2013 Porsche Boxster (981) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The width of the Porsche Boxster (981) is 1801 mm (about 70.9 inches) without mirrors, which contributes to its nimble handling and sporty footprint. When you include the opened mirrors, the width increases to 1978 mm (around 77.85 inches). This expanded width with mirrors is important to keep in mind for parking and tight spaces. Despite being wider with mirrors, the Boxster remains manageable in everyday driving and parking situations, especially given its roadster design.

The height of the Porsche Boxster (981) varies between 1262 mm and 1282 mm (49.7 to 50.5 inches), reflecting slight changes in trim and optional equipment. The ride height or ground clearance is relatively low at 106 mm (about 4.17 inches). This low stance enhances the car's sporty feel and improves handling by lowering the center of gravity. However, it also means cautious driving over speed bumps and uneven roads is advised to avoid undercarriage damage.

The curb weight of the Porsche Boxster (981) ranges from 1315 kg to 1375 kg (approximately 2,900 to 3,031 pounds), depending on configuration and options. Curb weight refers to the vehicle's weight with all standard equipment, necessary operating consumables like oil, fuel, and coolant, but without passengers or cargo. The maximum weight, which includes the car fully occupied and loaded, ranges from 1645 kg to 1685 kg (around 3,628 to 3,715 pounds). This figure is important for understanding payload capacity and vehicle handling under load.

The Porsche Boxster (981) offers a luggage capacity of 280 liters (around 9.9 cubic feet), which is split between a front trunk (frunk) and a modest rear compartment since it's a mid-engine roadster. This space is suitable for light packing such as weekend bags or two small suitcases, but it's less ideal for larger or bulky items. While the Boxster’s primary focus is on driving enjoyment rather than cargo volume, its luggage space is competitive for open-top sports cars, providing decent practicality for occasional trips.

Yes, the Porsche Boxster (981) will comfortably fit inside a standard residential garage. Most standard garages offer a width of roughly 2,400 to 3,000 mm (94.5 to 118 inches) and a length of around 5,000 to 6,000 mm (197 to 236 inches). Given the Boxster’s maximum length of 4414 mm (173.7 inches), width with mirrors of 1978 mm (77.85 inches), and height around 1282 mm (50.5 inches), it leaves ample clearance in all directions. Its relatively compact dimensions make parking convenient and trouble-free in most home garages.

Compared to the previous generation Boxster (987), the Boxster (981) is generally a bit larger and more refined. The 981 generation is longer, measuring between 4374 mm and 4414 mm (172.2 to 173.7 inches), whereas the 987 was closer to approximately 4256 mm (167.5 inches) in length. The width of the 981 at 1801 mm (70.9 inches) is also slightly wider than the 987, providing improved cabin space and road presence. Height and weight also increased somewhat due to added technology and safety features, yielding a more substantial yet still agile sports car that delivers better driving dynamics and interior comfort.

The Porsche Boxster (981) is competitively sized within the luxury roadster segment, slightly longer and often wider than contemporaries like the BMW Z4 (E89) and the Audi TT Roadster (8J). For instance, the BMW Z4 measures about 4234 mm (166.7 inches) in length, shorter than the Boxster, while the Audi TT Roadster is even smaller, around 4196 mm (165.2 inches). The Boxster’s width at 1801 mm exceeds the typical width of these rivals, affording more shoulder room and enhanced stability. Overall, the Boxster balances a compact size conducive to sportiness with enough interior and cargo space for everyday usability, arguably offering a more premium feel than some competitors.

The Porsche Boxster (981) typically comes with large 20-inch rims, sized 10.5 J x 20 at the rear and 8.5 J x 20 at the front, paired with high-performance tires sized 265/35 ZR 20 in the rear and 235/35 ZR 20 in the front. These wide, low-profile tires and large rims contribute significantly to enhanced grip, cornering stability, and responsive handling characteristics. The staggered setup improves rear traction in this mid-engine car, supporting its agile and balanced driving dynamics, key elements in Porsche’s roadster philosophy.

The Porsche Boxster (981) is celebrated for its exquisite handling, mid-engine layout, and balanced driving experience. Produced from 2012 to 2016, this generation introduced a new styling language and improved chassis rigidity over its predecessor. It features a naturally aspirated flat-six engine available in multiple versions, delivering a blend of power and rev-happy responsiveness. The interior quality is markedly upscale, with improved ergonomics and refinement. Lightweight construction techniques help maintain an excellent power-to-weight ratio, reinforcing the car’s reputation as a pure driver's sports car. Practical touches like decent luggage capacity and advanced technology upgrades complete the package.