Audi
Cabriolet
Owner report available
Porsche
Boxster
Owner report available
Audi Cabriolet vs Porsche Boxster
The short answer
Based on available data, the Porsche Boxster comes out ahead of the Audi Cabriolet on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Cabriolet
Overall
Sentiment is deeply bifurcated by generation and ownership expectations. For modern S5 Cabriolets (B9 generation, ~2018-2024), owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by immense driving joy, high levels of comfort, and strong reliability when new or under warranty. These are described as "perfect" daily drivers and "the most fun you can have in a car." For older generations (B6/B7 A4/S4 Cabriolets, 1990s models), sentiment is cautious to negative, dominated by concerns over high and unpredictable maintenance costs, particularly related to aging convertible-specific components.
Best version to buy
For modern S5 Cabriolets, the Prestige trim with the S Sport package and adaptive dampers is highly regarded. Ventilated seats are strongly recommended over base seats, which are criticized as uncomfortable.
Known issues
- **Convertible Top Mechanism Failures**: Includes hydraulic pump failure, motor failure, fraying fabric, warping storage cover hinges, and failure of associated electronics (seatbelt presenters, access covers). Frequency: very frequent.
- **Rear Window Separation**: The adhesive bonding the glass rear window to the fabric top degrades over time (typically 8-10+ years), leading to separation. Often necessitates a complete top replacement. Frequency: very frequent.
- **Timing Chain Guide Failure (B6/B7 S4 4.2L V8)**: Plastic timing chain guides are a known failure point, potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage. Repair costs quoted around $12,000. Frequency: recurrent.
Boxster
Overall
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the driving experience, with the Boxster consistently praised for its exceptional handling, fun factor, and the special feeling it provides. The consensus is that it is a "perfect" or "best" driving car, particularly on back roads, offering a level of engagement and chassis dynamics that are highly valued. However, this enthusiasm is heavily tempered by very frequent and serious warnings about the high and unpredictable costs of ownership, especially for older models (primarily the 986 and 987 generations).
Best version to buy
The 987 generation (2005-2012) is generally recommended over the earlier 986 as a "better car all around," being more modern, refined, and having a better interior (including a glass rear window and glove box). Within a specific comparison, a 2007 base model was favored over a 2000 Boxster S for a $5,000 USD price difference.
Known issues
- High and unpredictable maintenance/repair costs: very frequent. IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing failure (986 and early 987): can cause catastrophic engine failure. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Porsche Boxster is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Audi Cabriolet, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Audi Cabriolet is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi Cabriolet or the Porsche Boxster?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi Cabriolet and the Porsche Boxster. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi Cabriolet or the Porsche Boxster?
The Audi Cabriolet seats more passengers than the Porsche Boxster on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Audi Cabriolet is classed as a Cabriolet, the Porsche Boxster as a Roadster.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi Cabriolet or the Porsche Boxster?
The EPA rates the 1998 Audi Cabriolet at 19 mpg combined and the 2020 Porsche Boxster at 21–24 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi Cabriolet or the Porsche Boxster?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Porsche Boxster than the Audi Cabriolet. See the known issues comparison above.