A pair of convenient sports cars
These two Porsches are what a sports car is all about in the mind of the average fan: nimble and powerful. In addition to the open-air experience provided by their retractable top, they boast another attribute that's rarely seen on comparable machines: cargo room. We recently had the opportunity to test both models.
Successful styling
Introduced in 1996, the Boxsters have never lost their head-turning look. Porsche designers gave them aerodynamic lines that prove to be classic and true to the company's image. Their overall appearance is understated and tastefully executed -- no bling, just business as usual. The S is decidedly more masculine with its larger air intakes, but the "base" model remains just as striking.
Ergonomic interior
Although we're talking about two-seat convertibles, access is fairly easy and the cockpit is comfortable enough to accommodate various body sizes. Ergonomics are superb. For the driver, everything falls naturally under the hand. Interior storage is limited, however, and using the cupholders (now part of the North American culture) proves to be a delicate affair. Usually, travelling in a convertible means carrying only your toothbrush. Not with the Boxsters: they ridicule a lot of sports coupes with their two trunks -- top down or up. On the other hand, when the roof is in place, three-quarter visibility is reduced for passing or backing maneuvers. And despite Porsche's efforts, the audio quality of the sound system still needs improvements. To be fair to the German manufacturer, rarely does a convertible allow its passengers to quietly enjoy their favorite songs; the engine sound and wind noise take center stage.
Powerful
Let's make things clear: with its new 245-hp powerplant, the 2007 Boxster will satisfy every sports car enthusiast. Meanwhile, the 295-hp Boxster S will deliver accelerations that will pin you to your seat... for a considerable premium of nearly $14,000. Both cars are great for quick corner exits and tight passing maneuvers, but the smaller Boxster won us over with its all-around performance.
These two Porsches are what a sports car is all about in the mind of the average fan: nimble and powerful. In addition to the open-air experience provided by their retractable top, they boast another attribute that's rarely seen on comparable machines: cargo room. We recently had the opportunity to test both models.
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| Agility and power characterize both of these cars. |
Successful styling
Introduced in 1996, the Boxsters have never lost their head-turning look. Porsche designers gave them aerodynamic lines that prove to be classic and true to the company's image. Their overall appearance is understated and tastefully executed -- no bling, just business as usual. The S is decidedly more masculine with its larger air intakes, but the "base" model remains just as striking.
Ergonomic interior
Although we're talking about two-seat convertibles, access is fairly easy and the cockpit is comfortable enough to accommodate various body sizes. Ergonomics are superb. For the driver, everything falls naturally under the hand. Interior storage is limited, however, and using the cupholders (now part of the North American culture) proves to be a delicate affair. Usually, travelling in a convertible means carrying only your toothbrush. Not with the Boxsters: they ridicule a lot of sports coupes with their two trunks -- top down or up. On the other hand, when the roof is in place, three-quarter visibility is reduced for passing or backing maneuvers. And despite Porsche's efforts, the audio quality of the sound system still needs improvements. To be fair to the German manufacturer, rarely does a convertible allow its passengers to quietly enjoy their favorite songs; the engine sound and wind noise take center stage.
 |
| The interior is comfortable and ergonomic, but visibility when the roof is up could be improved. |
Powerful
Let's make things clear: with its new 245-hp powerplant, the 2007 Boxster will satisfy every sports car enthusiast. Meanwhile, the 295-hp Boxster S will deliver accelerations that will pin you to your seat... for a considerable premium of nearly $14,000. Both cars are great for quick corner exits and tight passing maneuvers, but the smaller Boxster won us over with its all-around performance.