All posts in “Porsche”

Porsche 911 GT2 RS with Manthey kit sets Nurburgring production car lap record

Porsche is claiming the Nürburgring lap record for a production car once more, and it’s doing so with a 911 GT2 RS. However, there’s the slightest bit of gray area with this particular record. The 911 GT2 RS that broke the record is fitted with a Manthey Performance Kit. That screams “modified” at first blush, but Porsche skirts around that issue by saying that it offers this Manthey Performance Kit as a Porsche Tequipment option and sells it via Porsche Centers. This satisfies the “production” requirements, so the lap record is filed thusly.

Mercedes-AMG might be a little chuffed, though. This Manthey Performance Kit-equipped GT2 RS beat its AMG GT Black Series (previous record holder) around the ‘Ring by just 0.316 second. As Dominic Toretto says in “The Fast and the Furious” though, “It don’t matter if you win by an inch or a mile. Winning’s winning.”

Porsche’s official time set by development driver Lars Kern is 6:43.300 minutes. Versus a non-Manthey GT2 RS, it’s 4.747 seconds quicker. Modifications were made to the chassis, brakes and aero components to make the lap faster.

The new dampers in front have three different settings, while the rears have four. A new pad compound is paired with Porsche’s carbon ceramic rotors that is even more aggressive than standard. And the aero improvements include added flaps on the front spoiler, a new rear spoiler, modified diffuser, additional underbody coverings and aero discs on the rear wheels. Downforce in front at 124 mph increases from 108 pounds to 154 pounds. In the rear, it goes up from 205 pounds to 441 pounds. Kern cites the additional downforce as the main additive that allowed the lap to be nearly five seconds quicker than a normal GT2 RS.

Manthey’s last change includes an additional water tank for spray cooling of the intercoolers. The extra tank allows for fewer fill-ups, which is perfect for those who buy the track-focused Manthey kit. Porsche says European owners of the GT2 RS can order the kit now from a Porsche Center. It all comes with a Porsche warranty, and Porsche promises the kit will come to other markets in time.

Related video:

June 24, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche 911 GT2 RS with Manthey kit sets Nurburgring production car lap record
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The new Porsche 911 GTS

It has been 12 years since Porsche unveiled the first 911 GTS version, the ‘Sport’ version so to say of the already incredible Porsche 911, and today they added this more dynamic version to the latest incarnation of the 911 supercar from Germany, and it comes with more power and visual styling to set it apart from the regular 911 Carrera, compared to the current 911 Carrera S and the previous-generation 911 GTS, this new version adds 30 PS to the glorious six-cylinder boxer engine for a grand total of 480 PS (353 kW).

Starting at €140,981, the new Porsche 911 GTS is available in five different versions, either as a Carrera or Carrera 4 in both closed Coupé version as well as a breathtaking Cabriolet, but also as a 911 Targa 4 GTS … yes, you’ve seen that correct, the Targa is only available as a four-wheel-drive variant, but you can get them all in either an eight-speed PDK transmission or as a seven-speed manual, the PASM, or Porsche Active Suspension Management has been fine-tuned specifically for this GTS version.

The impressive brake system from the Porsche 911 Turbo is fitted onto the GTS too, but if you really want to get the maximum out of the special 911 GTS edition you’ll have to opt for the Lightweight Design Package that is now available on this GTS for the first time, and that takes 25 kgs off the overall weight of this supercar that can be distinguished from the other 911 models by the elaborate use of black on the exterior and black Race-Tex microfibre on the interior.

Don’t let the GTS name fool you into thinking there is no turbo on this Porsche 911 version, the 3-Liter flat-six engine is still turbocharged and delivers 480 PS as mentioned above, torque comes with a maximum of 570 Nm, the resulting acceleration figures are 3.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h with the PDK transmission, and getting back to a full stop comes courtesy of the high-performance braking system from the Porsche 911 Turbo hiding behind center-lock wheels, 20-inch for the front with a larger 21-inch wheel for the rear.

All of the Porsche 911 GTS models come with the Sport Design package as standard, showing distinctive trim for the front bumper, rear diffuser, and on the side sills. When looking at the trim around the headlight, including the daytime running light surrounds, these are darkened for the GTS, while the LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) are standard too, however, the GTS does come with unique taillights.

When you would prefer lightweight carbon-fiber bucket seats, lighter glass on the side windows and the rear window, a lightweight battery, and the removal of the, mostly useless rear seats to get rid of about 25 kg of weight … go for the optional Lightweight Design Package, which also happens to come with rear-wheel-steering and some very nice aerodynamic touches.

If you don’t go for the more track-oriented Lightweight Design Package, the Porsche 911 GTS comes with Sport Seats Plus for the occupants with electric four-way adjustments, in front of the driver you’ll find a very nice GT Sport steering wheel and the famous Sport Chrono package, if you opt for the manual seven-speed gearbox, Porsche cuts 10 mm from the gear lever to allow faster gear changes … and just so you get the full acoustic experience, Porsche removed some insulation from the cabin so you can enjoy the sound from the sports exhaust better.

To make the experience complete, the central part of the seats, the steering wheel rim, the door handles and armrests, the storage compartment lid, and the gear lever all get the Race-Tex treatment, a very nice microfibre material inspired by racing, if you go for the GTS interior package you’ll get either Carmine Red or Crayon contrasted stitching, with this option you also get color-matched seat belts, GTS embroidery on the headrest, and the same shade used on the rev counter and Chrono face.

If you are looking to add one of these new Porsche 911 GTS versions to your garage, expect the first deliveries by November 2021.

June 23, 2021 / Comments Off on The new Porsche 911 GTS
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Porsche Macan: Final testing for the facelift

How far can you stretch a nameplate? There are virtually no limits since Ford has decided to name a portly electric SUV the Mustang Mach-E – while simultaneously selling the real thing. Now Porsche is taking the same approach with its Macan: Going forward, there will be an electric Macan – and a conventionally powered Macan.

It’s no surprise that Porsche is taking this dual approach: The Macan is the best-selling Porsche of all, thanks not least to its popularity on the Chinese market.

It is still unclear how quickly electric mobility will take off – or whether alternatives will prevail, such as hydrogen-powered cars or even conventionally powered cars that are more efficient than today and presumably powered by carbon-neutral synthetic fuels.

China, in particular, has taken a decidedly cautious approach on E-mobility, and Porsche understandably doesn’t want to take undue risks with its crossover cash cow. And therefore there will henceforth be two entirely different Macan models.

“When it launches in the 2023 calendar year, the Macan Electric will be the first Porsche off the PPE platform,” says Porsche spokesman Ben Weinberger. That platform is currently being co-developed with Audi, and the Macan Electric is a close sibling of the upcoming Audi Q6 crossover SUV and the next-gen Audi A6, which was previewed with a concept car at the Shanghai motor show this spring.

In off-the-record conversations, we are told that the Macan Electric will come in several power levels, and it is important to Porsche that its range significantly tops the Taycan’s. It will likely come to the US as a 2024 model.

But before that, the brand will launch the next generation of the conventionally powered Macan; we had a close look at a slightly camouflaged protoype. If it doesn’t look a lot different from the current model, that’s because it isn’t. To be launched later this year, it is the second big facelift of a model that initially launched in 2014 as a close relative of the Audi Q5.

What we can expect is a bolder, wider front fascia, and a new rear bumper with a black diffuser. That’s pretty much it, as far as the still-fresh looking exterior is concerned. “A good proportion never gets old,” says Weinberger. The Macan was styled by Mitja Borkert, who is now chief designer at Lamborghini.

Inside, the changes are more significant: There will be a new center console with a large glass area with touch-screen functionality. The number of buttons is sharply reduced, and the infotainment system boasts a 10.9-inch touch screen. There are new materials, the gear selector is shortened, and there is now a standard analog clock. Steering wheels are shared with the 911 – for the first time.

In the new Macan, Porsche will offer three power levels, down from four: The standard 2.0-liter four will now make 265 horsepower and serve up 400 Nm of torque, both significantly more than before.

One level up is the Macan S, powered by a 2.9-liter V-6 that will make 380 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque; that’s exactly the engine that was fitted in the pre-facelift Macan GTS. The ultra-aggressive application is unchanged from the former GTS, and thus Macan S customers get a car that’s a lot more interesting to drive than before.

The GTS itself rises to a whopping 440 horsepower and 550 Nm, exactly on the level of the former Macan Turbo. But the application has been sharpened in order to achieve the more boisterous temperament associated with the GTS nameplate.

The top-level Turbo version is gone; Porsche is not looking to go beyond the 434-horsepower power level, for several reasons: They want to give the uplevel versions of the Cayenne room to breathe, and both the 2.9-liter V-6 and the 7-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox are close to their limits with the former Turbo and the upcoming GTS power level.

The future GTS top model will be lowered and include the PASM system; the dampers are new, the air suspension is stiffer. And an optional GTS Sport package will be fitted with Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), the Sport Chrono package and sports seats.

Our impressions of the new Macan, which will be unveiled next month and launch as a 2022 model, are decidedly positive. It looks like the electric Macan will meet a formidable competitor when it launches a few years down the road…

June 21, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche Macan: Final testing for the facelift
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The new TECHART GTstreet R

20 years ago, in 2001, renowned Techart presented the first GTstreet model, at that time based on the Porsche 996 Turbo, today the base is the 992 series 911 Turbo or 911 Turbo S, but the philosophy behind these super sports cars for the road has remained the same: combine everyday usability with uncompromised track performance … and that is exactly what the new GTstreet R we are looking at today is, a perfect car made even better and more powerful.

The new TECHART GTstreet R comes with up to 800 hp (588 kW) and a massive 950 Nm of torque … top speed of this German masterpiece is 350 km/h, the list price is €73,000 before VAT on top of the base 911 Turbo or Turbo S, that’s about $87,000 at today’s exchange rates, but there is more … this GTstreet R is a limited edition, each one individually numbered on a plaque in the customized interior.

TECHART offered a nearly limitless range of possibilities for Porsche owners, both in customizing as in performance upgrades since they founded the company in 1987, that is why they will only build 87 units in this new GTstreet R program, which consists of lightweight aerodynamic add-ons, complete with a massive carbon-fiber GT rear wing and stunning TECHART aero discs made from the same material.

The TECHART GTstreet R carbon-fiber aero kit has been painstakingly tested in the wind tunnel, the result is a 400% increase in downforce at the rear and a reduction of 45% in lift at the front at 140 km/h compared to a factory standard Porsche 911 Turbo, and just in case you were wondering about the active aero on the base model … this is retained with the TECHART GTstreet R aerodynamic package.

A combination of painted and clear carbon fiber characterize the new GTstreet R, add the special TECHART lettering in the lower front bumper and pinstriping in any shade possible, and the client will have a hard time choosing from all the personalization possibilities, and this continues with the replacement front hood, with aero indents and air vents that are a testament to just how functional the entire GTstreet R package really is, which is also shown in the wider front fenders with their louvers for even more ventilation.

The side air intakes in front of the rear wheels get a new design from TECHART while a pair of amazing looking side sills connect the front to the rear of the GTstreet R, which is where the fun really starts, the iconic GT design is used for a massive rear wing, complete with air intakes that get air tunneled into them by the special roof spoiler, a new engine cover was required to allow the high-performance to be cooled enough, be it on the open road at commuter speeds, or on the race track at full throttle.

TECHART offers two performance upgrades, their TA092/T1.1 with TECHTRONIC management adds 60 hp (44 kW) for a total output of 710 hp (522 kW) with a maximum torque of 900 Newton meters, but the most powerful TECHART power upgrade to date is called the TA092/T2.1, and this option includes new turbochargers and special engine management software changes, including a modification to the transmission control unit … the result is 800 hp (588 kW) and a massive 950 Nm of torque!

And because we all love a nice soundtrack behind the wheel of our car, a new stainless steel sports exhaust system is also part of the GTstreet R kit, hand-welded with two exhaust pipes fitted centrally in the new carbon fiber rear diffuser, it comes with valve control, so you can have a more civilized sound when leaving the house in the morning, but still enjoy some thundering roars on the track.

Now on this edition of the GTstreet R are the aero discs from TECHART, made specifically for their Formula VI Race forged wheel, these discs are made from carbon fiber with a foam core to reduce weight, wind tunnel testing showed these aero discs offer a lower air resistance compared to running without them, the Formula VI Race wheel is a center-lock rim, and the aero discs are fitted in either glossy or matt carbon fiber, or can be color-coded to the car.

The new TECHART Formula VI forged wheels can be ordered with 265/35 ZR20 on the front axle and 325/30 ZR21 on the rear axle, the German tuner recommends the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires for track day use but turns to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for normal road use, as well as an occasional stint on a track.

Exterior looks are important, but if you are a car enthusiast that wants to enjoy this TECHART GTstreet R as much as possible, you’ll be spending a lot of time behind the steering wheel, in the cockpit, so with elaborate customization on the outside, the already very nice and luxurious interior of the base Porsche 911 Turbo (S) couldn’t be overlooked … so TECHART interior manufactory comes into the picture.

The sample car we see in these official photos comes with a stunning combination of classic fabrics, leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber, remember TECHART has its own in-house saddlery that can take the look of Porsche’s historic sports cars into the present, the amazing black and white checkered pattern is just one of those individual touches they can add to the interior of the GTstreet R.

Multiple carbon fiber packages are available from TECHART to convert the interior of the base Porsche 911 Turbo (S) into a CF haven, but on the client’s request the entire cabin, consisting of seats, doors, central console, dashboard, and even the headliner can all be finished in full Alcantara, with aluminum door sills and pedals.

One of the amazing touches TECHART has shown in their previous Porsche interior tuning is their possibility to create a truly bespoke leather perforation combined with their contrast color underneath … on this GTstreet R unit they went with a checkered flag perforation on the door panels and dashboard, also note the TECHART logo is embossed on the top of the door panel by the way.

But one of the most amazing details inside this TECHART GTstreet R is a massive 87 on the center part of the seatback, this is also a perforation that shows a contrast color underneath, and it reminds us of the fact only 87 units will be made available of this high-performance super sportscar from Leonberg, Germany, while the headrest gets a nice GTstreet R embroidery, add some amazing piping and special stitching throughout the interior and this really is a very nice place to be.

Naturally, TECHART didn’t forget the steering wheel, here again with a stunning checkered flag perforation and a 5 mm wide ‘top-center’ mark in a bespoke color, just like the driving mode switch and all the covers found on this steering wheel, also note that all the functions of the base unit are kept in place, like shift paddles or heating … TECHART just makes it look better.

And TECHART isn’t even finished … they are now prepared a Clubsport Package that will come with lightweight performance seats and a roll bar for the interior, but also an adjustable performance suspension as further upgrades for track day use.

June 19, 2021 / Comments Off on The new TECHART GTstreet R
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Record setting Porsche Cayenne

The official unveiling hasn’t happened yet, but Porsche has been developing a high-performance version of their successful Porsche Cayenne SUV over the last months, and the engineers took a slightly camouflaged development prototype to the famous ‘Green Hell’, also known as the Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany … to set a record.

And they achieved just that, the new 2022 Porsche Performance Cayenne managed to set the world record in the “SUV, off-road vehicle, van, pick-up” category with an amazing time of 7:38.925 minutes to complete an entire 20.832 km lap on this famous German track, behind the wheel was official Porsche test driver Lars Kern.

“Over the first few meters of the Nordschleife in this Cayenne, you’re tempted to turn around to make sure that you’re really sitting in a spacious SUV. Its high steering precision and stoically stable rear axle gave me a lot of confidence in the Hatzenbach section,” said Lars Kern, who accompanied long periods of the car’s development.

“This Cayenne model is a top performer. During its development, we focused on exceptional on-road performance. Our record-breaking Cayenne is based on the Cayenne Turbo Coupé, though more systematically designed for maximum longitudinal and lateral dynamics” according to Stefan Weckbach, Vice President Product Line Cayenne. “Its record time on the Nordschleife confirms the dynamic capabilities of our new performance SUV. Furthermore, it’s a typical Cayenne all-rounder, providing a high degree of driving comfort and everyday utility.”

The record attempt at the Nürburgring Nordschleife has been ‘notarized’, the notary public also confirmed this to be a series production model with only minor changes, and those have been installed to protect the driver, like a roll cage and a racing seat, for the record-setting lap the lightly camouflaged Porsche SUV had 22-inch Pirelli P Zero Cora tires fitted that have been developed specifically for this Cayenne version, and these will also be fitted as standard on the production car that will be unveiled soon.

Remember the spy shots of a Lamborghini Hurácan STO on the same track a few weeks ago that caused controversy because onlookers deemed it a Super Trofeo race car with an STO body instead, but if you look closer at the video Lamborghini published, they also had a Urus on the track at that time … will Lamborghini try to set an even better record in the “SUV, off-road vehicle, van, pick-up” category? Only time will tell.

For now, take a look at the official video posted by Porsche on ‘New Performance Cayenne Sets Nürburgring Record’ below:

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June 17, 2021 / Comments Off on Record setting Porsche Cayenne
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The Touring Package is back at Porsche

A lot of people love a supercar with an impressive stance, and preferably one or more wing, the bigger the better, they create downforce at speed, and let’s face it, they look cool, even standing still … but some clients want to buy a car with the utmost performance, but don’t want to attract too much attention … so Porsche came up with their ‘Touring Package’, an option that delivers a top of the line supercar, but with a more subdued exterior, perfect for those that love understatement, but still want all the power possible.

The seventh edition of the famous Porsche 911 GT3 can now be ordered with the subtle Touring Package option, and while the car comes with the six-speed GT sports manual gearbox as standard, there is a no-cost option to have the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission for the first time in combination with the Touring Package.

At first glance, you might think the only difference between a Porsche 911 GT3 and a GT3 Touring is that massive rear wing that’s been removed on the latter, and that is surely the first thing you notice, but the Touring Package is a little more elaborate than that.

To offer the required downforce at speed Porsche integrated an adjustable rear wing in the Touring Package, that extends when required, with 510 PS (375 kW) and an overall weight of only 1,418 kgs, you’ll need all the downforce you can get at the speeds these Porsche 911 GT3 can reach.

But that’s not all, with the Touring Package you also get high gloss aluminum window trim on the sides, and silver exhaust tips, whereas those on the regular GT3 are finished in black, while the entire front bumper is color-coded to the rest of the car when you opt for the ‘Touring’, which she will proudly but discretely show at the rear.

On the inside, there are some bespoke options only available with the Touring Package too, like extended black leather that makes the cabin very elegant, while the front of the dashboard and the upper side sections of the doors come with a special embossing exclusive to the Touring Package.
Porsche already had a Touring option back in 1973, on the famous 911 Carrera RS, one of the most highly sought-after Porsche today, it would take Porsche until 2017 to revive this option on the 911 GT3 Type 991 … and clients loved it so much, they have kept it on the options list ever since.

Enjoy some more photos of this elegant but powerful supercar in our gallery below:

June 16, 2021 / Comments Off on The Touring Package is back at Porsche
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Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Tequipment and Classic divisions

Meeting personal customer wishes is an important part of the global offering from Porsche. The sports car manufacturer pursues this goal with its business divisions Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Porsche Tequipment, and Porsche Classic. The company now plans to respond to the wishes and needs of its customers to an even greater extent with a new and significantly extended range of products and services.

This includes various options for the individualization of Porsche sports cars, turning them into unique one-offs. Porsche is extending the personalization options for individual components directly in the Car Configurator, and is supplementing its offering for new, used, and classic vehicles with a “Performance Parts” range. As part of its Co-Creation strategy, the sports car manufacturer is also offering a new interpretation of the legendary Sonderwunsch program of the late 70s and will make it possible to design individualized one-off cars in the future – co-created by the customer and realized professionally by Porsche.

The range of individualization options for new vehicles currently extends from personal customer consulting during the configuration process through to the realization of limited small series. Through Tequipment, Porsche also offers numerous accessory products and retrofit options for individual customer vehicles. In the area of classic vehicles, Porsche is currently focusing on spare parts supply and factory restorations. The Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer is now significantly extending its offering in all business areas.

“It is our goal to provide customers around the globe with even more accurately tailored and demand-based products within the context of classic, existing, and new cars, and to also offer a comprehensive range of individualization options,” says Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualisation and Classic. “With the new offerings, we are responding to the great global demand for our products. Starting with new possibilities for individualization and personalization of individual components, through the additional range of Performance Parts, up to the realization of uniquely individualized sports cars, we have the right option for every customer.”

Simpler and more personal than ever before: individual enhancements

The Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur is successively expanding the range of products that can be individualized and personalized. Significantly more options will be available here in the future. Examples include various exterior wrap options, individual starting numbers, prints on the floor mats, illuminated door entry guards, and logo projectors in the vehicle doors. In addition, customers can choose to become designers themselves in the ordering process.

The personalization options include individual design elements such as colors, logos, lettering, and text. Using a digital application in the Porsche Car Configurator, it is possible to specify own designs for various items. For example, customers can have their own signature embossed on elements in the vehicle interior. The leather-covered cover on the center console is suitable for this, for example. The range is rounded off by personalized wraps and decals on selected exterior areas and individual paint finishes on the wheels.

New components for GT models and classic cars

Porsche will offer a large number of new components for new vehicles as well as used and classic cars under the name “Performance Parts”. The Porsche Tequipment range for new and used vehicles is aimed at drivers who are motorsport enthusiasts and amateur race drivers. Porsche Classic will offer new developments with a historical reference, components for performance enhancement, and also lifestyle products for both young and older classic cars. These will increase the performance of the classic vehicles or improve their everyday usability. With two show cars based on two first-generation Cayenne models, the Classic division is also providing a preview of possible additional individualization offerings with an outdoor and offroad focus.

Modern and classic sports cars as one-offs according to customer wishes

As part of its Co-Creation strategy, Porsche is now offering a new interpretation of its legendary Sonderwunsch program from the late 70s and will make it possible to design individualized one-off cars in the future – co-created by the customer and realized professionally by Porsche. The expansion of this offering is divided into the areas of Factory Commissioning for individual customer color and material wishes directly in production and subsequent Factory Re-Commissioning and Factory One-Off after vehicle delivery to the customer.

Whereas Factory Re-Commissioning is also aimed at implementation of individual col-ours and materials, the Factory One-Off is a systematic technical new development. Depending on the age of the vehicle in question, either the technical experts at Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur or the specialists at Porsche Classic take care of the implementation.

About Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and Porsche Tequipment

Across all model series, customers can currently choose from more than 700 Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur options. The demand for individualization is increasing all the time. The level of vehicle enhancement is particularly extensive in 25 percent of all 911 models delivered worldwide: they visit the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur work-shops at the parent plant in Zuffenhausen for exclusive re-commissioning.

Sonderwunsch one-offs and limited small series are also produced in the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. Current examples are the Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition and a limited 911 special model which was produced on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Porsche China. Porsche offers numerous accessory products and retrofit options via the Tequipment division. The overall range of initially around 150 parts has continuously grown to now include more than 500 Tequipment options.

About Porsche Classic

Porsche Classic is responsible for spare parts supply and factory restorations of all of the brand’s road-approved classic cars. The range extends from a selection of various accessories and technical literature through to classic spare part supply and new editions of spare parts that are no longer available. Every year around 100 classic vehicles from the Porsche 356 through to the 911 (Type 996) and Boxster (Type 986) pass through the Classic workshop for accident repairs and other repair work. Complete restorations are available for all cars prior to the 996 generation of the 911, the Boxster Type 986, and Carrera GT. The current spare parts range includes more than 60,000 items. This is supplemented each year by an average of 300 new issues of spare parts that are no longer available as well as new accessory, lifestyle, or performance-enhancing parts.

Porsche is also successively extending its international dealer and service network with the Porsche Classic Partner program. These are existing Porsche Centres with specific expertise in handling classic Porsche cars. The network currently comprises 76 locations, including four Porsche Classic Centres.

May 16, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Tequipment and Classic divisions
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RUF at the Petersen Automotive Museum

I’m sure you know what RUF is, and what these three letters stand for in the world of Porsche tuning, in the Bavarian town of Pfaffenhausen, Alois Ruf Sr founded a company called AUTOR RUF back in 1939, when his son, Alois Ruf Jr took over the business in 1974, they released the first RUF modified Porsche, and things went only up from that moment.

Having the world’s fastest car is a thing many want to add to their Palmares, and RUF managed to do that twice already, both the RUF BTR and the RUF CTR were the “World’s Fastest Production Car”, and if you couldn’t really afford one of these stupendously fast, Porsche based RUF beauties, you could still get behind the wheel of these amazing cars … virtually, as they were part of the Gran Turismo video games. Today RUF has become a manufacturer, their current models, which include models like their CTR Anniversary and the SCR, are designed, engineered, and manufactured entirely by RUF using RUF parts including the chassis, engine, transmission, and even the body.

Renowned Porsche-themed event organizers Luftgekühlt have partnered up with the famous Petersen Automotive Museum for a two-part exhibition, where the first part, that’s to open on May 15th, is called the “Pfaffenhausen Speed Shop, The RUF Gallery”, and it will showcase some of the more important RUF creations from as far back as the 1990 RUF CTR Yellowbird.

But “The Vault presented by Hagerty” at the Petersen Automotive Museum will also have a 2012 RUF CTR3 ClubSport, a 2007 RUF Turbo R Cabriolet, a 2016 RUF Turbo R Ltd, a 2016 RUF Ultimate, a 1994 RUF RCT EVO narrow body, a 1994 RUF RCT EVO wide body, and a 2015 RUF RT12R on display for visitors to admire.

“We are honored to be chosen for a dedicated exhibit at the Petersen,” said RUF Automobile Owner Alois Ruf. “From our beginnings in a small shop in Pfaffenhausen, Germany to the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, we have only sought to bring joy through cars. We are grateful to both Luftgekühlt and the museum for helping us spread that joy.”

If you would like to visit these amazing RUF cars at the Petersen Automotive Museum you will have to purchase tickets in advance on their website, also note you will be required to wear a face mask and social distancing guidelines of at least six feet will be enforced to make sure you can visit this exhibition is all safety.

May 14, 2021 / Comments Off on RUF at the Petersen Automotive Museum
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Top Gear’s Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo Review

The new Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is an off-road version of the famous Porsche Taycan, about 20mm more ground clearance and fender flares to protect the paint, because this all-electric supercar feels just as home on the gravel as she does on the German Autobahn, this is a cruiser that can take the entire family, and their luggage, on a fast-paced trip.

The base model comes with 375hp, but the 4S version already delivers 490hp with a 0-60 time of 4.1-seconds and a top speed of 149mph (240km/h), and things get even better with the Turbo edition, 625hp (680hp activated with launch control), and a 0-60 time of 3.3-seconds, and a top speed of 155mph (250km/h). But the one Top Gear takes for a drive in their video review here is the top-of-the-line Turbo S model, 750hp (560kW) when launch control is activated and maintains a zero to 60 time of 2.9-seconds with a top speed of 155mph (250km/h).

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Not so long ago we published the article on the ‘shakedown‘ Porsche did themselves on their new Taycan Cross Turismo by handing over the keys to one of their pre-production prototypes to selected journalists from various countries, the car would be taken to an intercontinental test drive over five countries during which the car would go into five different climate zones … the ultimate real-world test run … so I guess Porsche wasn’t too worried about Top Gear taking their Porsche onto a rally stage.

May 4, 2021 / Comments Off on Top Gear’s Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo Review
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Rothsport 1978 Porsche 911 SC

If you want to really stand out in the Porsche 911 space, then take a look at this racing version of the 1978 911 SC from Oregon tuner, Rothsport. It was created in 2007, and…

The post Rothsport 1978 Porsche 911 SC first appeared on Cool Material.

April 27, 2021 / Comments Off on Rothsport 1978 Porsche 911 SC
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2022 Porsche 911 GT3: Video Review Roundup

Porsche 911 GT3 Reviews

About 2 months have passed since the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 was unveiled via digital livestream on Youtube. While the Porsche brass were by all means generous with providing the important details regarding their latest 992-generation model, the next move was to get the car into the hands of mainstream journalists; their respective megaphones would be used to propagate the message that the new GT3 is everything Porsche described it to be, and more.

Well, after being afforded ample time to become intimate with the car, that moment is now upon us. Today, some of the most renown and respected automotive media outlets published their findings for global audiences to digest.

Here’s what they had to say.

Top Gear

2022 GT3 Top Gear

“It’s more apparent than ever that the 911 GT3 is part of a famous motorsport bloodline. Another phenomenal car.”

Click to read full article

Motortrend

2022 GT3 Motortrend

“What’s now the only naturally aspirated 911 was worth the wait.”

Click to read full article

RoadShow (CNET)

gt3 CNET

“Porsche’s newest 911 is exactly what a GT3 should be.”

Click to read full article

motor1.com

April 20, 2021 / Comments Off on 2022 Porsche 911 GT3: Video Review Roundup
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Porsche WEC entry

Later this month the 2021 WEC, World Endurance Championship, will start with a prologue at the famous Spa Francorchamps track in Belgium (26-27 April) while the first actual race for points will be the 6 Hours of Spa Francorchamps on May 1, but it won’t be until the 8 Hours of Partimão in Portugal before Porsche puts three drivers behind the wheel of their impressive 911 RSR.

Porsche wants to create a perfect synergy between these six drivers (three for each car entered) ahead of the 24 Hours of Lemans which was originally intended to be held on June 13 (which is now the date for the race at Partimão) but was postponed to August 21-22, and with this driver line-up, Porsche went for a proven setup, among them, these six drivers have 59 LeMans participations under their belt.

The Porsche 911 RSR starting number 91 will see French driver Frédéric Makowiecki join Gianmaria Bruni from Italy and Richard Lietz from Austria (the latter two being the pilots for the shorter races already) in Portugal to do a test run for the major event at LeMans in August, Makowiecki has been driving at LeMans for the last three consecutive years already.

The second Porsche 911 RSR, wearing number 92, driven by Neel Jani from Switzerland and Kévin Estre from France will see Michael Christensen from Denmark joining the team, he won the GTE-Pro class at LeMans back in 2018, Neel Jani won the overall classification of the 24-hour French classic in 2016 at the wheel of the Porsche 919 Hybrid, together with Romain Dumas (France) and Marc Lieb (Germany). His five teammates have harvested eight class victories so far with the 911 RSR at the tradition-steeped endurance race at the Sarthe.

The second round of the 2021 World Endurance Championship, held in Portugal, is a perfect opportunity to do a rehearsal run with three drivers in each car. An 8-hour race on the 4,692-kilometer circuit in Portugal’s Algarve is ideal to offer each driver ample track time at the wheel of the 515 hp Porsche 911 RSR to get things finetuned for the 89th running of the long-distance classic in France in August this year.

April 13, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche WEC entry
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Porsche 911 GT3 fine-tuning

The new Porsche 911 GT3 is packed with technical highlights. During development, the engineers pursued one aim in particular: to
further enhance the performance of the high-performance sports car without compromising on everyday usability.

Fine-tuning in the wind tunnel

The technological progress in the area of aerodynamics is particularly apparent. It is the first time that a suspended rear wing has been fitted on a Porsche series production car. Its swan-neck mounting is used in a similar form in the GT racing car 911 RSR and the one-make cup racing car 911 GT3 Cup. Since two aluminum brackets now hold the wing element from above, the airflow can pass undisturbed across the underside, which is aerodynamically more sensitive. This new design led to a reduction in the flow losses and not only increased the downforce but also resulted in well-balanced negative lift conditions together with many other detailed measures. “We developed the aerodynamics of the new 911 GT3 in around 700 simulations. We spent more than 160 hours fine-tuning the car in the wind tunnel,” explains aerodynamics engineer Mathias Roll.

The angle of attack of the new rear wing can be set to four different positions. Correspondingly, the front diffusor can also be adjusted to four positions. “The new 911 GT3 generates 50 percent more downforce than its predecessor at 200 km/h just in the ex-works setting. In the setting with maximum downforce, the increase is as much as over 150 percent,” adds Roll. Similarly to motor racing situations, the aerodynamic balance of the new 911 GT3 can be individually adapted to track conditions and individual driving style.

“Not only are the components very similar to those used in our race cars, but the development methods are also similar,” explains the aerodynamics engineer. “In our ultra-modern wind tunnel in Weissach, we do not just drive straight ahead, we simulate every conceivable driving situation. We make the car roll, pitch, and yaw in order to simulate the physical influences on the track.”

High-revving engine with motorsport DNA

Testing on the test rig during the development of the 4.0-liter high-revving naturally aspirated engine (911 GT3: Fuel consumption combined 13.3 – 12.4 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined 304 – 283 g/km) was even more time-consuming. “In total, the engine in the new GT3 ran for more than 22,000 hours on the test rig. During testing, we repeatedly simulated typical circuit profiles and ran the engine at full throttle for a very high proportion of the time,” explains Thomas Mader, Project Manager GT Road Car Engines. The engine, which responds eagerly when the accelerator is pressed, is based on the racing engine of the GT3 race car 911 GT3 R and is also used virtually unchanged in the 911 GT3 Cup. At 375 kW (510 PS), its output is 10 PS higher than in the GT3 predecessor model. It delivers its maximum power at 8,400 rpm and the electronic limiter only cuts in on this outstanding revving ability at 9,000 rpm. Maximum torque has been increased from 460 to 470 Nm.

As in motorsport, precise valve actuation at high revs is delivered via rigid rocker arms. The proven VarioCam technology ensures camshaft control adapted precisely to engine speed and load condition. A crankshaft with large bearing diameters, wide connecting-rod bearings, and plasma-coated cylinder liners ensure lower friction losses and reduce wear. “The individual throttle valve system is taken straight from motorsport and significantly improves responsiveness,” says engine specialist Mader.

Oil supply like in motorsport

The high longitudinal and lateral acceleration forces produced by the new 911 GT3 on race tracks mean that the oil supply for the high-revving
engine is of particular importance. Like in motorsport, this is performed by a dry-sump lubrication system with a separate oil tank. With a total of seven suction stages, this routes the engine oil back into the external reservoir quickly and efficiently, while lubrication of the highly loaded connecting-rod bearings takes place directly via the oil pump through the crankshaft. “The engine in our 911 GT3 Cup race car essentially differs in respect of just two components: the exhaust system and the engine control unit. Everything else is identical,” explains Mader.

The engine of the new 911 GT3 was also put through its paces by the engineers and test drivers off the test rig. “We conducted 600 emissions tests during development in order to meet the strict standards,” says Thomas Mader. Very strict standards were also applied in terms of the engine’s endurance: it had to perform flawlessly on a continuous stretch of more than 5,000 kilometers on the oval at Nardo in Italy at a constant speed of 300 km/h, stopping only to refuel.

April 11, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche 911 GT3 fine-tuning
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The New Porsche 911 GT3 Went Around the Nardo Ring at 186MPH for 17 Hours

Porsche’s new 911 GT3 was recently put under some serious stress testing at Volkswagen’s notorious Nardo Ring test track located in Italy. The team at Porsche ran the car for 5000km (3,107 miles) at 186mph and only stopping for fuel. This means the car spent a total of nearly 17 hours at full throttle.

Volkswagen Nardo Ring View from the ISS

Porsche has been known to overbuild their cars and the new 911 GT3 is no exception. The car’s engine spent over 22,000 hours being tested on a static test rig under different simulations to prepare for real-world testing. 

Porsche’s engineering team developed a very sophisticated oil supply for the GT3’s engine. The oil supply is almost identical to the one found in Porsche’s race cars and utilizes seven suction stages. “The engine in our 911 GT3 Cup race car essentially differs in respect of just two components: the exhaust system and the engine control unit. Everything else is identical,” according to Thomas Mader, Porsche’s GT road car engine specialist.

Porsche 911 GT3 Testing
Porsche

While the new 911 GT3 isn’t much more powerful than the previous model, it makes use of some welcomed upgrades and proves to be significantly faster. The model has proved to be over 12 seconds faster than the previous generation’s model. Porsche’s official statistics state the new 911 GT3 can hit a top speed of 197mph (317km/h) – whereas the previous top speed was 193mph. 

Porsche has proven to provide a high-performance coupe without sacrificing reliability flawlessly. If it’s Porsche news, it’s always exciting news.

April 8, 2021 / Comments Off on The New Porsche 911 GT3 Went Around the Nardo Ring at 186MPH for 17 Hours
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Jerry Seinfeld’s 2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Jerry Seinfeld might be a comedian, but he’s dead serious about Porsches, and he’s one of the pre-eminent collectors of our time. This particular 2016 911 GT3 RS was custom ordered by Seinfield, and do…

The post Jerry Seinfeld’s 2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS first appeared on Cool Material.

April 7, 2021 / Comments Off on Jerry Seinfeld’s 2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
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FOR SALE: 2018 Porsche GT2 RS Weissach

Up for sale on BringATrailer is this beautiful 165-mile 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS that was originally delivered to The Porsche Exchange of Highland Park, Illinois. At the time of writing, this Porsche has a bid of just $275,000.

This Porsche GT2 RS is finished in Guards Red over black leather and Alcantara and is powered by a 700-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.8L flat-six coupled with a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transaxle.

2018 GT2 RS Weissach Front Angle

This car was factory optioned with a Weissach Package ($18K option), the Chrono Package, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, satin black staggered-diameter magnesium wheels. This beauty also features a factory Bose surround sound system – in case you plan on reminiscing to Daft Punk’s greatest hits or the latest revived Fleetwod Mac classic from TikTok. 

2018 GT2 RS Weissach Cockpit 2018 GT2 RS Weissach Interior

This GT2 RS will come with the original window sticker, four spare wheels, a clean Carfax report, and a clean Ohio title.

Based upon the contemporary 911 Turbo, the 991 GT2 RS features a carbon-fiber hood, front fender vents, side air intakes, and a fixed rear wing. Weissach Package weight-saving measures include a carbon-fiber roof panel and carbon-fiber anti-roll bars.

2018 GT2 RS Weissach Rear Angle

Other amenities among the over $40K in options include Alcantara-covered sun visors, a leather-wrapped steering column, and carbon-fiber illuminated door sills.

This GT2 RS was also optioned with the extended range 23.7-gallon fuel tank – perfect for your next cross country rally. The car features a water-injection system that sprays the intercoolers to lower intake temperatures.

2018 GT2 RS Weissach Side Angle

The auction is set to close on this pristine 2018 GT2 RS on Thursday, April 1 at 4:07 pm EST. This gives you a couple of days to figure out what you need to sell to make room for this track slayer.

March 30, 2021 / Comments Off on FOR SALE: 2018 Porsche GT2 RS Weissach
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1991 Porsche 962CR “Schuppan” Le Mans Race Car

The mid-engined 1991 Porsche Schuppan 962CR is a balls-out, roadgoing version of the 1983 Le Mans-winning Porsche 956. Only six were made, and now one of these rarities is up for action. The 2,300-lb lightweight…

The post 1991 Porsche 962CR “Schuppan” Le Mans Race Car first appeared on Cool Material.

March 24, 2021 / Comments Off on 1991 Porsche 962CR “Schuppan” Le Mans Race Car
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Charges dismissed against Gemballa Mirage GT driver in NYC wreck

Charges against exotic car culture personality Benjamin Chen in connection with a chain of collisions involving a modified Porsche Carrera GT in New York City last year were dismissed Monday. The New York Criminal Court released a statement saying the charges of reckless driving and operating under the influence had to be dropped because they “[…] cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt,” Road & Track reports.

Chen was allegedly driving the Gemballa Mirage GT that left a trail of destruction through the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan last April. Police arrested Chen after the GT struck several other vehicles, scattering debris along 11th Avenue before coming to a stop near 44th Street, just north of the Javits Center, which was still serving as a field hospital for coronavirus patients at the time the incident took place.

Chen is a supercar collector and the co-founder of Gold Rush Rally, an annual rally of exotic and luxury vehicles. This Instagram video surfaced of the hoodie-wearing driver, who resembled Chen, being ordered out of the vehicle by responding officers. 

The Gemballa Mirage GT is a modified Porsche Carrera GT that can cost north of $750,000, depending on how you have it personalized. The car involved in the incident was identified as Chen’s by its custom finish and vanity plate, the former being well-documented online. Chen’s was the 23rd Mirage conversion produced and it appeared to suffer quite a bit of damage. Photos and videos from the scene depict a car with a severely compromised suspension and extensive body damage. However, with the bulk of the carnage appearing to be reserved for the front of the car, this mid-engine piece of unobtanium might still be worth fixing.

March 17, 2021 / Comments Off on Charges dismissed against Gemballa Mirage GT driver in NYC wreck
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