Porsche's Boxster Roadster Enter its Second Generation

Press Release

Boxster and Boxster S return, updated inside and out and upgraded with advanced dynamic capabilities and safety technologies

Inspired by the famous 550 Spyder and RS60 racers and a show-stopping concept car, Porsche designers and engineers combined their expertise to launch the Porsche Boxster as a modern interpretation of the classic roadster sports car. Now, eight years later, the mid-engine, two-seat Porsche Boxster enters its second generation with the 2005 models building on their strong heritage with enhanced dynamic performance and safety technologies.

For example, the Boxster and the even higher-performance Boxster S model have a widened stance, more powerful engines, new transmissions, larger wheels and new-generation high-performance tires. Styling has been updated inside and out, with more room for taller drivers, passengers and their luggage. The Boxster and Boxster S are equipped with even stronger braking systems, the latest computerized vehicle control and performance-enhancing technologies and are the first roadsters equipped with standard head-protecting side airbags.

Nearly 55 percent of Boxster and Boxster S components - including steering, front structure, seats and electronics - come directly from the 2005 Porsche 911® Carrera®.

The 2005 Boxster and Boxster S models replace first-generation vehicles that exceeded even Porsche's expectations with North American sales of nearly 78,000 units, including nearly 4,000 in Canada. Both cars will be at North American Porsche dealerships on January 15, 2005.

A modern sports car built on a proud heritage

The Boxster takes its name from its unique blending of classic, two-seat "roadster" sports car styling with Porsche's own "boxer" engine design and Porsche's mid-engine vehicle architecture.

Though inspired by the 550 Spyder, Porsche's first purpose-built racecar that made its competitive debut in 1955, and by the RS60 racer that followed, the Boxster is not merely a "retro" vehicle.

Porsche unveiled its Boxster in concept form on the international auto show circuit in 1993 and began development of the thoroughly modern new model that expanded its company's range to include both its famous 911 and the lower-priced roadster. Later, Porsche further expanded its lineup with the Cayenne® sport-utility vehicle and the Carrera GT, a 200-miles per hour (320 km/h) supercar.

Now come the second-generation 2005 Boxster and Boxster S, both equipped with Porsche Stability Management as standard equipment. Porsche Active Suspension Management, Porsche Composite Ceramic Brakes and Porsche's Sports Chrono Package are available for those who seek the most dynamic yet affordable driving experience.

Low base price

The second-generation Porsche Boxster is powered by a 2.7-liter, horizontally opposed six-cylinder "boxer" engine that generates 240 horsepower (SAE) and 199 pound-feet of torque. Even in its most basic form, the Boxster can accelerate from a standing start to 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) in 5.9 seconds and has achieved a top test-track speed of 159 per hour (256 km/h) miles. With standard Porsche Stability Management and 17-inch wheels, the Boxster is priced at $43,800 US and $62,400 CDN.

"S" signifies something special

At Porsche, "S" indicates a special model, not a mere trim package, and the Boxster S is special indeed. A 3.2-liter "boxer" six pumps out 280 horsepower (SAE) and 236 pound-feet of torque. Flowing through a standard six-speed manual transmission, the engine takes the Boxster S from a standing start to 60 (97 km/h) miles per hour in only 5.2 seconds on the way to a top test-track speed of 167 miles per hour (268 km/h.) With standard 18-inch wheels and other equipment, the Boxster S starts at $53,100 US and $75,600 CDN.

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga., and its subsidiary, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd., are the exclusive importers of Porsche sports cars and Cayenne sport utility vehicles for the United States and Canada. A wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG, PCNA employs approximately 250 people who provide Porsche vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 203 U.S. and Canadian dealers. They, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service.