Differences between the base Porsche Boxster and the Porsche Boxster S lay primarily in the powertrains. The Boxster S is more powerful, and it comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission as opposed to the five-speed gearbox on the base model. The Boxster S also boasts slightly larger front brakes (12.52 inches in diameter compared to the base car’s 11.73-inch discs) to compensate for its greater power, and gets 18-inch wheels and tires instead of the Boxster’s standard 17-inch rims and rubber. However, both look and perform better with the optional 19-inch wheels ($3,175 for the base and $1,940 for the S). Finally, high-performance Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes ($8,150), valued for their light weight and fade resistance, are only available on the Boxster S.

Though each car comes well equipped right out of the box, Porsche buyers want to give their new dream car a custom look or specification, so there is a long list of options available. Among the most popular add-ons are metallic paint ($825); a navigation system ($2,970); a Bose surround sound audio system ($1,665); a full leather interior ($2,095); and our Guards Red Boxster S test car was equipped with matching red seat belts ($340) that added a dashing, race-car touch.

If we were ordering a Boxster, we’d include the Sport/Porsche Active Suspension Management setup ($2,680) because it has the greatest effect on driving dynamics and our fun factor. First introduced on the 911 Carrera in 2005, PASM provides two suspension choices: “Normal” and “Sport.” The system takes readings from sensors that monitor steering, speed, brakes, vertical movement, and engine torque and then continuously adjusts the shock absorbers for optimum balance and control. When Sport is selected, the difference is immediately noticeable, with a more solid feel, better turn in, more immediate braking and even less body roll than when in Normal mode (which isn’t much). It’s like the difference between skating on slightly dull blades versus super sharp ones.