Porsche 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK

The Porsche 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK represents a pivotal moment in the lineage of Porsche’s revered mid-engine roadster, introducing a significant shift in powertrain philosophy while retaining the core tenets of dynamic driving pleasure. Launched in 2018 as part of the 982 generation, this iteration of the Boxster continued the tradition of offering an accessible yet profoundly engaging sports car experience. Production for this specific variant spanned from 2018 through September 2020, solidifying its place as a distinct chapter in the Boxster’s evolution. Positioned within the premium sports car segment, the 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK was designed to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a blend of open-air exhilaration, precise handling, and everyday usability, all underpinned by Porsche’s engineering prowess. This model embraced a move towards downsized, turbocharged flat-four engines, a departure from the naturally aspirated flat-sixes that defined earlier Boxster generations, signaling Porsche’s commitment to efficiency and performance in a changing automotive landscape.

Engineering and Performance of the Porsche 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK

At the heart of the Porsche 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK lies its horizontally opposed, or “Boxer,” four-cylinder engine, a configuration synonymous with Porsche’s sporting heritage, albeit in a more compact and turbocharged form for this generation. This 2.0-liter (1988 cm³ or 121.32 cu. in.) unit, identified by the engine code MDD.PB, is longitudinally mounted in a mid-engine layout, a design choice critical for achieving the Boxster’s renowned balance and agility. The engine delivers a robust 300 horsepower at 6500 rpm, translating to an impressive power output of 150.9 Hp per liter. Equally significant is its torque delivery: 280.27 lb.-ft. (380 Nm) available across a broad rev range from 2150 to 4500 rpm, ensuring strong, accessible acceleration from low speeds and through the gears. This wide torque band is largely attributable to the sophisticated turbocharger and intercooler system, which efficiently manages air intake and temperature to maximize combustion efficiency and power delivery.

Power is channeled to the rear wheels via Porsche’s acclaimed 7-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) automatic transmission. This dual-clutch gearbox is celebrated for its lightning-fast shifts and seamless power transfer, contributing significantly to the vehicle’s dynamic performance. The combination of the potent engine and the rapid-shifting PDK enables the 718 Boxster to achieve an exhilarating 0-60 mph sprint in a mere 4.5 seconds (calculated by Auto-Data.net), with 0-100 km/h accomplished in 4.7-4.9 seconds. The top speed is equally impressive, reaching 170.88 mph (275 km/h), firmly placing it in the realm of serious performance cars. Despite its sporting credentials, the 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK also demonstrates commendable efficiency for its class. Its combined fuel economy is rated at 29.8 US mpg (7.9 l/100 km), with urban consumption at 21.8 US mpg (10.8 l/100 km) and extra-urban consumption at 37.9 US mpg (6.2 l/100 km). CO2 emissions stand at 180 g/km, adhering to the stringent Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC emission standard, reflecting Porsche’s efforts to balance performance with environmental responsibility. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 3009.31 lbs. (1365 kg) results in a favorable weight-to-power ratio of 4.6 kg/Hp, underscoring its agile and responsive character.

Design and Features

The Porsche 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK embodies the quintessential sports car silhouette, characterized by its sleek, athletic lines and convertible body style. As a two-door, two-seat cabriolet, it offers an unadulterated open-air driving experience, a hallmark of the Boxster series. The design language is unmistakably Porsche, with sculpted flanks, prominent air intakes, and a low-slung stance that conveys both elegance and aggression. Its dimensions – a length of 172.4 inches (4379 mm), a width of 70.91 inches (1801 mm, extending to 78.5 inches or 1994 mm including mirrors), and a height of 50.43 inches (1281 mm) – contribute to its compact yet commanding road presence. The wheelbase of 97.44 inches (2475 mm) is optimized for agility and stability, while the drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31 indicates a carefully honed aerodynamic profile designed to minimize resistance and enhance high-speed stability.

The chassis and suspension systems are engineered for dynamic excellence. The drivetrain architecture places the internal combustion engine (ICE) to drive the rear wheels, a classic sports car configuration that provides engaging handling characteristics. Both the front and rear suspensions feature an independent McPherson-type setup, chosen for its ability to deliver precise wheel control and a compliant ride without compromising sporting prowess. Stopping power is provided by a robust braking system, featuring ventilated discs measuring 320 mm at the front and 299 mm at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety and control under hard braking. Steering is handled by an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise feedback and effort that varies with speed for optimal responsiveness. The car rides on 18-inch wheels, fitted with performance-oriented tires: 235/45 ZR18 94Y at the front and wider 265/45 ZR18 101Y at the rear, ensuring ample grip and handling capability.

Inside, the 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK offers a driver-focused cockpit, typical of Porsche. While specific interior features were not detailed in the provided data, one can infer a high level of craftsmanship, premium materials, and a suite of modern technological amenities consistent with a luxury sports car of its era. The compact cabin is designed to immerse the driver, with controls intuitively placed and instrumentation clearly legible. Storage, while not a primary focus for a two-seater roadster, is practical with a combined trunk (boot) space of 5.3 cu. ft. (150 liters), distributed between front and rear compartments. The fuel tank capacity of 14.27 US gallons (54 liters) provides a respectable cruising range. Overall, the Porsche 718 Boxster (982) 2.0 (300 Hp) PDK blends iconic design, advanced engineering, and meticulous attention to driving dynamics, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a pure, exhilarating sports car experience.

Technical Specifications