Porsche Boxster S, 2009

Porsche Boxster S, 2009

The Porsche Boxster is continuing to expand its lead as the trendsetter in the 2-seater open sports car segment. Already acknowledged as a lightweight athlete with lots of power on very little fuel, Porsche's mid-engined roadster now entering its second generation is be - coming an even greater performer on even less fuel than ever before.

The highlight of the new generation is the six-cylinder boxer engines developed as completely new power units from the ground up, displacing 2.9 liters in the Porsche Boxster and 3.4 liters in the Porsche Boxster S. Indeed, these engines belong to the same family as the particularly efficient power units introduced only recently in the 911 model series.

The new "basic" engine now develops maximum output of 255 bhp (188 kW) at 6,400 rpm, up 10 bhp over the previous model with 2.7 liters capacity. Featuring Direct Fuel Injection, the six-cylinder in the Porsche Boxster S churns out 15 bhp more than before, now offering 310 bhp (228 kW), again at 6,400 rpm.

The gives both roadsters a truly outstanding power-to-weight ratio, each horsepower in the Boxster now required to move only 5.2 kilos or 11.5 lb, while on the Porsche Boxster S the power-to-weight ratio is even better at 4.4 kg/bhp or 9.7 lb.

For the driver this means maximum performance on minimum fuel, particularly with the like - wise brand-new Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or PDK for short. Featuring this unique double-clutch gearbox, the Porsche Boxster S accelerates to 100 km/h or 62 mph in 5.2 seconds, the "regular" Boxster with PDK completing the same exercise in just 5.8 seconds. At the same time these outstanding two-seaters are more fuel-efficient than ever before, consuming 8.9 liters in the Boxster (equal to 26.3 mpg US) and 9.2 liters (equal to 25.5 mpg US) in the S model, in each case according to the EU4 standard and with PDK transmission.

Self-confident looks
The new Boxsters are understandably very self-confident and even proud in their appearance, the extra-large air intakes characterizing the superior look of both models and accentuating their superior performance. On the Boxster two of the crossbars integrated in each side on the outer air intakes are finished in body color, on the Porsche Boxster S they come in black.

The LED positioning lights and foglamps now in horizontal arrangement come above the side air intakes. The direction indicators, in turn, are integrated in the new halogen headlights which, through their two-tube look, are reminiscent of the legendary Carrera GT.

As an option both Boxsters are available with new bi-xenon headlamps with a daytime light function, dynamic curve lights, a headlight washing system and automatic headlight range control. The separate LED daytime driving lights take the place of the foglamps whose func - tion is now performed by the bi-xenon headlamps optimized for perfect light spread and illu - mination to the side.

PDK: shifting gears more quickly, improving fuel economy by up to 16 per cent

Both Boxsters are now available for the first time with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or double-clutch gearbox derived from motorsport and replacing the former Tiptronic S transmission. PDK comes with seven gears and is made up of two transmission units each connected to the drivetrain through their own clutch. One transmission unit comes with gears 1, 3, 5 and 7 as well as reverse gear, the other comes with gears 2, 4 and 6. Gears are shifted very fast, with supreme smoothness and without the slightest interruption of trac - tion, the clutch on one transmission unit opening up and the clutch on the other transmission closing at exactly the same time for an ongoing flow of power.

PDK improves not only motoring comfort, but also allows even better performance and greater fuel economy than on the manual gearbox models. As a result, the Porsche Boxster S, bene - fiting from the uninterrupted flow of power, accelerates to 100 km/h or 62 mph in 5.2 se - conds, the Boxster completing the same exercise in 5.8 seconds.

On the Porsche Boxster S fuel consumption is down by no less than 16 per cent to 9.2 liters/100 kilometers or 25.5 mpg US versus the former model with Tiptronic S, thanks to the optimum shift points and transmission ratios offered by PDK. The "basic" model equipped with PDK even remains below the nine-liter mark, fuel consumption of just 8.9 liters/100 kilometers (equal to 26.3 mpg US) representing a decrease in fuel consumption by 11 per cent versus the former model.

Equipped with PDK, the new models accelerate to 100 km/h or 62 mph 0.2 seconds faster than before thanks to the new Launch Control with electronic power management ensuring optimum acceleration from a standstill.

Launch Control is activated by the Sport Plus button which, in conjunction with PDK, comes both on the optional Sports Chrono Package and on the likewise optional Sports Chrono Package Plus. The latter is available exclusively in combination with Porsche's optional PCM Communication Management and offers both an additional performance indicator and an individual memory function.

The Sport Plus button also comes with a particularly sporting gearshift strategy for the PDK double-clutch gearbox ideally suited for the race track.

Yet a further feature on both equipment packages is the particularly sporting set-up of other vehicle systems available at the touch of a button - for example engine management, PSM Porsche Stability Management, and the optional PASM suspension.

The packages are clearly recognizable at first sight through the activation buttons in the center console and an analogue/digital stopwatch on the instrument panel masterminded through the lever on the steering column and enabling the driver, to mention just one example, to precisely record his lap times on the track.

Suspension even more dynamic and comfortable than before
The exceptional driving pleasure offered by both models in the Boxster range is also a result of the wide track and the newly set-up suspension improving the cars' driving dynamics to an even higher standard despite the enhancement of motoring comfort. One of the features contributing to the re-set suspension is the newly developed tyres offering a further improve - ment of performance together with greater driving comfort by reducing tire pressure on the rear wheels.

The Boxster now comes as standard on 17-inch wheels half an inch wider than before in order to take up the larger brake system of the Porsche Boxster S on the front axle. Tire dimensions remain unchanged at 205/55 ZR 17 up front and 235/50 ZR 17 on the rear wheels. The Porsche Boxster S, in turn, comes on 18-inch rims running on 235/40 ZR 18 tires at the front and 265/40 ZR 18 tires at the rear.

In conjunction with 18- and 19-inch wheels, the new models in the Boxster range are also available with a limited-slip differential on the rear axle. Locking action in this case is 22 per cent under power and 27 per cent in overrun. The result is a significant improvement of both traction and stability providing a substantially higher level of performance on winding routes, particularly on the race track.

Yet a further advantage is the more stable load change behavior. And at the same time the mechanical limited-slip differential, through its particular function, interacts perfectly with the electronic ABD Automatic Brake Differential for optimum traction control, the locking action delaying the tendency of one wheel to spin on a road surface slippery only on one side.

Porsche Active Suspension Management or PASM for short is available as an option on both models. At the touch of a button PASM changes damper forces and thus offers the ideal combination of both a sporting and comfortable as well as a sporting and dynamic suspen - sion, the latter proving its qualities particularly on the race track.

Superior brake system with optional ceramic brakes

Cross-drilled and inner-vented brake disks ensure excellent deceleration and stopping power on both models in the Boxster range. At the front brake energy is conveyed to the brake disks now measuring 318 mm or 12.51" in diameter and 28 mm or 1.10" across by fourpiston aluminum monobloc fixed calipers.

At the rear the Porsche Boxster comes with 20-millimeter (0.79"), the Porsche Boxster S with 24-millimeter (0.94") thick brake disks, in each case measuring 299 millimeters or 11.77" in diameter for optimum stopping power and again interacting with four-piston aluminum monobloc fixed calipers.

Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) available as an option on the Porsche Boxster S open up a new dimension in brake technology and performance in the roadster segment. This very special package of ceramic disks measuring 350 millimeters or 13.78" in diameter on all four wheels as well as special brake pads features yellow-painted six-piston aluminum fixed calipers at the front and four-piston aluminum fixed calipers at the rear, offering truly supreme and, in particular, consistent stopping power and deceleration and therefore ensu - ring very short stopping distances even under extreme conditions.

Comprehensive restraint system with head airbags
Featuring head airbags in an open car, the Boxster sets the standard also in terms of passive safety. The airbags protect the cars' occupants in a side-on collision as an additional safety factor supplementing the side impact protection in the doors, by inflating out of the sills be - neath the side windows within fractions of a second.

Together with the two full-size frontal airbags operating in two stages as well as belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters, the Porsche roadster offers a very high standard of allround passive safety.

Sophisticated interior with new PCM
Both the Porsche Boxster and the Porsche Boxster S come as standard with Porsche's CDR-30 audio system featuring an easy-to-read five-inch monochromatic display. The CD player integrated in this system also plays music in the MP3 format.

Porsche's new PCM Communication Management now even more efficient, versatile and a lot easier to use is available as an option, serving as the central control unit for all audio, communication and navigation features in the car.

The highlight of PCM is the new control monitor with its highly advanced touchscreen. Measuring 6.5 inches, this screen is significantly larger than the 5.8-inch unit on the former model. At the same time the number of control keys has been halved to just 16, again in the interest of extra convenience.

In conjunction with the optionally available universal audio interface, PCM is now also able to control external audio sources such as an iPod or a USB stick.

Further options on the PCM unit are Porsche's new voice entry and the electronic logbook.

New feature is the Porsche Sound Package Plus complete with a radio, CD player and nine loudspeakers available as an option, just like the BOSE Surround Sound System with ten loudspeakers and a seven-channel digital amplifier naturally geared to the car as well as various telephone connection options.

In combination with seat heating, the new Boxsters come as an option with seat ventilation on both the standard seats and the comfort seats in full or partial leather. Particularly in the warm season, active seat ventilation ensures a pleasantly comfortable and dry climate on the seat surface ventilated at exactly the right points where the occupant is in close touch with the seat.

The driver and passenger are able to activate seat ventilation together with the seat heating, reliably removing moisture on the surface and ensuring a pleasant temperature at the same time.

READ MORE - Porsche Boxster S, 2009

Porsche 911 Carrera, 2009

Porsche 911 Carrera, 2009

The very first sports car to bear the Porsche name was introduced to the world in June, 1948. Therefore, as the proud, independent Swabian automaker celebrates sixty years of sports car excellence, it is only fitting that it has a new Porsche 911 Carrera - for many the quintessential Porsche-to help mark the milestone.

The Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe and its higher-performance variant, the 911 Carrera S Coupe, are the most sophisticated, potent and environmentally friendly Porsche 911 Carrera models that Porsche has ever offered.

Despite their abundance of 21st century technologies, the 2009 911 Carrera Coupe and Carrera S Coupe clearly trace their engineering and aesthetic roots to the seminal Porsche. That original car evolved over fifteen years from the highly coveted 356 to the first 911 when, at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show, the ground-breaking 1964 911 Coupe debuted. As a testament to the genius of its design, after more than forty years of development and six generations of engineering improvements, the 911 Carreras still showcase a horizontally opposed, rear-mounted six-cylinder engine carried in a distinctive and instantly recognizable body.
Less Fuel In, More Power Out
Though the 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe and 911 Carrera S Coupe are each propelled by Porsche's familiar horizontally opposed, six-cylinder "boxer" engine, and despite the fact that both engines carry the same displacement designation as their immediate predecessors, both are substantially different than in 2008 model year.

In Porsche Parlance, "S" Means More
The 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera S Coupe, like its predecessor model, is powered by a larger, more potent version of the Porsche horizontally opposed six-cylinder than its non-S sibling. As with the 3.6-liter version in the Porsche 911 Carrera, the 3.8-liter engine benefits from less weight, a two-piece crankcase, improved intake and exhaust, and direct fuel injection. The fruits of these refinements are 385 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 310 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. This is an increase of 30 hp and 15 lb.-ft. of torque while achieving a power output of 101.3 hp per liter, without the need for any form of supercharging.

With a boost in potency, the Porsche 911 Carrera S Coupe with manual gearbox runs to 60 mph (96 km/h) in only 4.5 seconds, on its way to a track-proven top speed of 188 mph (302 kmph).

The PDK driving-shifting automatic transmission shaves two-tenths of a second off the acceleration times of Porsche's most skilled test drivers. The 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) run takes only 4.3 seconds. Track-proven top speed for the Carrera S Coupe with PDK is 186 mph (300 kmph).

Despite its awesome performance the nearly 400-hp Carrera S Coupe carries no gasguzzler stigma. And the added power and torque do nothing to diminish the engine's clean exhaust. Like the Carrera Coupe, the Porsche 911 Carrera S Coupe is certified as LEV-II.
It Starts With a Straight Shot
Both the 3.6-liter and 3.8-liter horizontally opposed, six-cylinder engines in the Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe and 911 Carrera S Coupe are substantially revamped from the similarly designated engines in last year's model range.

The engines still consist of a light alloy crankcase and cylinder heads, and have four valves per cylinder actuated by dual overhead camshafts. Now, for the first time in a Porsche sports car, the engines boast a direct fuel injection system (DFI), which works in concert with Porsche's VarioCam Plus valve lift and timing control.

By injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber rather than in the intake port, DFI delivers myriad benefits. Since the fuel charge arrives closer to combustion than with port injection, throttle response is instantaneous, and the Porsche 911 Carrera driver feels a razor-like reaction to even the slightest movements of his right foot, whether accelerating or lifting from the throttle.

To take fullest advantage of the DFI's attributes, Porsche's engineers designed the combustion chamber and piston crown to maximize efficiency. Those refinements allowed the engineers to design both the 3.6-liter and 3.8-liter engines with a compression ratio of 12.5:1. This is up from 11.3:1 on the previous 3.6-liter and 11.8:1 of the former 3.8-liter. To ensure maximum efficiency and durability, the DFI injectors have been designed and manufactured to deal with working pressures of up to 1740 psi (120 bar) in the combustion chamber.

The fuel injector nozzle is between the two intake valves, spraying fuel directly into the incoming fresh air charge from both valves. This is clearly far more efficient than port injection which naturally leaves some unburned gasoline on the intake walls and valves. The incoming fuel charge further aids the combustion process by cooling the incoming air as it vaporizes, allowing more air to be drawn into the engine for a denser charge and permitting the higher compression ratios. Finally, the fuel and air are mixed more evenly and thoroughly when the fuel is injected directly into the air inside the combustion chamber.

DFI also reduces emissions since the engineers were able to reshape the piston crown to completely direct the fuel charge at the spark plug for thorough combustion. During start-up, the engine benefits from high-pressure stratification of the injected fuel. Then to quickly light off the catalysts, the DFI heats the exhaust rapidly through multiple injection. To increase the temperature of the exhaust gas to an even higher level, ignition timing is very late, further minimizing start-up emissions.

The system also employs multiple fuel injection during periods of combined high loads and engine speeds up to about 3500 rpm-as when the driver floors the throttle at slower speeds. During the multiple injection phases, the injectors split the fuel charge into several successive bursts during the piston's intake stroke. Otherwise, the fuel is injected in one phase during each intake stroke.

As with their predecessors, the new 3.6-liter and 3.8-liter engines are equipped with Porsche's VarioCam Plus intake valve timing and lift system. Porsche's engineers have refined the elements and operation of the VarioCam Plus to optimize the benefits of the DFI. The engineers re-aligned the profiles of both the intake and the exhaust camshafts. The diameter of the intake tappets has been reduced from 33 to 29.5 mm (1.30 - 1.15 in.) and the exhaust valve tappets are down from 33 to 24.2 mm (1.30 - 0.94 in.). This reduction in mass allowed the engineers to safely raise the engines' redlines, from the previous 7300 rpm to 7500 rpm.
Two, Two Camshafts in One
As with all Porsche engines, VarioCam Plus in the Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes adjusts intake valve lift and timing based on engine speed and load, and is under the umbrella of the engine's main electronic controller. Though the VarioCam Plus operates far too quickly for the driver to be aware of it, the results are obvious. The effect is that of an engine with two different intake camshaft profiles, one set up for smooth and efficient around-town driving, the other a high-performance camshaft designed for high-speed. Each of these two designs usually precludes the other and most cars have a compromise of the two. Porsche's VarioCam Plus removes the compromise and the driver benefits from the best of both driving worlds.

Valve timing is controlled via a vane cell adjuster which continuously varies the two intake camshafts positions relative to crankshaft. Valve lift is varied by a system utilizing two cup tappets, one resting in the other. These tappets are actuated by separate cam lobes of differing size. The engine control module directs oil pressure to the appropriate tappet based on engine speed and load parameters. When nonpressurized, the tappet moves under the camshaft lobe, but exerts no pressure on the valve, in effect free wheeling.

Different Size That's the Same

Finally, the various internal refinements to both the 3.6-liter and 3.8-liter engines result in slight changes to their displacements.

The 3.6-liter engine in the 2009 Carrera Coupe now has a 3.21 inch (81.5 mm) stroke, up by 1.3 mm over last year. Bore has been increased by 1.04 mm, and is now 3.82 inches (97 mm). The Porsche 911 Carrera S Coupe's 3.8-liter engine has a 3.05 inch (77.5 mm) stroke, down from the predecessor's 3.226 inches (82.8 mm). Bore has been increased by 3 mm to 4.02 inches (102 mm).

The results of these changes are that the 3.6-liter has an actual displacement of 3614 cc, or 18 cc more than before. The 3.8-liter actually sheds 24 cc and is now exactly 3800 cc.

Getting the Power Out
As before, both the Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe and Carrera S Coupe come equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Commensurate with the increase in power over last year's models, the transmissions in both cars have been strengthened and refined.

Steel rather than brass synchronizing rings as well as thick shafts and wide gears provide strength, yet the transmission's weight is kept down by using extra-thin aluminum in the oil chamber walls. The transmission's internal architecture minimizes splash effect and flow losses, increasing the efficiency.

The gearbox uses wear-resistant carbon-coated synchromesh rings on first, second and third gears. In addition, first and second boast triple synchronizers. Third gear has double synchronizer rings and fourth through sixth gears uses a single ring. Taking advantage of the engines' increased output, the engineers altered Third gear, making it about 3 percent taller than before. This change improves around town fuel economy with no impact on performance or derivability.

These internal details mean the driver can shift more quickly and smoothly, since less force is needed and the linkage has shorter travel during gear changes.

In addition, the wear-compensating clutch which was formerly only found on the Carrera S, is now standard on the 3.6-liter model. As the friction face of the clutch wears, an adjustment ring in the pressure plate automatically compensates for the wear.

All 2009 911 Carrera models, regardless of transmission, also boast Start-Off Assistant as standard. This feature allows the driver to get moving again smoothly without rolling on a hill when starting from a stop. When the driver stops on an incline and leaves the transmission in gear, the Start-Off Assistant maintains brake pressure for about two seconds after the driver lifts his foot from the brake pedal. Then the system incrementally reduces brake pressure. As soon as the driver accelerates, brake pressure is fully released.

Multiple Clutches and Seven Speeds
For 2009, both the Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes can be equipped with the innovative and blazingly fast Porsche PDK transmission. The seven-speed, driver-shiftable automatic replaces the five-speed Tiptronic S as the optionally available transmission.

Though it was developed in the 1980s for the all-conquering Porsche 962 Group C racecar, thanks to recent advances in electronic control technology, this is the first time that the PDK is available in a street-faring sports car.

The new PDK (which comes from the German Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or Porsche double-clutch transmission), like the Tiptronic S, allows the driver to shift up and down using either steering-wheel mounted paddles or the console-mounted lever. Or, if he'd rather, the driver can simply leave the PDK in automatic mode and allow it to operate totally on its own.
Stopping What Goes Fast
Inherent in the Porsche philosophy is that every Porsche must have braking power at least commensurate with its acceleration and top speed capabilities. Therefore, all are equipped with cross-drilled, internally vented four-wheel disc antilock brakes. And as the Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes have more power and speed than their immediate predecessors, they have more braking ability as well.

Keeping Up the Pressure
To ensure optimum safety, fuel economy and performance, Porsche engineers provide Carrera Coupe and Carrera S Coupe drivers with a safeguard against driving on a damaged or an underinflated tire. Both cars come with Porsche's Tire Pressure Control system (TPC). This system uses sensors at each wheel to constantly monitor inflation pressures. The system offers the driver two levels of warning, should it detect a problem.

If any tire shows a pressure drop of more than 2.9 psi but less than 5.8 psi from specifications, a text message in white lettering shows in the tachometer. This warning appears for 10 seconds each time the car is started. If pressure drops more than 5.8 psi, or if inflation pressure drops at a rate of 2.9 psi or more per minute, the warning becomes more urgent and is displayed in red text. This warning appears as soon as the respective values are exceeded, whether the vehicle is stationary or moving.

Sporty Handling = Accident Avoidance
Knowing full well that all vehicles are safest by avoiding an accident in the first place, Porsche's engineers understand that their cars' awesome dynamic abilities are as much of a safety feature as a performance attribute.

To ensure both dynamic safety and an exhilarating driving experience, Porsche's engineers have continued to refine and enhance their cars' suspensions. Building upon a wide stance, both the Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes sit on a large, secure footprint. Both cars have a 58.6 inch (1486 mm) front track. In back, the Carrera has a 60.4 inch (1534 mm) track. With its larger wheels and tires, the Carrera S has a rear track of 59.7 inches (1516 mm). Porsche's engineers then specified a lightweight and technologically advanced suspension system and a low center of gravity for optimum agility and driver confidence assuring stability.
Better Living through PASM
As noted, the Carrera S Coupe comes standard with the most recent version of Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). This system is optional on the Carrera Coupe. For the 2009 911 Carrera models, PASM suspension has refined springs and antiroll bars for even greater comfort. Porsche's engineers were able to accomplish this by fine-tuning the PASM control function, delivering a smoother ride on bad roads in both the Normal and Sport modes with no degradation in handling.

This electronically controlled suspension allows the driver to select either a Normal or Sport setting, depending on the driving situation and conditions. Besides allowing the choice of choice setups, PASM also lowers the car's ride height by about 0.4 inch (10 mm).

Variable-Ratio Steering
The Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes come with standard variable-ratio rack-andpinion steering. This both increases agility and stability at higher speed maneuvers and reduces steering effort at slow speeds.

When the steering wheel is turned within 30 degrees of center, the ratio is to provide a smooth and calm driving experience, even on rough surfaces. However, when the steering wheel angle exceeds 30 degrees, the ratio become more direct, reducing lock-to-lock from 2.98 to 2.62 turns. This gives the driver better control both on winding roads and in slow-speed parking maneuvers.

In addition to the variable ratio technology, the Porsche 911 Carrera Coupes have steering columns that tilt and telescope. The wheel can be adjusted by 1.57 inches (40 mm) in height and reach.

Classic Profile
The cars' profiles are highlighted by the new larger outside mirrors and by the newly designed wheels. The Porsche 911 Carrera's 18 inch alloy wheels have by five double spokes which are arranged so the each pair of spokes opens outward at the rim. The Carrera S has larger, 19 inch wheels which have five pairs of parallel spokes.

The Sound of Music
The Porsche 911 Carrera Coupes' standard audio system features AM/FM radio as well as the ability to play CDs, audio and video DVDs. The standard-equipment BOSE Surround Sound System features 5.1 Discreet Surround Format, and works with a gamut of audio formats: MP3, AAC, WMA, Dolby Digital, MLP, and DTS.

The PCM has an integral six-CD/DVD changer standard which supports the same formats as the single CD/DVD player. Plus, a new, optional universal audio interface connects the PCM to an external audio source such as an iPod or a USB stick. An optional TV tuner can receive uncoded television signals. While driving, only the TV audio plays; when parked the picture is shown on the PCM monitor.

Breath of Fresh Air
Automatic climate controls with air and pollen filtration are standard equipment. The controls for the heat, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) systems are integrated into the center console. Airflow through the HVAC system is optimized by large ducts and side vents.

Ample Storage Space
The cabins in the Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe and Carrera S Coupe offer the convenience of several storage locations. The cars' interiors have a load volume of 7.24 cu.-ft. (205 liters).

A large locking glove box provides nearly 400 cubic inches (6.5 liters) of room and has an integrated CD storage rack and a penholder. The center console includes more than 90 cubic inches (1.5 liters) of storage capacity. This compartment automatically locks with the Coupes' central locking system.

Cupholders are located just above the glove box and are hidden behind a folding cover. When released, the left cupholder emerges in front of the central air nozzle in the instrument panel while the right cupholder rests in front of the front passenger nozzle.
Critical Data
The five dials that comprise the instrument panel are positioned to provide outstanding readability. The faces of the dials are black in the 911 Carrera Coupe and have an aluminum-look finish in the Porsche 911 Carrera S Coupe.
Given the sporting soul of the Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes, the tachometer dominates the instrument cluster. The rev counter is the largest gauge and it is mounted in the center of the display. A digital speedometer within the tachometer's face beneath the rev counter allows the driver to check both vehicle and engine speed in a single glance.

The separate analog speedometer includes overall and trip odometers and is located just to the left of the tachometer. The gauge to the right of the tach includes coolant temperature and fuel indicators, as well as the clock. The oil temperature gauge is at the far left of the cluster with the oil pressure gauge at the far right.

Safe by Design
Thanks to the high- and ultra-high-strength steel as well as the sophisticated spotwelding and bonding techniques used during their manufacture, the Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe bodies are extremely torsionally rigid and flex resistant while still being lightweight.

Particular attention was paid in designing and engineering the junction of the A-pillars and the roof frame, as well as the safety structure involved in head-on and offset collisions, including the transition between the door and B-pillars. Forces in a collision can be transferred through the door, around the passenger compartment to the rear of the car.

A bulkhead crossbar at the front of the car is made from high-strength boron steel and special assembly processes were developed to minimize intrusion or into the foot well in an offset collision.
Six Airbags with POSIP
Occupants in the Porsche 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera S Coupes are protected, in the event of a collision by six airbags. There are two front-impact airbags; two front seatmounted, thorax protecting, side-impact airbags; and the two curtain-style, doormounted, side-impact airbags that are part of the Porsche Side Impact Protection (POSIP) system.

The frontal airbags are full-size, two-stage front units featuring an organic-based propellant. This propellant reduces the stored airbags' size and weight, and aids in their recyclability.

The front passenger seat features sensors that accommodate child safety seats. Should the sensors detect a child sitting in that seat, the airbag is defeated.

The POSIP boasts head airbags that deploy upward from their housings in the door windowsills. These airbags provide a flat cushion that inflates to nearly 500 cu.-in. (8 liters) and are designed to help protect the heads of the driver and front-seat passenger from broken glass and objects that might enter through the window, in the event of an accident.

Sport Chrono Package Plus
Both the Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes are available with the optional Sport Chrono Package Plus feature. Sport Chrono Package can be specified with either the manual gearbox or PDK transmission.
This enhancement package brings specific control maps to the engine management system and Porsche Stability Management (PSM), as well as to Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and PDK on vehicles so equipped.

The revised engine control maps strongly favor performance over comfort and provide even quicker engine response, not only on deployment but also on release of the throttle. This helps the PDK shift even more aggressively.

Stability thresholds allow more lateral slip before the ABS and PSM intervene. On those cars with PASM, that system switches to its firmer setting to provide more agility in cornering. However, in some instances, such as on wet pavement, a softer suspension setting can be advantageous so the driver using Sport Chrono can press the PASM button to return to the normal damper settings.

The Sport Chrono package also includes a digital/analog stopwatch and lap-counting function.

READ MORE - Porsche 911 Carrera, 2009

2011 Mansory Porsche Sports Cars Panamera Turbo Power Pack

MANSORY has revealed today their new 2010 MANSORY Porsche Panamera Turbo program which offers both extra power for the German super saloon and a new styling package. The MANSORY Porsche  Sports Cars Panamera Turbo is powered by the 4.8 liter turbo engine which has a new ECU, larger turbochargers and a and a stainless steel sports exhaust system.

2011 Mansory Porsche Sports Cars Panamera Turbo

The tuned version gets a big 36-percent increase in power and torque. MANSORY Switzerland has unveiled their latest power pack for the Porsche Sports Cars Panamera Turbo. The specialist for fine-tuning Porsche vehicles turns the Zuffenhausen Gran Turismo into a hot-blooded power pack with a 690 HP, a max. torque of 800 Nm and a spectacular body design.

The MANSORY power pack comes the new front skirt with adapted LED daytime running lights in combination with the striking bonnet made of carbon fibre give the front section a distinctive character. At the back of this four-door-car, an enormous carbon diffuser and the centrally located double end pipes of the sports exhaust system render a thrilling atmosphere.

MANSORY decorates the originally hydraulic rear with carbon applications or entirely replaces it with a static wing profile made of carbon. The engineers produce the new aerodynamics components in high-strength polyurethane (PU-RIM) and Prepreg-Autoclav-Carbon, the characteristic material for MANSORY.

The 2010 Mansory Porsche Panamera Turbo Power Pack contains an amended engine electronics, larger turbo chargers and a stainless steel sports exhaust system. Thanks to these modifications, the engine output rises to an astonishing 690 hp / 507 kW (serial: 500 hp / 368 kW) and pushes the torque to 800 Nm at 4800 r.p.m. Therefore, the 4WD-automobile accelerates from 0 to 100 km/ in only four seconds and achieves a top speed of 328 km/h (serial: 303 km/h).

The power improvements begin with a remapped engine control unit, but Mansory did not stop there.  They also added bigger turbos to the all-wheel drive car, as well as a new sports exhaust.

Other features on the car include LED daytime runners built into the new front fascia, a carbon fiber hood, wider flares, and redesigned side skirts.  A new carbon fiber diffuser matches a new lightweight rear spoiler.  Also included are 9x22-inch front, 10x22-inch rear forged wheels wrapped in Dunlop SP SportMaxx tires.

The Mansory Power Pack also features especially light 22-inch forged wheel in turbine design. At the front axle, the 9 inch wide wheels carry the high performance wheels Dunlop SP SportMaxx in the dimension 265/30ZR22 while the rear 10-inch wide wheels are equipped with tyres measuring 295/25ZR22.

MANSORY Switzerland bestows an individual appearance to the Porsche Sports Cars Panamera. The complex refinement turns a sports car for journeys into a characteristic personality – after all a real MANSORY.

Full leather interior, wood or carbon trim, and aluminum pedals are also added, along with a new sports steering wheel.  The Mansory Porsche Sports Cars Panamera Turbo is now available for order.

The MANSORY Porsche Sports Cars Panamera Turbo price has not been disclosed at this moment.

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2013 Porsche Sports Cars 918 RSR Race Car

13-year-old WCF member and Porschephile, porschecarreragtmay6, has created some renderings of a Porsche 918 RSR race car. Based on the 918 Spyder concept, the pictures show a hardcore coupe, wearing some classic Porsche liveries, designed to compete in the GT1 class.

2013 Porsche Sports Cars 918 RSR Race Car

Although these renderings were created back in March, shortly after the 918 Spyder's surprise unveiling in Geneva, they provide a potential glimpse of a race spec 918 in the wake of recent reports that Porsche will field the 918 Spyder at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring in 2011.

The 2013 Porsche 918 RSR Race Car comes with 2 electric motors and a 500hp V8 from the “RS Spyder” LMP-2 car. The 918 RSR Race Car will drop the electric motors, but will retain the KERs and 500 hp V8. Since GT1 regulated no more than 600 hp, Porsche may remove air-restrictors from the engine to boost the output to 600hp.

As a refresher, the 918 Spyder concept featured a 368 kW (500 PS / 493 hp) V8 engine and three electric motors with a total of 160 kW (218 PS / 215 hp). Packing a combined 528 kW (718 PS / 708 hp), the Spyder sent power through a PDK dual-clutch gearbox (with an electric boost function) to an electric all-wheel drive system.

The 918 RSR model will race the same competitions as the classical 917 race car. It will drop the electric motors, but will retain the KERS and the 500hp V8. Since the GT1 regulates no more than 600hp, Porsche may remove air-restrictors from the engine to boost the output to 600hp. The "918 RSR" will be able to hit a top speed of 200mph and will make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in than 3.0 seconds.

It will feature a wider track, redesigned front and rear diffusers, as well as a fixed hard-top roof and a huge rear wing. The liveries on these images were created based off of the classic Porsche liveries and designed to compete in the GT1 class.

The Porsche 918 RSR Race Car will top in the 200mph range and will reach 62mph in less than 3.0 seconds, possibly 2.8 seconds. The weight will be around 1,240 kilos, 2,730 lbs.

The weight loss will comes from the loss of the batteries stripped interior and loss of amenities even more extensive use of carbon fiber and a reconstruction of body work.

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2010 New Porsche Sports Cars 911 GT3 at The Geneva

Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is adding yet another new model to the second generation of the 911 model series: the new GT3 even more powerful, faster, and refined than its predecessor. In developing the most sporting and dynamic road-going 911 with a normal-aspiration power unit, Porsche has applied a wide range of know-how gained in motorsport. Indeed, this is precisely why the 2010 new Porsche 911 GT3 is truly impressive not only on the road, but also on the race track.

2010 Porsche Sports Cars 911 GT3

The 2010 new Porsche 911 GT3 is the latest evolution of an iconic sports car. Embodying the essence of more than 23,000 Porsche racing victories, the 911 GT3 is the ultimate integration of driver and car and arrives in the UK this autumn. The new 911 GT3 is making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 3 March, with Europe-wide sales starting in May.

The Porsche 911 GT3 offers an even higher standard above all in two key areas: performance and driving dynamics. The proven six-cylinder naturally aspirated power unit now develops a maximum output of 435 hp (320 kW), up 20 hp over its predecessor. This results first and foremost from an increase in engine capacity by 200 cc to 3.8-litres and from improved cylinder head gas flow: now not only the intake, but for the first time also the exhaust camshafts, are adjusted by VarioCam.

A further important point is that, through its upgraded power and performance, the flat six 'boxer' engine also offers a significant increase in torque at medium engine speeds, a benefit of particular significance in everyday motoring. Clearly, this also means a further improvement in performance; the new Porsche 911 GT3 accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.1 seconds and reaches 99 mph (160 km/h) in 8.2 seconds. Top speed is 194 mph.

The second emphasis in developing the Porsche 911 GT3 to an even higher standard was to further improve the car's driving dynamics. For the first time, the Porsche 911 GT3 comes with a particularly sporting variant of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), offering the facility to deactivate both Stability Control (SC) and Traction Control (TC) in separate steps. And to give the driver unrestricted, individual control over the driving dynamics of his car, these functions are not reactivated automatically even under the most extreme driving conditions, but only at the touch of a button.

The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) fitted to the 911 GT3 has enabled Porsche engineers to make the springs and anti-roll bars stiffer yet again, thus ensuring even more precise handling in the PASM 'sports' mode. However, the PASM ensures appropriate ride comfort suitable for everyday use when in the 'normal' PASM mode. The Porsche 911 GT3 rides on new, lighter wheels in a racing-inspired design - with a centre locking nut - fitted with ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres. Tyre pressure monitoring is fitted as standard.

Making the car even more suitable for the race track, the new Porsche 911 GT3 will be available with the option of new and highly innovative Porsche Active Drivetrain Mount (PADM) engine mountings. These special engine mounts recognise a particularly sporting, race-like style of driving, making the normally 'elastic' engine mounts harder and particularly resistant. This retains all the motoring comfort of the GT3 in everyday traffic, while on the race track the effect of the mass forces coming from the engine is much reduced, particularly in fast bends and on winding tracks. Yet a further advantage is improved traction when accelerating from a standstill.

Another new feature is the optional lift system for the front axle which is able to increase the ground clearance of the car, at the touch of a button, for driving on bumpy surfaces or steep gradients - for example into an underground garage - by 30 millimetres (approx 1.2 inches).

The Euro base price of the new GT3 is Euro 98,100, in Germany the retail price including value-added tax and specific national features is Euro 116,947. In the USA the GT3 will be at the dealership in October at a price of USD 112,200 (MSRP without taxes).

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2010 Porsche Sports Cars 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Known as the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid, the model hints at new hybrid technology that Porsche Sports Cars will use in its motorsport ventures. According to Porsche, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid will be used as a study to gather information about how hybrid drive will behave under a racing environment and will also help the German automaker study how it can be applied to its road cars.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

During Porsche's press conference here at the Geneva Motor Show, most of our attention was understandably on the 918 Spyder Concept, but the German automaker had several other significant debuts. One was the 911 GT3 R Hybrid, Porsche's first race car to feature electric power sourced from a duo of motors that send power to a generator attached the flywheel. Like many hybrid production cars, the motors are charged whenever the brakes are applied, and the driver can use the extra power for 6-8 seconds for overtaking.

Exactly 110 years after Ferdinand Porsche developed the world's first car with hybrid drive, the Lohner Porsche Semper Vivus, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is once again taking up this visionary drive concept in production-based GT racing: During the Geneva Motor Show, a Porsche Sports Cars 911 GT3 R with innovative hybrid drive is making its debut, opening up a new chapter in the history of Porsche with more than 20,000 wins in 45 years scored by the extremely successful Porsche 911 in racing trim.

Unlike a conventional battery-electric hybrid system the Porsche 911 GT3 R uses a flywheel system, which gathers kinetic energy under braking to power two electric-motors that are mounted in a single assembly and are connected to the front wheel. After each boost of charge, the two motors provide 6 to 8 second jolts of power. The extra power is engaged by pressing a button on the steering wheel, providing up to 161-hp to the front wheels, assisting the 911 GT3 R Hybrid’s 480-hp 4.0L inline-6 that powers the two rear-wheels.

The innovative hybrid technology featured in the car has been developed especially for racing, standing out significantly in its configuration and components from conventional hybrid systems. In this case, electrical front axle drive with two electric motors developing 60 kW each supplements the 480-bhp four-litre flat-six at the rear of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid. A further significant point is that instead of the usual batteries in a hybrid road car, an electrical flywheel power generator fitted in the interior next to the driver delivers energy to the electric motors.

The flywheel generator itself is an electric motor with its rotor spinning at speeds of up to 40,000 rpm, storing energy mechanically as rotation energy. The flywheel generator is charged whenever the driver applies the brakes, with the two electric motors reversing their function on the front axle and acting themselves as generators. Then, whenever necessary, that is when accelerating out of a bend or when overtaking, the driver is able to call up extra energy from the charged flywheel generator, the flywheel being slowed down electromagnetically in the generator mode and thus supplying up to 120 kW to the two electric motors at the front from its kinetic energy.

This additional power is available to the driver after each charge process for approximately 6 - 8 seconds. Energy formerly converted - and thus wasted - into heat upon every application of the brakes, is now highly efficiently converted into additional drive power.

Depending on racing conditions, hybrid drive is used in this case not only for extra power, but also to save fuel. This again increases the efficiency and, accordingly, the performance of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid, for example by reducing the weight of the tank or making pitstops less frequent.

After its debut in Geneva the 911 GT3 R Hybrid will be tested in long-distance races on the Nürburgring. The highlight of this test programme will be the 24 Hours on the Nordschleife of Nürburgring on May 15th and 16th. The focus is not on the 911 GT3 R Hybrid winning the race, but rather serving as a spearhead in technology and a 'racing laboratory' providing know-how on the subsequent use of hybrid technology in road-going sports cars.

The 911 GT3 R Hybrid is a perfect example of the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy, a principle to be found in every Porsche: More power on less fuel, more efficiency and lower CO2 emissions - on the track and on the road.

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