Porsche Boxster RS60 Part 2: Interior & User Experience

The only real criticism aimed at Porsche's original Boxster model centered on the cars interior - specifically, its materials' quality and finish. These well-aimed criticisms were rectified in the second generation Boxster that was introduced in 2005. It is this car that the RS60 Spyder is based on, and the quality of its interior is without question.

The first thing you'll notice when you swing open the door of the new Porsche RS60 Spyder and sit inside its cabin is... RED. It's the signature interior color of this commemorative model sand it's matched with a GT Silver exterior. Many people might shy away from an all red interior - it does sound a bit garish - but in actuality, it is incredible.

Red leather covers the dash, doors, seats and just about everything else in the RS60 Spyder. Thankfully, it's not a retina-searing red, but a deep, slightly dark shade that is a throwback to that classic color combination from the 1960s.

Color aside, the quality and craftsmanship of the interior is very impressive. Everything from the door pulls, to the shifter, to the surprisingly thin-rimmed steering wheel feels just right. Even the smell of all that leather has an expensive quality that makes the RS60 Spyder feel like the limited production car it is. Porsche has really nailed it with this interior, as you can't help but feel you’re driving something special.

But just in case you need reminding, there are a couple of bits inside the cabin that do just that. For starters, there's the plaque on the glovebox telling you you're driving one of only 1960 cars. You'll also notice the aluminum doorsill panels with "RS60 Spyder" scripted on them. A less successful element is the over-designed and busy-looking shift knob - at least its linkage works incredibly well. Lastly, part of the center console is painted GT Silver to match the exterior, as is the gauge cover.

A surprising element with regards to livability is that there's a lot more stowage space in the RS60 Spyder than you might expect given its mid-engine layout. The rear trunk is shallow, but there's also a deeper trunk in the front. Combined, these two storage compartments should give you plenty of space for a quick weekend getaway.

One questionable move made by Porsche in the interior of the RS60 Spyder, is the removal of the hood that covered the instrument binnacles. It does look good to see the gauges uncovered, and it helps to differentiate this special edition Boxster from lesser models. But with the cover to the gauges painted silver, the resulting reflection on the windshield can become irritating.

If the red interior and red top are too much for you, you can opt for a dark gray interior with a black top. But since you only live once, I'd say, "live a little... GO RED!" It's rich and a little decadent, but don't you deserve it?

Watch the video
Read Part 1: Design
Read Part 3: Performance

Porsche Boxster RS60 Spyder

Performance
- Acceleration: Impressively quick, and a sound straight from the Mulsanne straight
- Handling: Impressive amounts of grip - mid-engine balance
- Braking: Impressive power from the steel brakes - proves that you don't need expensive ceramics

Design
- Exterior: Getting a bit dated - still very clean and correct - the right size for a Porsche
- Interior: Impressive build quality - gorgeous red leather feels ultra-special

Utility
- Comfort: Impressive ride comfort as long as you don't use the "sport" suspension setting - great seats
- Space: Impressive amount of storage with two trunks

Safety
- Dynamics: Moves that allow you to proactively avoid whatever comes at you
- Technology: All you need in an impressively rigid chassis, especially for a convertible

Value
- Price: Tough to argue against the "regular" Boxster S and its $9k "discount" compared to this car
- Mileage: Light weight (relatively speaking) and six cylinders deliver the best of both worlds

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: Impressively addictive - once you drive it, you won't look at it the same way - a true P-car
- Fun to spank: Impressive sound - impressive handling - impressive brakes - yeah, I'm impressed.

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Mid engine / Rear wheel drive
Engine: 3.4 liter, Horizontally opposed 6 cylinder
Power (SAE): 303 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque: 251 lbs-ft @ 4400 rpm
Redline: 7300 rpm
Gearbox: 6 speed manual
Curb Weight: 2987 lbs.
0-60 mph: 5.1 sec.
1/4 mile: 13.4 sec.
Top Speed: 170 mph
Mileage: 18 city / 26 highway
Base Price: $64,900
Competitors: BMW Z4 M Roadster, Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG, Porsche Boxster S