2008 Porsche Boxster Review
2008 Porsche Boxster Review
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Used Boxster for sale
Appraise This CarPorsche Boxster model years
Porsche Boxster types
- Convertible
- RS 60 Spyder
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Perfectly balanced handling, pinpoint steering, world-class braking, usable cargo compartments, fast power-top operation, ample options list makes it highly customizable.
Cons
- Porsche's entry-level model is still expensive even before those pricey options are added
- overly complex audio dash controls
- moderate top-up noise at higher speeds.
What’s new
The Porsche Boxster remains largely unchanged for 2008, although there is a Limited Edition model that features some cosmetic modifications. On the options list, you'll find new lightweight sport seats made from fiberglass and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic.
Edmunds says
With balanced midengine power and classic styling, the sleek and nimble 2008 Porsche Boxster is a pure sports car and embodies all that we love about Porsche.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2008 Porsche Boxster 2dr Convertible (2.7L 6cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.58 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$238/mo for Boxster Base
Boxster Base
vs
$183/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
In 1997, the convertible Porsche Boxster ushered in an era of the more affordable Porsche. Oddly enough, it's now the base version of the Cayenne, the company's SUV, that's the least expensive Porsche. But that's where the similarities end. The current Boxster, like the original, features a nicely balanced midengine/rear-drive layout and the proven performance of a responsive flat-6 engine.
Three years ago, the second-generation Boxster roadster debuted and in 2007 more powerful engines were added. Those new engines make the current generation Boxster the most powerful ever. The S model delivers 295 horsepower while the standard model provides a perfectly adequate 245 hp.
Porsche introduced the hardtop version of the Boxster, the Cayman, two years ago, but the Boxster delivers a more premium feel inside with the added fun of a convertible top. Plenty of leather and attractive faux metallic trim give the Boxster a luxurious look, and it remains competent as a weekend getaway car or even as a daily commuter.
But the classically styled 2008 Porsche Boxster is also a serious, purpose-built midengine roadster designed to travel hard and fast -- sometimes demanding a driver's undivided attention but rewarding the skilled driver with razor-sharp, real-time feedback. Dynamically, no other roadster can match it. If that's what you're after and you can swing the luxury-oriented bottom line, you couldn't convince us of a more compelling choice.
Performance & mpg
The Boxster S is powered by a 3.4-liter flat-6 that's good for 295 hp and 251 pound-feet of torque. Base models have a 2.7-liter flat-6 providing 245 hp and 201 lb-ft of torque. The regular Boxster comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission. A six-speed is optional and comes standard on the Boxster S. Either Boxster can be fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control.
In instrumented testing, a Boxster S accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds flat and hit the quarter-mile in 13.4 seconds. Fuel economy isn't too shabby, either. A base Boxster with the five-speed manual earns an estimated 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway, while a manual-equipped S has an 18/26 mpg rating.
Safety
Standard safety features for the 2008 Porsche Boxster include antilock disc brakes, stability/traction control, dual thorax/head side-impact airbags and roll-over safety bars.
Driving
The midengine 2008 Porsche Boxster is a wonderfully athletic machine -- when tossed around, it manages to feel glued to the road and light on its feet at the same time. Body roll and midcorner bumps are never an issue, while its variable-ratio steering seems to be hard-wired into the driver's thought processes. In a Boxster, running out of car is rarely part of the equation. Throttle response is tight and lively, and its brakes are among the best we've ever tested. Some may find the Boxster's around-town ride too stiff, but it's never particularly harsh and is truly a small price to pay for this two-seater's rapid, undiluted reflexes.
Interior
The Boxster's interior boasts premium materials, proper sports car seating and leather everywhere, plus an oversized and center-mounted tach, right where it belongs. The array of interior controls, especially the audio and climate control systems, can be initially confusing, however.
Seat comfort is extraordinary for both occupants, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel feels a bit large at first -- until you quickly realize it's perfectly sized after all. Wind control with the top down is excellent, but we found that top-up wind noise above 70 mph can sometimes be enough to challenge both conversation and the Boxster's sound system. On the upside, this is still one of the most practical two-seaters you'll find, with a sizable trunk up front and out back.
2008 Porsche Boxster models
The 2008 Porsche Boxster sports car comes as either the basic Boxster or the massaged, pricier Boxster S. They are visually similar except for the additional center front grille opening, red brake calipers and dual exhaust outlets on the S. Standard equipment on both models includes 17-inch wheels (18s for the S), fast-operating power top (lowers in about 12 seconds), leather upholstery and a seven-speaker CD stereo. Both the base Boxster and S model are offered in Limited Edition trim as well. This option is basically a retro paint theme with orange paint covering the exterior and parts of the interior. The roll bar even has orange trim. Other minor changes include a modified front spoiler and a revised rear spoiler.
Being a Porsche, the Boxster's price heads north rather quickly once options are added. And there are many options to choose from -- more than 100 separate options, packages and color combinations are available on the base Boxster alone. Major highlights include 19-inch wheels, ceramic composite brakes, full leather/power/heated seats, automatic climate control, Bose digital audio, a navigation system, bi-xenon HID headlights, park assist and a removable aluminum hardtop.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#13 out of 26 among Luxury Compact Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Porsche Boxster from 2008-2022.$573/yr
vs. $554/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.45x/yr
vs. 1.57x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).13.8%
vs. 11.1%
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2008 Porsche Boxster.
5 star(92%)
4 star(3%)
3 star(5%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
26 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.75 out of 5 stars
One test drive
RonB, 01/08/2009
2008 Porsche Boxster S 2dr Convertible (3.4L 6cyl 6M)
Experienced BMW owner including the Z-4. On a whim, test drove the S and could not rest comfortably until I bought it. Made the Z-4 feel like a go-cart. Gas prices or not, I make up reasons to drive somewhere.
4.88 out of 5 stars
There is no subsitute
Slick Shift, 10/17/2009
2008 Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder 2dr Convertible (3.4L 6cyl 6M)
Replacing my aging s2000 was difficult. Buying the RS60 was easy. There was no comparison. Price of admission was high, but the Porsche selectable suspension system coupled with smooth kick in the pants engine power, killer brakes, handling, and selectable exhaust makes an enthusiast dream come though. The car felt like home immediately. Rare and beautiful gray interior and that classic … exterior makes my tail wag when the garage door opens. At 6 ft plus plenty of room and comfort. Bose system sounds very good when I am not listening to that beautiful exhaust note. Fit and finish is fantastic and having two trunks is even better. Ride comfort superb. It is a sensational auto that is a blast.
5 out of 5 stars
Perfection
Jared, 10/03/2008
2008 Porsche Boxster Limited Edition S 2dr Convertible (3.4L 6cyl 6M)
There is no such thing as the perfect car, as I found out by going through 25 of them in 7 years. At least that is what I thought until this car. If you are considering a sports car and a Boxster is in your budget then you absolutely must drive one. I have owned cars that were faster in a straight line (2 Vipers, 4 Corvettes, and an 03 Mustang Cobra), but none of them felt the way this … car does. The smoothness of this car is just flat out incredible. It does everything so well, and I can't really describe it, but it just feels good no matter what kind of driving you are doing. Of course it is at its best when you are doing aggressive driving on your favorite curvy road. Yes it is perfect.
4.88 out of 5 stars
perfection?
Zenith, 07/23/2008
2008 Porsche Boxster S 2dr Convertible (3.4L 6cyl 6M)
I have owned many sports cars. Previously owned a NC Miata and Nissan 300ZX TT. I hoped and was successful combining the best features of each car with the Boxster S. It's an all out blast to drive. Quick, nimble, powerful, classic good looks and with great exhaust sound. It loves winding mountain roads and hates logging trucks! Get the factory short throw shifter if you really love … driving.
2008 Boxster Highlights
Convertible
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $45,800 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $238/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 9.9 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Boxster include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
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