4 | 8.2 | $74,700 – $139,900 | City: 16 /Highway: 22 – 23 |
| Lexus LC | 8.0 | $98,450 – $105,950 | City: 15 – 26 /Highway: 24 – 33 |
| Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | 8.0 | $141,300 – $183,000 | City: 13 – 14 /Highway: 21 – 22 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 13 Best & Worst Porsche 911 Years (With Facts & Stats)
References
- https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/porsche/boxster/2016
- https://www.edmunds.com/porsche/boxster/2016/review/
- https://www.kbb.com/porsche/boxster/
- https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2016/porsche/boxster
- https://www.carcomplaints.com/Porsche/Boxster/
- https://www.carproblemzoo.com/porsche/boxster/
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/
