Porsche 718 Boxster (982) GTS 2.5 (365 Hp)

The Porsche 718 Boxster (982) GTS 2.5 (365 Hp) represents a compelling iteration within Porsche’s celebrated mid-engine roadster lineage, embodying a pure driving experience that has defined the Boxster series since its inception. Launched in December 2017 and produced through August 2018, this specific generation, codenamed 982, marked a significant shift in powertrain philosophy for the Boxster and Cayman, moving from naturally aspirated flat-six engines to turbocharged flat-four units. The GTS 2.5 variant, in particular, was positioned as the performance pinnacle of the Boxster lineup at the time, offering a heightened blend of power, agility, and driver engagement. As a two-door cabriolet with seating for two, the 718 Boxster GTS 2.5 caters to enthusiasts seeking an uncompromised open-top sports car experience, meticulously engineered for dynamic prowess and precise handling, a hallmark of the Porsche brand. Its role in the global market, particularly in Europe and Asia where it was widely available, reinforced Porsche’s commitment to delivering accessible yet potent sports cars, appealing to a broad spectrum of drivers who value performance without sacrificing the thrill of a convertible.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Porsche 718 Boxster (982) GTS 2.5 (365 Hp)

At the core of the Porsche 718 Boxster (982) GTS 2.5 (365 Hp) lies a sophisticated powertrain architecture that underscores its performance credentials. The vehicle is propelled by a mid-mounted, longitudinal 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, designated with the internal code MA2.22. This engine configuration is central to the Boxster’s renowned balance and low center of gravity, contributing significantly to its exceptional handling characteristics. With an engine displacement of 2497 cubic centimeters (152.38 cubic inches), the power unit delivers a robust 365 horsepower at a peak of 6500 rpm, translating to an impressive power-per-liter output of 146.2 horsepower. Torque figures are equally impressive, with 420 Newton-meters (309.78 lb.-ft.) available across a wide and accessible rev range from 1900 to 5500 rpm. This broad torque band ensures exhilarating acceleration and effortless overtaking capabilities in various driving scenarios.

The engine’s advanced design incorporates a direct injection fuel system, optimizing fuel delivery and combustion efficiency, while a turbocharger with an intercooler ensures a consistent supply of dense, cool air to maximize power output. The compression ratio stands at 9.5:1, a figure carefully chosen to balance performance with efficiency and longevity. Each of the four cylinders features four valves, enhancing volumetric efficiency and allowing the engine to breathe freely at higher RPMs. Power is exclusively sent to the rear wheels via a precise 6-speed manual transmission, offering an unadulterated and engaging connection between driver and machine, a feature highly valued by purists. This rear-wheel-drive architecture, combined with the mid-engine layout, provides a truly dynamic and responsive driving experience.

The performance metrics of the 718 Boxster GTS 2.5 are indicative of its sporting intent. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.4 seconds, with the 0-100 km/h sprint completed in 4.6 seconds. The maximum speed is an impressive 290 km/h (180.2 mph), allowing it to confidently challenge more expensive sports cars. These figures are achieved with a remarkably low kerb weight of 1375 kg (3031.36 lbs.), resulting in an excellent weight-to-power ratio of 3.8 kg per horsepower (265.5 horsepower per tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 3.3 kg per Newton-meter (305.5 Newton-meters per tonne). Fuel efficiency, while secondary in a performance car, is respectable for its class, with a combined consumption of 9 liters per 100 km (26.1 US mpg). This efficiency is partly due to the engine’s advanced technology and adherence to the Euro 6 emission standard, with CO2 emissions rated at 205 g/km. The engine oil capacity is 5.7 liters (6.02 US quarts), ensuring adequate lubrication for high-performance driving.

Design and Features: Form Meets Function in the 718 Boxster GTS 2.5

The design of the Porsche 718 Boxster (982) GTS 2.5 (365 Hp) is a masterful blend of aesthetic appeal and aerodynamic functionality, instantly recognizable as a modern Porsche sports car. Its body type is a classic two-door cabriolet, designed specifically for open-top driving pleasure, accommodating two occupants in a driver-focused cockpit. The exterior dimensions contribute significantly to its agile and planted stance: a length of 4379 mm (172.4 inches), a width of 1801 mm (70.91 inches), and a height of 1272 mm (50.08 inches). The wheelbase of 2475 mm (97.44 inches) further enhances its stability and cornering prowess, providing a compact footprint that is ideal for spirited driving on winding roads.

Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the Boxster’s performance, as evidenced by its drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.33. This figure, combined with carefully sculpted body panels and functional air intakes, helps to minimize drag and optimize airflow for stability at high speeds. The GTS trim level typically includes specific exterior enhancements such as unique front and rear fascias, tinted lights, and distinctive wheels, all contributing to a more aggressive and purposeful appearance that visually distinguishes it from standard Boxster models.

Beneath its sleek exterior, the 718 Boxster GTS 2.5 is equipped with a robust and precise chassis. The drivetrain architecture sees the internal combustion engine driving the rear wheels, a classic sports car configuration that provides a pure and engaging driving dynamic. Stopping power is delivered by ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear axles, ensuring fade-resistant performance even under demanding conditions. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) comes standard, providing critical stability during emergency braking maneuvers. Steering is managed by an electric power steering rack-and-pinion system, offering precise feedback and effort that can be adjusted based on driving conditions and driver preferences. This electric system contributes to both efficiency and tunable driving feel.

Practicality, while not the primary focus of a two-seat roadster, is still considered. The vehicle offers a minimum trunk (boot) space of 150 liters (5.3 cubic feet), which can be expanded to 275 liters (9.71 cubic feet) with clever storage solutions, typical of Porsche’s mid-engine designs that utilize both front and rear compartments. The fuel tank capacity of 64 liters (16.91 US gallons) provides a decent range for extended drives, aligning with its grand touring capabilities despite its sporting intentions. The interior, while not explicitly detailed in the specifications, would feature high-quality materials, supportive sports seats, and a driver-centric layout, characteristic of Porsche’s GTS models, emphasizing a direct connection with the road and an immersive driving experience. Safety features, beyond ABS, would include a comprehensive array of airbags and structural reinforcements to protect occupants in the event of a collision, reflecting modern automotive safety standards.

Technical Specifications