Porsche Boxster has the pedigree and performance to go along with its great looks
Jeff Voth
Date Posted: 8/2/2005
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The timbre of a Boxster engine at idle is unlike anything else on the face of the planet. If you could capture it in
a bottle, wrap it in a stylish box and put it on sale, the need for Viagra would disappear. Its music to ears of anyone who
understands that driving is so much more than just getting from point A to point B.
The goal for the new Porsche Boxster series was to amplify its distinctive good looks and achieve perfection through
evolution, not revolution. In other words, Porsche wasn't looking for the full reality series makeover, but rather the nip
and tuck approach preferred by the majority of Hollywood celebs. Topping the list of things to do was adding more horsepower.
The new Boxster entry level engine is a 2.7 litre flat six that cranks out 240 hp @ 6400 rpm. Maximum torque is rated as 199
lb-ft @ 4700-6000 rpm.
The Boxster S bumps displacement to 3.2 litres and a pulsating 280 hp @ 6200 rpm, with torque numbers set as 236 lb-ft @
4700-6200 rpm.
One thing Porsche didn't fool around with during the redesign is the unmistakable sound of the flat six engines. Packaged
together with a new, extra-large exhaust system, torque improves significantly. Punch the throttle and acceleration is
immediate. Zero to 60 mph is reached in 6.2 seconds with the Boxster and 5.5 seconds in the Boxster S.
A recent foray down the Austrian Autobahn, and a subsequent back road expedition through the picturesque Alpine countryside,
proved this baby Porsche's mettle. Top speed for both models is 155 mph and 161 mph respectively.
Two transmissions are available for each Boxster model.
The 5-speed manual gearbox of the Boxster is carried over from the previous model, while a new 6-speed manual operates in the
Boxster S. Shift travel on the new manual transmission has been reduced by approximately 15%, while the original 5-speed has
been improved by an astounding 27%.
Porsche's wonderful Tiptronic 5-speed automatic transmission is available in both Boxsters'. Providing drivers with the
opportunity to shift gears manually, the Tiptronic option makes a whole lot of sense for those who like to do some of the
work themselves, but prefer not having to engage a clutch.
To match the added performance of both models, new larger diameter, inner-vented, cross-drilled brakes offer superior
stopping power. A twin-circuit brake system with 4-piston calipers and ABS brings the Boxster to a rapid and secure stop.
Distinctive on the Boxster are black eloxy finished calipers, while the Boxster S displays a red color scheme. Also new in
2005 for the Boxster S is the opportunity to order Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, (PPCB).
Front and rear wheels on the Boxster are 17", with tire specs of 205/55 ZR and 235/50 ZR respectively. The Boxster S
increases wheel and tire size to 18" with 235/40 ZR tires in front and 265/40 ZR at the rear.
Externally the latest Boxster radiates the essence of its Uber-expensive 911 sibling, with a dynamic side profile, wider
track and muscular flanks. A covered undercarriage allows unrestricted airflow, while redesigned front spoiler ducts gulp in
huge volumes of air, directing it to specific areas including the disc brakes.
Taking several of its styling ques from the Carrera GT, new dual support side mirrors further reduce airflow and rain from
building up on the glass surfaces. Larger air scoops behind each door improves downforce, while at the same time helping
breathe new life into the engine. The functional rear spoiler has also been enhanced to extend higher, adding downforce to
the rear of the car.
Large side windows enhance visibility in several ways. Through excellent aerodynamics, the greater curvature of the A-pillars
reduces unwanted airflow around the window and also lowers wind noise. Additionally the side windows are covered with a
hydrophobic surface coating, helping to ensure a clear view and improved scratch resistance.
Internally Porsche did away with the static, mind-numbing dash layout of the previous model, vigilantly crafting the control
center to bring the new car into the 21st Century, but maintain the pedigree established with the original 550 Spyder.
A tightly hooded, three-piece instrument cluster offers tactile feedback between engine and driver. A watch-like, thin metal
band separates each dial, with the tachometer taking center stage.
As you would expect, the real joy of owning a Porsche comes through contact with the road. With this in mind, the Boxster
offers a superior occupant experience geared towards driving. Highlights include a Sports Chrono Package that measures
handling dynamics, easy to use power windows, mirrors and door locks, plus an improved heating and cooling system.
Soft touch surfaces, aluminum look trim and leather abound, with several upgrades included on the Boxster S. An innovative
magnesium skeleton, 3-spoke leather tilt steering wheel offers a 10% reduction in weight and improved ergonomics. New seats
provide improved comfort with four distinctive settings, and for the first time, a BOSE Surround Sound System with 11
speakers is available.
The original Boxster first launched in 1996. Since then, Porsche stock has risen an astounding 858%. A benchmark roadster, it
once again sets the high bar for others to follow.
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| 2005 PORSCHE BOXSTER VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS |
| Description: |
2-seat performance sports car |
| Model Options: |
2-seat performance sports car |
| Wheelbase: |
95.1 inches |
| Overall Length: |
170.4 inches |
| Engine Size: |
Boxster- 2.7 L: 6-cylinder, Boxster S- 3.2L: 6-cylinder |
| Transmission: |
Manual- Boxster 5-speed - Boxster S 6-speed Auto- Tiptronic S |
| Drive: |
Rear |
| Braking: |
Twin circuit 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS |
| Airbags: |
2 (front), 2 (side), 2 (head) |
| Gas Mileage: |
M/6: 19/28 mpg, A/4: 18/25 mpg |
| MSRP Price: |
Boxster- $ 43,800 Boxster S- $ 53,100 |
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