PORSCHE BOXSTER ROADSTER 2004-2009 Review
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Good Points
- Perfect balance and handling
- Large boot space for a sports car
- Exhilarating driving experience
Bad Points
- Extremely high running costs
- Poor levels of standard equipment for the price
Engines
The Boxster was originally launched with two engines, a 2.7-litre producing 240bhp and a 3.2-litre S producing 280bhp. In 2006 these engines were replaced with the 2.7-litre being upgraded to 245bhp whilst the 3.2-litre was dropped completely for a 3.4-litre that produces 290bhp. The S models come with a six speed manual whilst the two smaller engines come with a five speed gearbox as standard. There is also the option of having a five speed Tiptronic semi-automatic gearbox, but costs an extra £1,760.
Performance & Economy
The two 2.7-litre engines with 240bhp and 245bhp both perform similarly with the 245bhp engine managing 1mpg more than the original engine at 30mpg and is one split second faster at 5.9 seconds from 0-60mph. The 3.2-litre S engine with its 280bhp is more fuel efficient than the larger engine that replaced it in 2006 managing 27mpg, but is slightly slower accelerating from 0 to 60mph in just 5.3 seconds. The larger and more powerful 3.4-litre S manages 26mpg, just behind the smaller engine and is slightly quicker going from 0 to 60mph in just over 5 seconds. All of the engines are excellent with the wonderfully distinctive engine note being carried through to the driver. The gearboxes are all exceptionally smooth changing gears quickly and easily. The engines range between insurance groups 43 and 48 with the smallest engines obviously being the cheapest.
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Introduction
This second generation Boxster is an impressively looking car that looks stylish with the fabric roof both up and down. Don't expect the ride and interior to be disappointing just because it's the entry level Porsche. The Boxster will treat you to exceptional handling with sharp and precise steering, excellent body control and grip in the corners and the interior is pure luxury with comfortable and supportive seats and stacks of storage space for a sports car.
Exterior & Interior
This new generation Boxster looks even more impressive than the previous model with sleeker lines and subtle changes almost everywhere. It grabs people attention whether it's roaring down the motorway or cruising through town on the way to the shops. The interior is just as impressive with top of the range materials and state of the art kit that bathes the driver in luxury. The cabin may feel small to drivers over 6 feet, but for the majority of people it will feel nice and snug. The seats are amazingly comfortable and supportive enabling the driver and passenger to stay comfortable on even the longest of journeys. The luggage space is situated at both the front and rear ends of the Boxster thanks to its engine being situated in the middle of the car making it extremely practical as a sports car. In total there is 280litres of space with it being split 130 / 150litres for the back and front respectively with the space under the bonnet being deep which will enable you to put small cases in it.
There are additional storage spaces in the form of a large glove compartment, a good sized storage compartment under the middle arm rest and door pockets that double as arm rests with their flip up lids. The roof is surprisingly quick and easy to open once you've undone the stiff central catch. The roof will disappear in only 12 seconds and is back up again in the same time. With the top down there is some wind buffeting so we would recommend that you opt for the additional wind deflector, especially is you are going to be travelling at 70mph. The trim is extremely well crafted and is of the highest quality feeling sold and durable and feels sophisticated. The standard Boxster trim level comes equipped with electric windows, electric folding roof, 17 inch alloys, pop up spoiler, trip computer, electrically adjustable and heated wing mirrors and electrically adjustable front seats.
Drive
As you would expect from a Porsche the Boxster is an absolute dream to drive with plenty of grip in the corners which is helped with its sharp and perfectly weighted steering taking the corners with impressive precision. The lack of body roll only adds to the sense of being firmly planted to the road on even the worst of surfaces with absolutely no body shake which is impressive in a convertible. The driving position is perfect with the driver being able to find the perfect position with ease. The S models feel the more enthusiastic of the two engines especially on twisting country lanes roads and when you open the throttle on the motorway.
Faults & Repairs
Porches have proven to be extremely reliable and solidly built over the years and as such there have been few faults to report. The only warning we would offer is don't accept any cars that have clearly not been looked after well as they will probably end up having serious problems in the near future and will cost you an arm and a leg to repair. Also make sure it has a full compliment of service history and that it was carried out by Porsche main dealerships. You should check to make sure that the roof opens and closes fluidly and that there are no rips or tears in the material as it will cost a lot to repair. As you would expect from a Porsche the repairs and service costs are high. Specialist garages can be used, but just make sure that the parts that are used for repairs are original Porsche parts.
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