The second-generation Boxster went on sale in 2005. Its arrival also marked the debut of the Cayman coupe as a hardtop counterpart to the Boxster convertible. For this generation, Porsche tidied up the styling (including headlights that were similar to the Carrera GT’s), comprehensively upgraded the interior with better-quality fittings and a circular design theme, and the standard 2.7-liter flat-six was more powerful, rated at 237 hp. Porsche claims the 987 shares just 20% of its components with the 986.
Several important changes were introduced with the upgraded 987.2, unveiled late in 2008. With this update, the more troublesome M96 engines were replaced. In the 3.4-liter Boxster S, power was now up to 306 hp, while the larger 2.9-liter base engine made 252 hp. Porsche’s superb dual-clutch PDK gearbox was also introduced, replacing the previous Tiptronic automatic option. The Boxster Spyder appeared for this generation, slotting in above the Boxster S – it was 176 lbs lighter, slightly more powerful, and perhaps the finest version of the 987.
In a nutshell, the 987 carried over all the best parts of the 986, and improvements were made where needed. This was the last Boxster to use hydraulically assisted steering, which many enthusiasts insist provides superior feedback to the newer electric system.
