The Ultimate Guide to Porsche Boxster Body Kits
The Porsche Boxster stands as a perfect harmony between stylish design and exceptional performance. Enthusiasts seeking to elevate their Boxster’s visual allure or aerodynamic prowess often turn to aftermarket body kits. Whether you own a classic 986, a 987, or the latest 718, the world of Porsche Boxster body kits opens up possibilities for customization, enhanced performance, and distinctiveness on the road. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types, benefits, and installation specifics of Boxster body kits, ensuring you find the best fit for your model and goals.
Porsche Boxster Body Kits: Type & Application Comparison
| Kit/Brand | Compatible Models | Main Components | Material | Intended Outcome | Application Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duraflex (www.duraflexbodykits.com) | 1997-2004 Boxster (986) | Fenders, bumpers, lips, skirts, hoods | Fiberglass/CF | Styling, aerodynamics | Direct fit, basic |
| TechArt (www.vividracing.com) | 1997-2004 Boxster (986) | Wide body kit, spoilers | FRP/PU | Performance, unique look | Advanced, custom |
| VOSSTEK (www.betterbodiesmotorsport.com) | 1997-2004 Boxster (986) | Full kit: bumpers, skirts, spoilers | Polyurethane | Aggressive styling, durability | Direct fit |
| MagnaTuning (www.magnatuning.com) | 986 Boxster | Bumpers, lips, styling solutions | ABS | Styling, subtle upgrades | Direct fit, easy |
| Forza Performance Group (forzaaa.com) | 718, Cayman, Boxster | Full body kits, custom tuning | FRP, composites | Track & street performance | Advanced, custom |
| Royal Body Kits (www.royalbodykits.com) | 987, 981, 718 | Aero kits, lips, diffusers | ABS/PU/CF | Custom styling options | Direct to advanced |
| Suncoast (www.suncoastparts.com) | 987 Boxster | OEM Aerokit package | Factory materials | Factory performance look | Dealer fit, guaranteed |
| Driven By Style (www.drivenbystyle.com) | 2000 Boxster | Bumpers, skirts, vents | Fiberglass | Styling upgrades | Direct fit, easy |
| CARiD (www.carid.com) | Boxster all generations | Body kits & ground effects | Multiple choices | Varied outcomes | Varied, easy-moderate |
| BodyKits.com (www.bodykits.com) | Boxster all generations | Universal kits, lips, wings | ABS, PU, CF | Styling, personalization | Varied, flexible |
Key Benefits of Porsche Boxster Body Kits
Body kits are far more than cosmetic upgrades for Porsche Boxster enthusiasts. The advantages include:
- Aesthetic Transformation: OEM lines get more aggressive, streamlined, or race-inspired, offering a standout look in any crowd.
- Improved Aerodynamics: Components like splitters, diffusers, and spoilers channel airflow more efficiently, improving grip and reducing drag.
- Material Versatility: Modern kits, such as those from VOSSTEK and Forza Performance Group, utilize robust materials like polyurethane and advanced composites ensuring longevity.
- Personalization: With varied styles from brands like TechArt, MagnaTuning, and Driven By Style LLC, owners can truly express individual taste.
- Potential Value Boost: A well-installed, high-quality kit can enhance your Porsche’s resale appeal, provided it remains tasteful and reversible.
Major Types of Porsche Boxster Body Kits
Boxster body kits come in numerous configurations, from full overhaul packages to subtle enhancements. Understanding the types ensures you select what best aligns with your intended transformation.
1. Full Aero Kits
Full kits—such as those available from Forza Performance Group or VOSSTEK—encompass multiple components (front/rear bumpers, side skirts, spoilers) and provide a cohesive new look. These are ideal for drivers seeking a show-worthy or track-inspired profile.
2. Lip Kits & Splitters
Lips (available at MagnaTuning and CARiD) are subtle yet effective at sharpening front or rear bumper lines, increasing downforce without altering core factory aesthetics.
3. Widebody Kits
Brands like TechArt (at Vivid Racing) offer widebody arrangements for Boxster 986 models, delivering a bold, motorsport-style stance with broader wheel arches and pronounced lines.
4. Spoilers & Diffusers
Rear spoilers and diffusers (seen at Royal Body Kits and Duraflex) enhance both looks and rear-end stability, especially at higher speeds.
5. Fender Flares & Vented Hoods
For advanced cooling and aggressive side profiles, fender flares and vented hoods, such as those by Duraflex, cater to track-focused or performance-oriented builds.
Popular Porsche Boxster Body Kit Brands & Websites
Numerous specialized retailers cater to the Boxster community, each offering unique value:
www.bodykits.com
They offer a broad assortment of universal and model-specific kits, making it a go-to for entry-level upgrades and those seeking broad compatibility.
www.carid.com
CARiD features kits and ground effects suitable for every Boxster generation, with extensive material choices and a straightforward browsing experience.
forzaaa.com (Forza Performance Group)
As a niche provider, they focus on high-performance and custom composite kits, especially for the latest 718 Boxster and Cayman owners.
www.duraflexbodykits.com
Specializing in fiberglass upgrades, Duraflex is known for its budget-friendly yet diverse range catering mostly to 986 owners.
www.magnatuning.com
Boasting over 20,000 car styling products, MagnaTuning provides budget-efficient body kit solutions with worldwide shipping.
www.suncoastparts.com
It stands out by supplying OEM-quality aero packs, ideal for purists and those seeking a factory-refined appearance.
www.vividracing.com
Vivid Racing is home to TechArt’s premium widebody kits as well as other advanced performance styling components.
www.royalbodykits.com
Royal Body Kits specializes in the latest Boxster chassis, catering to 987, 981, and 718 models with stylish and modular aero options.
www.drivenbystyle.com
Driven By Style LLC, a longstanding retailer, focuses on price-matching and a comprehensive catalog of Boxster upgrades.
www.betterbodiesmotorsport.com
Known for the VOSSTEK polyurethane kit, they prioritize fitment, ruggedness, and an aggressive, modern take especially for classic 986 models.
Material Options and Their Pros & Cons
Selecting the right material for your Porsche Boxster body kit remains a critical decision, impacting weight, durability, and ease of installation.
| Material | Weight | Durability | Flexibility | Density | Appearance | Cost | Ideal Usage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | Light | Moderate | Low | Medium | Paintable | Affordable | Custom mods, DIY |
| Polyurethane | Moderate | High | High | High | OEM-like | Moderate | Daily, prone to bumps |
| ABS Plastic | Moderate | High | Medium | High | Glossy | Moderate | Lip kits, spoilers |
| Carbon Fiber | Superlight | High | Low | Low | Premium | Pricey | Racing, show cars |
| Advanced Composites | Varied | High | Varied | Varied | Custom | High | Track/Performance |
Installation: What to Expect
Some Boxster body kits offer straightforward, bolt-on compatibility—like many from Driven By Style, VOSSTEK, or MagnaTuning—while others, such as widebody kits or custom composites from Forza Performance Group or TechArt, require professional installation.
- Preparation: Always test-fit all parts before painting. Surface cleaning and possible sanding ensure adhesion.
- Fitting: Polyurethane and ABS parts are more forgiving, whereas fiberglass and carbon pieces need precision.
- Mounting Hardware: Ensure all brackets, bolts, and adhesives are included; improper hardware can cause rattles or body damage.
- Finishing Touches: Proper color-matching and professional paint jobs are critical for OEM-quality appearance.
Customization Options & Personalization
The aftermarket community supports a wide array of upgrades:
- Color Matching/Painting: Achieve a flawless finish by custom painting your kit to match or accent factory paint.
- Carbon Fiber Accents: Many brands allow integration of carbon spoilers, splitters, or mirrors for a motorsport-inspired touch.
- Lighting Integration: Some kits offer pathways for upgraded LEDs, DRLs, or signal lamps.
- Aerodynamic Accessories: Add ons such as canards, front splitters, and rear diffusers increase downforce on both street and track setups.
Common Fitment Concerns
While newer kits often boast improved tolerances, Boxster owners—especially those retrofitting older 986/987 models—should watch for:
- Panel Gaps: Fiberglass kits occasionally require shimming, sanding, or reinforcement.
- Mounting Points: Ensure your car’s alignment points haven’t been altered by previous repairs.
- Weight Distribution: Especially with widebody conversions, monitor alignment and balance adjustments post-installation.
It’s highly advisable to source kits from reputable outlets like www.bodykits.com, www.carid.com, and www.suncoastparts.com to minimize headaches.
Cost Analysis: Budgeting Your Boxster Upgrade
Costs for Boxster body kits can range from several hundred dollars (basic lip kits from MagnaTuning) to several thousand (TechArt widebody, Forza composite kits). Factor in the following:
- Kit Price: Primary expense; varies by component count and material.
- Shipping: Large, delicate parts incur substantial freight costs—especially imported kits from Europe or Asia.
- Installation: Professional installation can double your investment, especially for paint and fitting.
- Extra Hardware & Paint: Budget for fasteners, paint, and possible trim replacements.
Always confirm that prices include or clearly list duties, taxes, and any hidden fees.
Porsche Boxster Body Kit Technical Comparison Table
| Brand/Kit | Material | Weight Impact | Aerodynamic Gain | OEM Fitment Level | Durability | Installation Complexity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duraflex (Driven By Style) | Fiberglass/CF | Light | Moderate | Good | Moderate | Easy-Moderate | $750-$2,200 |
| TechArt (Vivid Racing) | FRP/Polyurethane | Moderate | High | Requires tweaking | High | Advanced | $3,000-$7,000 |
| VOSSTEK (Better Bodies) | Polyurethane | Moderate | Moderate | Excellent | High | Easy | $1,500-$2,500 |
| MagnaTuning | ABS | Light | Subtle | Good | High | Easy | $500-$1,500 |
| Forza Performance Group | Composites | Varied | High | Custom-fit | High | Advanced | $2,000-$6,000 |
| Royal Body Kits | ABS/PU/CF | Light-Mod | Subtle-High | Good | High | Moderate | $1,000-$3,500 |
| Suncoast | Factory Materials | OEM | Moderate | Excellent | OEM Quality | Easy-Moderate | $2,500-$4,500 |
Maintaining Your Porsche Boxster with a Body Kit
- Cleaning: Use gentle car shampoos; harsh chemicals can dull finishes or damage seals, especially on fiberglass/ABS parts.
- Waxing & Protection: Regular waxing preserves paint and helps prevent UV damage.
- Inspect Fasteners: Vibrations may loosen bolts; check periodically, especially after spirited driving.
- Touch-ups: Immediate paint repair on chips keeps corrosion at bay.
- Winter Care: Polyurethane and ABS handle cold well, but avoid heavy ice scraping.
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Conclusion
Porsche Boxster body kits offer a compelling way to infuse fresh life, character, and capability into your sports car. From subtle lips to full-blown widebody conversions, the choices span nearly every taste, generation, and performance goal. With suppliers like www.bodykits.com, www.carid.com, forzaaa.com, www.duraflexbodykits.com, and others, a Boxster owner can confidently find a fit that suits their vision and budget. Prioritize fitment quality, material durability, and consider professional installation for the ultimate transformation.
FAQ
What is a Porsche Boxster body kit?
A body kit is a set of externally mounted parts designed to change a Boxster’s appearance and aerodynamic profile. Common elements include new bumpers, side skirts, spoilers, and sometimes wider fenders.
Will adding a body kit void my Porsche warranty?
Factory warranties typically don’t cover aftermarket modifications. However, damage directly caused by a kit’s poor install or faulty parts may be excluded from coverage, while unrelated factory systems remain protected.
How difficult is it to install a body kit on my Boxster?
Installation difficulty varies. Many polyurethane or ABS kits are bolt-on, needing basic hand tools. Widebody or composite kits may require trimming, sanding, and professional fitting with painting.
Which material is best for my climate and driving?
Polyurethane and ABS offer the best compromise between durability and flexibility, making them preferable for daily-driven cars. Fiberglass is cost-effective but less tolerant of minor impacts.
Can I revert my Boxster to factory condition after installing a kit?
If installed carefully, most kits are reversible, particularly those requiring no permanent body modifications. Always store OEM parts if you intend to return to stock later.
Are body kits only for looks, or do they improve performance?
Many kits, especially those with splitters, diffusers, and wide fenders, genuinely improve aerodynamic stability and cooling, contributing to real-world handling and performance gains.
How do I maintain the finish on my new body kit?
Regular washing, waxing, and prompt repairs of chips or scratches are critical. For painted fiberglass or CF, use only car-care products recommended for clear-coated surfaces.
Why are widebody kits more expensive?
Widebody kits require more material, are often made to order, and involve complex shaping, precision fitment, and sometimes unique engineering to accommodate wider wheels and suspension changes.
Do all kits fit every Boxster model?
No. Kits are generation-specific (e.g., 986, 987, 981, 718). Always verify compatibility with your specific year and sub-model before purchasing.
Where can I buy reliable Porsche Boxster body kits?
Trusted retailers include www.bodykits.com, www.carid.com, forzaaa.com, www.duraflexbodykits.com, www.magnatuning.com, www.suncoastparts.com, www.vividracing.com, www.royalbodykits.com, www.drivenbystyle.com, and www.betterbodiesmotorsport.com. Always check reputation and product reviews before buying.
