2008 Porsche Boxster Review

The 2008 Porsche Boxster convertible is available in the base model for $45,600 and the Boxster S for $55,500. The base is powered by a 245 hp, 2.7-liter, six-cylinder with a five-speed manual transmission that will make 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds and has a top track speed of 160 mph. The S is powered by a 295 hp, 3.4-liter, six-cylinder with a six-speed manual that does 0-60 in 5.2 seconds and tops out at 169 mph. Body kits for the 2007 Porsche Boxster S eliminate what little drag the vehicle produces. Estimated fuel economy is 23 mpg city and 32 highway on the base model and 20/28 on the S. (Fuel capacity is 16.9 gallons.)

Both models have manually adjustable climate control, power windows with one-touch up/down, park assist, and an on-board computer with continuous indication of mileage, time, and speed. The audio system is AM/FM/CD combo. The sophisticated airbags include two full-sized advanced airbags in front that offer optimum upper-body protection, even with the top down. A passenger side weight sensor switches the airbag off when the seat is unoccupied or fitted with a child seat. Additionally, the 2008 Porsche Boxster and Boxster S also have a side impact protection system.

2008 Porsche 911 Review

There is a 2008 Porsche 911 model to please every sort of taste. The Carrera comes in a base model ($72,400) and the S ($82,600.) The convertible Carrerra Cabriolet base opens at $82,600 and the S at $92,800. The Carrera 4 base is $78,200 with the 4S at $88,400 while the Carrera 4 Cabriolet begins at $88,400 and the 4S Cabriolet at $98,600. The 911 Targa 4 begins at $85,700; the Targa 4S at $95,900; the 911 Turbo at $122,900; the GT3 at $106,00; and the GT3 RS at $123,200.

The base Carrera engines are 325 hp, 2.6-liter, 6-cylinder units and are placed to the rear. S class engines are 355 hp, 3.8-liter, 6-cylinders. The Turbo has a 480 hp, 3.6-liter six-cylinder and the GT3 and GT3 RS have a 415 hp version of the same engine. All are brisk performers, with the 911 Turbo making zero to 60 in 3.7 seconds with a top track speed of 193 mph. The "slowest" of the pack are the Carrera 4 Cabriolet and the Targa 4 at 5.1 seconds for 0-60 and a top track speed of 174 mph.

The engineering of the 2008 Porsche 911 series emphasizes precision with technological amenities showcased in the communication management system with a high-resolution display and integrated controls for navigation, entertainment, and communication. The 911s impart a sense of power and control, inside and out.

2008 Porsche Cayman Review

The 2008 Porsche Cayman is available in the base model for $49,400. Powered by a 245 hp, 2.7-liter, six-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual transmission, the vehicle can make zero to sixty in 5.8 seconds and has a top track speed of 160 mph. The S model, from $58,900, features a 295 hp, 3.4-liter, six-cylinder with a six-speed manual that does 0-60 in 5.1 seconds and tops out at 171 mph.

Standard seats in the Cayman are upholstered with a leatherette finish. There's an airbag in each backrest, for upper body protection, as well as generous seat adjustment options regardless of the height of the driver. The classic Porsche instrumentation has an aluminum finish with crisp, white back-lit illumination. Digital readouts complement the usual speedometer, tachometer, and odometer functions and include such information as average fuel consumption and average speed to remaining fuel range.

The standard audio system is an AM/FM/CD unit with an option for a Bose Surround Sound System. The optional Porsche Communication management puts information and entertainment controls on the center console and integrates navigation, telephone, enhanced audio and on board computer functions in one display. The 2008 Porsche Cayman's high-resolution 5.8-inch color display is legible under all light conditions.