Porsche 981 Boxster 2016 model review and drive

Not the perfect day to review a Porsche Boxster but I had a great deal of fun in Porsches lowest priced car anyway. This is a long review so you can jump sections by clicking on the times below
4:15 Specs
8:45 Driving
11:35 Interior
18:00 Roof and exterior
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[@akhairankirana]

Thanks for reviewing my car nick, especially with perfect weather!!

[@NickMurray]

Ananda Kirana You are a legend for letting me review it in the rain! Looking forward to more Boxster videos!

[@RAJohnson713]

Is this your only car?

[@Beer_Dad1975]

Ananda Kirana You are lucky he didn't decide to have a tug of war with another car or reverse race it. Awesome car though, congrats.

[@xkrnxboix]

Ananda Kirana Great interior color choice!! Love it! Looks much more expensive and luxurious than the standard luxor beige, grey or black.

[@Und3t3ct3b]

Never open the roof when the softtop is wet!!!

[@mgfmgtf]

This car is seriously beautiful configured inside. Lovely to see some color, beside all the black interiors! Nick, great idea with your jump sections. Keep up your work!

[@swessels]

Such a beautiful Porsche. Love seeing both a review of a base Boxster and seeing Nick Murray reviewing a Porsche again. Nick, you so obviously loved driving this car. Your joy is contagious.

[@anonharingenamn]

Fun video. I never liked the old Boxster. I always thought it was boring and a bit ugly. This generation is far better.

[@nr92cp6]

Did you ever drive one? Even the base 987 was incredible to drive.

[@SamanthaWalshSaid]

Rented this car with my husband and spent 30 minutes trying to figure out how to switch the navigation screen on the instrument cluster back to the gas gauge. After searching google and the manual, your video saved us 😂 thanks

[@jason19801980]

loved it! Thank you , I just ordered my new boxter and its basically like the one in the video, cant wait!

[@JULEPPS]

"It's like making out with your girlfriend's sister" oh my god Nick

[@NickMurray]

JULEPPS You know what I am talking about ; )

[@scanspeak00]

Nick Murray Same goes for your girlfriends mum?

[@DamianSabre]

scanspeak00 If she's hot... Sure. lmfao

[@miatalim]

one of the best reviewers. keep up the great work nick. personalised reviews. great kiwi accent.

[@henryzhang9915]

I think I've never seen Nick so excited and convinced in a car like this.

[@SkrawnyJonny]

Great review nick. You really deserve more views and audience for all the work on these long detailed reviews and effort you put into them. Can't wait for the mr regular to meet the m4. Keep on keepin on.

[@devisbetrisey5730]

I'm absolutely in love with the Porsche Boxster: manual gearbox, a naturally aspirated flat-six, awesome! Great review as always Nick ;-)

[@NerdonWheels]

Awesome review. Love the enthusiasm when you review Porsches. Can't wait for your next one!

[@mr.mephistopheles2497]

Half way through and already better than many revues that are only looking for cash. I have so far enjoyed

[@mr.mephistopheles2497]

+oldandolderstill youllsee Excellent, I liked how you included purchase pricing, how about and this may not be your flavor, maintenance costs. even the sis month oil changes on this one isn't cheap.

[@xkrnxboix]

Yes! Been waiting for this one for a while... Thanks for the review Nick! Great work!

[@beatles373]

Great review Nick,your production and video quality is outstanding .

[@rezaa222]

by far my fav video of yours

[@lcbracci]

Awesome review Nick! Didn´t know the base boxster model was that fun to drive!

[@joshuad1716]

Nick, I too own an M4, and I wish I could be upset at you talking about how much fun you're having driving the car. I some day hope to own a Porsche, though the 80k price range doesn't buy you much fun in their current line up. Wish more people would appreciate Porsche and their maniacal engineering in the top end of the line up. Anyone who appreciates engineering and bat shit insane cars has to appreciate all Porsches.

[@romarioallday]

You've just made Porsche of North America very proud haha, it's good seeing you back in car you truly enjoy. I am looking forward to what car you purchase next!

[@V1RT8]

I like this review, way better than the usual top magazines boring reviews. Keep going with your good job Nick, hope you will get your next Porsche soon ;-)

[@The-Study-Shed]

Great review Nick. Well done for battling on in the rain :)

[@Nick_Henri]

Thanks Nick. This was very helpful. I'm considering one of these and wasn't sure a base model would be fun enough. Looks like it's plenty.

[@tg-nu1xc]

As far as ride alongs go this is the best review of the Boxster out there. I'm going low miles preowned for mine. Nice job Nick.

[@stefankoles]

nice review like alweys nick....i really love what u do

[@cmartinez1012]

I happened to notice the 3rd pod and how cool that pod is with the digital rev limiter and gear position. Pretty neat!!

[@davidwain4949]

Great review. Really like your style.

[@julianhawkins9423]

What a stunning example - love these model of Boxters - colour combo is spot on 👍

[@nibpicky]

Love your reviews. I watch every one religiously.

[@nornibres]

Sounds fantastic.

[@vlad1221]

Damn... Porsches are so good looking, wish I had one ;_;, nice review Nick!

[@Cogito1978]

Awesome - thanks nick. Fun cars often are not the fastest I agree!

[@TheSnoopy1750]

Nice review! Steve Sutcliffe of Autocar somewhat echoed your opinion where he said he wouldn't even consider looking at an M4 vs. a Cayman GTS. Porsche just has that special something that no other car has, even the lower powered versions like your test car.

[@rolandlavoie3347]

[@ilovelucy9077]

Enjoyed the review Nick, hopefully you will be reviewing a 718 in the near future!

[@redmac42]

damn video stressing me out with the rain on the brand new car hahaha

[@CookiesNCream4ever]

It's so beautiful... A Porsche is my dream car! The Porsche 918 which will never happen lmao but this one is amazing as well :)

[@saibushayer]

Hello Nick, I really like watching your videos. I think you lend a unique and useful perspective to car enthusiasts. If you can do a video on how to get a better price on new and used cars, given your extensive experience, would be very useful. Good luck!

[@techdude6693]

My roommate happened to walk in right at 9:05..... looked at me funny then walks right out. Well then

[@andersgammelsrd1815]

xD

[@alphaboy1872]

I have the Boxster S 3.4 and love it.

[@SuXor]

Did the person get bothered by you getting the interior all wet? There's quite a bit of carpet on the interior...I would have minded...

[@rtomson]

no kidding . i was thinking that the whole video. I would have been pissed if I owned that car and saw him getting it that wet for nothing.

[@maxxweber4336]

Nick got his ass kicked.

[@charleslu7044]

I love driving my Boxster S in the rain with the top down, as long as you’re going 30+ mph, the cabin stays dry.

[@mr.terwilliger5728]

Iv always adores the 2016 look base model.

[@pitis2flie]

That’s a lovely interior spec. I prefer it like that when the top of the dash is black, and the bottom half of the dash and the seats etc are a different color.

[@johnchen3]

After seeing this review I'm glad I got the Boxster S over the M4...seems like the more fun car to drive.

[@ratephi]

Very nice little car and review. It is indeed a very fun car to drive. That colour combo though is really not the easiest...

[@macdan3307]

As always, Nick is having the BEST reviews on internet. What really differs him from all the others is that you don't get the feeling that he is promoting a certain car and he brings up exactly the questions me as buyer would ask. As a matter of fact I'm right now choosing between the Boxster black edition and a 991 also black edition and worried about the motor. From trying them both I found that the torque is a bit weak in the Boxster, but the open air driving is just great! I can't believe people are complaining about his kiwi accent and gorilla - find it so much more entertaining then those all-the-same-too-serious reviewers paid by the industry which I just can't stand. After all Porsche Boxster is nothing but a toy it self!! Nothing wrong with that, after all what's life without some fun in it?! Thank you Nick!

[@Seicane-Car-DVD]

What an outstanding something that attracts our views.

[@RAJohnson713]

Can't wait till you get another Porsche!!!!

[@Chris-fw2mc]

When Nick said he was cursed because it was raining, I felt like: "wtf?" and then I realised this wasn't filmed in england. I am just happy when it doesn't rain here and when the sun does actually come out it's like OMG!!! AMAZING!!! It's raining right now... but that's normal.

[@joepepe1788]

That review was jolly good. Jolly good, I say!

[@ricknickles5782]

I would like to see Nick talk about the different suspension setups Porsche offers and which one he likes best.

[@steffydog]

Cracking car that, thanks Nick

[@autotrimmers6353]

I want this car champ I like the price and looks seems like a great deal

[@darkpill]

I like it better when you start the review just driving!

[@marlerusticgeek0075]

New sub here-I enjoyed the Boxster drive and review Nick.Albert seemed impatient while you stopped to talk,.:) He enjoys the ride more than conversation it seems :)

[@NickMurray]

***** He does indeed. Thanks for the sub : )

[@MyGarageTV1]

Porsche bias, much? Me too! I just did a 911 4s Cab vid. Oh, and remind me to never loan you MY car for a review when its raining! Yikes.

[@swessels]

Nick, I think we have a new measure by which we can tell how much you enjoy driving a particular car. For this review you said the word "fun" 23 times. That's cool, don't change what you are doing. I can see it now. Nick Murray rating: 23 fun.

[@NickMurray]

Stephan Wessels Need to find the 24 fun car : )

[@steffydog]

Fab, as always

[@1y3rs7v8m]

I like Nick Murray.

[@larsniklas]

Nick, I'm about to go buy myself a Subaru BRZ. I'd love to see your take on the car. (Scion FRS / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86)

[@thesadboxman]

I'd love to see you review the 718 and compare it.

[@RollingHousesUK]

Nice video Nick. I started rev-matching in my subaru (legacy GTB) a few years back when the syncrho-meshes started failing in 1st & 2nd gear. I tend to heel/toe the brake slightly while I blip the throttle when downshifting and it seems to help get it right (got it to the point where I can do it without even depressing the clutch at all). Out of interest, where abouts in CT are you? I'm in the UK but I have family in CT, would be cool to meet for a cuppa next time I'm over if you're open to that.

[@pwk6466]

Nice review

[@BlackBeanChicken]

Thanks for the video review!! I just bought a new 2015 Boxster in black. My first Porsche and I pick it up this Wednesday, My biggest gripe on the base equipment is the lack of a standard USB port. Yes a SAT NAV would be nice, but no USB unless you get the very expensive Infotainment system?!! Come on Porsche! Every car has USB now.

[@alexpolissky6718]

Hey Nick, I am a big fan. Thanks for all the videos! Quick question, what color interior is that?

[@kristy77a]

I endorse your remark that "only" 265 horsepower is not to be dismissed. When driving a rental diesel in Europe a few years ago, I realized that cars (esp. in USA) are overpowered. It's a marketing strategy, really. The Boxster line is a perfect recipe. Am now curious now to see your review of new Miata.

[@Russh75]

Porsche 981 Boxster 2016 model review and drive - Great vid, lots of information, I am going to look through your channel and see if you have one like this for the new 2022 (or 2021) 718 Porsche Boxter. I have some questions on hot days and and the elements and birds pooping in the car when the roof is down ....has it ever happened to you ? what did you do ? how did you handle the super hot days with the roof down or did you put it up and crank the AC and if so do you think the AC works better in the Cayman than the Boxter? Same question for the sound system too I guess.

[@JCviggen1]

My '15 CGTS has the same colour combo and it is indeed brilliant - Porsche calls it Agate Grey/Amber Orange btw but it is a bit beige/cognac looking IRL I suppose. BUT: it's no longer available. It was discontinued somewhere halfway through 2015, most certainly no longer an option for the '16 cars. Why? Who the heck knows why, but Porsche has a habit of axing the best looking options for some reason or other. Now all you can get is a very light beige two-tone which doesn't quite pop like this does.

[@markbaker9084]

Hi Nick: I enjoyed your review of the 2016 Boxster 981. I have a 2014 981. I was interested in what you used to mount the GoPro camera that was suspended under the review mirror as I would like to duplicate your technique with my GoPro camera. Thanks. Mark

[@benasben]

Would you do a review on the new 718 some day please, Nick?

[@nicoskoumaradios8553]

Hi Nick, great vids! I have a question about the Boxster, what about the rigidy of the car, do you noticed that the stiffness of the chassis is an issue, or not? Thanks

[@alfonsealbanese1785]

Great review. I love this car (actually I vastly prefer the S, it is more fun). Thanks Nick.

[@leebottrill4044]

Hi nick, a strange request from the UK. I have a 2007 350z roadster. Would love you to test one of these and see what your thoughts are on it! ☺ (if you haven't already) Loving your videos.

[@jg11596]

Nick, can you comment on owner performing basic maintenance on a Boxster? I've always changed oil 7 filter, spark plugs, air filter, etc, but after watching a few DIY videos on Boxster maintenance, i'm concerned doing these on a Boxster may be difficult. Your thoughts?

[@Dgannt]

Nice review. It's understandable this car is more fan to drive than M4. It's quite a big difference in size, weight and engine power. One is a high performance coupe and the other a small and agile 2-seat sports car. It's like compering MX-5 with a bigger coupe. And the fun you had in the Cayman is the sort people have in their MX-5s and why so many buy that little car. You have to review M2 when it comes, and maybe the convertible model of that car and compare it to this car (but one with a stronger engine to match M2).

[@johnnychung4020]

Thank you for another great video, especially doing this in the rsin. But i guess that smile on your face says it all. a coupke of quick questions for you. I had a 911 cab before 996. But i find the boxster to be more agile and nimble and probably more fun to drive especially in manual. How do you compare this to the 991 that you had? And what options are must haves in your opinion? last question, which one would you take out on a great day (boxster or the f type)?

[@NickMurray]

Johnny Chung I have not driven the F type yet so I can not comment on that. The modern 911 is quite different to the 996, much closer to the Boxster but nothing compares to the mid engine balance of a Boxster/Cayman

[@Yakman18]

Porsche roadsters are hands down the best to roadsters have in the rain. 😉 But I can tell you one thing: you wouldn't dare put that roof down in a Florida rain! Great vid as always. Thanks.

[@dsilvap]

I will miss the 6 Cylinder engine..

[@tim2468]

So much for the recommended break-in period on revs and such. I wonder if Porsche ever disallowed a warranty claim based on ignoring their break-in recommendations? Also wonder about the wisdom of letting it rain inside a brand new car. I would be pretty upset if my car were treated that way.

[@Stanhawk500]

I hope the turbo style fog lights are transferred onto the carrera too, they look far better

[@turbodoguk3075]

Nice review Nick. What do you think the Boxster will be like with a 4 cylinder turbo engine, which is said to be coming next year?

[@jasonlee4654]

I can’t believe I stumbled upon this video just now. Nick, do you think this car is still good to own?

[@eddiegray793]

If you get PDK with paddle shifters do you really need sport mode I think not but would like some options

[@bustylaroo8102]

Another great video, and I swear that primate moved its eyes... Anyway, it's hard for me to grab one of these when you have the new vette for near the same price...

[@NickMurray]

Busty Laroo True!

[@man4machine740]

2002 Boxster S I drive everyday very happily - except I could use 325-350 hp, but a great car for sure!

[@Chris-fw2mc]

Good video BTW

[@lucab.5944]

You actually put on the seat heater for your lil guest :D sweet..

[@Mike981S]

Awesome review of the 981 ;) Get yourself one before they go to turbo H4...

[@SenszR]

Not all Porsches actually come standard with nav, even in the Cayenne it only comes standard on the Turbo.

[@brucehendo]

Take it for a spun, ruv the ingine! Kiwi vowel lesson 😂

[@shakeandbake808]

Great review! I'm getting the impression you're missing your Porsche?

[@hawkmoon226]

Any plans for reviewing a 718 Boxster? If so, can you review a base model first?

[@SWatchik]

How did you find the gearing? I hear complaints about it being too long. I would want a manual buying one, but if the gearing is no good the PDK may be the better option

[@herwigv]

Great review - thank you. Just ordered a 2.7 Cayman (which living in England I prefer over the Boxter). Very much appreciate your views about the 2.7 engine. Don't you think PDK is the better option ?

[@NickMurray]

Herwig V The PDK is model is faster and makes the most of the power. I had a PDK in my 991 911 it is an excellent transmission, just perfect gear selection every time. That said I would not get it in the Boxster/Cayman/911 again if given the choice, the MT adds so much to the driving enjoyment of these cars.

[@ddaryoush16]

I feel like you could have gone to a parking garage to film the outside shots of the roof going up and down or the exterior walk around. haha, all in all, great review per usual!

[@NickMurray]

ddaryoush16 What fun would that have been : )

[@TheCobruhAlienat0r]

ddaryoush16 Or just go into the garage of his house. I assume his house was in the court he was parked at.

[@daltonv5206]

ddaryoush16 they don't have many of those in the forest :p

[@emph66]

Great review and a beautiful sports car Nick, cycling the top in the rain was totally unnecessary.

[@NickMurray]

Emph Squee Totally!

[@lucab.5944]

In germany only the Turbo S (!!!!) has the Navigation System as standart. (And the Boxster/Cayman/911 Black Editions)

[@brycelee7373]

Yet another great review! (I think Top Gear should hire Nick as their presenter. He is better than any of them. And his Kiwi accent will be a nice and fun contrast with their British accent.)

[@lucab.5944]

That comment at 2:00 :D hilarious I like it cause I bought the all new Spyder (*.*) and thats exactly my opinion ;) but your M4 is one hell of a beauty as well :)

[@mikrosha]

If someone took my new car and decided it would be a good idea to drive it around with the top down while it's raining, I would be seriously pissed off.

[@joshmurray1394]

Nick great review. What are your thoughts on the 6spd in the Cayman/Boxster vs the 7spd in the 911?? I've heard the 6 is better bc when pushing the 7 u can accidentally get 7th on a 4-5 shift. Thoughts?

[@Baerchenization]

Josh Murray Who says that? You can only shift to 7th from 5th or 6th, precisely because of the concern you mentioned. Go check the test of the manual 991 by the Getawayer, he elaborates on it - so you can never accidentially shift from 4 to 7.

[@swein1992]

Great car and great review! Something to note though. Adding a couple of options quickly increases the price of this car. Options like sport chrono, sport exhaust, PASM and leather interior puts this car into 60k or even 70k segment.

[@NickMurray]

Tiancong Xu yes this is the way with all Porsche cars however with the Boxster or Cayman you can normally add 10k of options but get that back with discount so they remain low 50's