The Porsche Boxter rolled off the line in 1996 as a mid-engine roadster. Since its premier, the Boxster has become one of the best-known models on the Porsche roster along with the 911 and the Cayenne SUV. The Boxster was an important release for the Porsche brand, as the '90s up until that point were not highly successful for the automaker. At launch, the Porsche Boxster was equipped with a power-operated soft top and a 2.5L flat six-cylinder engine rated at approximately 200 horsepower. By the year 2000, the Boxster S entered the lineup showing off larger wheels and brakes, a stiffer sport-tuned suspension, and an engine that pumped out up to 250 horsepower.
In 2001, Porsche implemented its Porsche Stability Management system into the Boxster. Few changes were made to the model until 2004, when the engine configurations were given a slight boost. A year later, Porsche rolled out the second generation Boxster. With styling inspired by the Carrera GT, the 987 Boxster also featured a bevy of changes to the interior of the model, which included improved cabin materials and a updated dash.