The Good
The 2000 Boxster offers engaging performance with its mid-engine layout, providing balanced handling that appeals to enthusiasts. Relatively reliable for a Porsche, it's also surprisingly comfortable for a sports car. Its iconic design holds up well. Fuel efficiency is decent. It offers good value for a Porsche, satisfying both emotional desires for a sports car and practical concerns regarding ownership costs.
The Bad
The 2000 Boxster is known for potential IMS bearing failure, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Oil leaks are also common, particularly from the rear main seal. The plastic rear window can degrade and crack. Early models can have issues with the mass airflow sensor and coolant expansion tank. Check the convertible top mechanism for smooth operation.
2000 Porsche Boxster: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.7-liter flat-6 (Boxster), 3.2-liter flat-6 (Boxster S)
- Horsepower: 217 hp (Boxster), 250 hp (Boxster S)
- Fuel Economy:
* 2.7L: Approximately 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (manual)
* 3.2L: Approximately 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (manual) - 0-60 Times:
* 2.7L: Approximately 6.4 seconds (manual)
* 3.2L: Approximately 5.7 seconds (manual) - Towing Capacity: Not applicable (not designed for towing)
- Trim-Level Features:
* Base Boxster: Leather seats, power windows and locks, air conditioning, AM/FM radio with CD player, alloy wheels, power-operated convertible top, anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control.
* Boxster S: More powerful engine, larger brakes, sport-tuned suspension, upgraded interior trim, 17-inch wheels (vs. 16-inch on the base model), and often included options such as heated seats, cruise control, and a Bose sound system.
* Optional Features (Common to both trims): Automatic climate control, upgraded sound system (Bose), cruise control, heated seats, onboard computer, navigation system (rare for this year), and various interior and exterior styling packages. A hardtop was also available as an option. Some cars also feature the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system, an early form of electronic stability control.
2000 Porsche Boxster Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Porsche |
| Model | 718 Boxster |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Finland |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.7 L 6-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Porsche Boxster Have?
Oil leaks, particularly from the rear main seal (RMS) and valve cover gaskets, are also prevalent. The mass airflow (MAF) sensor is prone to failure, leading to poor engine performance. The plastic coolant expansion tank is known to crack and leak. The convertible top mechanism can experience issues with the cables and motors, and the plastic rear window can become brittle and crack with age.
Recalls for the 2000 Boxster are less frequent than some other vehicles, but it's essential to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding recalls. Long-term reliability concerns center around the aforementioned IMS bearing, as well as the general aging of rubber components and seals throughout the engine and cooling system. Regular maintenance and proactive replacement of worn parts are crucial for maintaining reliability.
How long will the 2000 Porsche Boxster last?
Long-term durability hinges on proactive maintenance, particularly addressing known weaknesses like the IMS bearing. Regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and inspection of rubber components are crucial. The engine itself is generally robust if properly maintained. Weaknesses over time include the degradation of plastic and rubber parts, leading to leaks and component failures. The convertible top and its mechanism also require attention to prevent costly repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control (ASR). Side airbags were optional. Some cars were equipped with Porsche Stability Management (PSM), an early form of electronic stability control, but this was also optional. The car lacks modern safety technology like automatic emergency braking or adaptive cruise control.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) crash-test ratings for the 2000 Boxster are difficult to find comprehensively. While the Boxster was engineered with safety in mind, the available data from that time period is limited compared to modern vehicles. The car does feature front and side impact airbags (optional) and a robust chassis design to protect occupants. Consider that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2000.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2000 Porsche Boxster Prices and Market Value
The Boxster has depreciated significantly over time, but values are stabilizing for well-maintained examples. Factors affecting resale value include: low mileage, excellent condition (both cosmetically and mechanically), a complete service history, desirable options (like PSM or the Bose sound system), and absence of major issues like IMS bearing failure. Cars with documented IMS bearing replacement or upgrade tend to command higher prices. Color also plays a role, with more popular colors like silver, black, and blue holding their value better.
2000 Porsche Boxster Cost of Ownership
2000 Porsche Boxster Fuel Efficiency
2000 Porsche Boxster Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Porsche Boxster Compare to Other Convertible?
Performance: The Boxster's mid-engine layout gave it an edge in handling compared to its front-engine rivals. The S2000 had a more powerful engine, but the Boxster offered a broader torque curve.
Features: The Boxster had a decent level of standard and optional features for its time, though it lacked some of the modern tech found in later models of its rivals.
Reliability: The Boxster's reliability is a mixed bag, with the IMS bearing being a significant concern. The S2000 is generally considered more reliable. The SLK and Z3/Z4 also had their own reliability quirks.
Price: Used Boxsters are now competitively priced, making them an attractive option for buyers looking for a Porsche sports car on a budget.
A similar alternative would be a later model Boxster (2005+), which addressed many of the early reliability issues and offers more modern features. The BMW Z4 is also a good alternative, especially if reliability is a primary concern. The Honda S2000 is a great choice for those prioritizing performance and a raw driving experience.
Ranks #2110 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2110 | 2000 Porsche Boxster | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Porsche Boxster a Good Convertible?
It's worth buying if you find a well-maintained example with documented IMS bearing service or a replaced bearing. The Boxster S offers more performance but also potentially higher repair costs. Consider a later model year if the IMS bearing is a major concern. Buying one that's been meticulously cared for is far better than focusing solely on low mileage.
Boxter Guy on January 22, 2021
My Boxter S is fun to drive and is super reliableThe mid-engine layout and a 3.2l Porsche flat six makes it super fun to drive. Over the 18 years of ownership my Boxter S also proved to be a extremely reliable. Can't beet this combination.
brgymontero on April 7, 2020
The wrong place to place anything electric.Wrong place to put anything electrical under the seat that has a chance to leak. Great deal on the price. Needs some work. Fast little car.
Papatorr on January 5, 2019
Best Handling car that I've ownedPros: Excellent handling up to limits of traction, given it's low moment of inertia. Drives like a slot car, not like a drifter. Average person thinks I have mo money than I do, haha. Attracts positive attention. Almost includes me in with the Porsche crowd. Cons: Requires high skill level and very quick reflexes just past limits of traction, due to it's low moment of inertia. Drives like slot car out of the slot if you go past limits, not like a front engine rear drive drifter. Average person thinks I have mo money than I do, envious, boo hoo. Attracts negative attention. Doesn't quite include me into the Porsche crowd.
cccbox on November 30, 2018
fun cargreat to drive for the money, Porsche is a Porsche nothing compares to it. convertible, 5 speed, great sound, great acceleration. it is my 3rd Boxster
MrsT on August 31, 2017
Great Porsche BoxsterThis is a great car and we hardly got to drive it. Bought it with 63K and it now has 69K miles on it. Great ride, lots of fun to drive. Well cared for.
xxxxxx on February 5, 2016
Great car for the cash.This car is well a poor mans supercar. Mid engine, beautiful styling. I love my new to me boxter. Yes the car is a pain. Its a mini supercar. But the repairs are within range of a normal owner. Its it expensive? Yes. Would you save money by driving a for focus or toyota carolla? yes. But you dont rember the feeling of those cars. This one haunts me. I find myself driving at night on the freeway with top down and motor humming along and my thoughts and worries melt. I am glad I have mine and already see values going up on these cars...
Targa Florio on May 18, 2014
14 Year Old Boxster S .....GREATGreat handling....mid-engine with great weight distribution. Great power...light weight, S package worth the price. Great appearance...show room condition. The first time I test drove a Boxster S my wife advised I wipe the grin off my face before got back to the dealer or I'd pay too much. But I was patient, the one I bought was one owner, 14 years old, 28,000 miles, pristine condition. My advice, you can't do better than a Boxster S. Porsche owners take care of their cars. Patients pays off..
Joe on December 28, 2012
Rare carI Found this Boxster S wit a 966 package all carbon fiber interior appointments optional hard top an many more options never saw a Boxster this loaded low miles also
JJ300 on September 3, 2011
Fun Fun Fun!I was driving a Miata when the Boxster came into my life, while the Miata is a good car it's nothing close to the Boxster. It handles so fine yet the ride isn't punishing so I find myself enjoying every drive I take in this car. One major point I must bring up, the weakness in this car is the intermediate shaft bearing, this bearing can fail and destroy the engine. A new updated ceramic bearing is available and once replaced you don't need to worry. I did mine myself but its best left to a pro. Anyway, I love my Boxster!
Weekend Racer on March 9, 2011
Boxster S - Best PorscheI have owned numerous Porsches, 944, 944 turbo, 911, 911 turbo, and a Boxster S. Yes the turbos were faster, but the Boxster S is just more fun to drive. The convertible top is very easy to operate as are all of the other controls on the car. Another great aspect of this car is the reliablity and easy of maintanance. I have all of the service records for this car since new and it has had very few problems for an 11 year old car. The only thing major was a new water pump after 10 years. Great car, fun to drive, and very reliable. By the way the S is not slow, the major expense for the car has been new back tires.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma