Differences between Boxsters through the years
 

Hi, I was wondering if there's a site with information on what the differences are between the Boxsters through the years, since it was first introduced?

Thanks.

I am not aware of that off hand. I will try to put something together. The obvious changes are drivetrain/power related and then the body changes in 2003.

What is tougher is the more subtle changes, ie shifter knobs, options added etc.

Perhaps the long termers here can lend a hand?

Here is a start!

Highlights

An "entry-level" Porsche debuted for 1997, serving as the company's reply to popularity of "retro" 2-seaters. First previewed four years earlier as a show car, introduced after the start of the 1997 model year, it was the company's first all-new model in 19 years. Named in part for the flat "boxer" (horizontally opposed) configuration of its midmounted water-cooled engine, the Boxster was a 2-passenger roadster. Porsche intended to compete against the Mercedes-Benz SLK and BMW Z3, and perhaps attract a few buyers who might otherwise fall for a Mazda Miata (which cost considerably less). Mounted just behind the cockpit, Boxster's 2.5-liter dual-overhead-cam 6-cylinder produced 201 horsepower and drove the rear wheels through either a 5-speed manual gearbox or an optional 5-speed "Tiptronic" transmission--an automatic that permitted manual shifting. A power-operated soft top and antilocking 4-wheel disc brakes were standard. Most maintenance work had to be done from the underside. The only other service access consisted of a behind-the-seats port for checking coolant level and replenishing engine oil. High-performance Z-rated 16-inch tires were wider in back than up front. The power top fit behind a hard cover. One small trunk sat at each end of the car, offering combined capacity of 9.1 cubic feet of lockable cargo space. Options included 17-inch wheels/tires, traction control, and a cockpit "wind blocker." A 55-pound aluminum hardtop also was available, as was a roof storage system for toting skis or bicycles (with the top up or down). An automatic child-seat detection system could be dealer installed.









Year-to-Year Changes

1998 Porsche Boxster: Two safety-related changes marked the 1998 season: standard door-mounted side airbags, and an optional child-seat detection system. The latter system automatically deactivated right-side airbags when a special child safety seat was installed.
1999 Porsche Boxster: Nothing of consequence changed for 1999 with Porsche's "entry-level" model.

2000 Porsche Boxster: A new high-performance Boxster S model debuted this year, while the base engine grew a bit and gained power. The base engine grew to 2.7-liter displacement and 217 horsepower (up 16). A 250-horsepower, 3.2-liter flat 6-cylinder engine went into the new Boxster S, which used a new 6-speed manual transmission and 18-inch tires (optional on the base model to replace the usual 17-inchers). The Boxster S also benefited from larger brake discs, suspension upgrades, and dual exhaust outlets.

2001 Porsche Boxster: Newly optional for 2001 was the Porsche Stability Management antiskid system. Boxster also got revised gauges, new standard electric front and rear trunk releases, softer rollbar coverings, and LED "orientation lights."

2002 Porsche Boxster: The few additions for 2002 included an in-dash cupholder in place of a clip-on, and an in-trunk emergency release.

2003 Porsche Boxster: Base engine gained 11 horsepower to 228 and S engine gained 8 to 258. A glass rear window replaced plastic in the convertible top. All models got modified front air intakes, body-color vs. black side scoops, and "smoked" plastic turn-signal lenses. Climate controls are relocated and Boxster's first conventional dashboard glovebox is added.

If I recall correctly, the 1999 got rid of that plastic vinyl looking interior. You know, the one with the little "nipples" or "bubbles".

And don't forget the history ...
 

The Boxster S is supposed to evoke memories of the original Porsche Spyder 550, a racing car known for its speed and touchy handling. Also made famous as the car that killed James Dean. :cool:

Wow all great information. Thanks guys! Keep em coming! :)

- the 2003+ models come with MOST BUS for hifi, navigation system too...
- the + 8hp on the S come from Variocam+ vs. simple Variocam.
- the wing shape is most noticeable exterior change on this model vs previous. (IMHO).

BTW, the first Boxster came out from the factory for a run on October 13, 1995...10 years already ! who would say !

BTW- As I understand it, it was the guy in the pickup truck that hit JD. Lets blame him!

I also think that in 2003 the rear of the car was slightly tweaked around the muffler. I believe this went along with the change in the wing shape that Jeannot mentioned. Also, can’t the models with the glass rear window raise/lower the top while the car is in motion?

When did the steering wheel go from 4 to 3 spokes?

3 spoke wheel has always been an $$$ option, if I recall.

"Also, can’t the models with the glass rear window raise/lower the top while the car is in motion?"

Think this is a 05 option.

I think only 987 can lower the top while driving. It's quite cool although i didn't like the placement of the button for this.
3 spoke steering wheel is not an option in Switzerland, never been on the S.

Yeah, top raising and lowering under 30mph is a 987 thing and 996 thing afer '03.
Also, I would have to agree, with the placement of the button for the top on the 987....hard to get use to......

I think the 2000 S got a new liner inside the softtop. I believe the base Boxster's got these in 2001, can someone confirm?

Hi,

I agree, but one point, it was a 1950 Ford 4-door, not a Pick-up. The Ford failed to yield right of way and crossed the centerline into Dean's path while trying to make a left turn at a road junction.

This was contrary to the Police report of the accident (after the fact), who blamed Dean for speeding.

But, a Computer Graphics Co., using photographs of the scene was able to scientifically reconstruct the accident and prove that Dean was in fact not speeding at all. See it here: http://www.exponent.com/multimedia/movies/dean_sm.mov Hope this helps...

Happy Motoring!... Jim'99

We put together a pretty complete list of the Boxster information, which allows you to compare all the specs yourself if you wish - http://www.epiqautosport.com/mode/content/list/15