(from Porsche Press Release) The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine
roadster with a design that echoes such classic mid-engine Porsche
sports/racing cars as the 550 Spyder and RS60. The Boxster gets its name
from a combination of the classic Porsche horizontally opposed
six-cylinder "boxer" engine and its roadster body. Powered by a
2.7-liter, 217-horsepower six-cylinder boxer engine, the Boxster
features an E-Gas "drive-by-wire" throttle, a standard five-speed manual
transmission, and it can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in
6.6 seconds. The Porsche Tiptronic S five-speed automatic transmission
is available as an option. The standard power convertible roof lowers in
just 12 seconds, and an aluminum hardtop is optional.
The Boxter S offers even higher levels of performance, handling, and
comfort. Powered by a 3.4-liter, 250-horsepower engine, the Boxster S
adopts the 6-speed manual transmission and larger cross-drilled brakes
from the 911 Carrera. The Boxster S can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0
to 100 km/h) in 5.9 seconds. Larger wheels and tires and sport chassis
tuning enhance the already-precise handling, and distinctive
titanium-color exterior trim sets the Boxster S apart form the standard
Boxster.
New for 2001: The Boxster roof features a new cloth headliner (like the
Boxster S) that reduces interior noise. The integrated safety bars are
now covered in soft-touch material, and a new three-spoke steering wheel
with a color Porsche crest has been added. Both models get new light
emitting diode (LED) orientation interior lights that provide gentle
illumination for cockpit, console, ignition lock, and door latches. The
front and rear trunks feature improved carpeting. New options for both
include the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system and a subwoofer
speaker system, and some popular options have been grouped into
packages.
