Porsche: 911 News

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 04-08-2004, 09:55 PM
  #81  
Shogun Assassin
 
fahoumh's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Kitchener, Ontario
Age: 43
Posts: 3,395
Received 2 Likes on 1 Post
don't know why I didn't reply to this thread earlier.....anyway, it is good to see Porsche going back to the round headlights. The headlights on the 996 always bothered me since it makes the car look too much like the Boxster from the front, at least IMO.
Old 04-09-2004, 06:25 PM
  #82  
 
1SICKLEX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Everywhere
Age: 46
Posts: 12,038
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Go PORSCHE! I am sure the interior will be upgraded as well. The usual more aluminum look.
Old 04-11-2004, 08:29 AM
  #83  
Senior Moderator
 
GreenMonster's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: Swansea, MA
Age: 57
Posts: 35,218
Received 15 Likes on 7 Posts
Link to some more pics. Still has some crap on it to hide some details tho'. Hope you can read german

http://www.hadel.net/autos/html/d_pk..._erlkonig.html

translated page:
http://translate.google.com/translat...language_tools

Preview Pic:

Old 04-11-2004, 11:14 AM
  #84  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Originally posted by greenmonster
Link to some more pics. Still has some crap on it to hide some details tho'. Hope you can read german

http://www.hadel.net/autos/html/d_pk..._erlkonig.html

translated page:
http://translate.google.com/translat...language_tools

Preview Pic:

Wow that thing is completely exposed here with these amature photos. You can see the tape-job they did. Nice find.

Those wheels are unique and nice looking IMO.
Old 04-12-2004, 09:34 PM
  #85  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
AUTO SPIES WORLD EXCLUSIVE: Hot news on the upcoming Porsche 997 - - Source: Autospies


Dear 001,

The new 997 (OK, 911 then) is back - and it's meaner than ever.

I recently visited a secret Porsche testing area similar to Area 51 and managed to get a sneaky (passenger) drive in the new 997.

It was almost production ready, getting prepped for it's public debut in late 2004.

The first thing you’ll notice is the VASTLY improved interior. You were bang-on when you predicted before ANYONE else that it takes a number of styling cues from the Cayenne. But, when you see it up close, it appears far better constructed than the off-roader and the old 996 for that matter. With comfier front and rear seats, finer quality materials and plastic bits that look like they would last more than a week. There also appears to be that bit more room in there as well, maybe just my imagination and good interior color choices.

Secondly you notice something different…the NOISE! Porsche listened to owners complaining about how "quiet" all 911’s except for the GT’s have become over the years and have reworked the exhaust system and engine mounts. They REDUCED the amount of sound deadening material at the rear of the car. The result? ENGINE NOISE…not nasty stuff, but the real snarl of a 3.8-litre 350hp flat six motor in full flight. It is awesome!.

This model was fitted with the new 6-speed Tiptronic, not the expected SMG style unit which is still being developed to cope with the Turbo's expected 475bhp. Still, 0-100 mph in under 9 seconds was fast enough for me.

Back come the round headlights, bigger tail lights and this car shouts 911 at you from every corner.
Specifications still have not been finalized for all markets yet, though 18" wheels will be standard, with leather and power seats etc. Trim levels will increase too, as will prices, solely to widen he gap between the 997 and Boxster. The only thing I was not happy about was the Boxster S white dials which looked a bit cheap. Don't know if they are standard issue.

Needless to say after my ride I ordered mine site-unseen and it arrives in Feb 2005 - can't wait.

All the best,
Thomas Crown
Old 04-25-2004, 12:25 AM
  #86  
Be Strong AND Courageous!
iTrader: (1)
 
DarkSithCL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Joshua 1:1-9
Age: 58
Posts: 9,305
Received 43 Likes on 34 Posts
looks more like the ones from the 80's...mt favorites also...
Old 04-25-2004, 10:03 AM
  #87  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Yeap. That was the intent. Go back to basics with this new 911 car.
Old 05-09-2004, 06:47 PM
  #88  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts



















Old 05-09-2004, 06:50 PM
  #89  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
What is that instrument in the middle of the dash? I hope it's not a clock.
Old 05-09-2004, 09:34 PM
  #90  
__
 
Zoot's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Pa
Posts: 1,743
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Originally posted by gavriil
What is that instrument in the middle of the dash? I hope it's not a clock.
whatever it is, i think it's an eyesore.
Old 05-10-2004, 09:04 AM
  #91  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Originally posted by Zoot
whatever it is, i think it's an eyesore.
Agreed.
Old 05-10-2004, 12:49 PM
  #92  
Safety Car
 
heyitsme's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: philly
Posts: 4,426
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Porsche interiors have made a nice jump up since the cayenne was release, looks great.
Old 05-10-2004, 09:52 PM
  #93  
 
1SICKLEX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Everywhere
Age: 46
Posts: 12,038
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
http://forums.clubrsx.com/showthread.php?t=160014

Some GREAT pics.
Old 05-10-2004, 09:53 PM
  #94  
 
1SICKLEX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Everywhere
Age: 46
Posts: 12,038
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
For the first time since 1977, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is launching two new 911 models at the same time: the 911 Carrera with a 239 KW (325 BHP), 3.6 litre boxer engine, and the 911 Carrera S, powered by a newly developed 3.8 litre engine, which delivers 261 KW (355 BHP). With torque of 400 Newton meters, the S model surges from zero to 100 kph in 4.8 seconds. The Carrera does this in exactly five seconds. Top speeds for the Carrera and Carrera S are 285 kph and 293 kph respectively. The two 911 models from the 997 series will be launched across Europe on 17 July 2004 (with the exception of the right-hand drive market in Great Britain).

Both 911 models have a newly developed six-speed gearbox and a reworked chassis, which includes active suspension as standard in the S model. For the 911 Carrera, this chassis, called "Porsche Active Suspension Management", can be supplied on request. In the "normal" position, PASM provides a sporty and comfortable balance to the suspension; pressing the "sport" button, however, makes the suspension firmer which enables the car to be driven in a particularly agile and sporty way. In addition to PASM, a further option for both models is sports suspension, which is lower by 20 mm, with a mechanical rear inter-wheel differential lock.

The format of the wheels and tyres has also evolved: the 911 Carrera now has, as standard, 18J x 18 size wheels with 235/40 ZR 18 tyres (front) and 10J x 18 with 265/40 ZR 18 tyres at the rear. The Carrera S is equipped with 19 inch rim/tyres, size 8J x 19, with 235/35 ZR 19 (front axle) and 11J x 19 with 295/30 ZR 19 (rear axle).

The design of the Porsche 911 is a logical continuation of the 911 story, now over 40 years old. The result of the new exterior design – including a wider track and more emphasis on the waist – is a 911 which is even more dynamic, clear, powerful and, at the same time, elegant. Other striking features of the evolutionary design are the new circular headlamps with separate additional headlamps in the nose area, more prominent fenders, dual-arm exterior mirrors, altered seam characteristics and a more aerodynamic rear spoiler.

The basis price for the 911 Carrera is EUR 64,700 and EUR 73,300 for the 911 Carrera S. In Germany, these prices (including VAT and country-requirements) are EUR 75,200 for the Carrera and EUR 85,176 for the Carrera S.
Old 05-11-2004, 11:41 AM
  #95  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
First Look! 2005 Porsche 911: 355-hp Carrera S leads 997 model line - - By GREG KABLE - - Source: Autoweek

IT MIGHT LOOK LIKE A mildly facelifted version of today's model, but Porsche says its 2005 911 is essentially an all-new car.

On sale across North America this fall, the latest incarnation of Porsche's legendary two-door, codenamed 997, closely adheres to the company's tradition of hiding significant technical innovations beneath familiar-looking sheetmetal.

Under its mildly more muscular styling lurks a stronger horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, a new six-speed gearbox, myriad suspension changes and variable-ratio steering. There's also a friendlier and more comfortable interior, a host of new standard features and additional luggage space (thanks to elimination of the spare tire).

In what represents a major shift in marketing philosophy-one clearly modeled on that of the smaller and cheaper Boxster-Porsche is launching the 2005 911 as two separate models: a base Carrera running a 325-hp 3.6-liter flat six, and a distinctly sportier Carrera S with a 355-hp 3.8-liter flat six. Until now, Porsche has launched every new 911 as a single model and then augmented the lineup with additional variants throughout its model cycle-a practice that led to the 13 variants of the 996.

Future 997s include Carrera 4 and Cabriolet models in 2005, followed by a Turbo and Carrera 4S in 2006 and race-inspired GT3 and GT2s in 2007. Targa will be phased out due to slow sales and production complexity.

Porsche says the design of the 997 was influenced by the 993 Carrera 4, the last of the air-cooled 911 models. Like all 911 models, styling changes are evolutionary and avoid any radical departure from the classic Ferdinand Alexander "Butzi" Porsche-designed original launched 40 years ago.

Porsche says all body panels except the roof are new. At the front, the corners of the sloping hood are rounded like the Carrera GT to provide a tighter seal. Simpler oval assemblies that sit more vertically on the leading edge of the front fenders replace the teardrop-shaped headlight units of today's model. The front indicators are separated from the headlights and are mounted on the bumper.

The front and rear wheel arches bulge out more to house 18-inch (Carrera) or 19-inch (Carrera S) alloy wheels. Side sills are wider, providing the 997 with a shape reminiscent of the 993 when viewed from above. In the words of one Porsche designer, "The 911 once again has hips."

Taillights wrap further around into the bodywork and are more angular than before. The pop-up spoiler is reworked and incorporates just four cooling slats instead of the seven used on the outgoing model. At 174 inches long and 71 inches wide, the new car is slightly shorter, but 1.5 inches wider than its predecessor. The wheelbase remains at 92.5 inches.

Aerodynamic gains are notable, with the Carrera's co-efficient of drag down from 0.30 to 0.28 in the new model. Lift is marginally reduced for better high-speed stability.

For the first time in 21 years, Porsche is providing the regular 911 with engines of differing capacities. The Carrera retains the 3.6-liter engine, but electronic engine management revisions boost power by 10 hp to 325 hp at 6800 rpm, while torque stays at 273 lb-ft at 4250 rpm. For the Carrera S, increased bore pushes the engine to 3.8 liters, with 355 hp at 6600 rpm, and torque topping out at 295 lb-ft at 4600 rpm. Porsche plans to upgrade the 911's engine to incorporate direct-injection, but this is three years away, according to AutoWeek sources.

Mated to the new engines is a six-speed manual gearbox carrying slightly lower ratios. Porsche isn't talking about a rumored six-speed double-clutch gearbox, but the fact that Porsche isn't upgrading its Tiptronic automatic from five speeds to six signals its intention to offer an alternative, and the more advanced double-clutch setup seems likely.

Underneath, 997 employs reworked MacPherson struts in front and a multilink rear suspension. Together with increased front and rear track measurements, it gets new mounting points for the rear suspension arms, increased spring travel and more compliant bushings claimed to better isolate road noise. An optional sports package is available with firmer springs and dampers, reduced ride height and a more aggressive limited-slip differential. Porsche Active Suspension Management, standard on the Carrera S and optional on the Carrera, uses adaptive dampers from Bilstein to continuously alter the level of damping through normal and sport settings. The 997 also gets a speed-sensing variable-ratio power steering system. Brake size increases, with ceramic discs available on the S.

Porsche claims an 8 percent increase in torsional rigidity and a 40 percent increase in bending stiffness due to improved welding processes, better adhesives and additional reinforcements. One drawback: increased weight. The Carrera is 55 pounds heavier, tipping the scales at 3075 pounds, while the Carrera S tops out at 3131 pounds. But with the increase in engine output, power-to-weight ratios remain the same at 1:9.5 for the Carrera and 1:8.8 for the S.

Carrera's 0-to-62-mph time and top speed remain at 5.0 seconds and 177 mph, while the S improves to a claimed 0-to-62-mph time of 4.8 seconds and top speed of 182 mph.

In a move that is set to make the 911 more user-friendly, Porsche has jettisoned the retro interior theme that has been around since the launch of the 996 back in 1996 for a more modern look similar to the Cayenne. A new three-spoke multi-function steering wheel adjusts for both rake and reach, while the dashboard employs the latest soft-touch plastics and aluminum-look trim.

Pricing for the Carrera starts at $70,065, with the S starting at $79,865.

INFORMATION BELOW PROVIDED BY PORSCHE

Porsche Releases Initial Details of New 911 Models For 2005

ATLANTA, GA, May 11, 2004 – Porsche® today disclosed the first information available on two all-new Porsche 911s destined to be the flagship models for its 2005 sports car lineup. The all-new Porsche 911 Carrera and more powerful 911 Carrera S combine the classic 911 silhouette, a trademark of the model for more than 40 years, with new and more aggressive styling.

Both models feature Porsche’s traditional horizontally opposed flat-six cylinder engines. The 911 Carrera’s 3.6-liter unit produces 325 HP (SAE) while the 911 Carrera S’s larger 3.8-liter power plant develops 355 HP (SAE). Both cars also have a newly developed six-speed gearbox and a reworked chassis, which includes active suspension as standard on the S modelThe new 911 models will go on sale in the second half of 2004. Manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the 911 Carrera is $69,300 US and $101,400 Canadian and for the 911 Carrera S $79,100 US and $115,650 Canadian.

Old 05-11-2004, 11:58 AM
  #96  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Great pics here:

New Porsche 911 revealed - - - Posted by: kak on Tuesday, May 11, 2004 - 01:41 PM CET

Porsche today releases first pictures of its new 911 model. On sale in the UK from September 18th, this latest generation (Type 997) builds on the proven strengths of the 911 model line to move the evolution of the iconic sports coupe on another stage. The established design cues that have made the Porsche 911 recognisable the world over are given new energy, and further changes under the skin provide increased efficiency, more safety and greater levels of driving enjoyment.

Two new 911 models will be launched simultaneously: the 911 Carrera with a 239 kW (325 bhp), 3.6 litre six cylinder 'boxer' engine, and the 911 Carrera S, powered by a newly-developed 3.8 litre engine, which delivers 261 kW (355 bhp). With torque output of 400 Nm (295 lb ft), the S model accelerates from zero to 100 kph (0-62 mph) in 4.8 seconds. The Carrera achieves this in exactly five seconds. Top speeds for the Carrera and Carrera S are 177 mph (285 kph) and 182 mph (293 kph) respectively.

The new 911 models will be launched across continental Europe on July 17th and will go on sale throughout the UK from September 18th. The car will make its world Motor Show debut at the Paris Salon in September.

Both 911 models have a newly-developed six-speed manual gearbox and revised chassis dynamics, which includes active suspension, called "Porsche Active Suspension Management" (PASM). In the "normal" position, PASM provides a sporty and comfortable balance to the suspension; engaging the "sport" function, however, makes the suspension firmer providing enhanced agility for enthusiastic drivers. PASM is fitted as standard on the S model and available as an option on the Carrera. A further option for both models is a sports suspension package, which lowers the body by 20 mm, offered in combination with a mechanical limited-slip differential.

The specification of the wheels and tyres fitted to the Porsche 911 has also evolved: the 911 Carrera now has, as standard, 8J x 18 wheels with 235/40 ZR 18 tyres at the front and 10J x 18 wheels with 265/40 ZR 18 tyres at the rear. For the first time, 19 inch diameter wheels are available on the Porsche 911 and the Carrera S is equipped with 8J x 19 wheels with 235/35 ZR 19 tyres (front) and 11J x 19 wheels with 295/30 ZR 19 tyres (rear).

The design of the latest Porsche 911 is a logical continuation of the 911 story, now in its 41st year. The result of the new exterior design - including a wider track and more emphasis on the waist - is a 911 which is even more dynamic, clear, powerful and, at the same time, elegant. Other features of the evolutionary design are new circular headlamps, more prominent bumpers and wheelarches, dual-arm exterior mirrors, altered seam characteristics and a more aerodynamic rear spoiler.

The price for the new Porsche 911 Carrera is £58,380 (including VAT) and £65,000 for the 911 Carrera S. Both models offer Porsche Stability Management (PSM) fitted as standard. These prices also include UK specification feature content including full leather interior trim and graduated tinted windscreen.

The new Porsche 911 will not be shown at The Sunday Times Motor Show Live at the Birmingham NEC in May.

[source: newspress.co.uk]

Old 05-11-2004, 12:20 PM
  #97  
Safety Car
 
heyitsme's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: philly
Posts: 4,426
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Old 05-11-2004, 05:07 PM
  #98  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
So is that a..."lap clock" in the middle?
Old 05-11-2004, 05:11 PM
  #99  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts


It's more expensive than a Boxster S - and all it does is tell the time! This watch is the Porsche Design Indicator and it costs a huge £43,500. Just a week after we revealed Mercedes' SLR timepiece, it was unveiled at the International Watch and Jewellery Show in Basle, Switzerland.

The first chronograph with a mechanical digital stopwatch display, its grooved inside-strap design matches the tread on the Carrera GT's tyres. Only 50 will be sold each year.



Source: Autoexpress
Old 05-11-2004, 05:20 PM
  #100  
Cost Drivers!!!!
 
Zapata's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: burbs of philly
Age: 46
Posts: 19,392
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
couple of Q's:

- variable steering on a porsche? why?

- macpherson struts????


i'm not all too familiar with porsche suspension setups.
Old 05-11-2004, 08:25 PM
  #101  
goldmemberererer
 
goldmemberer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: West Hills, CA
Posts: 1,736
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
The booty looks a bit ghetto, but great job on the interior.
Old 05-12-2004, 09:02 AM
  #102  
Floyd Mayweather Jr.
 
Black CL-S 4-Life's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: The City of Syrup Screwston, Texas
Posts: 14,078
Likes: 0
Received 5 Likes on 3 Posts
Not a fan of the new styling. But the interior is much improved.
Old 05-14-2004, 05:35 PM
  #103  
Suzuka Master
 
NOVAwhiteTypeS's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: Northern VA
Age: 43
Posts: 7,601
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
wtf is up w/ the 1990's car phone haven't they heard of blue tooth or integration with cell phones?
Old 05-14-2004, 07:20 PM
  #104  
I miss my 03 CL-S :(
 
einsatz's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Washington, DC
Posts: 7,140
Received 445 Likes on 214 Posts
Wow!
It looks great. I'm not sure about the headlights though... that yellow one looks like a VW beetle.
And that interior... on a Carrera? Who would have thought! That's fantastic.
Old 05-18-2004, 02:57 PM
  #105  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Originally posted by gavriil
So is that a..."lap clock" in the middle?
My guess was good:

-------------------------

http://www.autospies.com/article/ind...5&categoryId=8
Old 06-07-2004, 06:19 PM
  #106  
Senior Moderator
 
Crazy Bimmer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Chicago Burbs
Age: 43
Posts: 34,937
Received 638 Likes on 276 Posts
nice!

Old 06-07-2004, 08:46 PM
  #107  
Pit Stop?
 
Minch00's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Orlando FL
Age: 38
Posts: 13,526
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Looks much better in black.....
Old 07-09-2004, 10:00 AM
  #108  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts






Technical Specs Sheet

Options Trim Sheet

Official Press Release from Porsche

Order Guide for 911 Carrera S

Order Guide for 911 Carrera

----
----

Source: Automobile Magazine
Old 07-29-2004, 12:49 PM
  #109  
Senior Moderator
 
srika's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Chicago
Posts: 58,045
Received 9,953 Likes on 5,135 Posts
Porsche 997 test drive (pics and article)

http://www.pistonheads.com/porsche/d...p?storyId=8862








PORSCHE 997 Thursday 29th July

Sebastian Geisler drove the new Porsche 911 (997) Carrera

There he stands, the new Porsche 911. He´s new but still looks like an old friend. The largely unpopular Boxster style headlights with integrated indicators have made way for the traditional round headlights, very reminiscent of the 993 at first sight.

The silhouette of the 911 hasn´t changed a lot in over 40 years but under the skin it certainly has. Compared with the preceding 996, 80 percent of all the parts have been changed.

The 997 model comes in two versionas. The base Carrera comes with 325bhp and the Carrera S with 355bhp. Visually the S is distinguished by bigger tyres and the two double exhausts.

My test car is a Porsche 911 Carrera with standard suspension and standard wheels (still hefty 8J x 18s with 235 / 40 ZR 18 tyres at the front and 10 x 18, 265 / 40 ZR 18 at the rear). The colour is seal grey and the car has a black leather interior.

Inside

Compared with previous models, the interior seems quite a lot higher in quality. The test car was supplied with the optional sport seats that are very comfortable on long distances and provide good support when cornering. The space in the front seats is enough even for tall people, but as usual the rear seats are only good for small children.

Up front the rev counter dominates. The instruments aren´t so interlocked any more and the analogue speedometer is now properly readable. In aadditional there is an integrated digital speedo. Come to think of it the dashboard is in fact very similar to that in the Cayenne.

The 3-spoke steering wheel has good grip, but hides the outside instruments, oil pressure and oil temperature.

The boot capacity has grown a little (5 litres) to 135 litres thanks in part to a Tirefit system instead of a spare wheel. More space is of course available if you fold down the rear seats.

Driving Impressions

The engine of the Porsche 997 Carrera was treated to light modifications (e.g. different motronic, exhaust and airbox) from the 996 and achieves 325bhp (239 kw) with a max. tourque of 273.8 ft-lb. (370 Nm) at 4,250 rpm. The acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0 - 62 mph) is brisk at about 5 seconds.

Inside the sound is more noticable than on the 996 but it's not enough of a difference to annoy. A sports exhaust will be available from October if you fancy a different tune.

The consumption is given by Porsche in EWG-mix with 11.0 litre/100 km, but in practice you´ll find that you have to get on with 13 litre/100 km, under full power even with up to 18 litre/100 km.

The brakes are easy to handle and get a hard grip, even after a few hard braking sessions no fading is apparent. Onlookers noticed that the front of the car gets very close to the ground and you nearly think that it is going to hit the deck.

A Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) is available, but in everyday life the normal brakes are absolutely adequate. PCCB is recommendable if you are a regular visitor on the track - the problems with earlier GT2 about the durability should be past.

The 6 speed manual gearbox works well. The first 3 gears have received steel synchro rings with a carbon coating the from the GT3, but the throws between gears are a bit long for a sports car. A short shift kit is to be offered and should be available by the end of the year.

The electronic servo steering is exact, direct and adjusts itself according to speed of travel. The vehicle stays glued to the road even if you are driving at very high speed - the tenseness in the front is gone. The suspension is far more dynamic, sporty and tight, but without being uncomfortable and makes high speeds possible in curves without the car swaying to one side.

Only on bad roads in town (cobblestones) it is uncomfortable and sends bumps directly to the passengers, but this car feels much better on the motorway and on country roads than in town. The Porsche Stability Management PSM is now fitted as standard and was again modified. On the road you have to be involved in serious situations before it interferes.

In the sport mode of the optional Sport-Chrono-package even allows you drift slightly up to 70kph. For track days you can turn it off and it first interferes again when you brake very hard.
Compared to its predecessor, the 997 is a bit heavier with 25 kg more taking the total weight up to 1,395kg although this isn´t noticeable when driving. For the very sporty driver there will probably be a optimised 997 GT3 in the future...

Price

In the UK the sale of the Porsche 911 (997) Carrera begins in September at a price of 58,380 GBP (including VAT), in Germany the car costs 75,200 Euro (including 16 percent VAT).

In the UK the sale of the Porsche 911 (997) Carrera begins in September at a price of 58,380 GBP (including VAT), in Germany the car costs 75,200 Euro (including 16 percent VAT).
Recommendable is the Bi-Xenon Lights, that shows the road far better. The navigation system (Becker) is also worth recommending as it calculates far quicker than the old system and it finds
an alternative route much quicker.

For the sporty driver the sport seats and the Sport-Chrono-package are worth a thought too. However the Porsche typical long option list gives you a lot more possibilities to individualise your car with other rims, carbon, leather etc. and raise the price by another few 10,000 Euro.

The production for this year is nearly sold out. The new Cabriolet is expected spring 2005.

Sebastian Geisler

Thanks to the Porsche Zentrum Willich (Germany) for the loan of the test car.
Old 07-29-2004, 01:45 PM
  #110  
Burn some dust here
 
cob3683's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Atlanta
Age: 41
Posts: 5,709
Received 13 Likes on 5 Posts
My next car when the warranty runs out on the Merc. That thing is so damn sexy its scary.
Old 08-27-2004, 12:18 AM
  #111  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Porsche: 911 GT3 news

More power, more speed for next 911 GT3 - - Source: Autocar


Porsche is already at an advanced stage of development with its new 911 GT3, caught here undergoing shakedown tests on roads near the German car maker’s Weissach R&D centre. But although the new car appears almost complete, our sources say we’ll have to wait until mid-2005 before it appears in showrooms.

As with the previous two iterations, the new car will come in standard and Clubsport specification – the latter adding an integral roll cage and fire extinguisher for track use. Autocar understands that the GT3 will ditch the old model’s 3.6-litre engine for the latest evolution of Porsche’s six-cylinder boxer unit.

In the 911 Carrera S, the new four-valve-per-cylinder 3.8-litre engine generates 350bhp, but Porsche insiders claim this could jump to 400bhp with the red line extended to beyond 8000rpm and other internal tweaks such as lightweight pistons, more advanced VarioCam variable valve timing and a larger air manifold. That’s up 19bhp on the old GT3 and, with appropriate gearing from the six-speed manual transmission, should be enough to blast the car from 0-60mph in 4.5sec with top speed nudging 180mph.

Underneath, the new GT3 is expected to forgo the new PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) for conventional springs and dampers to save weight. They will be tuned more aggressively than in the standard 911 and provide the new car with a lower ride height. The three-piece alloys of this prototype will be replaced by uniquely designed wheels, exclusive to the new GT3.


Old 08-27-2004, 12:27 AM
  #112  
 
1SICKLEX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Everywhere
Age: 46
Posts: 12,038
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Many have stated the current GT3 is perfect. The perfect sports car. The perfect Porsche. And the worst reviews say it's one of the best cars ever.

It's gonna be tought to beat. Gerat article Gav, not sure how u found this so soon. Props!
Old 08-27-2004, 08:23 AM
  #113  
Fahrvergnügen'd
 
charliemike's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Maryland
Age: 52
Posts: 13,494
Received 1,568 Likes on 985 Posts
GT3s are incredibly popular race cars with Porsche owners. Far more GT3s than I expected at last weekend's event.
Old 08-27-2004, 11:55 AM
  #114  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Originally Posted by 1SICKLEX
Many have stated the current GT3 is perfect. The perfect sports car. The perfect Porsche. And the worst reviews say it's one of the best cars ever.

It's gonna be tought to beat. Gerat article Gav, not sure how u found this so soon. Props!
Actually I saw the same article in Autoweek about three days before I posted this one, but was too tired to post it then. Then I saw it in Autocar again and posted.
Old 09-12-2004, 03:34 PM
  #115  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet - - The two-pedal approach to speed. - - - BY TONY QUIROGA - - PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON KILEY - - September 2004 - - Source: CarandDriver.com


Vehicle type: rear-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 2+2-passenger, 2-door convertible
Price as tested: $136,695 (base price: $130,665)
Engine type: twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve flat-6, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection
Displacement: 220 cu in, 3600cc
Power (SAE net): 415 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 415 lb-ft @ 2700 rpm


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Transmission: 5-speed automatic with manumatic shifting
Wheelbase: 92.5 in
Length/width/height: 174.6/72.0/51.0 in
Curb weight: 3726 lb


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Zero to 60 mph: 3.8 sec
Zero to 100 mph: .9.2 sec
Zero to 130 mph: .16.0 sec
Street start, 5-60 mph: 5.0 sec
Standing 1/4-mile: 12.2 sec @ 116 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 158 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.92 g
EPA fuel economy, city driving: 14 mpg
C/D-observed fuel economy: 15 mpg

Old 09-12-2004, 03:38 PM
  #116  
Burning Brakes
 
FutureBagdA4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Irvine, CA
Age: 36
Posts: 755
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I see these in newport all the time...saw the first one around 4 months ago...why so under wraps?!
Old 09-12-2004, 03:39 PM
  #117  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
A faster than a Z06 auto tranny cabrio. That says a lot.
Old 09-12-2004, 03:39 PM
  #118  
Moderator Alumnus
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Originally Posted by FutureBagdA4
Iwhy so under wraps?!
What do you mean?

See the date of the first post.
Old 09-12-2004, 07:09 PM
  #119  
Burning Brakes
 
FutureBagdA4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Irvine, CA
Age: 36
Posts: 755
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I have seen these on the road for quite some time now...along with the 997...I am just wondering why all this information is just coming out now.
Old 09-12-2004, 08:09 PM
  #120  
Suzuka Master
 
CLovis's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2002
Age: 45
Posts: 7,167
Received 142 Likes on 70 Posts
Originally Posted by gavriil
A faster than a Z06 auto tranny cabrio. That says a lot.
z06 cabrio? link?


Quick Reply: Porsche: 911 News



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 04:37 PM.