Porsche Boxster 981
The final naturally aspirated entry-level Boxster, celebrated for its sublime mid-engined balance and vocal flat-six engine.
- Power
- 265 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.5 s
- Top speed
- 164 mph
- Est. value
- $26k–$38k
About the Porsche Boxster 981
The 981-generation Boxster represented a significant leap forward for Porsche's mid-engined roadster, featuring a longer wheelbase, wider track, and a lighter chassis composed largely of aluminium. While the 'S' model offered more power, the base 2.7-litre is often praised by enthusiasts for its sweet-revving nature and the ability to use more of its performance on the road. It is the last entry-level Boxster to feature a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine before the switch to four-cylinder turbo units in the 718. Its combination of hydraulic-feeling electric steering and perfect weight distribution makes it one of the finest-handling cars of its era.
Porsche Boxster 981 specs
The Porsche Boxster 981 produces 265 bhp (198 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 164 mph (264 km/h).
| Make | Porsche |
|---|---|
| Model | Boxster |
| Generation | 981 |
| Trim | 2.7 |
| Years | 2012–2016 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $51,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.7-litre flat-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,706 cc (2.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 265 bhp (198 kW) at 6,700 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,800 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.5 s |
| Top speed | 164 mph (264 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,310 kg (2,888 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 202 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Porsche Boxster 981 worth?
A typical Porsche Boxster 981 is estimated to be worth $26,000 – $38,000 (about £19,000 – £28,000).
Its original price when new was about $51,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Porsche Boxster 981 rarity in CarSpot
The Porsche Boxster 981 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 11 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Porsche Boxster 981 fun facts
- The 981 Boxster shares approximately 40% of its components with the 991-generation 911, including the front suspension architecture.
- Despite being larger than the preceding 987, the 981 generation is up to 35kg lighter thanks to extensive use of aluminium in the body and chassis.
- The 2.7-litre engine in the 981 is actually smaller in displacement than the 2.9-litre unit it replaced, yet it produced 10 more horsepower.
