You won't be disappointed if you choose the entry-level 252bhp 2.9-litre version, as there's more than enough go to keep things interesting. Nail the throttle from a standing start and you'll reach 60mph in under six seconds. The S model, with its 306bhp 3.4-litre engine adds a bit more urgency to proceedings, making the Boxster feel as blisteringly fast as a Porsche should.

Variable steering response provides low-speed manoeuvrability without affecting high-speed stability, but feedback is still peerless. Near-perfect balance and a wide track give fabulous poise and grip on all roads. Optional Active Suspension Management improves handling to the ride’s cost. The ride is firm but beautifully controlled.

Okay, so a convertible with a folding tin-top will better protect you from external noise, but this is about as good as it gets for cars with a canvas roof. Wind- and road noise are audible, but never reach levels that'll annoy you. The engines are quiet when cruising, but get noisy as your right foot gets more enthusiastic, and they sound brilliant.

It's a Porsche, so it won't be cheap. However, the Boxster is more affordable than some rivals, and it's well worth the money you pay. You'll get laughed out of the dealer if you ask for a discount, but you won't lose too much when you sell, because resale values are rock solid. Even the running costs aren't too unreasonable.

Porsche has a great record for mechanical reliability, especially for a sports car manufacturer. That means you'll be very unlucky if you suffer any serious mechanical problems with your Boxster. Build quality is everything you'd expect of a Porsche, too, because the whold car feels solid and classy.

Porsche has crammed twin front, side and curtain airbags into the Boxster, so it's tough to see how you could be better protected in a crash. You also get high-performance brakes and stability control to help you avoid one in the first place. There are deadlocks, an immobilizer and an alarm to keep your car secure.

The Boxster gives you the classic roadster driving position – low, with your legs way out in front. The steering wheel and seat both have height and reach adjustment to let you fine-tune, too. The view out of the back is better than in many cars of this type, but the dashboard is festooned with buttons, so it can be tricky to navigate at a glance.

These aren't areas you'll be expecting too much from when buying a car of this type, but the Boxster is one of the most practical roadsters available. There's plenty of space for two, and dropping the roof doesn't encroach on luggage capacity. There are surprisingly large luggage bins at either end of the car, too.

Both versions come with an electrically operated roof, alloy wheels, climate control and a high-performance stereo. The S also gets part-leather upholstery as standard. Options include semi-automatic gearbox, active suspension, sat-nav, cruise control and seats that can either warm your behind or cool it down.