AUTO SPIES EXCLUSIVE: Another Boxster in the works besides the Cayman?

Dear 001,

Baby Boxster for the masses? Maybe according to Porsche people ...

During a recent discussion with a colleague, he let slip that the senior Porsche marketing people have examined the possibility of a Baby Boxster utilising an electronically detuned version of the 2.7-litre flat six engine plus a number of other components from the base model Boxster. Using existing parts allows the engineers to build a cheap, profitable car designed to go head-to-head with the Lotus Elise, reviving the old Excel / 944 battles of the 80's.

Actual model versions remain secret but it's muted that the car could be solely a Targa variant. Whats even more interesting is that Porsche are not concerned about the news leaking out because it's only a discussion at this stage.

However, I was surprised to discover that they read Autospies comments and follow your site VERY closely for many things but especially to monitor readers reactions and opinions!

So, if the idea of a sub $50,000 Porker intrigues or disgusts - add a comment to this story and maybe you can influence them ...

MercBasher - 3/18/2005 12:25:18 AM

+1 Boost

How does Porsche do it - they hint that they may do a terribly minor tweak on an existing product and all the automotive media get so excited - frankly it is so boring - in fact the only thing more boring is to read about the latest tuners to showcase a Mustang or Corvette.

jlee44993 - 3/24/2005 4:34:49 AM

+1 Boost

The idea sounds great to me. I've always been a huge Porsche fan. My favorite Hot Wheel when I was about 5 years old was a silver 911 with a Targa top. Porsche should broaden their line-up with a cheaper model. They would bring a younger demographic to it's name plate. Then, ideally, they would move up to more expensive cars in their line-up as their finances allowed. Porsche only needs to make sure that the new model be good enough for it's buyers to stay loyal to their brand. That means power, quality, and I know people will cringe when they read this, but a small amount of luxury.