English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Porsche Boxster: 981 and 718 generations, engines and trims
The Porsche Boxster is a two-seater roadster with a mid-mounted engine, produced since 1996 and often hailed as one of the best-handling open-top cars. We explore the differences between the 981 and 718 generations, the engines they come with, and what to check before buying a used Boxster.
Boxster in brief
The Boxster's engine is positioned between the passenger compartment and the rear axle, making the car well-balanced and highly precise to drive. It features two trunks—one at the front and one at the rear—and an electrically operated soft top. The closed variant of the same model is the Cayman.
To date, four generations have been produced: 986 (1996–2004), 987 (2004–2012), 981 (2012–2016), and 718 (from 2016 onwards). The Boxster is one of the most accessible ways to own a Porsche on the used market, though maintenance is still pricier than for a typical car.
981 vs 718 — what's the difference
The 981 generation (2012–2016) received a lighter, longer-wheelbase body, electric power steering, and a 911-style interior. It features naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines, praised for their sound and smooth power delivery, making the 981 highly sought-after in the used market.
The 718 generation (from 2016 onwards) looks similar externally but the base and S trims come with four-cylinder turbocharged engines. These are more powerful and quicker, but some buyers miss the sound of the six-cylinder engine. Later, the GTS 4.0 and Spyder trims reverted to a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine.
Earlier 986 and 987 generations are considerably cheaper, but they are now quite old and often have high mileage. The 2009 facelifted 987 models received new direct-injection engines and the PDK gearbox, making them usually the better choice among the older cars.
Engines and gearboxes
In the 981 series, the Boxster has a 2.7-litre (around 265hp) six-cylinder engine, the Boxster S a 3.4-litre (around 315hp), the GTS around 330hp, and the Spyder a 3.8-litre engine (around 375hp). Gearboxes are either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed PDK (the Spyder has only a manual).
In the 718 series, the Boxster and Boxster T have a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (around 300hp), the Boxster S a 2.5-litre (around 350hp), and the early GTS a 2.5-litre (around 365hp). From 2020, the GTS 4.0 has a 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine (around 400hp), the Spyder around 420hp, and the Spyder RS around 500hp.
Like the 981, the 718 series offers six-speed manual and seven-speed PDK gearboxes. All versions are rear-wheel drive.
What to check when buying a used Boxster
In the older 986 and 987 (pre-2009) engines, there are known issues with the intermediate shaft bearing (IMS) and cylinder wall scoring, so it's essential to have a Porsche specialist check it and review the service history. Diagnostics will also show if the engine hasn't been revved too high.
Check the roof: it should open and close smoothly, the fabric should be free of tears, and the rear window should be unscratched. The interior should be dry, as blocked drainage channels can allow water to enter. Front radiators love to collect leaves and dirt, so they can rust.
The PDK gearbox should shift quickly and smoothly, and the manual gearbox should not grind. Check the wear on the tyres and brakes, the underside of the body, and the front bumper — they reveal whether the car was used on the track or after an accident.
Versions
Boxster equipment greatly depends on the additional packages ordered, so cars of the same version can vary significantly. We list the most commonly encountered versions.
Boxster
981, 718The base version is the lightest and most accessible Boxster.
- The least powerful engine in the range
- Manual or PDK gearbox
- Often comes with the Sport Chrono package and heated seats
Boxster S
981, 718The most popular choice offers significantly more power and larger brakes.
- More powerful engine
- Larger wheels and brakes
- Often comes with PASM adaptive suspension
Boxster T
718A lighter, driving-focused version with the base engine.
- 2.0 l engine, around 300 HP
- Standard — PASM suspension and Sport Chrono package
- Lighter interior details and special alloy wheels
Boxster GTS
981, 718The sportiest daily driver version with plenty of kit.
- More powerful engine, 718 series from 2020 — 4.0 l six-cylinder
- Sport exhaust and Sport Chrono package
- Dark details, often Alcantara interior trim
Boxster Spyder
981, 718Rarer, purest driving version with a manual roof
- Larger capacity six-cylinder engine
- Stiffer suspension and sporty brakes
- Manual roof that folds away easily
Comparison of 718 series versions
| Boxster | Boxster S | Boxster GTS 4.0 | Boxster Spyder | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For everyday driving | More power | For driving comfort | For sporty driving |
| Wheels (most common) | 18–19 inch | 19–20 inch | 20 inch | 20 inch |
| Engine | 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, around 300hp | 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder, around 350hp | 4.0-litre, 6-cylinder, around 400hp | 4.0-litre, 6-cylinder, around 420hp |
| Roof | Electric | Electric | Electric | Manual |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€€ | €€€ |
For many buyers, the Boxster S strikes the best balance of price and features. If the sound of a six-cylinder engine is paramount, look for a 718 GTS 4.0 or a more affordable 981 model.
Pros
- Well-balanced and precise to drive
- Two trunks — more practical than it seems
- More accessible than the 911
- Quick and easy to open roof
Cons
- Two seats only
- The sound of the 718's four-cylinder engines isn't for everyone
- Risk of issues with older 986 and 987 engines
Frequently asked questions
Which Boxster generation is best to buy used?
For many buyers, the 981 generation is the best choice: it's modern, has six-cylinder naturally aspirated engines, and is usually cheaper than the 718. If newer technology and more power are important, go for the 718.
How do the Boxster and Cayman differ?
The technology and engines are essentially the same, but the Boxster is a roadster with a retractable roof, while the Cayman is a fixed-roof coupe. The Cayman has a slightly more solid body, while the Boxster lets you enjoy driving with the top down.
Is the Boxster suitable for year-round use?
Yes, with good winter tyres the Boxster can handle the cold, although deep snow can be an issue due to its low ground clearance. Nevertheless, many Boxster owners only use their cars during the warmer months.
Is it worth buying a 986 or 987 Boxster?
It can be, if your budget is tight, but only after a check-up by a Porsche specialist and with a full service history. Ask about the Intermediate Shaft Bearing (IMS) issue, or opt for a 2009–2012 987, whose engines don't have this problem.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
