The latest, more expensive, 981 third-generation Boxster first went on public display at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. And although it boasted a wider track, a longer wheelbase, and a much stiffer chassis than the 987, it actually weighed marginally less. Engine capacity for the standard £38,810 model's straight-six powerplant came back down to 2.7 litres, but the performance was still commendable, with 265hp, a 165mph top speed and a 5.8-second 62mph time. The 3.4-litre 315hp Boxster S is appreciably quicker, at 174mph and just 5.1 seconds respectively, whilst 2014 saw the launch of a new third Boxster variant -
the GTS
. Based on the Boxster S this 330bhp Boxster can reach 175mph and hits 62mph in just 5.0 seconds. All acceleration stats are for manuals - PDKs with optional Sport Chrono can be a few tenths quicker.
Looks have steadily got more aggressive
With revised styling, the GTS has a unique front bumper with black inserts and badging, as well as larger 20-inch 911 rims, smoked headlight surrounds, a 10mm drop in ride height and PASM (Porsche Active Stability Management). At £52,879 it ain't cheap, but it does offer better value than specced-up Boxster S (the Boxster S is £47,035) and takes Porsche's baby roadster that bit closer to supercar territory.
All three models come with an impressive list of standard kit, including an auto rear spoiler, colour-coded roll-over bars, tinted windows, parking sensors, electric mirrors and roof, part-electric sports seats, an HD 4.6-inch colour central display unit, a decent sound system and either a six-speed manual or the seven-speed PDK transmission. Whilst the extensive options list includes carbon ceramic brakes, active anti-roll bars, a sport chassis with a 20mm ride drop, torque vectoring (which comes with a limited-slip differential) a sports exhaust, dynamic engine mounts and the Sport Chrono Package (with launch control) which is standard on the Boxster GTS.
Hints of Carrera GT/918 in cabin architecture
UK buyers' thirst for all things Boxster shows no signs of abating, with the latest 981 in high demand. So far 2,746 981s have been sold in the UK alone. And Rupert at Glass's expects this trend to continue over the next few months; "The 981 has been very well received in the press, performing very strong residually. And as we approach the summer demand will increase with prices continuing to remain firm," he ascertains. Little scope for any great 981 deals for the moment then, and according to Jon Mitchell our current exit from recession is also playing a part. "981's have not been depreciating as much as they usually would and there is a good reason for this," John stresses. "During the exit of a recession, people start to buy more Porsches, but there is a relative lack of nearly-new one-, two- or three-year-old Boxsters - so more look to buy new instead." And that greater demand sadly means no discounts.
Buy if: You've got deep pockets and demand the very latest tech and performance
Don't buy if: You're seeking value for money, or an affordable roadster for the track
We found: 2012 Boxster 3.4 S in White, full Porsche service history, 15K miles, £32,975
Price Guide
Poor: Under £31,000
Good: £31,000 to £33,000
A1: £33,000+
Special Editions: GTS £58,000+
