Porsche 718 Boxster 982 (4th Generation) - The Ultimate Guide

The fourth-generation Porsche 718 Boxster, internally designated as the 982 series, was designed by Peter Varga in 2015. Varga's work introduced a refreshed aesthetic while maintaining the classic mid-engine proportions that define the Boxster lineage. His design incorporated sharper lines, reworked headlights, and a distinctive rear light bar that connects the taillights, giving the car a more modern and aggressive appearance.

The fourth-generation Porsche Boxster, known internally as the 982 and marketed under the 718 Boxster name, was introduced for the 2017 model year and remains in production as of 2025.

This generation debuted in early 2016 and brought with it a major shift in the Boxster’s character: the switch from naturally aspirated flat-six engines to turbocharged flat-four engines. The 982 Boxster lineup has evolved over time with updates and new variants like the 718 Boxster GTS, Spyder, and 25 Years edition.

A significant mid-cycle refresh arrived for the 2021 model year, particularly refining the GTS 4.0 and Spyder offerings, though the core design and platform remained consistent. As of 2025, the 982 generation is still the current Boxster generation, with no announced successor yet, though speculation suggests an electric or hybrid future lies ahead.

The difference between the second-generation Porsche Boxster (987) and the third-generation Porsche Boxster (981) is substantial, reflecting a major leap in design, performance, and overall refinement. While both retain the mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and Porsche’s signature roadster DNA, the 981 is a significantly more modern and capable machine across nearly every dimension.

One of the most noticeable differences lies in the design. The 987, which was produced from 2005 to 2012, carried forward the rounded, softer styling cues of the original Boxster (986) with evolutionary changes—slightly wider fenders, a more aggressive front fascia, and a more refined interior, especially after the 2009 facelift (987.2). In contrast, the 981, introduced in 2012, took a big step toward a sharper, more muscular aesthetic. It features wider tracks, a longer wheelbase, more sculpted side intakes, and styling heavily inspired by the Carrera GT and 991-generation 911. The interior of the 981 also adopted the “rising” center console design from the Panamera, giving the cabin a more upscale and driver-focused feel.

Mechanically, the leap is even more profound. The 987.1 models (2005–2008) used M97 engines, which were prone to intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing failures—an issue resolved in the 987.2 models (2009–2012) with the introduction of direct fuel injection and the updated 9A1 flat-six engines. The 981 continued with the 9A1 engines, offering both improved power and efficiency while maintaining the signature naturally aspirated character. In addition, the 981 platform benefited from significant weight savings due to aluminum construction and boasted a stiffer chassis, better suspension geometry, and improved electric power steering.

From a driving perspective, the 981 offers more precision, composure, and refinement. It is both faster and more comfortable, bridging the gap between the Boxster and the 911 more than ever before. For buyers, the 981 is often seen as a “sweet spot” in the Boxster lineup: it retains the naturally aspirated engines and excellent driver feedback while adopting more modern aesthetics, tech, and build quality. The 987, especially in its 987.2 guise, remains a rewarding and more analog experience, but it lacks the polish and presence of its successor.

The fourth-generation Porsche 718 Boxster (982) is impressively quick across its model range, thanks to turbocharged powertrains and, later, the return of naturally aspirated flat-sixes in higher trims. Here's how fast it is, depending on the variant:

718 Boxster (Base): Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four producing 300 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, the base model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.9 seconds with the manual transmission, and 4.5 seconds with the PDK and Sport Chrono package. Top speed is about 170 mph.

718 Boxster S: Equipped with a 2.5-liter turbo flat-four making 350 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque, it hits 0–60 mph in as little as 4.0 seconds with PDK and Sport Chrono. Top speed climbs to 177 mph.

718 Boxster GTS 2.5 (2018–2019): Shares the 2.5-liter engine with the S but tuned to 365 hp, trimming the 0–60 time to 3.9 seconds (PDK with Sport Chrono). Top speed is around 180 mph.

718 Boxster GTS 4.0 (2020–present): Reintroduces the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six from the Cayman GT4, with 394 hp and a redline of 7,800 rpm. It accelerates from 0–60 in 4.3 seconds (manual) or 3.8 seconds (PDK with Sport Chrono). Top speed is 182 mph.

718 Spyder (2020–present): Also uses the 4.0-liter six-cylinder, tuned similarly to the GTS 4.0. It reaches 0–60 in 3.7 seconds (PDK) and has a top speed of 187 mph, making it the fastest and most capable Boxster ever made.

The “best” year for the fourth-generation Porsche 718 Boxster (982) depends on what you value most—performance, engine sound, technology, or value—but several standout years rise above the rest depending on your priorities:

2020–2024 (GTS 4.0 and Spyder models) are widely regarded as the sweet spot for enthusiasts. These years mark the return of Porsche’s beloved naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, introduced in both the 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 and the 718 Spyder. The engine delivers a rich, linear powerband and a soulful exhaust note—addressing the biggest criticism of earlier turbocharged 718 models: their lack of aural character. These variants also come with refined chassis tuning and superb standard equipment, making them the most engaging and rewarding to drive.

If you're seeking value and everyday usability, the 2018–2019 model years offer a great balance. By this point, Porsche had resolved some early production teething issues from the 2017 launch, and the 718 Boxster and Boxster S with turbocharged flat-fours were well sorted. The GTS 2.5 from these years also offers more performance than the S with added visual and dynamic upgrades.

The 2017 model year, while significant as the launch year of the 718 series, tends to be less desirable due to being the earliest iteration of the turbocharged platform. It also lacked some of the optional refinements and tuning updates introduced later. However, it may offer the best prices if budget is a primary concern.

Ultimately, if you're a purist or collector, 2021–2024 GTS 4.0 or Spyder models are the pinnacle of the 982 Boxster lineup. But for many buyers, a well-equipped 2018–2019 S or GTS 2.5 may strike the perfect blend of price, performance, and usability.