You may think a six-figure MSRP isn’t much of a steal, but it depends on the comparison. For instance, the bog-standard 911 Carrera begins at $106,100, but plenty of performance can be had for better value. The top-spec 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder is one avenue. Despite the entry-level sports car carrying a price tag of nearly as much, it’s actually a bargain badge delivery system.

What is the difference between the Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder and the base model?

One of the biggest complaints surrounding the base 718 Boxster is the engine. The 2.0-liter turbo-four puts down 300 horsepower, but many bemoan the rattly, un-Porsche soundtrack. Even with the lightning-fast Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) seven-speed gearbox, enthusiasts want more liveliness.

A starting MSRP of $65,500 is a respectable entry requirement for the brand, even if it’s rather scant. But the Stuttgart giant provides oodles of optional packages to make it more suitable. For instance, the PDK is an extra $3,210; otherwise, a six-speed manual comes standard. To get around this, Porsche offers two upper trim levels to fulfill performance-inclined desires.

2023 Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder performance specs

For another $37,900, potential buyers can pass the T, S, and GTS 4.0 configurations and go straight to the Spyder. Whereas the base Boxster has the four-pot in the middle of the car, the Spyder has the full cheeseburger. The 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder has a naturally-aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six ready to tear up any track. The result is 414 horsepower and 309 pounds-feet of torque going to the rear wheels.

With a one-foot rollout, Car and Driver says the Spyder will hit 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. To compare, Porsche states the 379-horsepower 911 Carrera takes nearly a second longer. But the 718 Boxster Spyder is not just a drag strip showoff. Drivers should expect to be impressed passing on the highway with a 2.7-second 50-70 mph time.

In the bends is where the Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder is most inspiring—as can be expected. Electrically-assisted steering aside, the two-seater provides an engaging connection between the driver and the tarmac. Despite the extra girth it gained over the years, the 3,200-pound car can still manage 1.03 g on the skidpad. Yet, even with the tight cockpit, the car is still comfortable enough to take on long road trips.

How much is the 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder?

There’s no getting around it. Porsche’s entry-level vehicle is $103,400. That may seem like a lot considering Mazda’s MX-5 Miata is three times less. But the Spyder isn’t just a two-seater sports car; it’s a Porsche.

With the popularity of 911s through the roof, prices have trended upward accordingly. Just 10 years ago, Porsche’s 911 could be had in the $80,000 range. Now, to get one worthwhile, potential buyers must spend far above the entry MSRP.

The 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder may not be the $200,000-plus hardcore track monster that is the range-topping 911. However, it does present a solution for those wanting to become a part of the brand at an “affordable” level. The Boxster Spyder has all the heritage and panache one could want in a two-seater roadster. And drivers can enjoy a top-of-the-line 718 for less than the bare-bones 911.