2003 Porsche Boxster S

(from Porsche Press Release) The Boxster S model is an even higher performance version of the Porsche Boxster. It has an exclusive 3.2-liter “boxer” six-cylinder engine, a standard six-speed manual ransmission, more athletic suspension tuning, an additional front air intake and a third radiator, standard 17-inch wheels and larger brakes. The exterior has distinctive titanium-colored trim and the interior features unique gauges and trim.

Like the Boxster, the Boxster S has been enhanced for the 2003 model year with a variety of significant new features. Changes in its VarioCam® variable valve timing technology and new Motronic ME 7.8 engine management software system enable the 3.2-liter “boxer” to generate an amazing 258 horsepower (SAE) at 6,200 rpm. The 2002 model provided 250 horsepower (SAE).

The torque rating is 229 lb.-ft., with a beefy torque curve that provides 85 percent of peak power at only 2,000 rpm, assuring the Boxster S of outstanding response even at low speeds.

To handle such power, the standard six-speed manual transmission has been upgraded with revisions to its single-plate drive clutch.

Thanks to its more powerful engine and revised transmission, the Boxster S accelerates from a standing start to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 5.7 seconds, a figure that is two-tenths of a second quicker than the 2002 Boxster S. But even with such impressive power figures, fuel economy figures have improved.

Like the 2003 Boxster, the 2003 Boxster S has a new top with a glass window and a wider range of standard equipment. New front and rear fascia improve the appearance and the aerodynamic efficiency of the Boxster S. Along with its revised front and rear fascias, the Boxster S also has redesigned twin exhaust pipes.

The high-performance roadster also gets new rear stabilizer bars that are longer (19 mm vs. 18.5 last year) and thicker (2.7 mm vs. 2.5).

The car’s already amazing performance can be enhanced even more through the availability of new light-alloy wheels that reduce unsprung weight. The new standard 17-inch wheels reduce unsprung weight by more than half a pound at each corner. The new, optional 18-inch wheels cut nearly 24 pounds of unsprung weight from the vehicle, a remarkable 22 percent reduction that directly results in more responsive handling.

Also new for the 2003 model year are Porsche’s new Communication Management systems (PCM) that incorporates tuners, CD player, navigation system and trip computer, all connected to each other through the new Media-Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) digital databus.

The Boxster S continues to provide such safety technology as its patented crumple-zone body structure, inertia-reel three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, dual front airbags, door-mounted side airbags and anti-lock brakes. Boron steel tubing reinforcements around the windshield and supplemental safety bars behind the seats help provide protection in rollover accidents. The Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system is available as an option.