The Good
The 2012 Boxster offers thrilling performance and surprisingly good reliability for a sports car. Its iconic Porsche design is aesthetically pleasing, and the comfortable interior makes it suitable for daily driving. Decent fuel efficiency (for its class) adds to its practicality. Emotionally, it delivers the pure joy of open-top motoring. Practically, it holds its value well.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing issue in earlier Boxsters (less prevalent in 2012 models, but still a concern), the possibility of bore scoring in the cylinders, and the cost of maintenance and repairs, which can be high. Watch out for worn convertible tops and potential oil leaks. Pre-purchase inspection is recommended.
2012 Porsche Boxster: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2012 Porsche Boxster:
- Engine Options:
- Base Boxster: 2.9-liter flat-6
- Boxster S: 3.4-liter flat-6
- Horsepower:
- Base Boxster: 255 hp
- Boxster S: 310 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- Base Boxster: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (manual), 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (PDK)
- Boxster S: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (manual), 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (PDK)
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- Base Boxster: 5.5 seconds (manual), 5.2 seconds (PDK)
- Boxster S: 5.0 seconds (manual), 4.8 seconds (PDK)
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable. The Boxster is not designed for towing.
- Trim Level Features:
- Base Boxster: Includes features like a power-operated soft top, partial leather seats, air conditioning, a sound system, and alloy wheels.
- Boxster S: Adds more powerful engine, upgraded brakes, sport-tuned suspension, and various styling enhancements.
- Notable Options (both trims):
- Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission: A dual-clutch automated manual transmission.
- Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM): Electronically adjustable dampers.
- Sport Chrono Package: Adds a sportier engine and chassis setup.
- Navigation system
- Upgraded sound system (Bose or Burmester)
- Full leather interior
- Heated seats
- Ventilated seats
2012 Porsche Boxster Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Porsche |
| Model | 718 Boxster |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | STUTTGART-ZUFFENHAUSEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2978 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3549 pounds |
| Overall Height | 50.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 172.10 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.90 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 95.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.2L H6 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $58,600 |
| Invoice Price | $52,560 |
| Delivery Charges | $950 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Porsche Boxster Have?
Convertible top mechanisms can sometimes experience issues, requiring costly repairs. Electrical problems are also possible, though not widespread. It's important to check the car's service history and perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection, including a bore scope inspection to check for cylinder scoring.
Recalls for the 2012 Boxster are relatively infrequent, but it's always advisable to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability hinges heavily on proper maintenance, including regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil, adhering to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, and addressing any issues promptly.
How long will the 2012 Porsche Boxster last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to newer cars. There are standard safety features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. However, advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available.
Optional features included Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which adjusts the suspension damping for improved handling and ride comfort, and the Sport Chrono Package, which adds a sportier driving mode and launch control (with PDK).
Crash-test ratings for the 2012 Porsche Boxster from agencies like the NHTSA and IIHS are limited. Given its low production volume and sports car designation, it wasn't always subjected to comprehensive crash testing. However, Porsche generally designs its vehicles with a strong emphasis on safety. Consult safercar.gov for any available data.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Porsche Boxster Prices and Market Value
2012 Porsche Boxster Cost of Ownership
2012 Porsche Boxster Fuel Efficiency
2012 Porsche Boxster Safety Rating
IIHS
2012 Porsche Boxster Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2012 Porsche Boxster Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Porsche Boxster Compare to Other Convertible?
Price-wise, a used Boxster can be competitively priced against its rivals. The BMW Z4 may offer a slightly lower entry point, while a comparable Mercedes-Benz SLK may be pricier.
Alternatives to consider: The BMW Z4 offers a more luxurious experience. The Mercedes-Benz SLK has a retractable hardtop, which provides better security and weather protection. The Audi TT is a stylish and capable roadster with available all-wheel drive. If performance is the top priority, the Boxster is a great choice. However, if comfort and luxury are more important, the SLK or Z4 might be better alternatives.
Ranks #185 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★) |
| 185 | 2012 Porsche Boxster | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Porsche Boxster a Good Convertible?
Dean on November 11, 2018
hopefully just off to an "unlucky" starthad the car for about 5 days, about half of what the Porsche garage has had it. may get it back sometime next week if the vacuum hose comes in from germany. good news is the compressor and serpentine belt are installed! the Porsche certification 150 point inspection didn't catch these problems, but i guess you can't catch everything, right? looking forward to a reset when i get it back and put this episode out of my mind as i rediscover the Porsche performance and reliability legend(?) The local dealer has been accommodating.
MD Boxster S Lover on December 13, 2017
Getting car a ceramic coating a Shin Tech. Wow.The Porsche Boxster S is truly the most fun car to drive I have ever driven. Got a taxi from the Chicago airport to the dealer and drove the car to Bentonville, Arkansas. Wow about 10 hours of the most fun I have ever had. Enjoyed all 6 gears and shifting was so fun too. I had an 2002 Boxster S I bought new in Ca. and wished I had ever sold the car. You got to get one. So fun to drive again.
Abby Normal on October 20, 2017
Most Fun Car I have ever ownedThe PDK transmission is the most responsive transmission that I have ever driven. The creature comforts are superb both heat and A/C. The mileage per gallon is much better than I expected in a performance vehicle
Flasher on May 1, 2017
COOL carA nice sport car with a reasonable price, just love it. Have drive for a long time and has zero problem with it.
skyhawks on September 21, 2015
Issues that Porsche will not acknowledgeI had issues with the electrical almost right out of the dealer while the car was under warranty. The issue was "supposedly" corrected, three times. Eventually, the warranty ran out, by 5,000 miles, now the same issue cost me $$$$. Both dealer and Porsche USA deny that there is a problem.
Momma's car on July 14, 2013
BoxsterWaited long time to own a sports car again. Wonderful!!! Wouldn't have expected less from Porsche. Perfect handling for commute to work and leisure.
Boxster on November 28, 2011
Best PorscheI used cars.com to search new car Porsche dealers For months to find the right car. I purchased a 2012 Porsche Boxster S new and was able to find just the Right equipped vehicle and negotiated it at the price I Was willing to pay.
Santo on October 22, 2011
Great second car/super car starterGreat car.. Handling abilities are incredible. Great intro to a super car. Lows, dont buy if you live in a place with a lot of cold weather.
Dean on November 11, 2018
hopefully just off to an "unlucky" starthad the car for about 5 days, about half of what the Porsche garage has had it. may get it back sometime next week if the vacuum hose comes in from germany. good news is the compressor and serpentine belt are installed! the Porsche certification 150 point inspection didn't catch these problems, but i guess you can't catch everything, right? looking forward to a reset when i get it back and put this episode out of my mind as i rediscover the Porsche performance and reliability legend(?) The local dealer has been accommodating.
MD Boxster S Lover on December 13, 2017
Getting car a ceramic coating a Shin Tech. Wow.The Porsche Boxster S is truly the most fun car to drive I have ever driven. Got a taxi from the Chicago airport to the dealer and drove the car to Bentonville, Arkansas. Wow about 10 hours of the most fun I have ever had. Enjoyed all 6 gears and shifting was so fun too. I had an 2002 Boxster S I bought new in Ca. and wished I had ever sold the car. You got to get one. So fun to drive again.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.