The 981 Porsche Boxster is an excellent roadster, offering a potent flat-6, great handling, and attractive styling. This particular Boxster is finished in classic Guards...
Porsche Boxster Base Model (981) for Sale – Third Gen Listings
The third-generation Porsche Boxster Base Model (981) is often considered one of the purest and most rewarding modern Porsches to drive. Introduced as part of a major step forward for the Boxster line, the 981 generation features a stiffer, lighter aluminum-intensive chassis, stunning design, and naturally aspirated flat-six power—all while retaining hydraulic steering and the balanced mid-engine layout enthusiasts love.
In base form, the 981 Boxster focuses on balance, feel, and usability rather than raw numbers. It delivers exceptional steering feedback, confidence-inspiring handling, and a spine-tingling engine note, making it an ideal choice for buyers who value driving enjoyment over outright speed. Today, the base 981 stands out as a modern classic.
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Used 3rd Gen Porsche Boxster (Base) (981) For Sale
This page curates Porsche Boxster Base Model (981) for sale listings from across the web, including trusted dealers, major auction platforms, and exclusive cars listed by our members. With the base 981 offering outstanding performance without the premium of higher trims, well-kept examples remain in high demand. As clean, original cars become harder to find, this page is a valuable resource for tracking the best listings.
981 Gen Porsche Boxster Market, Buyer FAQs & Handy Guides
Tips to Follow When Buying a 981 Gen Porsche Boxster (Base Model)
Why choose the base 981 Boxster instead of a Boxster S?
The base model emphasizes balance and driving feel over outright horsepower. It’s lighter, more affordable, and still delivers exceptional performance on real roads. Many enthusiasts feel the base 981 is just as enjoyable—if not more so—than higher-powered versions.
How does the base 981 compare to earlier Boxsters?
Compared to the 987, the 981 feels significantly more modern, with a stiffer chassis, improved interior quality, and sharper overall dynamics. It maintains the analog steering feel and naturally aspirated engine character that later generations moved away from.
Where does the base 981 Boxster sit in the sports-car market?
It competes with cars like the BMW Z4, Audi TTS, Alfa Romeo 4C, and high-spec Mazda MX-5s. What sets the Boxster apart is its mid-engine layout and Porsche chassis tuning, delivering superior balance and steering precision.
What are current market trends for the 981 Boxster base model?
Values have remained strong, especially as interest grows in naturally aspirated, hydraulic-steering Porsches. Base models are often overlooked in favor of S variants, which makes them excellent value buys with solid long-term appeal.
Is the base 981 Boxster a good daily driver?
Yes. It’s comfortable, refined, and practical for a two-seat roadster, with both front and rear trunks. Many owners use base 981s as daily drivers, particularly in fair-weather climates.
What should I look for when buying one?
Focus on service history, overall condition, suspension and brake wear, and option content. Features like PASM, Sport Chrono, upgraded seats, and premium audio can significantly enhance the ownership experience.
Is the base 981 Boxster fast enough?
Absolutely. While it’s not the fastest Boxster in a straight line, it’s more than quick enough for spirited driving. Its real strength lies in balance, cornering confidence, and driver engagement.
Is the base 981 Boxster a good long-term buy?
It’s best viewed as a car to enjoy, but depreciation has largely stabilized. As one of the last naturally aspirated, hydraulic-steering Boxsters, the base 981 is increasingly seen as a future modern classic.
