1999-2004
The original Boxster was a very capable car, with its mid-mounted engine and excellent suspension. So capable, in fact, that many felt it deserved more power so that the chassis could be fully exploited.
They got their wish when the Boxster S was launched. This combined the Boxster bodyshell with a larger 3.2-litre version of the flat-six engine that produced 252bhp – a useful 48bhp increase on the 2.5-litre version. This was enough to propel the S to 62mph in just 5.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of162mph. The Boxster had really come of age with the S variant.
Externally, there was little to distinguish the S from the standard car. It had a lined hood, which reduced noise and 17-inch wheels with a new design were standard (18-inch ones were optional).
Red-painted calipers denoted the uprated brakes which were based on 911 items.
In 2003, the car was facelifted with a glass rear window, in place of the original plastic item that was prone to damage. Also, the front and rear bumpers were revised, as were the lights.
Specification
Capacity: 3179cc
Compression ratio: 11.2:1
Maximum power: 252bhp at 6250rpm
Maximum torque: 305Nm at 4500rpm
Brakes: Front: 318mm discs; rear: 299mm discs. Servo assisted with ABS
Suspension: Front: McPherson struts with coil springs and antiroll bar. Rear: McPherson struts with coil springs and antiroll bar
Wheels & tyres: Front: 17x7J with 205/50ZR17 tyres. Rear: 17×8.5J with 225/40ZR17 tyres (18-inch rims optional)
Length: 4133mm
Width 1740mm
Weight: 1295kg
0-62mph: 5.7 seconds
Top speed: 174mph
