The Porsche Boxster 718 is a benchmark among mid-engine roadsters, celebrated for its razor-sharp handling, balanced chassis, and punchy turbocharged power. For the 718 generation equipped with the 2.0-liter (982) or 2.5-liter flat-four, the stock output ranges from 300 to 350 horsepower depending on the trim (base, S, GTS). While these numbers are respectable, there is always room for improvement. The ESS Supercharger Kit provides a reliable and high-impact solution, delivering up to 50 additional horsepower without the complexity or heat soak issues of larger turbochargers. This guide covers everything you need to know about the power gains, installation, tuning, and real-world benefits of this kit.

Understanding the Porsche Boxster 718 Engine Lineup

The 718 Boxster moved away from naturally aspirated flat-six engines in favor of turbocharged flat-fours (and later the GTS 4.0 with a flagship six-cylinder). Understanding the base power levels helps you appreciate the gains the ESS kit offers:

  • 718 Base (2.0L turbo): 300 hp / 280 lb-ft (from factory)
  • 718 S / GTS (2.5L turbo): 350 hp / 309 lb-ft (S), 365 hp (GTS with optional tune)
  • 718 GTS 4.0 (4.0L NA): 394 hp – naturally aspirated, not typically supercharged due to high CR, but the ESS kit targets the turbo variants.

The ESS Supercharger Kit is designed specifically for the 2.0L and 2.5L turbocharged engines. By adding a centrifugal supercharger on top of the existing forced induction, the kit boosts overall airflow and density, effectively turning a twin-charged powertrain (turbo + supercharger) with careful tuning.

The ESS Supercharger Kit: Design and Components

ESS (Elite Supercharger Systems) is known for high-quality centrifugal supercharger kits. The Boxster 718 kit uses a self-contained unit that integrates with the factory intake and cooling systems. Key components include:

  • Centrifugal supercharger head unit – typically an ESS G3 or G2 series, oil-fed and self-lubricating.
  • Cast aluminum mounting bracket that replaces the factory intake manifold support.
  • High-flow air filter and intake piping to ensure low restriction.
  • Intercooler upgrades – the kit often includes an air-to-water intercooler core or charge pipe modifications to handle increased heat.
  • Fuel system components – higher-capacity injectors and an upgraded fuel pump may be required, depending on boost level.
  • ESS-supplied ECU calibration – a custom tune via COBB Accessport or direct flash to manage ignition timing, fuel trims, and boost.

Unlike a turbo swap that requires massive exhaust manifold changes, the ESS kit mounts in front of the engine (driver side) and uses the existing belt drive. The installation is considered a "bolt-on" upgrade with minor modifications to the airbox and coolant hoses.

Centrifugal vs. Twin-Screw Superchargers

There are two main types of superchargers used on Porsches. The ESS kit uses a centrifugal design, which behaves like a belt-driven turbocharger. It produces linear power gains that increase with engine RPM, similar to the stock turbo but with a higher peak. This contrasts with a twin-screw (positive displacement) supercharger that delivers instant low-end torque. For the 718’s turbo engine, a centrifugal unit works well because the turbo already handles low-RPM spool; the supercharger fills the top end and allows the turbo to operate more efficiently.

Power Gains and Dyno Validation

The headline claim of up to 50 horsepower gains is conservative and depends on the fuel octane, ambient conditions, and baseline engine. On a 2.0L base Boxster (stock ~300 hp @ wheels), a typical ESS kit yields ~350–360 whp (crank ~380-390 hp). On a 2.5L S/GTS (stock ~340 whp base), gains push the car to ~400 whp (crank ~420-440 hp). Torque increases by up to 40 lb-ft, notably improving mid-range pull.

Dyno Performance Metrics

  • Stock 718 Base (2.0L): 300 hp / 280 lb-ft (crank)
  • With ESS Kit (pump gas 93 octane): 350+ hp / 320+ lb-ft (crank)
  • Stock 718 S (2.5L): 350 hp / 309 lb-ft
  • With ESS Kit (93 octane): 400+ hp / 350+ lb-ft
  • 0-60 mph improvement: Typically drops from 3.9s to 3.4s (S model)
  • Quarter-mile: Stock S traps ~118 mph; with ESS kit, trap speeds increase to 123-125 mph

Dyno sheets from ESS show the power curve stays linear, with peak power delivered near redline. The torque curve is also flatter, providing better passing power on highways. For a detailed dyno plot, check ESS Superchargers' official site or reputable Porsche forums like Rennlist.

Installation Process: Step-by-Step

While the ESS kit is designed for professional installation, experienced DIYers can tackle it with a good lift, basic tools, and mechanical aptitude. The process typically takes 8–12 hours. Below is an expanded outline:

  1. Preparation – Disconnect battery negative, drain coolant (if intercooler circuit is involved), and remove the rear bumper cover for better access to the engine bay.
  2. Remove engine cover and intake – Take off the OEM air cleaner housing, inlet duct, and the engine cover panel. Disconnect the mass airflow sensor and intake hose.
  3. Install supercharger bracket – The bracket mounts to the engine block using pre-existing holes. It may require slight filing or alignment for perfect fitment.
  4. Mount the supercharger – Bolt the ESS head unit onto the bracket. Connect the oil feed and return lines (the ESS unit is self-contained, but some kits tap into the oil pan).
  5. Install new intake piping – Route the supercharger outlet to the throttle body with supplied silicone couplers and T-bolt clamps. The intake filter is relocated to a lower position.
  6. Upgrade intercooler circuit – Replace the factory charge air cooler with the ESS air-to-water core (or add a secondary heat exchanger). Fill with distilled water and a water-wetter or proper coolant.
  7. Fuel system upgrades – If boost exceeds safe fuel delivery, swap injectors for higher-flow units (e.g., 650cc) and install an inline fuel pump or boost-a-pump.
  8. ECU tuning – Load the ESS calibration via COBB Accessport (or similar). Perform a boost leak test and initial startup. Tweak via datalogging if needed.
  9. Final assembly – Reinstall engine cover, reconnect battery, check for codes, and test drive.

Many owners opt to have the work done by a certified Porsche tuner like B&D Engineering or a dealership that specializes in forced induction.

Supporting Modifications for Maximum Gains

To fully exploit the ESS kit, consider these complementary upgrades:

  • Exhaust system: A less restrictive cat-back or sport downpipe reduces backpressure and spools the turbo faster. ESS tuners can incorporate this into the calibration.
  • Upgraded clutch/transmission cooler: PDK boxes can handle up to 500+ hp, but manual cars may require a stronger clutch (e.g., SPEC or Sachs) due to the added torque.
  • Larger heat exchanger and reservoir: For track use, a larger intercooler tank helps keep charge temps down.
  • Methanol injection kit: For those pushing beyond 450 hp, water-methanol injection cools intake and allows more aggressive timing.

Tuning and Engine Management

The ESS kit is not a "slip-on" part; it requires custom tuning. ESS provides a baseline calibration via the COBB Accessport, which is a well-supported platform. The tune adjusts:

  • Ignition timing – Reduced to prevent knock under boost.
  • Fuel targets – Enriched at high load to maintain safe lambda (0.78–0.85).
  • Boost control – The supercharger adds mechanical boost; the ECU must blend this with the turbo's wastegate duty.

It's critical to stay with ESS's recommended octane (93+). Lower octane can lead to detonation. Always assess fuel quality. A reputable tuner like Southern Sports Auto can perform remote or in-person dyno tuning to maximize power safely.

Considerations Before Installation

Adding a supercharger to a 718 Boxster is a serious undertaking. Evaluate the following:

  • Warranty: This modification will void the factory powertrain warranty. If your 718 is under CPO or new vehicle warranty, understand the implications.
  • Reliability: The ESS kit is proven, but any forced-induction upgrade increases stress on pistons, rings, and rods. For 2.0L engines, the thermal load is higher than on the 2.5L. Keep oil change intervals to 5,000 miles.
  • Compatibility with other modifications: If you already have a tune, you must revert to stock before flashing the ESS calibration.
  • Professional installation: Even if you have mechanical skills, the tuning aspect often requires an expert. Factor in labor costs ($1,500–$3,500).
  • Emissions legality: In many regions, supercharged kits that change ECU calibrations may not be street-legal due to emissions regulations. Check your local laws.

Comparing the ESS Kit to Other Power Adders

What about a simple ECU tune or a turbo upgrade? Here's a brief comparison:

  • Stage 1 ECU Tune: Gains of 40–60 hp on 93 octane, costs ~$700. Simple, but relies on factory hardware. Heat management is limited. No physical supercharger.
  • Turbo Upgrade (e.g., K26 hybrid): Can yield 450+ hp, but requires significant exhaust work, heat management, and increased lag. More expensive than the ESS kit.
  • ESS Supercharger Kit: Adds ~70+ hp on top of a tune, more dramatic power delivery, but higher initial investment ($6,500–$8,500 for parts). The advantage is instant response from the supercharger combined with the turbo's top-end pull.

For a street-focused car that sees occasional track days, the ESS kit strikes a balance between power and drivability. It is less invasive than a full turbo swap and retains the engine's factory internals at the recommended boost levels.

Real-World Driving Experience

Owners report that the Boxster 718 with the ESS kit feels noticeably faster from any speed. The supercharger whine adds an intoxicating soundtrack, and the acceleration is relentless. On back roads, the car responds instantly to throttle inputs, and highway passing is effortless. The added power does not upset the chassis balance—the mid-engine layout still provides superb traction. Many drivers find the car becomes more engaging, with a powerband that encourages revving out to redline.

Conclusion

The ESS Supercharger Kit is a proven, well-engineered upgrade that unleashes up to 50 extra horsepower (and often more) from the Porsche Boxster 718. It transforms the driving dynamics without requiring a complete engine rebuild. Whether you're building a weekend warrior or a back-road carver, this kit delivers measurable improvements in acceleration, responsiveness, and overall excitement. For the best results, pair it with professional installation, a proper custom tune, and high-octane fuel. Visit ESS Superchargers' product page for current pricing and availability. And be sure to join the community on Rennlist to share your experience and find additional tuning support.