Which Porsche model is a mid-engine convertible introduced in 1996?

The Porsche Boxster is the mid-engine convertible introduced in 1996. More precisely, the first-generation Type 986 Boxster was a mid-engine, two-seat roadster with a folding soft top.

Porsche presented the Boxster concept in 1993, drawing design inspiration from classic models including the 356 Cabriolet, Speedster and 550 Spyder. Series production began in 1996, and the car used a water-cooled, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine mounted behind the passenger compartment but ahead of the rear axle.

That layout gave the Boxster balanced handling and a low centre of gravity. Its name combines “boxer,” referring to Porsche’s flat engine design, with “speedster,” a historic Porsche body style. The original car was powered by a 2.5-litre flat-six; a 2.7-litre base engine and Boxster S were added in 2000.

The Cayman is the related fixed-roof coupé, not the convertible. The 911 traditionally uses a rear-engine layout, while the 918 Spyder is a later hybrid hypercar.