Porsche Boxster Spyder (987)

 

The 987 was the first Porsche Boxster generation to offer the better-performing Spyder model. It was initially unveiled at the 2009 LA Auto Show and went on sale in late 2010 as a 2011 model, with production lasting until the 2012 model year. The original Boxster Spyder features a 3.4-liter naturally-aspirated flat-six producing 320 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It launches from zero to 60 mph in around five seconds and is capable of a top speed of 166 mph. The 987 Boxster Spyder came standard with a six-speed manual, while the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch was optional. At the time it was new, the 987 Boxster Spyder was the lightest vehicle in the Porsche lineup, weighing 2811 pounds. The radio, stereo, and air conditioning were initially removed from the original Boxster Spyder to conserve weight but can be added on to the vehicle as options. Unlike the regular Boxster, the Boxster Spyder comes standard with a manually-operated soft top. The Boxster Spyder's doors are aluminum, while its interior door handles have been removed for weight savings. Also standard with the original Boxster Spyder are carbon fiber bucket seats and two humps behind the seats that distinguish the Spyder from other Boxster models. In addition, the Spyder has a stiffer suspension and sits one inch lower than the standard Boxster for improved handling. Its current value averages in the mid $50,000s, with top-notch examples fetching in the low $70,000s. In all, the 987-gen Boxster Spyder isn't the best or coolest Porsche model, but it is relatively rare and rather underappreciated compared to other Porsche vehicles.