Porsche 997
Porsche 997 is the internal designation for the Porsche 911 sports car manufactured and sold by German manufacturer Porsche between 2004 and 2012. Production of the Carrera and Carrera S coupés began in early 2004, all-wheel drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S began to be delivered to customers in November 2005, the Turbo and GT3 derivatives went on sale in late 2006 and the GT2 in 2007. In addition to the coupé and cabriolet versions, Targa versions of the Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S were also available, which carry on with the "glass canopy" roof design used since its first application on the 993 until the 991, which reverted to the classic targa top layout used on the early 911 Targas.
The 997 was an evolution of the preceding 996, with the most significant changes being interior and exterior styling, the most notable being the replacement of the "fried egg" headlamps used on the 996 with the classic "bug eye" units. Larger 18-inch wheels were fitted as standard, and other engineering changes include slightly increased power; however, the car is technically very similar to its predecessor. A new S version was offered, with additional power from a slightly larger engine, sports suspension, and sports exhaust.
During 2009, Porsche updated the 997 line-up including styling changes, a revised engine with direct injection and the introduction of the company's new "PDK" dual clutch transmission. As a result, the updated 997 models were faster, lighter and more fuel efficient than the outgoing versions, with improved handling. In the case of the 997 Turbo, a comprehensively re-tuned all wheel drive system with an optional "torque vectoring" system was also a part of the upgrades package; in an October 2009 preliminary review, Car and Driver magazine estimated that when equipped with the PDK transmission, the updated Turbo should be capable of accelerating from in three seconds.
The 997 received mostly positive reviews from the worldwide motoring press; even British motoring journalist Jeremy Clarkson, a known detractor of Porsche cars, noted that the 997 will "make love to your fingertips and stir your soul."
First phase (2004–2008)
History and development
By February 1999, just a few months into the 997 development programme that began in the fourth quarter of 1998, designers were already at work on the 997 body design. After numerous reviews during the rest of 1999 and full size clay models built from 2000 into 2001, a final design by designer Grant Larson was approved. Early prototypes were built in late 2001 for testing, based on the newly set parameters. While the exterior styling was revised, it was again more evolution rather than revolution; typical of Porsche. The rear bodywork was a total of wider than its predecessor. However, the most notable aesthetic difference between the 997 and the 996 was the return to oval headlights like those of pre-996 Carreras, with separate indicator units. The interior was re-designed with new controls; however, it was more reminiscent of classic 911 interiors than of the outgoing 996. The body in general remained low profile with a drag coefficient of 0.28 for the Carrera and 0.29 for the Carrera S.Cabriolet
For the first time, development of the cabriolet version of the 997 led the design and engineering effort at Porsche with the coupé following. Porsche applied the logic that if you started with the more difficult cabriolet challenges the coupé version would simply be more rigid. Despite additional weight, the cabriolet versions attain nearly the same performance figures as their coupé counterparts. Even the rear tail comes up slightly higher on the cabriolets to compensate for differences in drag over the canvas top vs. the smoother coupé shape. The 997 cabriolet had factory optional hard tops that provided extended protection from unexpected weather conditions than the conventional canvas top. It is interchangeable with that available on the late 996 cabriolet models. The hardtop provides a winter option to cabriolet owners.911 club coupé (2005)
The 911 club coupé is a limited version of 2006 Carrera S coupé with X51 Powerkit commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Porsche Club of America.The vehicle included an Azurro California-colour scheme, a vehicle identification number which ended with the production number and special commemorative badging and door sills, Sport Chrono Package Plus system, and optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes.
The car bearing chassis number #001 was transferred to the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart, Germany. One PCA member won the car bearing chassis number #050 in a sweepstakes drawing. The remaining 48 units were sold to randomly chosen U.S. and Canadian PCA members. After 2005-08-15, unsold units were made available to the general public.
The vehicle was unveiled in PCA's 50th Annual Porsche Parade in Hershey, Pa.
The vehicle had MSRP of US$99,911 and $145,911 CDN.
Targa
The Targa 4 and 4S versions were introduced in 2006. Like its predecessors, the 993 and 996, the 997 Targa is equipped with a glass roof system. At any speed, the roof can be opened where it drops down 25 mm and slides a metre back underneath the rear window. As the roof weighs an additional, the suspension has been modified as compared to the other Carrera models. When the glass roof is retracted, a small glass deflector is raised above the windshield to aid aerodynamic stability.Unlike previous versions, the 997 Targa was only available with all-wheel drive. Targa 4 models are slightly slower than the hard top Carrera models because of the heavier roof and the all-wheel-drive system.
The 997 Targa became available in the fall of 2006 as a 2007 Model. In the first year, Porsche produced 1,760 cars worldwide out of the 38,922 911 models produced in total.
Carrera S and 4S
Following the success of the earlier 996 Carrera 4S Porsche introduced the Carrera S in 2006 which had power output increased by as compared to the base Carrera.The new all-wheel-drive Coupé, Cabriolet, and Targa versions were later available either in the S version alongside the Carrera with the following additional features:
- increased displacement of the engine with increased power
- lowered suspension with PASM
- 19-inch wheels
- upgraded braking system from the 911 turbo
- sports exhaust
- Bi-Xenon headlights
- aluminium trim in the interior
Turbo
The engine was based on the 911 GT1's design and is rated at and of torque. The torque is managed by Porsche Traction Management system in conjunction with the Porsche Stability Management system in order for a safer utilisation of the torque produced by the engine.
The engine uses two BorgWarner VTG turbochargers, a first for a Porsche production car. The turbochargers are fitted with a two-stage resonance intake system. The Variable Turbine Geometry incorporates guide vanes on the turbine wheel that change their angle of attack with exhaust speed, reducing turbo lag at low speeds while opening up to prevent excessive back pressure at high RPM.
The optional Sport Chrono package allows the 911 Turbo to overboost for ten seconds, increasing peak torque over a narrow RPM range.
According to official Porsche figures, the 997 Turbo accelerates from a standstill in 3.9 seconds with the manual transmission, and 3.7 seconds with the 5-speed Tiptronic S transmission. Benchmark times to 200 km/h are 12.8 and 12.2 seconds, respectively. Maximum speed with either transmission is 310 km/h.
As an option, Porsche also offered its ceramic brake system, PCCB. The advantages of this high-tech material mean a reduction of compared to the standard brake system, excellent fade resistance owing to consistent friction values, and absolute corrosion resistance. The brakes were 380 mm diameter at the front and 350 mm at the rear.
Turbo Cabriolet
announced on 7 May 2007 that the 911 Turbo Cabriolet would go on sale in September 2007. The Porsche 997 Turbo Cabriolet became one of the fastest convertible sports cars in production. It is capable of similar top speeds and acceleration to the standard Porsche 997 turbo coupé, a notable feat due to the typical problems associated with convertible variants of hardtop coupés, such as the poor aerodynamics of a soft top, a lack of torsional rigidity, and the consequential weight increase from structural members.GT2
The 996 GT2 was superseded by the 997 GT2 on sale since November 2007. At its release, the Porsche 997-generation 911 GT2 was the most powerful and fastest road-going 911 ever to have been sold to the public.The GT2's engine was based on the existing 3.6 L flat-6 engine, but features twin variable geometry turbochargers, generating a maximum power output of at 6,500 rpm and of torque at 2,200 rpm. Unlike the 997 Turbo, the 997 GT2 uses a rear wheel drive layout for reduced weight, and boasts a power increase from a newly designed expansion intake manifold, and shorter turbo intake manifolds. Further, a full titanium exhaust system was fitted to the 997 GT2 contributing to reduced weight as compared to the turbo. Despite the power hike, Porsche claims fuel consumption at full throttle is improved by 15 percent compared with the 997 Turbo. The GT2 accelerates in 3.6 seconds to and in 7.4 seconds to and has top speed of. This makes it the first 911 to exceed the top speed barrier after the 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Race Version. The Porsche 997 GT2 has a curb weight of. The only transmission available is a 6-speed manual.
The GT2 was the first Porsche equipped with launch control.
The appearance of the GT2 is slightly different from its sister-car, the 997 Turbo, in a few ways. It does away with fog lights in the front bumper and has integrated turn signals in the front air intakes, has a revised front lip, has a larger rear wing, and has a different rear bumper.
GT3
The GT3 variant debuted at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show alongside the 997 Turbo. Like previous GT3 models, it is a way for Porsche to homologate aerodynamic features for racing, as well as to offer race cars for customer teams. The 997 GT3 was priced at US$106,000. The engine has the same displacement as the Turbo, but does away with the turbochargers and uses a new variable intake system. The engine is rated at and of torque. It has an 8,400 rpm redline matching that of the Carrera GT flagship. The 3.6 L dry-sump engine does not suffer from the rear main seal problems of the earlier 3.6 L/3.8 L integrated dry-sump engines.The GT3's body work includes a special front bumper which increases cooling for the front-mounted radiators as well as a split spoiler at the rear. The GT3 also includes a special rear bumper and center tailpipes which draw heat away from the engine. The suspension system is lowered and the car utilises 30-series 305 mm tyres and 19 in wheels. The car weighs.
The 997 GT3 is more driver-friendly than its predecessor, with "comfort" seats and the Porsche Communication Management system installed.
The special RS model came without most of these luxuries to focus more on track-orientated driving. The RS trim also included a full roll cage and carbon fibre seats along with a large fixed rear wing to add to that race-car-for-the-road feel. The RS version was introduced in Europe in October 2006; the North American release was in March 2007. A racing version of the GT3 RS debuted in 2007, and it was called the 997 GT3 RSR.
The ratios on the six-speed transmission are closer, allowing the GT3 to reach in 4.1 seconds, while the RS accomplishes the same in exactly 4 seconds. The GT3 will continue to in 9.2 seconds and has a maximum top speed of.
Engines
"*" Models with turbocharged engines include Variable Turbine Geometry turbochargers.General performance
The base Carrera has essentially the same flat-6 engine from 996 Carrera. The Carrera S however uses a new flat-6 engine. The X51 Powerkit is available for S, 4S, Targa models, which increases engine power.According to testing carried out by several American automotive publications, the Turbo model can accelerate from 0 to in about 3.4 seconds with an automatic transmission and 3.5 seconds with the manual transmission. The Carrera S model is capable of accelerating from in 4.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of, while the base Carrera model can accelerate from in 4.8 seconds, and can attain a top speed of.
The viscous clutch all wheel drive system sends between 5% and 40% of engine torque to the front wheels as per need.
Second phase (2009–2012)
The 997 received a mid-cycle refresh in 2008 for the 2009 model year. The updated model range was unveiled at the Paris Auto Show in September 2008. The updated Porsche 911 included the following changes:- New engine with direct fuel injection. The engine is mounted lower in the tail section
- Revised suspension system
- Revised front bumper with larger air intakes
- Headlamps with LED daytime running lights and newly optional dual HID projectors
- Revised rear bumper with a new LED tail lights design, AWD models included a reflective stripe between the tail lights
- Revised exterior mirrors
- Redesigned Porsche Sports Exhaust
- Redesigned PCM system with touch-screen and optional hard-drive navigation and Bluetooth.
- Tiptronic S option replaced with Porsche Doppelkupplung.
On 6 June 2008, these changes to the Porsche 911 were revealed on the Porsche website. The Turbo would have to wait until the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, thereafter the Turbo-based GT2 would receive the updated changes.
Models
| Model | MSRP | Horsepower, engine | 0-60 mph 0–97 km/h* | Top speed |
| 911 Carrera | $77,800 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.6 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.7 seconds | |
| 911 Carrera S | $90,500 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.8 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.5 seconds | |
| 911 Carrera Cabriolet | $87,000 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.6 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.9 seconds | |
| 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | $97,700 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.8 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.7 seconds | |
| 911 Carrera 4 | $82,500 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.6 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.8 seconds | |
| 911 Carrera 4S | $93,200 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.8 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.5 seconds | |
| 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet | $93,200 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.6 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 5.0 seconds | |
| 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | $103,900 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.8 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.7 seconds | |
| 911 Targa 4 | $90,400 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.6 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 5.0 seconds | |
| 911 Targa 4S | $101,100 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.8 L Flat-6 with integrated dry sump | 4.7 seconds | |
| 911 Turbo | $132,800 | at 6,000 rpm, 3.8 L twin-turbocharged Flat-6 with dry sump | 3.5 seconds | |
| 911 Turbo S | $160,700 | at 6,250-6750 rpm, 3.8 L twin-turbocharged Flat-6 with dry sump | 3.1 seconds | |
| 911 Turbo Cabriolet | $142,800 | at 6,000 rpm, 3.8 L twin-turbocharged Flat-6 with dry sump | 3.6 seconds | |
| 911 Turbo S Cabriolet | $172,100 | at 6,250-6750 rpm, 3.8 L twin-turbocharged Flat-6 with dry sump | 3.1 seconds | |
| 911 GT3 | $115,700 | at 7,600 rpm, 3.8 L Flat-6 with dry sump | 4.0 seconds | |
| 911 GT3 RS | $135,500 | at 7,600 rpm, 3.8 L Flat-6 with dry sump | 3.8 seconds | |
| 911 GT3 RS 4.0 | $180,000 | at 8,500 rpm, 4.0 L Flat-6 with dry sump | 3.8 seconds | |
| 911 GT2 RS | $245,000 | at 6,500 rpm, 3.6 L twin-turbocharged Flat-6 with dry sump | 3.4 seconds |
Notes:
- MSRP prices are set to the United States. In Europe, prices are considerably higher and in some countries can even be double the price quoted for North American markets, mainly due to higher local tax rates.
- Integrated dry sump in all but GT3, GT3 RS, GT2 RS and Turbo variants which have a dry sump with external oil reservoir and 7 pumps instead of only 3 in the less powerful versions.
- Integrated dry sump is Porsche's name for a dry sump lubrication system integrated within the engine block, i.e. no separate oil reservoir.
Targa (2009–2012)
Turbo/Turbo Cabriolet (2010–2013)
The facelifted version of the 997 Turbo was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It received a completely new 6-cylinder, 3.8 litre boxer engine generating a maximum power output of and of torque with revised BorgWarner variable turbine geometry turbochargers. The new engine used the same construction as other 997 Gen II DFI engines. The previous engine's Nikasil cylinder liners were replaced with an Alusil block that combined the cylinders and crankcase into an integrated casting for each bank, thus reducing weight. The dry sump lubrication system in the Turbo is different from other 911 models in that it uses integrated oil reservoirs at the bottom of the engine, separate from the crank case and utilises six oil pumps due to the forced induction nature of the engine. The engine gets the direct fuel injection and a compression ratio of 9.8:1. The intake manifold is a slightly larger unit, adopted from the outgoing GT2 along with slightly larger intake valves, wheels for the Turbochargers and intercoolers. The exhaust system is also more refined and aids in the power increase while improving fuel economy. The overall result is an engine that is lighter than the previous engine and has a peak turbo-boost of 11.6 psi.The suspension system was also revised and had a new software to enhance handling. The all-wheel-drive system from BorgWarner also received new software for more linear delivery of power to the front wheels.
The Turbo was available with a manual gearbox or the optional 7-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox, which replaced the Tiptronic. With PDK and the also optional sport-chrono package, which includes the availability of an electronically controlled launch control and an overboost-function for temporarily increasing the turbo-pressure, Porsche claimed the 911 turbo would accelerate from in 3.4 seconds and attain a top-speed of.
The model could also be ordered with PTV, Porsche Torque Vectoring, which will brake the inner wheel to provide turning-torque through a curve. The look of the facelifted model was left mostly untouched from the original 997 turbo. The taillights were updated to LED to match the 997 Gen II along with changes to the front lamps. The exhaust pipes are now also "fatter" and the standard 19 in wheels now have a new design. Thanks to revised dynamics the facelifted 997 can handle 1.3 g forces on a skid-pad according to Porsche. It is believed that the updated 997 Turbo was benchmarked against the Nissan GT-R in response to 3rd party testing between the 997 Turbo and the GT-R.
Models equipped with the PDK also include an optional 3-spoke steering wheel with gearshift paddles as an alternative to the standard steering wheel with shift buttons.
Production versions went on sale in Germany in November 2009. European models had an MSRP of €122,400 for the Coupé and €131,800 for the Cabriolet.
Turbo S (2010–2013)
A more powerful version of the Turbo called the Turbo S was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2010. Available only with the 7-speed PDK transmission and carbon ceramic brakes along with the Sport Chrono package as standard, the engine in the Turbo S was tuned to generate an extra power output of more than the standard Turbo, bringing the total to at 6,000 rpm and of torque. The engine had revised intake valve timing and a new carbon fibre airbox installed to achieve this feat. European deliveries were scheduled for May 2010 with production ending in autumn of 2012. The Turbo S was Porsche's fastest production car to date at the time of its introduction alongside the GT2 RS, having a acceleration time of 3.3 seconds and acceleration time of 10.8 seconds while ultimately reaching a maximum speed of. Maximum torque of was available between 2,100 rpm and 4,250 rpm. The 911 Turbo S, by contrast to the regular Turbo, was configured to operate with a higher boost pressure level, which means that their maximum torque of was available for an unlimited period.GT3 (2010–2012)
The updated Porsche 911 GT3 was unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, and became available in Europe starting in May, and in the US starting in October. The car now featured vents between the tail lights, a larger rear wing with "3.8" lettering on either side of the wing to denote the increase in engine displacement, forged pistons, lightweight valves and hollow camshafts in order to make the engine light weight, a special 6-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option with shorter gear ratios in order to feed optimum power to the rear wheels. Total downforce was doubled, and for the first time stability control was offered to help less experienced drivers. The new 3.8-litre flat-6 engine was now rated at at 7,600 rpm and at 6,250 rpm with a maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm. The sport mode when activated, delivers an additional of torque to the rear wheels.Equipment
The GT3 and GT3 RS were developed by Porsche's Motorsport Division in Weissach. Sales began in September 2009 for all regions except China. Features included titanium double exhaust pipes, carbon fibre rear spoiler lip and rear lid ram air scoop, carbon fibre front above bumper air outlet and rear-view mirrors, aluminium 19in forged alloy wheels made specifically for the car with central locking nuts. The GT3 was available with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres having a size of 235/35-19 at the front and 305/30-19 at the rear. A roll cage and a fire extinguisher was optional in the UK.GT3 RS (2010–2012)
The GT3 RS is a high performance version of the GT3 with a higher engine power output, lower weight and shorter transmission ratios, as well as having upgraded body and suspension components, designed for homologating the race version of the 911 GT3. The engine was rated at at 7,900 rpm and at 6,750 rpm with a maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm. The "RS" stands for "rennsport", the German word for "racing".The transmission has shorter ratios than found in the 911 GT3 for improved acceleration. Dynamic engine mounts are standard and serve to improve the car's handling to an even higher level. Other features include PASM suspension, titanium connecting rods, a wider front and rear track, a large fixed rear wing made from carbon fibre, a standard roll cage, and corresponding decals.
Optional equipment included a lithium-ion battery, which is lighter than the stock lead-acid battery. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. The US model was set to go on sale in early spring of 2010 with an MSRP of US$132,800.
GT3 Cup (2009)
Unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the GT3 Cup is a Porsche Carrera Cup race car based on the 911 GT3 RS. It includes a wider rear body, lower front spoiler, rear wing, LED taillights, a racing exhaust system with a fully controlled catalytic converter, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes. 9.5Jx18 front alloy wheels with 24/64-18 Michelin racing tyres and 12Jx18 alloy wheels with 27/68-18 tyres, additional Unibal joints on the track control arms and front and rear sword-shaped anti-roll bars with seven position settings each, an additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, steering wheel mounted Info Display with 6 switches.Production model began delivery in 2009–2010. European model had a base MSRP of €149,850.
911 Sport Classic (2010–2011)
Unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto show, the Sport Classic is a limited version of the 911 Carrera S coupé, inspired by the 1973 Carrera RS 2.7. The engine is rated at and features a newly developed resonance intake manifold with 6 vacuum-controlled switching flaps. It includes a 6-speed manual transmission, double-dome roof, wider rear fenders, SportDesign front apron with a front spoiler and a fixed 'duck tail' rear wing, Porsche Ceramic Composite Braking system, lower PASM sports suspension, mechanical rear axle differential, 19-inch black Fuchs wheels, Porsche Exclusive woven leather seats and door panels, dashboard with Espresso Nature natural leather upholstery, and a specially developed Sport Classic Grey body colour.Sales began in January 2010. European models had base MSRP of €169,300.
911 GT2 RS (2010)
On 4 May 2010, the GT2 RS was publicly unveiled to the German Porsche dealers in Leipzig. The 3.6 litre twin-turbocharged Flat-6 engine in the GT2 RS develops and of torque and weighs less than the outgoing GT2. This allows it to be able to reach a top speed of and accelerate from 0–100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. It was the fastest and the most powerful 911 built of its generation.According to Porsche Motorsports manager Andreas Preuninger, the RS was conceived around 2007 as a skunk-works effort. The 727 code number selected for the project corresponds to one of the Nissan GT-R's lap times around the Nürburgring's Nordschleife. When the dust settled, Porsche claimed that test driver Timo Kluck had supposedly eclipsed that target by an impressive nine seconds.
The GT2 has since then been an RS model only with no standard variant available.
911 Carrera GTS (2011–2012)
In 2011, Porsche launched a new, mid-level 911 coming in above the Carrera and below the GT3. Ranging from $103,100 to US$112,900, the Carrera GTS was available as both a coupé and cabriolet, the car gets a wider body and track – the only Carrera variant with a wide track that is also rear wheel drive. The car also has an upgraded 3.8-litre engine generating a maximum power output of. The Carrera 4 GTS equipped with all-wheel-drive was unveiled in May 2011. In addition to the AWD system, the Carrera 4 GTS can be identified by a distinct reflective stripe between the tail lights.911 Speedster (2011)
In 2011, Porsche introduced a new 911 Speedster variant having a production run of 356 units only, the production number coming from the iconic car of the 1950s. It was the third production 911 Speedster made, preceded by the 930 and 964 generations. The Speedster was powered by the same engine as the Carrera GTS, and generated a maximum power output of. It can accelerate from in 4.2 seconds to a top speed of around. Only two colours were offered, Pure Blue and Carrara White..The Speedster featured a windscreen shorter than the standard 997 cabriolet while maintaining the same rake angle along with a familiar hump on the rear section to store the soft top.