Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Porsche Boxster 981 S 3.4 (315 Hp)
Overall Rating
Porsche Boxster:
The Porsche Boxster and Cayman are mid-engine two-seater sports cars manufactured and marketed by German automobile manufacturer Porsche across four generations—as a two-door, two-seater roadster and a three-door, two-seater fastback coupé.
The first generation Boxster was introduced in 1996; the second generation Boxster and the Cayman arrived in late 2005; and the third generation launched in 2012. From 2016 to 2025, the two models were marketed as the Porsche 718 Boxster and Porsche 718 Cayman....(Read more on Wikipedia)
981 Overview:
Porsche Boxster (981). With 360 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1340 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 5.1 s). The top speed reaches 279 km/h. A two-seater convertible designed for open-top driving pleasure. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Porsche Boxster 981 generation was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. However, Porsche vehicles typically incorporate robust safety features and engineering standards.
S 3.4 (315 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 3.4L S engine provides a substantial power increase, delivering exhilarating acceleration and a more aggressive exhaust note, perfect for enthusiast driving.
Fuel Economy
Slightly higher fuel consumption than the 2.7L, but still respectable given the performance gains.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional handling and steering feel
- • Engaging naturally aspirated flat-six engines
- • Timeless and attractive design
- • High-quality interior materials
- • Practical for a two-seater with dual trunks
Cons:
- • Firm ride can be uncomfortable on poor roads
- • Limited practicality as a two-seater
- • Higher running costs than conventional cars
- • Expensive options list drives up price
- • Engine access for maintenance can be challenging
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(986: 2002 - 2004).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Porsche |
| Model: | Boxster |
| Generation: | 981 |
| Modification (Engine): | S 3.4 (315 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2012 |
| End of production: | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Roadster |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 315 Hp @ 6700 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 91.7 Hp/l [54mm more] |
| Torque: | 360 Nm @ 4500-5800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | MA1.23 More details about the engine MA1.23 |
| Engine displacement: | 3436 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Boxer |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 7.5 l |
| Coolant: | 23 l |
| Engine layout: | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Compression ratio: | 12.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 12.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 279 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 4.3 kg/Hp, 235.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.7 kg/Nm, 268.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 4.8 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1340 |
| Max. weight: | 1655 |
| Max load: | 315 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 280 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 64 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4374 mm mm [54mm more] |
| Width: | 1801 mm mm [21mm more] |
| Height: | 1281 mm mm [9mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2475 mm mm [60mm more] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Porsche Boxster!