Porsche Boxster 986 (1st Gen)
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. The car received a significant update in 1999 for the 2000 model year and continued to be developed and updated until 2004. See all of our 1st Generation Porsche Boxster Research.
