Porsche Boxster
2.7 liters in the base model & 3.2 in the S,front-side airbags,front & rear crumple zones,active brake differential,traction control Porsche Stability Management

It’s elementary, my dear Watson: the way to increase Porsche sales is to sell more Porsches. And to achieve that the company needed to address the number-one factor keeping would-be buyers at bay: the price.

But hold your breath—it gets better. This affordable Porsche now contains the same engine options (and that same lusty exhaust note) as the previously more powerful Cayman, which was introduced in 2006 as essentially the coupe incarnation of the Boxster.

What’s Under the Hood?

Technically, the answer is nada, as the Boxster’s 24-valve flat six (2.7 liters in the base model and 3.2 in the S) is mid-mounted and is accessed from beneath. The praiseworthy powerplant gives it its vroom-factor and agile balance, as well as its stellar reputation among the auto industry’s top opinion-makers; for instance, Car and Driver’s annual 10 Best list seemingly has a spot inked in for this model every year. It’s undoubtedly fast. It handles at least as well as one expects a car in this category to handle. But where it truly surpasses expectations is in the timbre of its engine’s voice. This thing growls. And then it purrs. And when that right foot goes down, it growls again. You’ll floor it as much for the feel as for the auditory treat.

When you head to the dealership to sign on the line you’ll have to suppress your giddiness enough to make a few basic decisions. Let’s forget about the 17 available paint finishes for now—we’re talking about the really important stuff. Will it be the Boxster (245 hp and 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds) or the Boxster S (295 hp and 0 to 60 in 5.2 seconds, but tack on another $10K)?

Then there’s the transmission: manual shift or Tiptronic automatic? The former is de rigueur in a sports car, but those who commute in stop-and-go (nope, it’s not just a weekend car) may prefer not to do the shifting. Back to the manual: the default on the base Boxster is a 5-speed, but a high-performance 6-speed comes with the Sport Package of options and is included on the Boxster S.

Whatever way you go you get significant power, more-than-impressive agility, and safety factors such as front, side, and front-side airbags, protective door beams, front and rear crumple zones, active brake differential, traction control, and Porsche Stability Management. As if that’s not enough it’s topped off with cool, retro-font Boxster badging on the most recognizable and most whistle-provoking convertible anywhere within miles of its price-point.

Hey, it’s OK to think inside the Box. But a better time will be had by both if you just keep your eyes on the road and let your driving instincts take over.

GET IT: If it’s Porsche or nothing for you, but your checkbook won’t quite let you dive into the Cayman.