The Good
The 2005 Boxster offers exhilarating performance with its responsive engine and balanced handling. Its iconic design and open-top driving experience appeal emotionally, while its relative reliability (for a Porsche) and decent fuel efficiency make it a practical sports car choice. The value proposition stems from offering Porsche performance at a comparatively lower price point.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2005 Boxster include potential IMS bearing failure, which can cause catastrophic engine damage. Oil leaks, particularly from the rear main seal (RMS), are also common. Furthermore, the plastic convertible top window can become brittle and crack over time. Inspect these areas carefully before purchasing.
2005 Porsche Boxster: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of the 2005 Porsche Boxster's key specs:
- Engine Options:
- 2.7-liter flat-6 (Boxster)
- 3.2-liter flat-6 (Boxster S)
- Horsepower:
- Boxster: 240 hp
- Boxster S: 280 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- Boxster: 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- Boxster S: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- Boxster: 5.9 seconds
- Boxster S: 5.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable (Porsche Boxsters are not designed for towing).
- Trim-Level Features:
- Boxster (Base): Standard features include a power-operated convertible top, air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and leather seats.
- Boxster S: Adds the more powerful engine, larger brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded interior trim. It also often includes options like bi-xenon headlights, a Bose sound system, and navigation.
2005 Porsche Boxster Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Porsche |
| Model | 718 Boxster |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | UUSIKAUPUNKI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1385.27 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1630.21 kg |
| Overall Height | 129.54 cm |
| Overall Length | 432.82 cm |
| Overall Width | 180.09 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 241.55 cm |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.2L H6 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $53,100 USD |
| Invoice Price | $46,314 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $795 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Porsche Boxster Have?
Another common issue is oil leaks, particularly from the rear main seal (RMS). While not as catastrophic as IMS failure, RMS leaks can be costly to repair due to the labor involved in accessing the seal. Other reported problems include issues with the air-oil separator (AOS), which can cause excessive oil consumption and smoke upon startup. Some owners have also reported problems with the convertible top mechanism and the plastic rear window becoming brittle and cracking.
Recalls for the 2005 Boxster have been relatively limited. It's crucial to check the VIN with Porsche or the NHTSA to ensure that any applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability hinges heavily on preventative maintenance and addressing potential issues like the IMS bearing proactively.
How long will the 2005 Porsche Boxster last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were minimal. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Porsche Stability Management (PSM) were standard, providing a degree of electronic stability control. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control available.
Safety features included front and side airbags. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA or IIHS are not readily available for the 2005 Boxster specifically. However, Porsche vehicles are generally known for their robust engineering and safety standards. Optional features included bi-xenon headlights, which offered improved visibility compared to the standard halogen lights. Overall, the 2005 Boxster prioritizes driving experience over advanced tech and driver-assistance features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Porsche Boxster Prices and Market Value
2005 Porsche Boxster Cost of Ownership
2005 Porsche Boxster Fuel Efficiency
2005 Porsche Boxster Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Porsche Boxster Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2005 Porsche Boxster Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Porsche Boxster Compare to Other Convertible?
Alternatives to consider include later model year Boxsters (2009+) which have addressed some of the reliability concerns. Also, a used BMW Z4 M offers similar performance and can sometimes be found at a comparable price. However, for pure driving enjoyment and the iconic Porsche experience, the Boxster remains a compelling choice.
Ranks #203 Convertible
| 1 | 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2015 Lexus IS | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2009 Honda S2000 | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF | (4.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 BMW 8 Series | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2021 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Audi S5 Sportback | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ferrari F8 Spider | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster | (4.0★) |
| 11 | 2021 Jeep Compass | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2019 Buick Cascada | (0.0★) |
| 203 | 2005 Porsche Boxster | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Porsche Boxster a Good Convertible?
Porsche lover on August 17, 2020
Most fun yet practical carI have had 3 Boxster s over the years and this one for over 10. Loved every minute driving it. Great pick up and handling plus two trunks to allow for hauling things. A real head turner. Just need to maintain it for it to keep running well. I'm only selling mine cause we moved down a dirt road and its too rutted for a sports car. I got it for a great price, so letting it go for thousands less than it's blue book.
lotuseras on May 21, 2020
Terrific handlingExemplary handling and driving experience. Well built and not costly to maintain as one might think. Lots of luggage space and creature comforts. Driving position and weight of controls is reference for many sports cars.
Shawn C on September 5, 2019
Massive performance for the priceCar has amazing performance for the price. Comfort wise it is a bit lacking in the bells and whistles. Acceleration, braking, turning - incredible for the price.
WineLover on July 14, 2019
Quality, Performance, and Reliability are great!Most fun possible! The feel, the sound, the balance are fantastic. I owned this car for 8 years. I can’t imagine another car that is more fun.
Flyferd on June 6, 2019
Careful of this year models IMS bearing issuesAlways wanted a Porsche. After purchasing was informed of the IMS bearing issues on this particular year, fortunately I had a later model 2005 that had the larger bearing and only needed slight modifications $1000 the full fix is around $3g. If it isn't modified there is a good chance of trashing the engine, $20 to $25g overhaul. All good now.
vettedude on May 29, 2019
fast, sporty, agile, sleak lineshad a few sport cars..porsche, vette, triumph, bmw. Vette was the fastest but plastic interior except leather seats. Triumph was old school. BMW is fast and stylish and maybe the leader with the Porsche next. Porsche and Triumph are about the same size interior wise..need to be under 6ft tall..
ken987 on May 8, 2019
Best handling car at any price!Even as a daily driver, super fun to drive. Zip in and out of traffic. Easy to park. A real head-turner. Mine was solid reliable after 70K miles. Electric convertible top makes raising and lowering a snap. And that engine is soooo sweet a sound. Likes to be driven hard and doing so doesn't use more gas. I'm getting 25 mpg around town. My 2015, a 2nd gen "987" model, is even more refined than the 1st gen. Great handling, brakes, steering, acceleration, and sound. The flat 6 boxer engine sounds like stereo when hitting the gas. And this Porsche has both a front and rear trunk. Very cool. Highly recommended
987guy on December 2, 2018
Bucket list PorscheI've always wanted this car since the first time I seen one. I told myself I would get one one day and after waiting over 10 years I finally decided to purchase one. I can't believe I waited so long down this car, but now that I have it it has been an absolute joy to drive everyday from highway to downtown traffic top up top down the cars amazing on all aspects. I couldn't afford the 911 but I feel like this was definitely a good compromise and well worth the value for what you're looking at there's a lot of different options but this one checked all the boxes. Best of all is I got the cross owning a Porsche off my bucket list, and I highly recommend getting yourself one!
Frankie on July 31, 2018
Very reliable.I have been very pleased with the vehicle. Service and performance are great. Extremely happy with the vehicle. 5th Porsche over the years and very happy with it.
jose on July 5, 2018
very reliable and a dream to drivethis car met all my expectation. It is very reliable, its body design is beautiful and for a convertible it is very quite in the road
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.