Porsche Boxster (2004 - 2011) 3.2 S 2d (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I cut hair? That's what I thought it would say, but have had nothing but positive reactions.... from hairdressers. No, but seriously people love the car and come and talk to me about it. So I'm pleasantly surprised as I was expecting "why didn't you get a 911" comments. The reality is that a second hand 996 is the same price, so people are choosing Boxsters over 911s in this price bracket. "Poor mans 911" is just a fun jibe from Top Gear.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it and wish they had one.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes

What are you likely to buy next?

997 (911) Turbo or another Boxster. It really is that good.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£31,000

When did you buy the car?

December 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Got a high spec low mileage example, but would have been equally happy with slightly higher mileage and a little cheaper price.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What was the dealer like?

N/A

What's it like to drive?

The Boxster is better than many cars twice the price. Bizarrely, a friend prefers it to his V8 Vantage, which is more comparable to a 911! It's a real drivers car, with an incredible engine noise. Ignore any negative comments about the Boxsters image - a 5 minute test drive will change all that! I've already converted a few sceptics (of course they'd never actually driven one before...). The car feels glued to the road and has incredible acceleration. Around town, it can be quiet and has a cracking ride with no harsh bumps, but get it on the open road and it will go round corners as you'd expect a 50/50 weight distribution roadster to. Did I mention the sound of that engine?! Although I have the bose stereo fitted, I often end up turning it off to listen to the flat six singing.

What's it like to park?

Parking is easier than my wife's mini thanks to a better turning circle and parking sensors.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing yet, but it's early days.

What's most practical about your car?

Considering this is a sports car, the boot space is extremely generous.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Heated seats are an essential option to be able to enjoy the roof down in the winter, and the PCM (sat nav) is excellent.