What Is It?
2005 Porsche Boxster
What's Special About It?
First introduced in 1997, the entry-level midengine Porsche Boxster receives its first major update for 2005. Both the Boxster and more powerful Boxster S keep their respective engines, but both benefit from a bump in power. The Boxster's 2.7-liter flat six-cylinder increases its horsepower rating from 225 to 240, and the S's 3.2-liter six moves from 258 to 280 hp. As a result, both models increase their top speeds — 159 miles per hour for the Boxster and 166 mph for the Boxster S. Corresponding 0-60 times are 5.9 and 5.2 seconds.
New transmission offerings include a revised five-speed manual for the Boxster and a new six-speed manual for the S. Either model can opt up to the five-speed Tiptronic shifter.
Fans of top-down motoring will certainly appreciate the addition of head airbags that complement the current side thorax airbag system. The head airbags deploy from door window side rails. In addition, Porsche has tweaked the brakes for improved performance and added its stability management system to the standard equipment list.
A quick glance at the Boxster's restyled exterior reveals larger front and side air intakes, a new headlamp treatment, revised door sills and larger side windows.
What's Edmunds Take?
While the Boxster's upgrades certainly provide a formidable package of performance, its lack of easily identifiable updates throws into question just how long it can continue to catch the eye of prospective buyers. The competition is much more compelling than it was in 1997 so unless Porsche can come up with something more dramatic (like the rumored coupe version), the Boxster may have a tough time in the years ahead. — Kelly Toepke
2005 Porsche Boxster
What's Special About It?
First introduced in 1997, the entry-level midengine Porsche Boxster receives its first major update for 2005. Both the Boxster and more powerful Boxster S keep their respective engines, but both benefit from a bump in power. The Boxster's 2.7-liter flat six-cylinder increases its horsepower rating from 225 to 240, and the S's 3.2-liter six moves from 258 to 280 hp. As a result, both models increase their top speeds — 159 miles per hour for the Boxster and 166 mph for the Boxster S. Corresponding 0-60 times are 5.9 and 5.2 seconds.
New transmission offerings include a revised five-speed manual for the Boxster and a new six-speed manual for the S. Either model can opt up to the five-speed Tiptronic shifter.
Fans of top-down motoring will certainly appreciate the addition of head airbags that complement the current side thorax airbag system. The head airbags deploy from door window side rails. In addition, Porsche has tweaked the brakes for improved performance and added its stability management system to the standard equipment list.
A quick glance at the Boxster's restyled exterior reveals larger front and side air intakes, a new headlamp treatment, revised door sills and larger side windows.
What's Edmunds Take?
While the Boxster's upgrades certainly provide a formidable package of performance, its lack of easily identifiable updates throws into question just how long it can continue to catch the eye of prospective buyers. The competition is much more compelling than it was in 1997 so unless Porsche can come up with something more dramatic (like the rumored coupe version), the Boxster may have a tough time in the years ahead. — Kelly Toepke
Add A Comment »