We’re not trying to invoke any Porsche-on-Porsche crime here, and we know that some Porsche enthusiasts will disagree, however, the 718 Boxster has always been the carrot at the end of the stick for prospective first-time buyers of the brand. It looks, drives, and feels similar to its stablemates, however, it’s available at a much lower price point. Sure, it could be considered the “Civic” of the lineup, but with the right perspective, we think it might be the best model to buy.

It’s affordable

Being the lowest model in the lineup, right next to the 718 Cayman coupe, the Boxster is more obtainable to the masses. With a starting price of $59,600, there’s no longer a need for most consumers to keep a picture of a 911 on their vision board, hoping that “someday” they’ll actually hold the keys to one. Instead, the Boxster can help everyone’s dreams become a reality, that is, if everyone’s credit is in good standing or if they have an extra $60 grand laying around.

Don’t get us wrong, the price can jump up to six-figure status quickly as the available options do add up. But if all you care about is having the Porsche badge on the steering wheel to look at while the wind blows through your hair on those squiggly back roads, then the 718 Boxster is the way to go.

RELATED: The Porsche Cayman GT4 Is a Terrible Daily Driver, and That’s a Good Thing

Storage space

Both the 718 Cayman and Boxster are mid-engine cars, which means that they have the added benefit of an actual trunk in addition to the usual “frunk.” Sure, there’s not that much room in each storage space as the front compartment measures in at 5.2 cubic feet and rear one measures in at 4.4, but that’s still more room than the 911. Opt for one of those and you’ll only have 4.6 cubic feet of “frunk” space to work with.

Engine choices

Most Porsche enthusiasts scoff at the 718 Boxster’s engine choices as they can be considered anemic compared to those found in the 911 models. But we would argue that the smaller power figure equates to more fun on the everyday drive. After all, you really don’t need the 911’s 379 horsepower, or even 640 figure that you get in the 911 Turbo, to have fun on the streets.

Instead, the 718 Boxster’s turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque will do just fine. Will a lower amount of power, you can further enjoy all of the engine’s power, not to mention the glorious sound it makes, in between almost every stoplight and every freeway onramp. Plus, if you really need the power, then you can opt for the Boxster S that puts out 350 hp and 309 lb-ft.

Fuel Economy

Another way that the 718 Boxster’s smaller engine shines is when it comes to fuel economy, not that most buyers would care. But for those that do, the 718 Boxster is able to achieve 22 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. By comparison, it’s 911 Carrera old sibling achieves 18 in the city and 24 on the highway and it only goes lower as you move higher up in the ranks.

RELATED: Shopping for a New Porsche? The 911 Carrera Is All You Need

Power retractable soft top

And lastly, if you’re into having fun in the sun while you get through the gears and listen to the wonderful Boxster engine sounds, then you’ll love the fact that the 718 Boxster comes with a power-retractable soft top. It folds in about 10 seconds and even operates at speeds up to 35 mph. However, if you’re not a fan of convertibles, then there’s always the Cayman.

Is it really the best one?

While Porsche fans and sports car purists will still fight tooth and nail and swear that a Porsche needs to be something in the 911 category, or perhaps the Taycan, to be considered the best, we would argue that being “the best” also means being accessible. So if you’re looking to get behind the wheel of a new Porsche sports car, but don’t need the visceral performance of a 911, or even have the funds to afford one, then the 718 Boxster is the best model in the lineup for you.