The Boxster was initially unveiled as a concept in 1993 at the Detroit Auto Show, before going on sale in the summer of 1996 (as a 1996 model year in the United States). The first 986-generation Boxsters to reach U.S. shores were 1997 model-year base cars, equipped with a mid-mounted 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. Thanks to dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, and a dry-sump lubrication system, the engine was able to make 201 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, with a redline of 6700 rpm. Sending power to the rear wheels is a five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed Tiptronic automatic. The 0-60 sprint happens in 6.1 seconds, and top speed is 149 mph. With a curb weight just under 2800 pounds, it’s almost guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
It was Porsche’s first road vehicle to be originally designed as a roadster since the 914. The first-generation Boxster (the 986) was introduced in late 1996 as a 1997 model year car. The V-Series Boxster 2.5 rolled out in August 1996 from Porsche’s factory in Zuffenhausen, Germany. The aim was originally to start in June 1996, but due to production problems, the actual 986 Boxster 2.5 production did not start until August. The design was heavily influenced by the 1993 Boxster Concept (which was a good thing). It was an instant success, becoming Porsche’s biggest seller from its introduction in 1996 until the introduction of the Cayenne sport utility vehicle in 2003.
