What is the difference between Porsche 718 and Boxster?
4 Answers
The differences between the Porsche Boxster and 718 are their production years, configurations, and price points. The 718 is the new generation replacement for the Boxster, while the Boxster is the previous generation. The main differences in configuration lie in the engines: the Boxster is equipped with 2.7L and 3.4L 6-cylinder naturally aspirated engines, while the 718 is equipped with 2.0T and 2.5T 4-cylinder turbocharged engines. The Boxster is relatively cheaper, while the 718 is more expensive. Here is some additional information: 1. Porsche: Porsche is a luxury car brand under the Volkswagen Group, also known as 'Porsche,' headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and is one of the main representatives of European and American cars. Main models include the 911, Boxster, Cayman, Panamera, Cayenne, and Macan. 2. Boxster: The Porsche Boxster is a two-door, two-seat convertible sports car from Porsche, featuring a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive design. The name 'Boxster' is a combination of 'Box' and 'ster.' 'Box' comes from 'Boxer,' representing Porsche's horizontally opposed engine; 'ster' is short for 'Roadster.' To enhance driving pleasure, Porsche introduced dynamic transmission mount technology for the first time and equipped the Boxster with electric power steering. Additionally, the Porsche Boxster comes with the Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) system, which includes a mechanical rear differential lock. 3. 718 Boxster: In 2016, Porsche released the new 718 Boxster, which is the mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation Boxster, albeit with a different name. The new model features a turbocharged four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine.
I found that the main difference between the Porsche 718 and Boxster lies in their series evolution. The 718 is essentially an upgraded version of the Boxster. Since 2016, Porsche has rebranded the Boxster series as the 718, paying homage to the racing cars of the 1950s. The new 718 Boxster features a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering more power than the previous naturally aspirated 6-cylinder model. It accelerates from 0-100km/h half a second faster, feels more aggressive in daily driving, and yet offers better fuel efficiency. The design is sharper too, with LED headlights and taillights that add a futuristic touch, while the interior boasts a large touchscreen and higher-quality materials. However, the classic convertible style of the Boxster remains unchanged. The older model had a deeper engine note, while the 718 is quieter. From a fan's perspective, it's like an old friend with a fresh makeover—the essence is the same, but the details are more refined, making it even more eye-catching on the road. Maintenance costs are similar, but the 718's newer components give it slightly better resale value. Overall, the 718 is the modern incarnation of the Boxster, better suited for tech-savvy enthusiasts.
As an average car owner, I've driven both the Boxster and the 718 Boxster, and the daily differences between them are quite noticeable. The 718 runs smoother in urban areas, with its turbocharged engine offering quicker acceleration and better fuel efficiency—a full tank can take you dozens of kilometers further. The older Boxster's naturally aspirated engine produces a more pleasing exhaust note, but it feels slightly underpowered at low speeds. Design-wise, the 718 features more refined LED headlights, a larger interior screen, and more intuitive controls, while the Boxster is more traditional, with more physical buttons. The handling differences are minimal—both are mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive cars that corner stably, but the 718's electronic assists, like its power steering, are a bit smarter. For maintenance, I usually go to the dealership, and the costs are similar, though insurance for the 718 is slightly cheaper due to its newer model status. Space and comfort are comparable—both are small two-seater convertibles, though the 718 has a slightly larger trunk for small luggage. When choosing, the 718 is pricier upfront but more economical in the long run due to its higher fuel efficiency. I'd recommend the 718 for beginners, as its technology is more mature.
From a technical perspective, the engine changes between the 718 Boxster and the older Boxster models represent the core differences. The 718 utilizes a 2.0L or 2.5L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering around 300 horsepower, while the older Boxster featured a naturally aspirated horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine with relatively lower horsepower. The new engine enhances the 718's acceleration, achieving 0-100km/h in just over 4 seconds, with transmission options including the PDK dual-clutch or manual, optimized for quicker response. The suspension system has been fine-tuned for greater stability, and the drag coefficient has been reduced. Battery management is more efficient, aligning with hybrid trends. Driving modes like Sport offer more responsive performance. In contrast, the older Boxster's engine is simpler and more reliable but has slightly higher fuel consumption at high speeds. In terms of specifications, the 718 is a few kilograms lighter, and minor steering ratio adjustments improve precision. These upgrades collectively make the 718's overall performance superior to its predecessor.
