Porsche Boxster Option & Equipment Codes
The Ultimate Guide to Porsche Boxster Standard Equipment Build Codes, Option Codes and Exclusive Options.
986 / 987 / 981 / 718 (982) / FAQs
The Porsche Boxster has remained one of the most engaging and versatile sports cars since its debut in 1997, offering a perfect blend of mid-engine balance, Porsche engineering, and everyday usability. Across its four generations—986, 987, 981, and 718 (982)—Porsche has provided an extensive list of factory options and equipment codes, allowing buyers to configure their Boxsters for performance, luxury, or exclusivity. Understanding these options is essential for owners and buyers alike, as certain configurations significantly enhance driving dynamics, resale value, and collectibility. Whether it’s a rare Paint-to-Sample color, a track-focused M030 Sport Suspension package, or a luxurious full leather interior, the details hidden in a Boxster’s option codes reveal the car’s true factory identity.
This Ultimate Guide to Porsche Boxster Options & Equipment Codes explores the most sought-after features across all generations, breaking them down by model year and trim level. We’ll cover performance upgrades like Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE), Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and the M220 Limited-Slip Differential, as well as technology and comfort features such as Burmester and Bose sound systems, Sport Chrono Package, and adaptive sport seats. Additionally, we’ll guide you through how to decode a Porsche Boxster build sheet, helping you verify original factory specifications, identify valuable options, and spot rare configurations. Along the way, we’ll answer some of the most common questions from owners and buyers, such as which options increase collectibility, what features to prioritize when purchasing a used Boxster, and how different factory configurations affect drivability and ownership experience. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, restore, or modify a Boxster, this guide will serve as your definitive reference for understanding Porsche’s factory-installed options and equipment codes.
Porsche Boxster (986) Options & Equipment Codes
While the base Boxster and Boxster S models were well-equipped from the factory, Porsche offered a wide range of performance upgrades, luxury features, and special equipment packages allowed owners to customize their cars extensively. This section covers the Porsche Boxster (986) options and equipment codes, including sought-after performance options like the M030 Sport Suspension and M220 Limited-Slip Differential, as well as luxury features such as full leather interiors, Bose sound system, and rare exterior color choices. We take you year by year.
Porsche Boxster (987) Options & Equipment Codes
Available in Base and S models, as well as the limited-production Boxster Spyder, the 987 generation offered a wide range of factory options that significantly impact performance, comfort, and collectibility. In this section, we take you year by year, breaking down the most important Porsche Boxster (987) options and equipment codes for each model year. We’ll cover performance enhancements like the M030 Sport Suspension and M220 Limited-Slip Differential, luxury upgrades and rare special edition features. Whether you’re looking to purchase, or authenticate a 987-generation Boxster, this comprehensive year-by-year guide will provide everything you need to know about Porsche's factory options and equipment codes.
Porsche Boxster (981) Options & Equipment Codes
In this section, we take you year by year, breaking down the most important Porsche Boxster (981) options and equipment codes for each model year. We’ll cover performance enhancements like the M030 Sport Suspension and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), as well as luxury upgrades such as full leather interiors, Burmester high-end audio, and adaptive sport seats. Additionally, we will highlight rare special edition features that make certain configurations highly desirable among enthusiasts and collectors. Whether you’re looking to purchase, restore, or authenticate a Boxster 981, this year-by-year guide will serve as the ultimate resource for understanding Porsche’s factory-installed options and equipment codes.
Porsche 718 Boxster (982) Options & Equipment Codes
With its turbocharged flat-four engines, sharper handling, and a refined interior, the 718 Boxster and Boxster S offer a modern take on Porsche’s open-top sports car legacy. Porsche later expanded the lineup with the GTS, GTS 4.0, and the high-performance Spyder, making the 718 one of the most diverse Boxster generations to date. In this section, we take you year by year, breaking down the most important Porsche 718 Boxster (982) options and equipment codes for each model year. We’ll cover performance upgrades like the Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) system, PASM adaptive suspension, and ceramic composite brakes (PCCB), as well as luxury enhancements such as Burmester high-end audio, full leather interiors, and heated/ventilated sport seats. Additionally, we’ll highlight special edition packages and rare factory options.
Porsche Boxster Options & Equipment FAQs
All your Porsche Boxster equipment and options codes questions answered.
We get tons of questions from prospective Porsche Boxster buyers and owners around options codes, equipment and how to decode stuff. In this section we try to answer those common questions. We’ll also cover how to decode a Porsche Boxster build sheet, determine which features are most desirable, and answer common questions about factory options.
How do I know what Porsche options I have?
Every Porsche leaves the factory with a list of standard and optional equipment. Standard equipment is described by build codes and optional equipment by option codes. The codes are three or four character strings of numbers and letters. Back in the old days, all the codes started with an M and they were called as the M-codes. Nowadays they start with an I. Please note that the sticker in the service book or on the body never includes all the codes related to the car. It is a bit of a mystery why some codes are printed there and some are not.
What are the most sought after options for each Porsche Boxster generation?
Porsche has always offered a wide range of factory options for the Boxster, allowing buyers to customize their cars with performance upgrades, luxury features, and special packages. Some options have become particularly sought after due to their impact on drivability, collectibility, and resale value. Below is a breakdown of the most desirable options for each Boxster generation, from the 986 to the latest 718 (982) models.
Porsche Boxster (986) (1997-2004)
Most Sought-After Options:
M030 Sport Suspension – Stiffer springs and shocks for sharper handling.
M220 Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) – Improves traction, rare on early models.
M490 Hi-Fi Sound System – Upgraded speakers and amplifier.
M680 Bose Sound System – Premium audio (late models).
M476 PSM (Porsche Stability Management) – Traction control for improved handling.
M249 Tiptronic Transmission – Some prefer manuals, but rare Tiptronics are sought after by collectors.
Full Leather Interior (M981, M982, M983) – Dashboard, seats, and doors covered in leather.
Sport Seats (M378, M379) – More supportive seats, rare and desirable.
Value Impact: M030 + M220-equipped cars are the most desirable driver-focused 986s.
Porsche Boxster (987.1) (2005-2008)
Most Sought-After Options:
M030 Sport Suspension – Sportier setup, better handling.
M220 Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) – Very rare, mostly found on Boxster S models.
Sport Chrono Package (M639) – Includes performance tuning and a stopwatch.
Porsche Stability Management (M476) – More advanced traction control.
M680 Bose Sound System – High-quality factory audio upgrade.
M342 Heated Seats – A must-have for open-top driving in colder climates.
Value Impact: Manual Boxster S models with M220 and M030 are the most sought after.
Porsche Boxster (987.2) (2009-2012)
Most Sought-After Options:
Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE) (M441) – Enhances the flat-six sound.
M220 Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) – Extremely rare but highly valuable.
M030 Sport Suspension – Sharper handling for track or canyon driving.
Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) – Enhances cornering performance.
Sport Chrono Package (M639) – Allows more aggressive throttle and suspension tuning.
PDK Transmission (M250) – Faster than manual, though collectors still prefer stick shift.
Value Impact: 987.2 models with PSE, LSD, and Sport Chrono are the most sought after.
Porsche Boxster (981) (2013-2016)
Most Sought-After Options:
Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE) (M441) – One of the best-sounding factory exhausts.
Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) (M220 + M450) – Combines LSD with torque vectoring.
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) (M030) – Adjustable suspension for comfort or sportiness.
Sport Chrono Package (M639) – Sharpens throttle response and handling.
PDK Transmission (M250) – Widely regarded as one of Porsche’s best dual-clutch gearboxes.
Sport Seats Plus (M373, M374) – Offers better support than standard seats.
18-Way Adaptive Sport Seats (M489) – Provides maximum adjustability and comfort.
Value Impact: Boxster GTS models with PSE, PTV, and Sport Chrono are the ultimate collector’s spec.
Porsche 718 Boxster (982) (2017-Present)
Most Sought-After Options:
Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE) (M441) – A must-have for improving the turbocharged flat-four sound.
GTS 4.0 (Naturally Aspirated 4.0L Engine) – The most desirable non-Spyder variant.
Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with LSD (M220 + M450) – Best option for track-focused buyers.
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) (M030) – Adjustable ride comfort and performance.
Sport Chrono Package (M639) – Adds launch control and sharper throttle response.
Burmester Sound System (M676) – High-end audio upgrade.
18-Way Adaptive Sport Seats (M489) – The most comfortable and supportive seating option.
Value Impact: 718 Spyder and GTS 4.0 models with manual transmission, PSE, and PTV are the most desirable.
Final Rankings: The Most Sought-After Options Across All Boxster Generations
Best Performance Upgrade: M220 Limited-Slip Differential + PTV (981 & 718 models preferred)
Most Valuable Sound Option: Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE) (987.2, 981, and 718 models)
Most Desirable Handling Feature: M030 Sport Suspension + PASM (All Generations)
Best Luxury Upgrade: 18-Way Adaptive Sport Seats (981 & 718 models)
Most Rare Paint Option: Paint-to-Sample (PTS) colors on special models
What are the most sought after Porsche Boxster variants of each generation?
The Porsche Boxster, introduced in 1997, has evolved through multiple generations, becoming one of the most balanced and engaging mid-engine sports cars available. Within each generation, special models and high-performance variants have stood out due to increased power, enhanced handling, rarity, or historical significance. Below is a breakdown of the most desirable Porsche Boxster variants from each generation, ranked by performance, collectibility, and market demand.
Porsche Boxster (986) (1997-2004) – First Generation Collectibles
Most Sought-After Variant: 2004 Porsche Boxster S "550 Spyder 50th Anniversary Edition"
Why It’s Sought-After: Limited edition (only 1,953 units worldwide), celebrating the legendary 550 Spyder. Unique GT Silver Metallic paint, Cocoa brown soft top, and special two-tone interior. Power increased to 266 hp, more than the standard Boxster S. Lowered (M030) sport suspension, lightweight wheels, and short-throw shifter. These go for $40,000-$60,000, and increasing as a rare collector’s item.
Key Features: 3.2L flat-six with 266 hp (higher than a standard Boxster S). Special edition badging and unique interior trim. M030 sport suspension for sharper handling.
Honorable Mention: Boxster S (986.2, 2003-2004)
More power (258 hp) and a glass rear window update made it a solid upgrade over earlier 986s.
Porsche Boxster (987.1) (2005-2008) – Second-Gen Upgrades
Most Sought-After Variant: 2008 Porsche Boxster S "RS 60 Spyder"
Why It’s Sought-After: Limited edition (1,960 units worldwide), inspired by the 1960 Porsche 718 RS 60 Spyder race car. Unique GT Silver Metallic paint with Carrera Red or Dark Grey interior. Sports Exhaust (PSE) and PASM suspension included as standard. Power increased to 303 hp from the 3.4L flat-six engine. Expect to pay $45,000-$70,000, rising due to limited production.
Key Features: 3.4L flat-six with 303 hp (more than a standard Boxster S). Sport Chrono Package, PASM suspension, and Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE). Special interior and exterior badging.
Honorable Mention: Boxster S (987.1, 2007-2008)
Received an upgraded 3.4L engine (295 hp), making it a desirable pick.
Porsche Boxster (987.2) (2009-2012) – Naturally Aspirated Perfection
Most Sought-After Variant: 2011-2012 Porsche Boxster Spyder
Why It’s Sought-After: Ultra-lightweight version of the Boxster with a unique manual soft top. 3.4L flat-six producing 320 hp, paired with a 6-speed manual or PDK transmission. Weight reduced by 176 lbs, achieved through lightweight aluminum doors, fabric door pulls, and a minimalist interior. Best naturally aspirated Boxster driving experience before the 981 GTS/Spyder. Prices are in the $80,000-$120,000 range, making it one of the most expensive 987s on the market.
Key Features: 3.4L flat-six (320 hp, 273 lb-ft torque). Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE), PASM, and a lower ride height. Manual-only lightweight soft top with twin fairings behind the seats.
Honorable Mention: Boxster S Black Edition (2012)
A limited run of 987 units, featuring a blacked-out design and 320 hp engine.
Porsche Boxster (981) (2013-2016) – The Last Flat-Six Boxster
Most Sought-After Variant: 2016 Porsche Boxster Spyder
Why It’s Sought-After: The most powerful naturally aspirated Boxster ever made, featuring a 3.8L flat-six from the 911. 375 hp and 309 lb-ft torque, paired only with a 6-speed manual transmission. Lightweight design with a unique manual soft top and retro-inspired styling. Sharper and more engaging than the standard 981 models, making it a collector favorite. Prices are $100,000-$140,000, climbing fast as a future collector’s classic.
Key Features: 3.8L flat-six (375 hp, 309 lb-ft torque). Lighter than a standard Boxster due to weight-saving measures. Unique Spyder badging and styling elements.
Honorable Mention: Boxster GTS (2015-2016)
More aggressive styling, 340 hp, and a strong resale value among enthusiasts.
Porsche 718 Boxster (982) (2017-Present) – Turbocharged & Track-Focused
Most Sought-After Variant: 2021-Present Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder
Why It’s Sought-After: A return to naturally aspirated power, featuring a 4.0L flat-six with 414 hp. 6-speed manual as standard, with PDK as an option (starting in 2021). Track-focused suspension, lightweight soft top, and unique aerodynamics. One of the last naturally aspirated mid-engine Porsches, making it highly desirable. $120,000-$160,000, with manual versions commanding a premium.
Key Features: 4.0L flat-six (414 hp, 309 lb-ft torque). Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and GT4-derived suspension. Lighter than the standard 718 models.
Honorable Mention: 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 (2021-Present)
Offers almost all of the Spyder’s performance in a more daily-friendly package.
Final Rankings: The Most Sought-After Porsche Boxster Variants
Most Valuable & Rare: 2016 Boxster Spyder (981) – Last naturally aspirated 3.8L model, highly collectible.
Best Performance Model: 2021-Present 718 Boxster Spyder (4.0L Flat-Six, 414 hp) – A future classic.
Best Special Edition: 2004 Boxster S "550 Spyder 50th Anniversary" – A limited-run collector’s item.
Most Unique Driving Experience: 2011-2012 Boxster Spyder (987.2) – The lightest Boxster ever.
Best Budget Collectible: 2008 Boxster S "RS 60 Spyder" (987.1) – Affordable limited-edition fun.
What are the most popular Porsche Boxster colors of each generation?
The Porsche Boxster, since its debut in 1997, has been offered in a wide variety of colors, ranging from classic Porsche shades to limited-production and special-order Paint-to-Sample (PTS) options. Some colors have remained popular throughout multiple generations, while others were exclusive to specific model years or special editions. Below is a breakdown of the most popular and sought-after Porsche Boxster colors for each generation.
Porsche Boxster (986) (1997-2004) – The Original Classic Colors
Arctic Silver Metallic (L92U) – The most common color, giving the 986 a sleek and modern look.
Guards Red (L80K) – Porsche’s iconic red, popular among sports car buyers.
Speed Yellow (L10H) – A bold yellow that gained a strong following among enthusiasts.
Lapis Blue Metallic (L3A8) – A deep blue metallic, elegant and desirable.
Seal Grey Metallic (L6B4) – A popular grey that aged well over time.
Basalt Black Metallic (LC9Z) – More refined than standard black, giving a deep glossy effect.
Rare & Collectible Colors:
GT Silver Metallic (L92U) – Exclusive to the 550 Spyder 50th Anniversary Edition (2004).
Forest Green Metallic (L22E) – A rare dark green option, highly sought after today.
Most Collectible 986 Color: GT Silver Metallic (L92U) on the 550 Spyder Edition.
Porsche Boxster (987.1) (2005-2008) – Bold & Modern Tones
Arctic Silver Metallic (L92U) – Continues as the most popular shade.
Guards Red (L80K) – Still a top choice for sports car purists.
Speed Yellow (L10H) – A signature color for track-focused buyers.
Basalt Black Metallic (LC9Z) – One of the most popular black options.
Atlas Grey Metallic (LC7Z) – A darker grey, replacing Seal Grey.
Midnight Blue Metallic (L39C) – A stunning deep blue that looks great in sunlight.
Rare & Collectible Colors:
Cobalt Blue Metallic (L37U) – A deep, rich blue metallic, limited production.
Carrara White (LB9A) – First introduced on the 987 Boxster, later became a staple.
GT Silver Metallic (L92U) – Available again, but still a rare option.
Most Collectible 987.1 Color: Cobalt Blue Metallic (L37U), seen on special-order models.
Porsche Boxster (987.2) (2009-2012) – Refined & Sporty Shades
Carrara White (LB9A) – The most popular non-metallic white option.
Meteor Grey Metallic (L32C) – A darker, gunmetal grey, widely used.
Basalt Black Metallic (LC9Z) – Continues as the most popular black color
Guards Red (L80K) – Always a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
Aqua Blue Metallic (LM5R) – A stunning bright metallic blue, replacing Cobalt Blue.
Rare & Collectible Colors:
Ruby Red Metallic (LM3Z) – A deep, wine-red metallic, highly desirable.
Macadamia Metallic (L4A6) – A brown-bronze metallic, rarely seen today.
Speed Yellow (L10H) – Continued to be a rare and collectible choice.
Most Collectible 987.2 Color: Ruby Red Metallic (LM3Z) on the Boxster Spyder (2011-2012).
Porsche Boxster (981) (2013-2016) – The Last Flat-Six Boxster Colors
Rhodium Silver Metallic (LM7U) – A lighter silver metallic, replacing Arctic Silver.
Sapphire Blue Metallic (L3AZ) – A bright metallic blue, very popular.
White (LB9A) – A simple, clean color that became highly popular.
Guards Red (L80K) – Always a sports car favorite.
Jet Black Metallic (LC9X) – The deepest black metallic option.
Rare & Collectible Colors:
Lime Gold Metallic (LM5P) – A very rare green-gold shade, limited production.
Mahogany Metallic (L4A8) – A deep brown metallic, rarely seen.
UV Purple Metallic (L6A7) – An ultra-rare paint-to-sample option.
Most Collectible 981 Color: Lime Gold Metallic (LM5P) on the Boxster Spyder (2016).
Porsche 718 Boxster (982) (2017-Present) – Modern & Vibrant Colors
Miami Blue (L39C) – A standout bright blue, one of the most desirable 718 colors.
Chalk (LM9A) – A light grey, almost off-white, extremely popular.
Carrara White Metallic (LB9A) – Porsche’s signature metallic white.
Guards Red (L80K) – Remains a classic choice for the 718.
GT Silver Metallic (L92U) – A signature Porsche silver, still highly popular.
Rare & Collectible Colors:
Frozen Berry Metallic (L0D8) – A pinkish metallic, very rare.
Python Green (L2G) – A bright lime green, seen on special orders.
Shark Blue (LZ5M) – Introduced on later GTS and Spyder models, highly desirable.
Most Collectible 718 Color: Miami Blue (L39C) and Chalk (LM9A) are among the most valuable.
Final Rankings: The Most Popular & Collectible Porsche Boxster Colors by Generation
986 (1997-2004): Arctic Silver Metallic (L92U) & Speed Yellow (L10H) – The most common and collectible.
987.1 (2005-2008): Carrara White (LB9A) & Cobalt Blue Metallic (L37U) – Elegant and desirable.
987.2 (2009-2012): Aqua Blue Metallic (LM5R) & Ruby Red Metallic (LM3Z) – Highly collectible.
981 (2013-2016): Sapphire Blue Metallic (L3AZ) & Lime Gold Metallic (LM5P) – Sporty and rare.
718 (982) (2017-Present): Miami Blue (L39C) & Chalk (LM9A) – Standout modern classics.
How do I decode a Porsche Boxster build sheet?
Decoding a Porsche Boxster build sheet (or option sticker) is crucial for verifying the car’s factory specifications, including its paint color, interior trim, performance upgrades, and optional equipment. Whether you're a current owner, a prospective buyer, or a collector, understanding the option codes will help determine rarity, authenticity, and value.
Step 1: Locate the Build Sheet or Option Sticker
The Porsche Boxster build sheet (also known as the option sticker) can typically be found in the following locations:
📌 Inside the front trunk (frunk) – On a sticker under the hood or near the spare tire compartment. 📌 Inside the owner’s manual – Many Boxsters had an option sticker in the service book. 📌 Driver’s side door jamb – Some models have a VIN sticker with paint and trim details. 📌 Under the hood (on early models) – Sometimes found on the radiator support or inner fender.
If the sticker is missing, you can request a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity (COA) or Porsche Production Specifications (PPS) from Porsche to confirm factory options.
Step 2: Identify Key Sections on the Build Sheet
A Porsche Boxster build sheet contains several key details, including:
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) – Identifies the production year, country, and unique build sequence.
Paint Code – Specifies the original factory exterior color (e.g., L92U Arctic Silver Metallic).
Interior Code – Specifies the interior trim color and material (e.g., XSC Natural Brown Full Leather).
Option Codes – A series of M-codes representing factory-installed performance, luxury, and special features (e.g., M030 Sport Suspension, M220 Limited-Slip Differential, PSE Porsche Sports Exhaust).
Step 3: Decode the Porsche Boxster Option Codes
Below are the most important and sought-after factory options found on Porsche Boxster models across various generations:
Performance & Handling Options
M030 – Sport Suspension Package (lower ride height, stiffer shocks, improved handling).
M220 – Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) (rare, improves traction and cornering).
M474 – Sport Shock Absorbers (firmer suspension setup).
M476 – Porsche Stability Management (PSM) (enhanced traction and safety).
M680 – Bose Surround Sound System (premium audio upgrade).
PASM – Porsche Active Suspension Management (electronically controlled damping system).
PSE – Porsche Sports Exhaust (adds a more aggressive exhaust note).
PTV – Porsche Torque Vectoring (available on 981 & 982) (enhances cornering performance).
Brakes & Transmission Options
M249 – Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (on earlier models, later replaced by PDK).
M250 – PDK Transmission (Porsche’s dual-clutch automatic).
M450 – Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) (lighter and more powerful braking system).
Luxury & Comfort Features
M139 – Heated Driver’s Seat (for cold-weather comfort).
M340 – Heated Passenger Seat.
M342 – Seat Heating Package (both driver and passenger).
M573 – Automatic Climate Control.
M680 – Bose Sound System.
M810 – Floor Mats with Porsche Logo.
Interior & Special Features
M373/M374 – Sport Seats Plus (more supportive than standard seats).
M437/M438 – Power Adjustable Seats (Driver/Passenger).
M489 – 18-Way Adaptive Sport Seats (adds extensive adjustability).
M602 – Bi-Xenon Headlights with Dynamic Cornering Lights.
M650 – Electric Sunroof (available on Boxster Spyder models).
Special Editions & Rare Packages
X73 – Sport Chassis Package (lowered suspension, aggressive setup for track use).
X51 – Power Kit (increased horsepower, available on GTS & Spyder models).
P91 – Sport Design Package (upgraded aerodynamics and styling elements).
Step 4: Verify Your Porsche Boxster’s Authenticity
To ensure that your build sheet matches your car, follow these steps: 1) Compare option codes with what’s physically installed on the car (e.g., check for PASM or Sport Seats). 2) Check the paint code under the hood or in the door jamb to confirm factory color. 3) Match the VIN with factory production records to ensure authenticity. 4) Request a Porsche COA (Certificate of Authenticity) from Porsche for official verification.
