Used Porsche Boxster for sale nearBristol

CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 16.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 170
Average Price: N/A

Porsche Boxster (2012-2016) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Great to drive: a true benchmark sports car	Steering isn't quite as feelsome as the previous Boxster's
Tremendous six-cylinder soundtrack	No rear seats
Boxster Spyder is even more invigorating than the standard car	Strong demand keeps used prices firm

Quick Summary

The Porsche Boxster (2012-2016), known as the 981, represents the third generation of Porsche's mid-engined convertible and is widely regarded as the apogee of Boxster development. With its perfectly balanced mid-engined layout, aluminium construction, and engaging handling characteristics, the 981 delivers a driving experience that rivals and arguably surpasses the iconic 911. Available in multiple variants—from the entry-level Boxster with 261bhp to the high-performance Spyder with 370bhp—each model offers exceptional engagement behind the wheel, crisp steering, and a spine-tingling flat-six soundtrack. The fabric roof deploys electrically in seconds, whilst the surprisingly spacious interior and generous luggage capacity (150-litre front boot and 275-litre rear) make it a practical daily driver.

Strong demand for quality 981 Boxsters keeps purchase prices firm, but this also means excellent value retention compared to rivals like the Audi TT Roadster, Jaguar F-Type, and BMW Z4. Running costs are manageable for a sports car, with the 2.7-litre engine achieving up to 35mpg and servicing available from independent Porsche specialists at considerably less than main dealer rates. The 2014 GTS variant offers the perfect balance of performance and usability, whilst the 2015 Spyder represents the ultimate driving experience for those willing to sacrifice some creature comforts.

Best for: Driving enthusiasts seeking a benchmark sports car, those valuing excellent handling and engagement, and buyers wanting a practical convertible with strong value retention.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising rear seats, seeking the cheapest sports car option, or expecting bargain pricing due to high demand keeping prices firm.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Boxster if: You're a driving enthusiast seeking a benchmark sports car, value exceptional handling and engagement, or want a practical convertible with strong value retention.

Consider alternatives if: You require rear seats, are seeking the cheapest sports car option, or expect bargain pricing due to high demand keeping prices firm.

Competitive Position: The Porsche Boxster (2012-2016) is the benchmark against which all other sports cars of this type are measured. As an all-round performance car, it has no equals for the money and drives better than some cars costing considerably more. Whilst the Jaguar F-Type offers style and the BMW Z4 provides better value deals, neither matches the Boxster's handling prowess or driving engagement. The Audi TT is competent but lacks the mid-engined balance and six-cylinder character. Whichever 981 variant you choose, you'll get one of the best-handling cars ever made, with many preferring the six-cylinder engines of this generation to the four-cylinder 718 that followed. It really is that good.

Read our full Porsche Boxster Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.