2002 Porsche Boxster 2.7L 5AT RWD (228 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Porsche refreshed the first generation of the Boxster, known as the 986, in 2002, improving the car’s exterior, enhancing standard interior features, and providing more potent engines.

By combining the boxer (engine type) and roadster (bodywork type) words, Porsche extracted the Boxster nameplate for its most affordable vehicle in the lineup. When the German sports car manufacturer unveiled the vehicle in late 1996, it polarized the market. However, it soon proved that Porsche’s decision to create such a model, inspired by the 1953 550 Spyder, was crucial for the brand’s survival. Then, the mid-engined open-top vehicle showed its capabilities. Thanks to the balanced weight distribution, it was nimble. In addition, the S version featured a 3.2-liter engine and made the car even more capable around a track. It was also an excellent daily companion, especially when paired with the five-speed automatic gearbox and manual override. But six years later, the car needed an update to keep sales up and the automaker happy.

In 2002, Porsche restyled the Boxster lineup. Some of the changes were significant, such as the front fascia. There, the automaker installed new headlights with clear lenses. They were carried over from the Porsche 911 (996) model, and the same went with the hood and the front fenders. The spoiler, on the other hand, was specific for the Boxster and featured a pair of side scoops with two horizontal slats that fed air to the front brakes to cool them.

From its profile, a Porsche enthusiast could notice that the car sported the same doors as the 911 (996), but its overall shape was completely different. Its raked windshield also served as protection during a rollover crash. Behind the seats, the automaker also included a pair of safety arches that protected occupants. Porsche also updated the look of the air intakes placed on the rear doors. The new ones were body-colored and featured four horizontal slats. Even though the Boxster had the engine placed in the middle, the automaker installed a longer, sloped rear deck, which covered the rear trunk. There was also another frunk, even though the term was yet to be invented.

A significant upgrade for the 2002 Boxster was the new retractable canvas roof. Unlike the 1996 model, the refreshed one featured a glass rear window instead of plastic. Furthermore, Porsche redesigned the system so the sloped rear area could divert more air to the spoiler placed at the back of the deck. Inside, customers could find a cozy, two-seat cabin. Depending on the grade and options, the car came fitted with cloth or leather upholstery, but all versions were fitted with sports seats. Fronting the driver was the same instrument panel with black dials and red needles where the tachometer took center stage.

However, the most significant upgrades were noticed under the car’s skin. Porsche dropped the 2.5-liter flat-six engine that was offered in the 1996 model year, and the 2.7-liter version became the only option for the Boxster. It was paired with the same five-speed manual as standard, while a five-speed automatic with manual override (Tiptronic) was available as an option.