BOXSTER: 1997 - TO DATE

2-door, mid-engined 6-cylinder convertible. The saviour of Porsche after recession hit '90s, the Boxster offered true entry-level Porsche ownership. 911 esque looks drew criticism from press (and 911 owners!), but sublime chassis and instant responses more than made up for this. Early straight line performance worries of original cars now totally forgotten with the 2003 model year cars. Boxster " is now serious contender for the only Porsche you'll ever need. Superb chassis dynamics provides Boxster with serious point-to-point ability and rewards are purer for some than current 911s. Image not the strongest but crucially Boxster stimulates all the right senses and is a real mini 911 with down to earth running costs.

BOXSTER - Wheelbase (mm): 2400 - Length/Width (mm): 4133/1740

Significant developments: Introduced in 1997 with 2.5 boxer engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 4-pot calipers front and rear, ABS, dual and side airbags.

1999: Boxster S launched with 3.2 litre version of boxer engine and 6-speed gearbox. White dials, titanium trimmed windows and twin centre exit exhaust pipes and larger 17" alloy wheels only exterior change to distinguish 'S' from standard model. Entry-level Boxster's engine capacity raised from 2.5 to 2.7 litres resulting in healthy power hike to 220bhp. Both models available with 5-speed Tiptronic gearbox.

2003: Boxster's first facelift. Both 2.7 and 3.2S models gain extra 8bhp, raising power to 228bhp and 252 respectively. S's torque also up by 3Ib ft. Both models accelerate quicker and are more fuel efficient. Front and rear bumpers are new and the air intakes for both aerodynamics and cooling. New retractable rear spoilers also fitted. Clear indicators, upgraded interiors (cup holders), sportier exhaust note and lighter alloy wheels help differentiate the new from the old but the glass rear screen is the headline news (for some magazines anyway!).