Porsche Boxer 981 wedding car hire

Boxster 981: sleek, open and sporty

The 981 is the third generation of the Porsche Boxster and was built from 2012 until the middle of that decade. Compared with its predecessors, it was drawn lower, longer and sleeker, with sharp lines along the flanks and large air intakes for the mid-mounted engine. It is the last Boxster with a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine; its successor, the 718, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder as standard.

As a wedding car, the 981 has a contemporary look. It is clearly more modern than the first Boxster, but more understated than a 911 Turbo or an Italian sports car. It suits a stylish wedding in the city, at a modern venue or on a country estate with a sleekly designed garden.

For a wedding day, the 981 is a pleasant middle ground. It is young enough to be reliable and comfortable, with air conditioning and a quiet cabin, yet it has the character of a true sports car. Couples who want to drive with the roof down, without the uncertainties of a classic car and without the loud presence of a supercar, often end up choosing this Boxster.

The sound of a six-cylinder

Enthusiasts appreciate the 981 above all for its engine: a six-cylinder that revs fairly high and makes a clear, crisp sound. You will hear it as you pull away from the town hall or when you arrive at the reception.

What you need to know about the 981

The Boxster is a two-seater with no back seat. So plan the ride for the couple alone, and arrange separate transport for witnesses and the photographer.

Roof and weather

The fabric roof of the 981 is fully electric and closes within seconds, even while driving at low speed. This makes it suitable for a day with changeable weather: open in the sun, closed during a shower. There is air conditioning, and the cabin stays surprisingly quiet with the roof closed.

The dress in a low two-seater

The seats are low and the doors are long. Sit down with your legs outside the car, then swing them in together. A slim dress fits well, while a full skirt needs a little preparation. There is no space behind the seats, so the train goes in the footwell or on your lap. With the roof open, an updo is not bothered by the roof.

Using the 981 on your day

For photos, the 981 looks best from a low angle at the front corner, with the roof open. A modern façade, a row of plane trees or an open polder landscape suit its sleek shape. For the route, winding roads are nicer than the motorway; the Veluwe and the Utrechtse Heuvelrug are well-known choices. Keep the decoration simple, for example with a small corsage by the wing mirrors.

Also plan a moment when the car stands still with the roof open. Have the couple stand next to the car: a low two-seater really shows off the dress and the suit in the photo.

If you want to see the generations side by side, take a look at the older Boxster 986 and the newer Porsche 718. Or view all Porsche wedding cars in one overview.