Porsche - Boxster

1996 onwards 

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For performance, handling and quality, Boxster is probably the best open top sports car you can buy. And it's practical too. Pricey at first glance, it's actually rather good value.

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	Porsche heritage and performance; soft-top style
	Ride and handling are unmatched by Z4 or S2000
	Refined cabin, adequate load space
	High insurance and service costs
	3.2 looks too expensive compared with 2.7
	Extras push up prices rapidly

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Up to a point Boxster is a bargain Porsche. 911's younger sister looks as good as, is built as well as, and drives as well as Porsche's top model. But start adding goodies from the options list, and Boxster becomes less of a bargain.
This desirable car should be appreciated in its own right, not as a cut-price 911. You get a talented soft top sportster with very characterful engines of more than adequate power. Handling is excellent thanks to the near perfect balance imparted by the mid-mounted engine.
Driving a Boxster is a sublime experience. There are some stirring noises from engine and exhaust, but it's never less than comfortable. And it's surprisingly refined with the roof up.
The cabin has lots of room for two, there are several useful cubby holes, and the boot is a practical size. Overall quality is second to none, boosting reliability and minimising depreciation.