Porsche pictures, review, specifications. All Porsche models

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S pictures

2011-12-26T21:47:00.000-08:00

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 Carrera S

Porsche is proud to present the new Porsche 911 Carrera, a completely new generation of the iconic coupe that has been acclaimed as one of the world's benchmark sports cars since its launch in 1963.

Tradition meets modernity

True to the 911 tradition, the distinctive Porsche design language exudes power and elegance. The unmistakable silhouette still catches the eye while incorporating new, exciting contours and precisely designed details; a 100mm longer wheelbase for improved stability and greater interior space; front and rear overhangs are shorter, maintaining the compact footprint that has been a longstanding 911 attribute; the sporting stance is emphasised by the lower roof line and a wider front track increases on-road presence further still while raising the renowned chassis dynamics.

The rear-mounted, flat six cylinder engine is an equally symbolic component of the 911 identity; and behind the rear axle of the new car lies an uprated range of powerful, efficient and evocative 'boxer' engines. The Porsche 911 Carrera is powered by a new 3.4-litre engine developing 350 hp, and the Carrera S features a 400 hp version of the familiar 3.8-litre. These new engines offer performance improvements for both models. The 3.4-litre Carrera with PDK accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.6 sec, 0.1 sec quicker than the prior model. Pressing the Sport Plus button on the optional Sport Chrono Pack cuts that to 4.4 sec. The 3.8-litre Carrera S with PDK can accelerate from 0- 62 mph in 4.3 sec (Sport Plus 4.1 sec), 0.2sec quicker than its predecessor.

All-new lightweight body

Principle among the innovative steps forwards is the all-new, lightweight body, featuring intelligent aluminium-steel composite construction. It is responsible for a significant proportion of the vehicle weight reduction of up to 45 kg. The body structure also delivers significantly greater rigidity, and aerodynamic optimisation - including a wider, variably extending rear spoiler - has reduced the lift generated by the new 911 Carrera while retaining an impressive overall drag factor.

Innovative chassis technology

That the new 911 offers better acceleration in a straight line goes without saying, but it also offers top performance at an unprecedented level across the entire dynamic repertoire. In addition to the longer wheelbase, the greater agility, precision and driving stability are based, among other things, on the wider front track, a new rear axle and new electro-mechanical power steering.

Depending on the model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available as well that further enhance the driving dynamics. That is especially true for the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilisation system, available for the first time on the Porsche 911 Carrera S. The system reduces body roll when cornering, with the result that the tyres are always in the optimal position relative to the road surface and thus able to transmit higher lateral forces. Consequently, maximum cornering speeds are increased, and even faster lap times on racing circuits are possible.

Exterior design

The familiar athletic appearance of the 911 is given further dynamism with a 100mm longer wheelbase, reduced height, and up to 20-inch diameter alloy wheels. At the same time, the typically compact exterior dimensions have been retained. Seen from the front, the eye is drawn to the trademark wide-arched wings, emphasising the wider front track and making the new 911 Carrera models adopt a particularly sporting stance on the road. The redesigned exterior mirrors are now mounted on the upper edge of the door and not as before on the mirror triangle. Not only is this aerodynamically advantageous, it also emphasises the new design line and visual impression of width.

Interior design

To complement the modern exterior, the Porsche designers created an interior style which takes its cue from that of the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted shift lever - or PDK gear selector - located close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion. Classic Porsche style elements are also to be found inside, just as they are on the outside. For example, the instrument cluster with five round instruments, with the central dial naturally the rev counter. On the right is a new, high resolution multi-function screen, just one of the comfort features added to meet evolving customer demands.

Porsche Intelligent Performance

Setting the standard in its class, as it has for generations, the new Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S raise the performance and efficiency standard to new levels. Fuel consumption and emissions of all versions are up to 16 per cent lower compared with its predecessors. Among other things, this is achieved by systems and functions such as auto start/stop, thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world's first seven-speed manual transmission and - in conjunction with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) - a 'coasting' function that decouples the engine for enhanced fuel efficiency when the throttle is closed.

The new electro-mechanical power steering system offers not only the typical precision and feedback expected of a Porsche, but also helps to increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. For example, the Porsche 911 Carrera with the new 350 hp (257 kW) 3.4-litre direct injection engine and optional PDK returns 34.4mpg Combined based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) - 6mpg less than its predecessor. Also, at 194 g/km CO2, it is the first Porsche sports car to sit below 200 g/km CO2. In the case of the Carrera S, with its 400 hp 3.8-litre direct injection engine, economy when paired with the optional PDK is increased by 14 per cent, or 5 mpg, to 32.4mpg Combined despite 15 hp more power. That equates to CO2 emissions of 205 g/km.

Evidently, it has therefore been possible in the new 911 Carrera to extend yet further the span of apparently contradictory attributes such as performance and efficiency, sportiness and everyday usability that has always typified the Porsche 911. It could be said that the new 911 Carrera is thus more of a 911 than ever.

In the UK from December 2011

The new Porsche 911 Carrera celebrates its world premiere at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show and the new 911 models will be in UK Porsche Centres from December 17 2011.

The Porsche 911 Carrera is priced from £71,449 and the Porsche 911 Carrera S is priced from £81,242. Standard equipment on all models is leather interior, sports seats, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, 7-inch colour touch-screen Porsche Communication Management with satellite navigation, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity, Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and a three year warranty.

The Carrera S adds 20-inch alloy wheels, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with rear limited slip differential, in addition to the power advantage of the larger 3.8-litre engine.

Fitted to every 911 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

2011 Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid | PORSCHE PICTURES |

2011-12-12T02:10:00.000-08:00

2011 Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2011 Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

A Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid with innovative hybrid drive will be unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, taking the evolution of the iconic sports coupe to new levels in motor sport and opening a new chapter in an illustrious racing record that has witnessed more than 20,000 victories in 45 years.

After its debut in Switzerland, the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid will be tested in long-distance races around the Nürburgring, Germany. The highlight of this test programme will be the 24 Hours race around the 14-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit on 15/16 May 2010. However, the focus is not on the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid winning the race but rather serving as a spearhead for the technology and a 'racing laboratory' that will provide invaluable knowledge and insight on the subsequent use of hybrid technology in road-going Porsche sports cars.

110 years since Ferdinand Porsche - the company's founder - developed the world's first car with hybrid drive, the Lohner Porsche Semper Vivus, it is entirely appropriate that Porsche is once again employing this visionary drive concept in a production car-based GT racing programme.

The hybrid technology featured in the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid has been developed especially for racing, and is set apart from conventional hybrid systems in its configuration and choice of components. Uniquely, an electrical front axle drive with two electric motors each developing 60 kW supplements the familiar 480 hp (353 kW) four-litre flat-six 'boxer' petrol engine at the rear of the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid. Consequently, the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid has four driven wheels, offering even greater traction and agility.

A further significant point is that instead of the usual batteries of a conventional hybrid-powered road car, this 911 features an electric flywheel power generator - mounted inside the cockpit beside the driver - that delivers energy to the electric motors on the front axle.

The flywheel generator itself is an electric motor - with its rotor capable of spinning at speeds of up to 40,000 rpm - and stores energy mechanically as rotation, or kinetic, energy. The flywheel generator is charged-up whenever the driver applies the brakes, with the two electric motors reversing their function on the front axle and acting themselves as generators.

The driver is able to call upon this extra energy from the charged flywheel generator at his command for competitive advantage, such as when accelerating out of a bend or overtaking. The flywheel generator is slowed down electromagnetically in the generator mode and able to supply up to 120 kW to the two electric motors at the front axle from its resource of kinetic energy. This additional power is available to the driver after each charge process for approximately 6 - 8 seconds.

Energy formerly converted into heat, and thus wasted, upon every application of the brakes is now converted highly efficiently 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 Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid, by reducing the weight of the fuel tank or making pit stops less frequent, for example.

Porsche Intelligent Performance

The Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid is a perfect example of the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy, a principle to be found in every Porsche and defined as more power on less fuel, more efficiency and lower CO2 emissions - on the race track and on the road. Already, customers can buy a Porsche 911 coupe with a six-cylinder 345 bhp engine which can return nearly 30mpg Combined and produces just 225 g/km CO2; a feat unrivalled in its performance class and just one example of the application of Porsche Intelligent Performance to maintain outstanding driving dynamics yet lower running costs and environmental impact.

Devising smart, individual engineering solutions to combine performance and efficiency with everyday usability is something for which Porsche is renowned, and is evident in such developments as lightweight body construction methods, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) and the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetreibe (PDK) double-clutch gearbox.

1980 Porsche 930 Turbo pictures

2011-12-12T02:00:00.000-08:00

1980 Porsche 930 Turbo

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

1980 Porsche 930 Turbo
Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 930 Turbo
The Porsche 930 (usually pronounced nine-thirty) was a sports car built by Porsche, 930 actually being the "type number" for the pre-964 generation Porsche 911 Turbo produced between 1975 and 1989. It was Porsche's top-of-the-range model for its entire production duration and at the time of its introduction the fastest production car available in Germany.

Model history
Porsche began experimenting with turbocharging technology on their race cars during the late 1950s, and in 1972 began development on a turbocharged version of the 911. Porsche originally needed to produce the car in order to comply with homologation regulations and had intended on marketing it as a street legal race vehicle like the 1973 Carrera 2.7 RS. When the homologation rules changed, Porsche continued to develop the car anyway, deciding to make it a fully-equipped variant of the 911 that would top the model range and give Porsche a more direct competitor to vehicles from Ferrari and Lamborghini, which were more expensive and more exclusive than the standard 911. Although Porsche no longer needed the car to meet homologation requirements, it proved a viable platform for racing vehicles, and became the basis for the 934 and 935 race cars. Ferdinand "Ferry" Porsche, who was running the company at the time, handed development of the vehicle over to Ernst Fuhrmann, who adapted the turbo-technology originally developed for the 917/30 CAN-AM car to the 3.0 litre flat-six from the Carrera RS 3.0, creating what Porsche internally dubbed as 930. Total output from the engine was 260 PS (191 kW; 256 hp), much more than the standard Carrera. In order to ensure that the platform could make the most of the higher power output, a revised suspension, larger brakes and stronger gearbox became part of the package, although some consumers were unhappy with Porsche's use of a 4-speed whilst a 5-speed manual was available in the "lesser" Carrera. A "Whale-Tail" rear spoiler was installed to help vent more air to the engine and help create more downforce at the rear of the vehicle, and wider rear wheels with upgraded tires combined with flared wheelarches were added to increase the 911's width and grip, making it more stable.

Porsche badged the vehicle simply as "Turbo" (although early U.S. units were badged as "Turbo Carrera") and debuted it at the Paris Auto Show in October 1974 before putting it on sale in the spring of 1975; export to the United States began in 1976.

The Porsche 930 proved very fast but also very demanding. The 911 was prone to oversteer because of its rear engine layout and short wheelbase; combining those traits with the power of the turbocharged motor, which exhibited significant turbo-lag, meant driving the car required more skill to drive at the edge of its (higher) level of performance. Even though the rear engine layout provided superior traction, sudden bursts of power to the rear wheels in mid-corner could break the tires loose, causing the car to literally spin out of control. This effect was amplified if an unexperienced driver would instinctively lift the throttle in reaction. The vehicle needed to be kept at high revs during spirited driving to minimise the turbo lag. Skilled drivers quickly learned how to drive the Porsche 930 properly, and with that knowledge came the ability to drive the car above and beyond the levels of most other sports cars. Nevertheless, some fatal accidents resulted in product liability law suits brought against Porsche in the US, where Ralph Nader had made his name criticizing the rear engine-rear wheel drive layout of the Chevrolet Corvair.

Porsche made its first and most significant upgrades to the Porsche 930 for 1978, enlarging the engine to 3.3 litres and adding an air-to-air intercooler. By cooling the pressurized air charge, the intercooler helped increase power output to 300 hp (DIN); the rear 'whale tail' spoiler was re-profiled and raised slightly to make room for the intercooler. Porsche also upgraded the brakes to units similar to those used on the 917 racecar.

Changing emissions regulations in Japan and the U.S. forced Porsche to withdraw the 930 from those markets in 1980. Believing the 928 would eventually replace the 911, Fuhrmann cut-back spending on the model, and it was not until Fuhrmann's resignation the company finally committed the financing to re-regulate the car.

The Porsche 930 remained available in Europe, and for 1983 a 330 PS (243 kW; 325 hp) performance option became available on a build-to-order basis from Porsche. With the add-on came a 4-pipe exhaust system and an additional oil-cooler requiring a remodelled front spoiler and units bearing the add-on often featured additional ventilation holes in the rear fenders and modified rockers.

Porsche offered a "Flachbau" ("slantnose") Porsche 930 under the "Sonderwunschprogramm" (special order) program beginning in 1981, an otherwise normal 930 with a 935-style slantnose instead of the normal 911 front end. Each Flachbau unit was handcrafted by remodeling the front fenders. So few were built that the slantnose units often commanded a high premium over sticker, adding to the fact that they required a premium of up to 60 per cent (highly indivdualized cars even more) over the standard price. Several sources claim the factory built 948 units. The Flachbau units delivered in Europe usually featured the 330 hp (246 kW) performance kit.

928 sales had risen slightly by the 1985 model year, but there was still some question as to if it were truly capable of superseding the 911 as the company's premier model, and for 1986 Porsche re-introduced the Porsche 930 to the Japanese and U.S. markets, now featuring an emission-controlled engine producing 282 PS (207 kW; 278 hp). At the same time Porsche introduced the Targa and Cabriolet variants, both of which proved popular.

Porsche discontinued the 930 after model year 1989 when its underlying "G-Series" platform was being replaced by the 964. '89 models were the only versions of the Porsche 930 to feature a 5-speed transmission. A turbo version of the 964 officially succeeded the Porsche 930 in 1991 with a modified version of the same 3.3 litre flat-6 engine and a 5-speed transmission.

1963 Porsche 901 | PORSCHE PICTURES |

2011-12-12T01:49:00.000-08:00

1963 Porsche 901

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

1963 Porsche 901
Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 901

Porsche 901 was the name originally intended for the Porsche 911. By the early 1960s, Porsche project design numbers had reached into the 800s. For instance, Porsche's 1962 F1 model was called Porsche 804.

At the Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (Frankfurt Motor Show) in Frankfurt in September 1963, Porsche presented its successor to the Porsche 356 as the Porsche 901. It took several more months until the cars was sold to customers. In late 1964, after having sold about 82 cars, the Porsche 901 was presented at the Paris Auto Salon. There, French car maker Peugeot objected to Porsche using any three digit number where the middle number was 0, owning the naming rights and having already sold many models with that scheme.

So, Porsche simply replaced the middle 0 with a 1, and called the car Porsche 911.

Also, other Porsche models were affected, which were primarily intended for racing but also sold as road legal cars. Here, Porsche kept the internal part number of 90x, but sold the car with a name, like: Porsche 904 as Carrera GTS, Porsche 906 as Carrera 6.

Porsche enthusiasts continue to refer to these cars by their three digit design numbers.

Later, Porsche introduced pure racing cars which were not sold for road use, so not competing with any road-going Peugeot. These carried the design numbers: Porsche 907, Porsche 908, Porsche 909.

Nearly three decades later, a 905 was entered in the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans, but not by Porsche (which then had won over a dozen times already), but by Peugeot: The Peugeot 905 won twice, in 1992 and in 1993. A Peugeot 908 Diesel was entered in the 2008 event, and won in 2009. Peugeot never used the number 901, though.

Additionally, the 901 number is used among Porsche enthusiasts as shorthand to identify the aluminum 5-Speed transmission used in early 911s, the part number for these transmissions used an 11 digit code that began with 901 as did many other parts on the early cars. Later 911s from 1969 used a different magnesium case and a part number beginning with 911.

1953 Porsche 550 Spyder | PORSCHE PICTURES |

2011-12-12T01:44:00.000-08:00

1953 Porsche 550 Spyder

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

1953 Porsche 550 Spyder
Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 550 Spyder

The Porsche 550 was a sports car produced by Porsche from 1953-1956. Inspired by the Porsche 356 which was created by Ferry Porsche, and some spyder prototypes built and raced by Walter Glöckler starting in 1951, the factory decided to build a car designed for use in auto racing. The model Porsche 550 Spyder was introduced at the 1953 Paris Auto Show. The Porsche 550 was very low to the ground, in order to be efficient for racing. In fact, former German Formula One racer Hans Herrmann drove it under closed railroad crossing gates during the 1954 Mille Miglia.

The Porsche 550 / 1500RS or Spyder became known as the "Giant Killer". The later 1956 evolution version of the model, the 550A, which had a lighter and more rigid spaceframe chassis, gave Porsche its first overall win in a major sports car racing event, the 1956 Targa Florio.

Its successor from 1957 onwards, the Porsche 718, was even more successful, scoring points in Formula One as late as 1963. A descendant of the Porsche 550 is generally considered to be the Porsche Boxster S 550 Spyder; the Spyder name was effectively resurrected with the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype.

The Porsche 550 "Little Bastard", serial number 550-0055 is best known for being the car in which James Dean was killed on September 30, 1955.

2012 Porsche Panamera GTS pictures

2011-12-08T19:07:00.000-08:00

2012 Porsche Panamera GTS

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2012 Porsche Panamera GTS

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche Panamera GTS

More power and upgraded brakes, a body lowered by ten millimetres and the especially sportily tuned chassis with air suspension and PASM are the major technical modifications that make Porsche Panamera GTS the model capable of cutting it on the racing circuit - without sacrificing practicality. The sportiest of all Panameras also conveys this to occupants and the outside world by its striking sound. In terms of looks, the new Porsche Panamera GTS signals its independence by distinctive design features in the front-end, side and rear area as well as black highlights. The interior as well is rigorously tailored to the sporty personality with sports seats, SportDesign steering wheel with shift paddles, exclusive GTS leather interior and Alcantara surfaces.

The power unit in the new Porsche Panamera GTS is a modified 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering 430 hp (316 kW) at 6,700 rpm, trumping the engine in its Panamera S/4S sister models by 30 hp (22 kW). The maximum torque also increased by comparison, from 500 Nm to 520 Nm. The way in which at the push of a button the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmits the engine output to the all-wheel drive (PTM) -thanks to the Sport Chrono package featured as standard without interruption to the power flow -is especially dynamic. This collaboration enables the Porsche Panamera GTS to sprint to 100 km/h in under 4.5 seconds, accelerating on to its top speed of 288 km/h. With NEDC fuel consumption of 10.9 l/100 km - only 10.7 l/100 km with low-friction tyres - the Porsche Panamera GTS remains as much of an efficiency role model in its milieu as all Porsche models.

The standard values for sprint and top speed don't do full justice to the new Panamera GTS's sporty characteristics. Its chassis in particular makes it fit for the racing circuit: The adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) featured as standard connect the chassis and body, constantly adapting to the driving challenges by regulating levelling settings, adjusting height, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system. The damping is designed to be tauter, which helps agility and further reinforces the new Gran Turismo's sporty personality. Five millimetre thick wheel spacers between the wheel and the wheel carriers increase the rear axle track width, giving the Panamera an even more stable ride. The required grip is provided by 255/45 size 19-inch tyres on the front axle and 285/40 on the rear axle. Deceleration on the sporty Panamera is provided by the superlative braking system of the Panamera Turbo.

Engine and drive unit

4.8-litre V8 engine developing 430 hp (316 kW); Porsche Traction Management with active all-wheel drive; seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (with Launch Control); top speed of 288 km/h; NEDC fuel consumption 10.9 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 256 g/km; with low-friction all-season tyres 10.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 251 g/km.

The heart of the new Porsche Panamera GTS is its upgraded 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine benefiting from numerous modifications to give it even better performance. The 30 hp (22 kW) higher engine output compared with the power units in the Panamera S/4S goes hand in glove with a torque uplift of 20 Newton metres, the crankshaft now generates its maximum power of 520 Nm at 3,500 rpm.

To achieve these enhancements, the engineers increased the nominal engine speed by 200 rpm in typical sports engine construction fashion, the GTS's eight-cylinder engine achieves maximum output at 6,700 rpm. The full speed range was extended by all of 400 rpm, the maximum engine speed is 7,100 rpm. Integral to the high engine speed concept are modified valve springs with increased initial tension, ensuring that the valves open and shut precisely in all circumstances, ensuring in turn an optimal charge cycle. These engine characteristics enable the driver to change gear even later and use higher engine speeds when changing gear; allowing him to savour the dynamics of a sports car engine.

The second main focus area in revamping the eight-cylinder engine was optimising the charge cycle. A wider air intake with two additional air filter housings to the left and right at the front-end improve the air supply in the Porsche Panamera GTS. At low speeds a flap closes each of the two air intake openings. If the driver demands more power from the engine at engine speeds in excess of 3500 rpm, both flaps open and additional fresh air flows into the inlet duct. In addition, back pressure is generated at higher speeds and with it a slight charging effect that contributes to the increased output. In order to be able to handle the increased flow of combustion air optimally, two new camshafts with a one millimetre greater stroke control the intake valves on both banks of cylinders. As a result, especially at higher revs, the engine draws in more air, the cylinder charge increases and, with it, power.

Hearing performance: Sound Symposer transmits intake noises

At the push of a button, driver and passengers can hear the GTS engine "breathing" particularly well: the Sound Symposer directs the intake noise into the interior at the push of a button. This is done by an acoustic channel picking up the intake vibrations between the throttle valve and air filter. The acoustic channel incorporates a membrane that transmits the vibrations as an engine sound into the A-pillar. A controllable valve located in front of the membrane enables the Sound Symposer to be activated or deactivated by means of the Sport button.

The exhaust gases exit the Porsche Panamera GTS through a sports exhaust system, featured as standard, that comes with larger pipe diameters to reduce back pressure. This too is another building block in the increased output, and one which is audible into the bargain: the sports exhaust system features two tuning flaps, which expose additional exhaust openings, thereby emitting an even more powerful sound. The flaps are controlled by means of a switch in the centre console, which features a "last mode" function that remembers the last setting and restores it when the engine is started.

The control of the GTS power unit is handled by a modified and upgraded engine management system. It is discernible the moment the engine is started by a brief revving of the power unit. When driving, it ensures an even faster build-up in torque and thus a noticeably faster responsiveness. The modified engine management system also enables a brief shut-off of individual cylinders when changing gear, with the engine speed adjusting even faster to the transmission speed. This further reduces gear change times, accompanied by an engine sound akin to motor racing. A bonus with Sport mode selected is that a staccato engine sound and the so-called backfire, a short sharp report from the exhaust system that is particularly audible when changing down, ensures a full-bodied sports car sensation.

Chassis and driving dynamics systems

The Porsche Panamera GTS features a sporty chassis boasting performance-oriented options as standard. For example, adaptive air suspension including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) increases both comfort and driving dynamics by self-levelling, height adjustment, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system.

With the air suspension at its normal level the Porsche Panamera GTS also sits ten millimetres lower than the other models in the model line and its damping is designed to be tauter, further reinforcing the vehicle's sporty personality. Sporty performance is delivered by the combination of 19-inch Panamera Turbo wheels, five millimetre thick wheel spacers at the rear and the Panamera Turbo's braking system - recognisable by the red brake callipers.

Sport Chrono package for individual sportiness

The Porsche Panamera GTS meets particularly sporty requirements and therefore comes with the Sport Chrono package as standard, which in addition to the Normal and Sport modes offers the Sport Plus program as well. Specific characteristics of the Gran Turismo are further accentuated depending on which mode is selected: the engine responds more sensitively to changes in the accelerator pedal position, the transitions between traction and propulsion and vice versa become tauter and sportier and the load changes more spontaneous and dynamic. This instantaneous response is assisted by controlling the engine and PDK clutches that always slightly preload the entire drive line, so that every demand for power from the driver can be immediately translated into propulsion.

In Sport Plus mode, the PDK's response times become even shorter and the gear changes sportier. Even with only slight deceleration - even at high revs - in automatic mode a more dynamic braking downchange quickly kicks in. The change points as well are shifted towards higher revs, causing delayed upchanges and earlier downchanges. When changing up, the change in engine speed is deactivated so that when engaging the clutch to the next higher gear, a torque excursion ensures an additional propulsive boost.

Moreover, in Sport Plus mode the PSM stabilisation system kicks in later for greater longitudinal and transverse dynamics, making braking into corners perceptibly more agile: especially at low speeds, PSM now permits a sportier driving style when braking into corners and accelerating out of them, making for more driving fun in the process. The Sport Plus mode offers even greater agility with the PSM deactivated. For safety's sake, however, it remains on permanent standby in the background, intervening automatically if both front wheels are in the ABS control range. In addition, the adaptive air suspension lowers the vehicle to the low setting and switches to a harder spring rate. The rear spoiler angle of attack also changes to the performance-oriented setting.

Options for even greater driving dynamics: PDCC and PTV Plus

Porsche offers Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) as the final level of development of the Panamera GTS chassis, twinned with the electronically controlled rear axle differential lock and PTV Plus. PDCC prevents the body from rolling about the longitudinal axis of the vehicle by using active stabilisers on the front and rear axle to apply a countervailing force. The system also improves the vehicle's balance by dynamically distributing the roll torque. An even sportier setting of the PDCC is optimally tuned to the tauter damping of the PASM

The result: ultimate agility in every driving speed range as well as optimal cornering behaviour and stable load transfer behaviour.

The driving dynamics benefits of the PDCC are further enhanced by Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus). The system works by varying the torque distribution to the rear wheels and by employing an electronically regulated rear differential lock, optimising steering behaviour when being driven with a sporty driving style. Braking interventions applied to the inside rear wheel generate an additional rotational pulse in the direction in which the steering wheel has been turned. This results in a direct and dynamic steering action as the car enters the curve.

PTV Plus complements this by improving traction as required when experiencing high lateral acceleration, when accelerating on road surfaces with varying levels of grip and when accelerating out of tight corners. During load transfer when cornering, the vehicle's turning motion into the corner is less pronounced as a result of the countervailing yaw moment built up by the rear axle differential lock and straight-line stability is improved. The result is high lateral dynamic vehicle stabilisation - i.e. chassis stability - optimal traction and high agility at any speed with precise and stable load transfer behaviour.

Body and equipment

In terms of its aerodynamics, the Porsche Panamera GTS is on a par with the Panamera Turbo: with its large air intake openings, the standard front section from the Panamera Turbo's SportDesign package emphasises the vehicle's sporty dynamics and ensures an optimal air supply for the back pressure air filters peculiar to the GTS.

This is matched in the tail section by fitting the adaptively deploying four-way rear spoiler from the Panamera Turbo. At a speed of 205 km/h and above it positions itself so as to generate downforce on the rear axle, thereby ensuring stable driving safety at high speeds.

Exterior: Sporty at first glance

The visual appearance of the Porsche Panamera GTS is characterised by numerous exterior accessories in black. The high-gloss black exterior package in particular, featured a standard, comprising the side window trim, the decorative trim on the rear lid, the headlight washer unit cover, the rear diffuser and the side air outlet panels, lends a sporty touch. Together with the black front end side terminators, the side skirts, the tail end and the sports exhaust system's matt black tailpipes the resulting appearance is clear-cut and striking.

A further point of differentiation: the bi-xenon headlights with black inner bezels. They feature four LED daytime running lights apiece, which - as with the Panamera Turbo - are not integrated into the front lights but accommodated in the main headlight. The optional paintwork in Carmine Red, available exclusively for the Porsche Panamera GTS, emphasises the vehicle's sportiness and provides an ideal contrast with the black exterior accessories.

Interior: Acceleration display, equipment in sporty design

The Porsche Panamera GTS's agility is apparent in every bend. The lateral and longitudinal acceleration display now makes this visible for the driver as well. The display in the right-hand tube of the instrument cluster and the optional Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system informs the driver about the instantaneous acceleration, thereby reflecting the potential for high cornering speeds and the Panamera GTS's driving performance.

The Panamera's sporty personality is expressed throughout the interior with driver and passengers seated in an ambiance made of leather and Alcantara with a choice of five interior colours. The centre panels of the adaptive 18-way adjustable sports seats featured as standard, the upper sections of the door armrests and front centre console armrest and roofliner are in Alcantara. The Sport-Design steering wheel with shift paddles and twelve-hour markings on the steering wheel rim combines dynamic looks and sporty functionality. It can also be clad with black Alcantara if so desired. To ensure clear differentiation, the front stainless steel door entry guards are adorned with "Panamera GTS" lettering. "GTS" lettering is also to be encountered in the instrument cluster and on the embroidered headrests, making the purist Porsche Panamera GTS simply unmistakable.

Porsche has put together special optional equipment packages married with a black interior, exclusively for the Porsche Panamera GTS. The decorative stitching on the seats, foot mats, dashboard, door panels, centre console armrest and doors are executed in Carmine Red or GT silver. The embroidered "GTS" lettering on the headrests and safety belts is also in the corresponding colour, thus rounding off the overall impression.

2011 Porsche Cayman R pictures, review

2011-12-08T18:49:00.000-08:00

2011 Porsche Cayman R

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2011 Porsche Cayman R

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche Cayman R

Upon its launch in September 2005, the Porsche Cayman redefined the concept of the mid-engined sports coupe, combining scintillating chassis dynamics with characteristically sporting levels of responsiveness from its flat-six engines. Now, with the introduction of the Cayman R, Porsche has further developed the car by reducing weight, increasing horsepower and raising agility and handling to new heights. The new model becomes the third version in the Cayman range, joining the Cayman and Cayman S.

Weighing 55 kg less than the equivalent Cayman S, and boasting the most horsepower available in a mid-engined Porsche, the 330 hp Porsche Cayman R has been created for one reason: pure, distilled driving dynamics. With its highly-tuned sports suspension and vigilant attention to weight savings, the new Cayman model offers a driving experience even more precise than that of the acclaimed Cayman S.

Tracing its lineage back to the famous mid-engined 904 coupes of the 1960s, the Porsche Cayman R celebrates its world premiere at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 17, 2010.

Light and Powerful

The newest member of the mid-engined Cayman family features the highly efficient 3.4-litre, flat six-cylinder Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) boxer engine found in the Cayman S, but it has been tuned to produce an additional 10 hp. With a six-speed manual transmission, the Porsche Cayman R sprints from a stand-still to 62 mph in 5.0 seconds, two-tenths of a second faster than the Cayman S. With the optional seven-speed dual-clutch PDK (Doppelkupplungsgetriebe) transmission and the Sport Chrono package, the exercise is reduced to 4.7 seconds. Top speed with the manual transmission is up by 3 to 175 mph (282 km/h), 174 mph (280 km/h) with the PDK.

The main objective in the concept and execution of the Porsche Cayman R was to improve the already energetic two-seater through a systematic reduction in weight, thereby increasing performance, driving dynamics and agility. With an unladen weight of 1295 kg. Porsche engineers were able to achieve a power-to-weight ratio of 255 hp per tonne, and 250 hp per tonne with the PDK.

More from Less

The greatest savings come from the use of lightweight components and stripping back equipment levels to those associated with driving performance. In addition to the removal of the air conditioning and stereo, the driver-focused Porsche Cayman R utilises a unique, slightly smaller 54-litre fuel tank and a sports suspension system that lowers the Porsche Cayman R by 20 mm, helping lower the centre of gravity.

The Porsche Cayman R also comes as standard with a limited slip differential to optimise cornering grip, and lightweight 19" alloy wheels (first seen on the Boxster Spyder) that reduce weight by 5kg. Lightweight aluminium door skins from the 911 Turbo and GT3, carbon fibre sports bucket seats and the distinctive interior door panels from the 911 GT3 RS also contribute to the weight reduction.

From the outside, the distinctive Cayman Aerokit sports styling - with fixed rear spoiler in contrasting colour - sets the Cayman R apart, and black-framed halogen headlights, contrasting side mirrors and decorative "PORSCHE" side-stripes bring further differentiation. For customers seeking to stand out further from the crowd a new option of Peridot metallic paint is available (as seen in the photos.)

The Porsche Cayman R goes on sale in the UK in February 2011, priced from £51,731 1. Included in the purchase price is the invitation for customers to explore the dynamic attributes of their Porsche Cayman R and develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

The origins of R

Historically, special Porsche models with optimised sporting performance were identified by the moniker 'R', for Racing. The most revered model of this type is the 911 R of 1967. This specialised, lightweight edition of the 911 coupe had a 210 hp flat six engine shared with the Carrera 6 sports racer and weighed just 830 kg. Just 19 examples were built.

2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder pictures

2011-12-08T18:26:00.000-08:00

2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche Boxster Spyder

With the all-new Porsche Boxster Spyder, Porsche is introducing a new, lightweight version of the mid-engined Porsche Boxster roadster at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in December, the distinctive styling and technical specification of which represents the true, purist form of the Porsche sports car - light, powerful, open-roofed, and very efficient.

This is precisely the formula already applied in creating the most successful road-going sports and racing cars throughout the history of Porsche, ranging from the legendary Porsche 550 Spyder of the 1950s to the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype race car so successful in motorsport today.

Weighing 1,275kg, the Porsche Boxster Spyder is the lightest model in the Porsche line-up, and continues this clear-cut philosophy in a package offering full homologation for the road, reflecting a common wish expressed by Porsche customers.

The new model becomes the third version in the Boxster range, joining the Boxster and Boxster S, yet stands out clearly at first sight from the other versions of the mid-engined roadster, quite simply because the Spyder has been developed first and foremost for driving in the open air. The low-slung, lightweight soft top extends far to the rear and serves to protect the driver and passenger from bright sunshine, wind and rain. When closed, the soft top, together with the bespoke extra-low side windows and the two unique, striking bulges on the single-piece rear lid, boasts a stretched and sleek silhouette reminiscent of the Porsche Carrera GT.

Significantly, the new model weighs 80kg less than the Porsche Boxster S which, combined with a lower centre of gravity and revised suspension, gives the Porsche Boxster Spyder the calibre of driving dynamics that clearly reflect the unique look of the car.

The Porsche Boxster Spyder features a tuned version of the proven 3.4-litre flat six 'boxer' engine with Direct Fuel Injection, which is located ahead of the rear axle. Maximum output is 320 bhp, 10 bhp more than in the Boxster S.

Equipped with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) twin-clutch transmission and the Sports Chrono Package, the Porsche Boxster Spyder, using Launch Control, accelerates from a standstill to 62mph in 4.8 seconds. Again with optional PDK, fuel consumption is a mere 30.4mpg (9.3 litres/100km) in the NEDC New European Driving Cycle and top speed, in turn, is 166 mph (267 km/h) - with the roof removed.

In terms of its fundamental concept, the entire Boxster family is the successor to the legendary 550 Spyder built back in 1953, both models sharing the same mid-engined roadster concept offering low weight and supreme agility combined with equally outstanding driving pleasure - in essence, an authentic roadster experience.

The 550 Spyder was the first Porsche sports car from Stuttgart developed specifically for racing but also homologated for the road. Weighing only 550kg, this unique Spyder scored numerous victories in the years following its production on the race circuits and in road races popular at the time. The 550 Spyder was followed by other extremely successful Porsche Spyders, such as the 718 RS 60 in 1960.

In 2004 and 2008 Porsche dedicated a limited edition of special Boxsters bearing the additional name Spyder, inspired by these legendary racing cars. By contrast, the new Porsche Boxster Spyder is a regular, specially developed and upgraded production model with far-reaching modifications versus the Boxster and Boxster S.

Market introduction of the new Porsche Boxster Spyder will start worldwide in February 2010, and will be priced from £44,643 in the UK. Included in the purchase price is the invitation for customers to explore the dynamic attributes of their Porsche Boxster Spyder, and develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera pictures

2011-11-30T19:43:00.000-08:00

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 Carrera

The new generation Porsche 911 Carrera is emerging from one of the biggest development steps in the long history of this classic sports car. Almost 90 per cent of all components have been redesigned or redeveloped. With its all-new lightweight body, further drivetrain efficiencies and new suspension systems, the Coupé offers the driver improved Porsche Intelligent Performance. This manifests itself in yet further enhanced driving dynamics, up to 16 per cent lower fuel consumption and emissions combined with even greater everyday practicality.

The Porsche 911 Carrera's design and proportions have developed in step with the technology. One of the most pronounced points of differentiation is the 100 millimetre (3.94 inch) longer wheelbase.The body on the other hand is only 56 millimetres (2.20 inch) longer overall lengthwise, the overhangs being shortened by 32 millimetres (1.26 inch) at the front and twelve millimetres (0.47 inch) at the rear. The Carrera's roof line is around seven millimetres lower than that of its predecessor and around six millimetres for the Carrera S. The maximum headroom remains virtually unchanged. For Coupés with a sunroof, which for the first time is of the electric slide/tilt type, headroom has even increased by 15 millimetres. With an overall length of just under 4.5 metres (176.81 inch) and a maximum width of approximately 1.8 metres (71.18 inch) the 911 Carrera remains the most compact sports car in its class.

The Porsche 911 Carrera's stylistic evolution is apparent from every angle. Viewed from the side, new styling, larger alloy wheels and the more convex windscreen contribute to the even jauntier, more coupé-like character. Typical of the revised, wider front end are the new headlights and larger side air intakes. The wider, variably extending rear spoiler emphasises the new 911 Carrera models' greater power output. Together with other aerodynamic optimisations, it also ensures significantly lower lift while retaining an equally good cd value. Redesigned, narrower LED technology rear lights complete the rear profile.

The Porsche 911 Carrera sets new standards in Porsche Intelligent Performance. The innovative aluminium-steel lightweight body, combined with a raft of new components and functions, benefits efficiency and driving dynamics in equal measure.

The new 911 Carrera is the first passenger car in the world to feature a seven-speed manual transmission as standard. It is based on the module of the optional seven-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK). The close ratio of the first six gears affords the driver outstanding acceleration capability, with the seventh gear's quasi overdrive attributes offering further scope for fuel economy.

The Porsche 911 Carrera is the first sports car that Porsche has equipped with an auto start/stop function. The system can save up to 0.6 litres per 100 kilometres based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The auto stop/start function is married with both the PDK and manual transmission as standard. The joint thermal management system for engine and transmission and on-board electrical system recuperation reduce the new 911 generation's fuel consumption by a further 0.35 l/100 km. As the new cooling design dispenses with ventilation openings in the underbody, it also affords aerodynamic advantages, which are of benefit to performance.

The "sailing" function, making its very first appearance in a sports car with the optional PDK transmission, can save up to one litre of fuel for every 100 kilometres in everyday driving. If the driver takes his foot off the accelerator, depending on the driving situation, the engine is disengaged from the transmission; the 911 Carrera continues on its way with the engine idling. Especially at higher speeds, this function taps additional potential fuel economies.

In the Porsche 911 Carrera, optimised fuel consumption is complemented by Porsche-style downsizing: The 3.4-litre engine delivers more power from a smaller displacement than its predecessor with a displacement of 3.6 litres. That means the Porsche 911 Carrera with PDK is the first Porsche sports car to make it below the 200 g/km CO2 emissions threshold.

With its completely revamped suspension featuring numerous redeveloped components, the Porsche 911 Carrera raises the driving dynamics bar yet another notch. The longer wheelbase alone, combined with the wider track width at the front, generates an entirely different geometry with more sure-footed tracking and roll stability at high longitudinal and cornering speeds.

With the new electro-mechanical power steering, the Porsche engineers managed to develop a system that combines Porsche's trademark precision and feedback with superior consumption and comfort for the very first time. As the system only requires power when steering, the electro-mechanical system saves at least 0.1 litres per 100 kilometres.

The new active Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), available for the Carrera S as an optional extra, expands the lateral dynamics boundaries yet again by a sizeable margin. PDCC is an active roll compensation system that detects the very instant the vehicle begins to roll when cornering, eliminating it almost entirely. The system makes for greater agility in every speed regime, improved cornering and stable load change behaviour. PDCC therefore represents a new highlight in terms of driving dynamics.

Making its debut in the Porsche 911 Carrera S, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), featured as standard, ensures even better tracking and tracking stability, together with reduced sensitivity to load changes. Together with a seven-speed manual transmission, this system comprises a mechanical rear differential lock and variable torque distribution to the rear axle. In vehicles fitted with the Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), the even higher-performance PTV Plus comes with the electronically controlled, fully variable, rear differential lock. PTV or PTV Plus further improves agility and steering precision by means of selective braking interventions applied to the inside rear wheel. PTV and PTV Plus are also available for the 911 Carrera as an optional extra.

To complement the Porsche 911 Carrera's new exterior, the Porsche designers created an interior, the architecture of which takes its cue from the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted gear lever or gear selector located especially close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion. The most important function and settings buttons for operating the vehicle are grouped in logical clusters on the centre console. Centrally located in the completely redeveloped dashboard, a larger seven-inch touch screen is used to control a rich array of functions. Naturally, the classic, established Porsche touches, such as the five round instruments with the centrally located rev counter and the ignition lock to the left of the steering wheel are also to be found in the new model. Also, both driver and front passenger are seated on newly developed sports seats with electric four-way adjustment. Additional sports seat versions with 14 and 18-way adjustment are also available as an option.

The new Porsche 911 generation made its debut in two versions

911 Carrera: 350 hp (257kW) 3.4-litre boxer engine; rear-wheel drive, seven-speed manual transmission, optional seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.8 seconds, with PDK in 4.6 seconds (4.4 seconds with Sport Chrono Package); top speed 289 km/h (179.6 mph), with PDK 287 km/h (178.3 mph); fuel consumption (NEDC) 9.0 l/100 km, CO2 212 g/km; with PDK 8.2 l/100 km; CO2 194 g/km.

911 Carrera S: 400 hp (294 kW) 3.8-litre boxer engine; rear-wheel drive, seven-speed manual transmission, optional seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.5 seconds, with PDK in 4.3 seconds (4.1 seconds with Sport Chrono Package); top speed 304 km/h (188.9 mph), with PDK 302 km/h (187.7mph); fuel consumption (NEDC) 9.5 l/100 km; CO2 224 g/km; with PDK 8.7 l/100 km; CO2 205 g/km.

2011 Porsche 918 RSR | porsche pictures |

2011-11-30T19:29:00.000-08:00

2011 Porsche 918 RSR

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2011 Porsche 918 RSR

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 918 RSR

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is continuing to extend its performance and high efficiency competence via intensive development work in the field of hybrid technology. With the Porsche 918 RSR, the manufacturer of sporty premium vehicles is presenting a high-end synthesis of 2010's successful hybrid concepts. The two-seater mid-engine coupé 918 RSR clearly reveals what happens when the technology fitted in the 911 GT3 R hybrid and the design of the 918 Spyder are transferred to a modern, innovative super sports car.

With its highly-efficient flywheel accumulator, the 911 GT3 R hybrid racing car proved to be an attention magnet during competition racing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, during the American Le Mans Series races (ALMS) in Road Atlanta/USA and the ILMC run in China's Zhuhai. It demonstrated its massive performance potential under realistic motor racing conditions against top competitors. The 911 GT3 R Hybrid, referred to internally as the "Race Lab" actually surpassed the high expectations of Porsche Motorsport. Competitiveness, high reliability and exemplary fuel efficiency combined with top performance underscored the Porsche technicians' basic idea of generating additional power in an intelligent manner. The 911 GT3 R Hybrid obtains its additional power from its own vehicle dynamics when braking. Porsche is now transplanting this technology into the mid-engine coupé Porsche 918 RSR, the motor sports version of the 918 Spyder concept car.

From the tradition established by classic Porsche long-distance race cars such as the 908 long-tale coupé (1969) and the 917 short-tail coupé (1971), the Porsche designers created a link to the postmodernism of the "form follows function" philosophy. In the Porsche 918 RSR, the lines' elegant flow is dominated by muscular wheel arches, dynamic air intakes and a pulpit-like cockpit. A visible fan wheel between the ram air intake tubes and a rear spoiler with RS Spyder dimensions additionally emphasise the racing laboratory function. The new "liquid metal chrome blue" colour which has been created underscores the sculptured curves of the forms, whilst the typical Porsche hybrid orange colour on brake calipers and the body's longitudinal stripes lends remarkable touches.

Motor racing technology also dominates within the particularly light, torsionally stiff carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque. The V8 engine is a further development of the direct injection engine from the successful RS Spyder race car and now offers an output of precisely 563 hp at 10,300/rpm in the 918 RSR. The electric motors on the two front wheels each contribute 75 kW, i.e. a total of 150 kW, to the peak drive power of exactly 767 hp. This additional power, which is generated during braking, is stored in an optimised flywheel accumulator.

In the Porsche 918 RSR, the two electric motors offer a torque vectoring function with variable torque distribution to the front axle. This additionally increases agility and improves steering response. Mounted upstream of the rear axle, the mid-engine is integrated with a racing transmission also based on the RS Spyder race car. This further developed six-speed constant-mesh transmission with longitudinally mounted shafts and straight-toothed spur gears is operated using two shift paddles behind the racing steering wheel.

The vehicle's functional equipment underscores its puristic motor racing character. Whether it be the characteristic doors which open obliquely upwards, the air intake in the roof between the wing doors, the quick-action locks on the front and rear CFRP lids, the two roof-mounted aerials for pit radio and telemetry, the RS Spyder-like small, lateral front flics or the air splitters beneath the front lip or no-profile racing slicks on 19" wheels with central locking, the vehicle can be clearly recognised as an experimental racing laboratory.

In contrast to the 918 Spyder concept car, unadorned racing atmosphere predominates in the interior of the Porsche 918 RSR. The figure-hugging bucket seat's brown leather covering cites the history of the gentleman driver; the gear flashes on the racing steering wheel and a recuperation display on the steering column in front of the display screen supply the pilot with information. Instead of the futuristic, ergonomically avant-garde centre console with touch-sensitive user interface from the 918 Spyder concept car, the 918 RSR's cockpit is split by a minimalistic console with rocker switches. Instead of a second seat, the flywheel accumulator is positioned to the right of the console.

This flywheel accumulator is an electric motor whose rotor rotates at up to 36,000 rpm to store rotation energy. Charging occurs when the two electric motors on the front axle reverse their function during braking processes and operate as generators. At the push of a button, the pilot is able to call up the energy stored in the charged flywheel accumulator and use it during acceleration or overtaking manoeuvres. The flywheel is braked electromagnetically in this case in order to additionally supply up to 2 x 75 kW, i.e. a total of 150 kW, from its kinetic energy to the two electric motors on the front axle.

This additional power is available for around eight seconds when the system is fully charged. In the successful 911 GT3 R Hybrid, this additional power can also be used as a consumption aid depending on the racing situation, e.g. to delay pit stops or reduce the fuel tank volume and therefore the weight of the vehicle.

With the new Porsche 918 RSR racing laboratory, Porsche is now elevating this motor racing hybrid concept to an experimental level. In the 918 RSR, "Porsche Intelligent Performance" equates to research into methods for further sustainable efficiency improvement under the intensified conditions of the race track, lap times, pit stops and reliability - a metier in which Porsche has been demonstrating its success for over 60 years.

Finally, the starting number, 22, pays homage to the anniversary of a further triumph. Back in the days when overall victories in Le Mans were not yet an entirely routine matter within the Porsche racing department, the pilots Dr. Helmut Marko and Gijs van Lennep were the first to cross the finishing line in 1971's 24-hour classic. The distance record set by their Porsche 917 short-tail coupé - 5335.313 kilometres (3315.21 miles) at an average speed of 222.304 km/h (138.13 mph) - did not remain unbeaten for an eternity, but for exactly 39 years until 2010. At the time, the 917 in the Martini colours was also an experiment and far ahead of its time: a magnesium space frame set new standards in Porsche's lightweight construction domain.

2012 PORSCHE Panamera S Hybrid pictures

2011-11-29T03:37:00.000-08:00

2012 PORSCHE Panamera S Hybrid

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2012 PORSCHE Panamera S Hybrid

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche Panamera S Hybrid

The Porsche Panamera S Hybrid marks the beginning of a new chapter of Porsche Intelligent Performance, as well as continuing the success story of the four door Gran Turismo. Without sacrificing its sporting driving dynamics and elegant travel for four passengers, the new Porsche Panamera S Hybrid combines a total power output of 380 hp (279 kW) with CO2 emissions of just 159 g/km, achieving a performance ratio of 2.39 hp per g/ CO2 that is unbeaten in the UK car market.

In addition to offering 0-62mph in 6.0 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph, the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid returns fuel economy of 30.4mpg Combined. These statistics position the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid as offering impressive levels of efficiency, achieved through a combination of clever engineering solutions under the skin and the use of lower rolling resistance tyres specially-developed by Michelin.

The range in purely electric mode is approximately 1.25 miles, with driving in this mode possible up to 53 mph, depending on the road and traffic conditions. The Porsche hybrid drive is also the only system in the world able to exploit additional consumption reserves thanks to its so-called 'sailing' function. During phases when no power is required from the combustion engine, 'sailing' entails switching off the engine and disengaging the drivetrain at speeds of up to 103 mph (Cayenne S Hybrid 97 mph).

The Porsche Panamera S Hybrid is driven by the same engine combination that has already proved itself in the Cayenne S Hybrid, a model which already accounts for a fifth of Cayenne sales in the UK. The main propulsion is provided by a supercharged three-litre V6 engine delivering 333 hp (245 kW) supported by a 47 hp (34 kW) electric motor. Both power units are capable of powering the Panamera S Hybrid either alone or in combination. The electric motor also operates as a generator and a starter. Together with the separating clutch, it forms the compact hybrid module located between the combustion engine and the transmission.

The electric motor is connected to a nickel metal hydride (NiMh) battery where the electrical energy recovered while braking and driving is stored. Power transmission is handled by the familiar eight-speed Tiptronic S, with a wide spread of ratios, as already fitted to the Cayenne.

Every Panamera has a high level of standard specification that includes leather interior, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Bi-Xenon headlights, front and rear ParkAssist, tyre pressure monitoring, automatic dimming rear view mirrors, Porsche Communication Management with touch-screen satellite navigation and audio controls, cruise control and a three year warranty. The Porsche Panamera S Hybrid also features adaptive air suspension as standard, plus the innovative display panel - already seen in the Cayenne Hybrid - that provides the driver with all the relevant information about the vehicle's specific hybrid driving status.

With the introduction of the new hybrid, the Panamera range now comprises six different models with a choice of two- and four-wheel drive and four engines. This diversity echoes the evolving preferences of Porsche customers, and which the sales success of the Panamera is already confirming. Approximately 15 months after sales started, nearly 30,000 vehicles have been delivered worldwide, of which over 1,000 have been in the UK.

The Porsche Panamera S Hybrid goes on sale in the UK in June 2011, priced from £86,146. The low emissions of 159 g/km CO2 is of particular relevance to fleet and company car buyers as it sits under the Company Write Down Allowance threshold of 160g/km. This means for a company purchase, the price can be offset against tax at the rate of 20% per annum.

Fitted to every Panamera is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

2008 TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet Cabrio pictures

2011-11-29T03:26:00.000-08:00

2008 TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet Cabrio

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet Cabrio

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet Cabrio

Uncompromisingly sporty, unreservedly suitable for everyday use. TECHART is continuing this traditional philosophy with its GTstreet Cabrio. Since 2001, when the Porsche 911 Turbo model from the 996 series was used, vehicles bearing the TECHART GTstreet logo have been among the fastest and highest performing road-worthy sports vehicles in the world.

The new TECHART GTstreet is continuing this impressive trend, based on the current Porsche 911 Turbo generation. At the world premiere on 4th March 2008, this convertible model will stand alongside the GTstreet Coupé, which was officially launched in Geneva in spring 2007 and caused a real sensation.

Unmistakable characteristic appearance and breath-taking performance. The TECHART GTstreet Cabrio now develops 463 kW (630 hp) and can reach a maximum speed of 345 km/h.

2007 Rinspeed Porsche 997 Turbo Le Mans 600 pictures

2011-11-29T03:15:00.000-08:00

2007 Rinspeed Porsche 997 Turbo Le Mans 600

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2007 Rinspeed Porsche 997 Turbo Le Mans 600

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Rinspeed Porsche 997 Turbo Le Mans 600

The Swiss Porsche specialist Rinspeed launches its new and exclusive accessories program "Le Mans" for the latest Porsche 997 Turbo models

The body

The "Le Mans" front skirt with integrated Carbon splitters appears eye-catching and produces a higher aerodynamic down force at the front axle. This increase results in a better road handling. The bigger and re-shaped air intakes for the radiators and the brakes improve the cooling of them considerably. Additional headlights with day light driving lights and the inboard moved fog lights guarantee a sporty yet elegant appearance. The newly - especially for the Turbo developed - side skirts connect optically the front and rear fenders in a maximal way. It follows the new body lines harmonically. Further appearance improvement is achieved by the Carbon covers for the rear view mirrors. The "Le Mans" rear skirt with integrated exhaust tips also increases the down force on the rear axle and esthetically supports the high performance exhaust system with integrated metal catalytic converters. Eye-catching yet not separable element is the rear wing which sits tightly above the rear hatch. The wing profile is also available in a Carbon finish.

The propulsion

For the first time the Swiss tuners have also addressed the engine output. The 3.6 liter power pack produces in the "Le Mans" breathtaking 600 hp (441 kW) at 6'700 rpm, the torque is increased to almost unbelievable 800 Nm at 4'000 Nm. The engine conversion includes two special VTG turbo chargers, a new Carbon air intake ram-air system with sport air filters, improved intercoolers as well as a high performance exhaust system with metal catalytic converters.

These modifications allow the Rinspeed "Le Mans" to be accounted amongst one of the fastest street legal sports cars. The sprint from 0-100 km/h is achieved by the super sportsman in just 3.3 seconds, the 200 km/h mark is reached in 10.9 seconds and the top speed is clocked at 343 km/h.

Further equipment of the "Le Mans" consists in an adjustable suspension which is based on the original PASM damper system. It has been developed in cooperation with Bilstein and assures a precise road handling in the top class. Maximum braking is achieved by an efficient and stable high performance brake kit with 8 pistons aluminum calipers and 380 mm x 34 mm at the front axle and 6 pistons calipers with 360 mm x 32 mm at the rear axle.

A close contact to the road is ensured by the typical and well sold Rinspeed 20 inch aluminum wheels in the C5/1 design. The rear wheels have been widened to the size of 12 x 20" especially for the Turbo. The tires sizes of 245/30-20 at the front axle and 325/25-20 at the rear axle hug the road for sufficient grip for the Swiss super sportsman.

2013 PORSCHE 911 Carrera S Cabriolet pictures

2011-11-28T03:16:00.000-08:00

2013 PORSCHE 911 Carrera S Cabriolet

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2013 PORSCHE 911 Carrera S Cabriolet

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet

With the Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is doubling the driving fun to be had from the new 911 Carrera by putting a Cabriolet alongside the Coupé. The debut of the new generation of the sports car classic is being followed only a few months later by the open-top models of the 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera S in the new 911 design.

What the Coupé began with the new aluminium-steel body, the Cabriolet continues with the all-new, unique hood: As a result, the typical 911 roof line is initially retained in its entirety. Even when closed up, the Cabriolet cuts a fine figure. Intelligent lightweight design, even including the use of magnesium in the hood, ensures less weight and more sportiness, lower fuel consumption and greater comfort. With the open-top 911s as well, Porsche has managed to reverse the weight spiral and make the new Cabrio models significantly lighter than its predecessors.

Each of the two new Cabriolets has the same engine as its Carrera Coupé equivalent. The rear of the 911 Carrera Cabrio houses a 3.4-litre flat engine generating 350 hp (257 kW) of power driving the rear wheels through a seven-gear manual transmission. The open-top Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet comes with a 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine developing 400 hp (294 kW) and also a seven-gear manual transmission featured as standard. That means that the open-top 911s as well are distancing themselves even further from the competition in terms of efficiency; both models consume less than ten litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC). The Cabriolets as well have the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an optional extra, delivering even lower fuel consumption and shorter acceleration times.

With the longer wheelbase compared with the predecessor model, the wider front track and the new electro-mechanical power steering, the new Cabriolets offer even sportier driving characteristics, greater precision and agility. Depending on model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available as well that further enhance the driving dynamics.

The 911 Carrera Cabriolet will be launched in Germany on March 3, 2012. The prices for the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet start in Germany with 100,532 Euros, the Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet starts with 114,931 Euros including value-added tax in both cases.

2013 PORSCHE 911 Carrera Cabriolet | porsche pictures |

2011-11-28T02:58:00.000-08:00

2013 PORSCHE 911 Carrera Cabriolet

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2013 PORSCHE 911 Carrera Cabriolet

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

On sale in March 2012, the new Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet offers sporting drivers the option to enjoy the renowned dynamic qualities and iconic design of the 911 Coupe combined with the added versatility and driving pleasure offered by its folding convertible roof.

The 911 Cabriolet naturally shares its new, high tech aluminium-steel body with the Coupe, and the convertible extends this innovation to its all-new, unique hood. When raised, the design of the hood ensures the iconic 911 roof line is retained in its entirety. Intelligent lightweight design, including the use of magnesium in the hood frame, ensures reduced weight for increased responsiveness, lower fuel consumption and greater comfort. As is the case with the Coupe model, the new 911 Cabriolet is significantly lighter overall than its predecessor.

Combined with lower weight, the new 911 Cabriolet models share the longer wheelbase, wider front track and the new electro-mechanical power steering of their Coupe siblings, ensuring the open-roofed models offer more sporting driving characteristics, greater precision and agility compared to the prior model. Likewise, front and rear overhangs are shorter, maintaining the compact footprint that has been a longstanding 911 attribute. In addition, there are further standard or optional active control systems available that further enhance the driving dynamics.

The new 911 Cabriolet models offer the same charismatic line-up of rear-mounted, flat-six engines as the Coupé equivalents of the benchmark sportscar. The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet features a 3.4-litre engine generating 350 hp (257 kW), driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed manual transmission. The Carrera S Cabriolet offers a 3.8-litre engine developing 400 hp (294 kW), also coupled to a seven-speed manual transmission as standard. Consequently, the open-top 911 models share the characteristic efficiency for which the 911 is renowned; both models return over 28.0 mpg Combined (NEDC).

The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet offers the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch transmission as an option, delivering even lower fuel consumption and shorter acceleration times.

The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet models go on sale in the UK on March 3 2012. The 911 Carrera Cabriolet is priced from £79,947, the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet from £89,740.

Fitted to every 911 Carrera Cabriolet is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

2012 PORSCHE Panamera Turbo S pictures, specifications

2011-11-28T02:45:00.000-08:00

2012 PORSCHE Panamera Turbo S

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2012 PORSCHE Panamera Turbo S

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche Panamera Turbo S

With its new top model in the Gran Turismo model line, Porsche is raising the bar for sporty four-door cars in the luxury class by yet another notch. The new Porsche Panamera Turbo S is a unique combination of performance and efficiency, driving dynamics and comfort. Despite the increased power and higher torque, fuel consumption values remain at the moderate level of the Panamera Turbo - yet another example of "Porsche Intelligent Performance".

Even for a top luxury class model, Porsche's new top-of-the-range Panamera boasts an extraordinarily comprehensive equipment level. For example, in keeping with the high performance Panamera's sporty concept, it features the sports exhaust system as standard for an even more emotional engine sound as well as every driving dynamics control system that there is for the Gran Turismo. Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), an active rollstabilisation system, nips in the bud the vehicle's tendency to lean when cornering, thus enhancing agility and comfort in equal measure. Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) applies a variable torque split to the rear wheels combined with an electronically controlled rear differential lock, thus ensuring superior traction in every driving situation. The steering system uses the speed-dependent Servotronic. It goes without saying that the suspension of the Panamera Turbo S features the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) adaptive damper control and adaptive air suspension with additional air volume.

The sporty character of the new Porsche Panamera Turbo S is apparent not just in its performance but is also reflected on the exterior. The 20-inch 911 Turbo II wheels with increased rear axle track width, side skirts from the Porsche Exclusive range and the adaptive extending four-way rear spoiler in the exterior colour ensure particularly sporty performance and look. The fusion of exclusivity and sportiness is conveyed in the interior by the bi-colour leather finish, featured as standard. The new combination of black/cream is offered exclusively for the Panamera Turbo S with agate grey/cream also being added as an exclusive combination from autumn 2011.

Power unit with torque in abundance

The Porsche Panamera Turbo S engine is essentially identical to the Panamera Turbo's supercharged 4.8-litre, eight-cylinder engine delivering 500 hp (368 kW). The 50 hp (37 kW) increase in the power of the Turbo S engine to 550 hp (405 kW) can be traced to two main developments: Improved turbochargers with titanium-aluminium turbine wheels and modified engine control. The use of the innovative titanium-aluminium alloy reduces the weight of the turbine wheel to half the weight of the conventional Inconel turbine wheel. This results in a lower moment of inertia and thus in improved and more agile engine responsiveness. The result: As with the power, the maximum torque also increased from 700 to 750 Nm in the Porsche Panamera Turbo S. In the "Sport" and "Sport Plus" modes of the Sport Chrono Package featured as standard and during kick-down in normal mode, the eight-cylinder engine even reaches 800 Nm with the so-called overboost function. The power pack is behind the new top-of-the-range Panamera's record sprint times in every sprint discipline: The Panamera Turbo S needs just 2.6 seconds for in-gear acceleration from 80 km/h (50 mph) to 120 km/h (75 mph), managing the sprint from 100 km/h (62 mph) to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.1 seconds.

Designed in accordance with Porsche Intelligent Performance principles, the Turbo S engine offers not just more power and performance but also requires no more fuel than the Panamera Turbo for the same required performance. In addition to the basic design of the Porsche eight-cylinder engine, the biturbo V8's relatively low fuel consumption can be attributed to a whole string of detailed measures. On-board electrical system recuperation for example increases efficiency, with the battery being charged predominantly during braking or coasting phases. On the other hand when the car is accelerating, the alternator's charging current is reduced - the load on the engine is eased because it needs to supply less power for charging the battery. This power is then also available for acceleration. This is complemented by the auto start/stop function that kicks in when the vehicle is stationary and enables the vehicle to move off quickly and comfortably following stop phases.

Sport Chrono Package Turbo and new acceleration display

The Porsche Panamera Turbo S features the Sport Chrono Package Turbo as standard, tuning the engine and chassis by pressing the additional "Sport Plus" button, making them even sportier. Additionally, in the "Sport" and "Sport Plus" mode and during kick-down in normal mode, the overboost function is activated, temporarily increasing boost pressure. This increase in boost pressure significantly increases the maximum torque from 750 to 800 Nm, delivering more powerful acceleration and sprint speeds in the process. Moreover, the "Launch Control" racing start function ensures the best possible acceleration when moving off by optimally coordinating engine control and the PDK shift program.

The Porsche Panamera Turbo S is being brought to market with a new driving dynamics display in the right-hand tube of the instrument cluster. It provides the driver with a corresponding display of both instantaneous and maximum longitudinal and lateral acceleration. The driving performance of the Panamera Turbo S is therefore not just noticeable but visible as well. From autumn 2011 onwards the driving dynamics display will also be included as a new function in the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system.

Driveline concept: Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) and active all-wheel drive

The new top model shares with the Panamera Turbo the driveline concept based on the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) and active all-wheel drive (Porsche Traction Management, PTM). The PDK combines the driving dynamics and very good mechanical efficiency of a manual transmission with the high level of gear selection and ride comfort of a conventional automatic transmission with no interruption to the power flow. To achieve this, it offers a manual mode including gear recommendation and an automatic mode. This enables the PDK to satisfy the Panamera customers' demands for both sportiness and comfort. As with the sports cars, the driver operates the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe using either the selector lever on the centre console or by means of two pushbuttons in the steering wheel spokes. A three-spoke sports steering wheel with shift paddles is also available at no extra cost. In manual gear change mode, the gear recommendation displayed in the instrument cluster assists economical driving.

PTM: All-wheel drive helps to apply power to the road

The benefits of Porsche's intelligent PTM all-wheel drive are particularly apparent in a high performance vehicle such as the Panamera Turbo S: Greater agility and driving dynamics, better traction and driving stability, enhanced vehicle control and driving safety when pushing the driving dynamics boundaries. Compared with conventional all-wheel drives, this is complemented by weight and fuel consumption benefits as a result of the compact design and improved driving performance as a result of the low centre of gravity.

Strictly speaking the smooth transitions make it impossible to differentiate between driving dynamics and traction. An example: Only if a vehicle has good traction, namely if the tyres don't develop excessive slip, is it possible to transmit cornering forces. What this means for the front axle is steerability and for the rear axle stability. Using PTM can reduce spinning of the drive wheels or ideally eliminate it altogether.

With the PTM in the Porsche Panamera Turbo S, the active all-wheel drive is implemented as a controlled, so-called hang-on all-wheel drive system accommodated within the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe housing. The electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch handles the fully variable distribution of the propulsive force between the permanently driven rear axle and the front axle with no fixed standard distribution. Permanent monitoring of the driving state makes for a lightning fast response to different driving situations: Sensors continuously monitor the number of revs for all four wheels, the vehicle's longitudinal and lateral acceleration and steering angle, among other things. If for example the rear wheels start to spin when accelerating, the multiple-plate clutch intervenes more vigorously to transfer more propulsive force forwards. In corners only sufficient propulsive force ever reaches the front wheels to ensure optimal lateral support. When the brake control systems kick in, the PTM fully decouples the front axle to allow PSM interventions on individual wheels.

A broad spread of settings: from sporty to comfortable

The new Porsche Panamera Turbo S chassis features as standard all the systems that Porsche has developed and introduced for the sporty Gran Turismo. Underpinning everything is the combination of adaptive air suspension and adaptive damper control, the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system. The PASM seamlessly varies the damper forces, adapting them to road surface conditions and the driving style. The driver can use the PASM chassis button on the centre console to choose between three settings - Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus.

In similar fashion, the adaptive air suspension enables an even wider spread of suspension characteristics by activating differential spring rates, offering very high ride comfort on the one hand and very sporty driving dynamics on the other. The adaptive air suspension features four air springs, each complemented by one integrated, controllable auxiliary volume for modifying the spring rate. If the driver selects the comfort setting, each individual air spring with its total air volume of approximately 2.2 litres ensures an especially soft ride that cossets the passengers, especially on long journeys. If on the other hand the driver prefers a sporty ride, closing a valve reduces the active volume to approximately 1.1 litres. This increases the spring rate; the spring travel characteristic curve becomes more progressive, thereby making the chassis tauter. The adjustment occurs in tandem with the PASM damping characteristic - PASM also switches to the Sport Plus program - thereby intensifying the driver's chosen chassis tuning. This makes for a wide variation in handling between comfortable and especially sporty. The adaptive air suspension in "Sport Plus" mode also lowers the body, further improving the Panamera's aerodynamics and centre of gravity, enhancing driving safety and reducing fuel consumption.

Featured as standard: PDCC and PTV Plus anti-roll system

With Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), twinned with Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), the Panamera Turbo S features the most highly specified version of the Panamera chassis as standard. PDCC prevents the chassis from rolling about the longitudinal axis of the vehicle by using active stabilisers on the front and rear axle to apply a countervailing force. The system also improves the vehicle's balance by dynamically distributing the roll torque. The result: Ultimate agility in every driving speed range as well as optimal cornering behaviour and stable load transfer behaviour. The greater agility is achieved by the tyre always being in an ideal position relative to the road surface, thus optimising the build-up of lateral forces on the tyre. At the same time, the self-steering behaviour is selectively influenced by the variable roll torque distribution.

As a consequence of greater agility and lower lateral inclination, PDCC perceptibly improves driving performance, handling and driving comfort as well as driving stability. This is most apparent on winding roads and at high speed. When driving in a straight line the stabilisers are decoupled, causing the suspension to respond more sensitively to uneven road surfaces on one side, thus offering even greater comfort.

PDCC, PASM and air suspension are always jointly influenced by selecting one of the three chassis programs. With the comfort setting selected, PDCC with anti-roll disengaged emphasises comfort on uneven roads for a relaxed ride. In Sport and Sport Plus mode, the systems' active interventions influence articulation behaviour, maximum anti-roll support, self-steering behaviour and traction, thus ensuring maximum performance and agility.

PTV Plus for even more cornering pleasure

When it comes to driving dynamics the benefits of the PDCC are further emphasised by Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus and the electronically controlled rear axle differential lock with variable locking effect. The system works by varying the torque distribution to the rear wheels and by employing an electronically regulated rear differential lock, optimising steering behaviour when being driven with a sporty driving style. Braking interventions applied to the inside rear wheel generate an additional rotational pulse in the direction in which the steering wheel has been turned. This results in a direct and dynamic steering action as the car enters the curve.

PTV Plus complements this by improving traction as required when experiencing high lateral acceleration, when accelerating on road surfaces with varying levels of grip and when accelerating out of tight corners. During load transfer when cornering, the vehicle's turning motion into the corner is less pronounced as a result of the countervailing yaw moment built up by the rear axle differential lock and straight-line stability is improved. The result is high lateral dynamic vehicle stabilisation - i.e. chassis stability - optimal traction and high agility at any speed with precise and stable load transfer behaviour.

High performance brakes, also available with ceramic discs as an option

The red brake callipers behind the wheels of the Porsche Panamera Turbo S announce the most powerful conventional brake system that Porsche installs on its Gran Turismos. The braking power on the front axle is provided by six-piston aluminium monobloc fixed-calliper brakes and 390 millimetre composite brake discs. These brake discs are made from a light aluminium pot connected with the grey cast iron friction ring. This reduces the unsprung masses. Four-piston aluminium monobloc fixed-calliper brakes and 350 millimetre diameter brake discs are fitted on the rear axle.

One of the few technical options that the Turbo S still leaves open, the race-proven and particularly efficient Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system with yellow-painted brake callipers, is available if desired. The front brake discs are 410 millimetres in diameter, the rear ones 350 millimetres. Compared with a brake system with grey cast iron discs, the PCCB responds faster, has very high fading stability thanks to constant frictional values giving it high safety reserves under heavy stresses. Also, the ceramic composite material reduces the weight to approximately half that of a conventional grey cast iron brake disc of comparable construction and size. This ensures better road grip, enhanced driving and ride comfort as well as greater agility and yet further improved handling.

Tyres and wheels: For optimum driving dynamics and efficiency

Thanks to the combination of large track widths and wide tyres with different front and rear tyre dimensions, the Porsche Panamera Turbo S exhibits sporty, agile, precise and safe handling when being driven with an especially dynamic driving style. This combination makes for high driving stability with little lateral inclination of the body and high lateral acceleration potential. To do justice to the high performance, Porsche's partners in the tyre industry developed special tyre specifications and specially tuned them to the Gran Turismo. The sizes of the 20 inch tyres featured as standard are 255/40 at the front and 295/35 at the rear.

Precise and comfortable steering: Servotronic

The series version of the Porsche Panamera Turbo S includes Servotronic, a speed-sensitive powersteering system, upgraded yet again for all Gran Turismos. The steering is taut at high speeds. Steering manoeuvres are extremely preciseaccompanied by a high level of stee ring comfort. Conversely, at low speeds, Servotronic makes for especially smooth manoeuvring and parking.

Sporty luxurious appearance through and through

The sporty character of the new Porsche Panamera Turbo S is also reflected on the exterior. The 20-inch 911 Turbo II wheels with coloured wheel hub covers, combined with increased rear axle track width achieved by five millimetre thick wheel spacers, ensure especially sporty performance and looks. The side skirts from the Porsche Exclusive range, featured as standard, lend the new top model additional visual width. An additional unique selling point of the Panamera family: The adaptive extending four-way rear spoiler is painted in the exterior colour, but is also available in black if desired. The overall impression is rounded off by the "Panamera turbo S" lettering on the rear. From autumn 2011 onwards, the new Panamera Turbo S will also be available at no extra cost in agate grey metallic paint, reserved exclusively for this model.

Highly sophisticated adaptive light system as standard

The Panamera Turbo S comes with a highly sophisticated Porsche adaptive light system, comprising Bi-Xenon headlights, dynamic and static cornering lights, auxiliary headlights, speed-dependent driving light control and adverse weather light. The dynamic cornering lights are activated at a speed of 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and above. The light con trol system swivels the main headlights by up to 15 degrees into the corner. The static cornering light activates an additional halogen light source with a beam angle of approxi mately 30 degrees to the direction of travel. It is activated by the indicator or steering angle when stationary and at speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph). That means for example that the kerb is better illuminated when turning into a side road. At higher speeds it is activated by the steering angle alone.

Compared with the basic dipped headlight setting, the country road light offers greater range when illuminating the left hand side of the road and a wider beam. At higher speeds the control system adapts the shape of the light cone. It extends it forward, thereby improving visibility without dazzling oncoming traffic. Motorway lighting is activated at speeds in excess of 130 km/h (81 mph) or faster than 110 km/h (68 mph) and a longer stretch of road with small steering angles. Motorways lighting increases the light output and establishes a more effective boundary between light and dark at higher speeds. The adverse weather light is activated when the rear fog light is switched on and reduces reflection in poor visibility conditions such as fog or snowfall.

Interior: Bi-colour leather finish and comfort seats

The fusion of exclusivity and sportiness is conveyed in the interior by the bi-colour leather finish, featured as standard. The new combination of black/cream is offered exclusively for the new Porsche Panamera Turbo S with agate grey/cream also being added as an exclusive combination from the autumn. The birch anthracite interior package and prominent Porsche crest on the front headrests provide the finishing touch to the interior of the Porsche Panamera Turbo S. The front door entry guards and instrument cluster are embellished with "turbo S" lettering for additional differentiation.

The 14-way adjustable front comfort seats featured as standard are combined with the Comfort Memory Package for excellent ride comfort. The Memory Package includes extending seat bottom as well as lumbar support and electric steering column adjustment. Front and rear seat heating is featured as standard; seat ventilation is available as an option. Adaptive sports seats based on this seat system and including Comfort Memory Package with raised seat side bolsters and electric 18-way adjustment are available as an option. At the rear, two single seats with folding centre armrest afford generous head and leg room even for tall passengers.

Top-notch sound enjoyment: BOSE® featured as standard, Burmester as an option

Porsche Panamera Turbo S passengers will enjoy the sound of the BOSE® Surround Sound-System specially developed for the Panamera and fitted as standard. A total of 14 loudspeakers, a 200-watt active subwoofer with a Class D output stage and 200 millimetre speaker diameter as well as nine amplifier channels ensure an impressive aural experience. Overall output is 585 watts.

If so desired it can be replaced by the optional Burmester® High-End Surround Sound- System. If so, a unique aural experience will be delivered by 16 loudspeakers, controlled by 16 amplifier channels with a total output of more than 1,000 watts, rounded off by a 250 millimetre active subwoofer with a 300 watt Class D amplifier.

Conceptually, the design of this sound system broke entirely new ground. The crossover technology used has been carried over more or less unmodified from the Burmester® home audio sector. Analogue and digital filters were finely tuned for their own individual intended purpose. Ribbon-based tweeters (Air-Motion-Transformers, AMT) specially for the Panamera are used at the front, recognisable by their unmistakably fine and clear highfrequency sound reproduction. The customised loudspeaker housings are precisely tailored to the Panamera and deliver the optimum bass foundation, definition and impulse accuracy. The result: even at the loudest volumes an as yet unequalled, natural and richly textured spatial sound. Lightweight construction plays an important role with the Panamera sound system as well. Meaning that the combined weight of all the components of the Burmester® system is less than twelve kilograms.

New option: Lane Change Assist system for enhanced safety and comfort

From summer 2011 onwards the Porsche Panamera Turbo S is available with the Lane Change Assist (LCA) system as a new option, which will be available at the same time for the other Gran Turismo models as well. The system uses two radar sensors in the rear bumper to monitor the lanes on the right and left up to 70 metres behind the vehicle, including the blind spots. The Lane Change Assist system therefore enhances safety and comfort, particularly on motorways. The Lane Change Assist system is available in the 30 to 250 km/h (19 to 155 mph) speed range.

Specifications of the Porsche Panamera Turbo S

    Displacement: 4,806 cc
    Bore: 96.0 mm
    Stroke: 83.0 mm
    Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
    Engine Power: 405 kW (550 hp) at 6,000 rpm
    Max. Torque: 750 Nm at 2,250-4,500 rpm with overboost 800 Nm at 2,500-4,000 rpm
    Power Output per Litre: 84.3 kW/litre (114.4 hp/litre)
    Maximum Revs: 6,700 rpm
    Fuel Type: Premium Plus
    Dimensions
        Length: 4,970 mm
        Width: 1,931 mm
        Height: 1,418 mm
        Wheelbase: 2,920 mm
        Track width
            Front: 1,646 mm
            Rear: 1,642 mm
        Luggage compartment volume according to VDA: 432 to 1,250 litres
        Fuel tank capacity: 100 litres
        Unladen weight, DIN: 1,995 kg
        Permissible gross weight: 2,500 kg
        Permissible roof load: 75 kg
    Performance
        Top speed: 306 km/h (190.1 mph)
        0-100 km/h: (62 mph) 3.8 s
        0-160 km/h: (99 mph) 8.3 s
        0-200 km/h: (124 mph) 12.9 s
        0-1,000 metres: (3,2801 ft) 21.6 s
    Fuel Consumption
        Urban: 17.0 litres/100 km
        Extra urban: 8.4 litres/100 km
        Combined: 11.5 litres/100 km
        CO2 Emissions: Total 270 (265) g/km
        Emission Category: Euro 5

2011 PORSCHE pictures 911 GT2 RS specifications

2011-11-27T20:18:00.000-08:00

2011 PORSCHE 911 GT2 RS

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2011 PORSCHE 911 GT2 RS

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 GT2 RS

The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is the fastest and most powerful road-going sports car ever built in the history of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart and marks the summit in the 911 range. With power up by 90 hp and weight down by 70 kilograms in comparison with the prior 911 GT2, the new Porsche 911 GT2 RS has a weight-to-power ratio of just 2.21 kilos per horsepower, by far the best power/weight ratio in its class.

Obviously, these are the ideal ingredients for an ultra-high-performance sports car with supreme agility, combined with truly blistering performance on the road and, of course, exemplary Porsche Intelligent Performance attributes. This manifests itself in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions being lower by approximately 5 per cent to 23.7 mpg (equal to 11.9 ltr/100 km) and 284 g/km versus the 911 GT2, despite the extra power and performance.

The six-cylinder boxer engine is boosted by two turbochargers with variable turbine geometry (exclusive to Porsche in its combination with a petrol engine) and drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. Sports tyres measuring 325/30 ZR 19 and developed especially for the Porsche 911 GT2 RS convert this massive power into equally massive performance and acceleration on the road: 0 - 62mph (100 km/h) in 3.5 seconds, 0 - 124mph (200 km/h) in just 9.8 seconds, and 0 - 186mph (300 km/h) in 28.9 seconds.

Equally supreme stopping power on this ultra-high-performance sports car is assured by the PCCB composite ceramic brakes fitted as standard. Appropriate longitudinal and lateral dynamic chassis control is ensured by the sporting RS set-up of the springs, Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management (PASM), anti-roll bars, as well as the engine mounts and PSM Porsche Stability Management.

In its exterior styling, the new Porsche 911 GT2 RS stands out clearly from the 911 GT2 through the use of carbon-fibre-reinforced (CFR) components in distinctive matt-black surface finish. At the front, the new, wider 911 GT2-style light-alloy wheels with centre locking are shrouded by flared wheel arches. "GT2 RS" model designations give further differentiation on the doors and rear engine cover. The upgraded front spoiler lip and the rear spoiler lip are also made of CFR and display a surface carbon finish. The rear spoiler lip is now 10 millimetres higher to ensure the right aerodynamic precision, as well as extra downforce.

From behind the wheel of the Porsche 911 GT2 RS, the flair of sporting performance continues. Featuring lightweight bucket seats made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic - again in carbon surface finish - and lightweight interior door panels with door opening straps, the high octane ambience is sustained. The basic interior colour is black, contrasting attractively with red alcantara upholstery on the seat centre sections and the roof lining as well as segments on the steering wheel rim, gearshift and handbrake lever.

Limited to just 500 units worldwide, the Porsche 911 GT2 RS will be available in the UK from September 2010 priced from £164,107. Further specifications and technical details will be confirmed nearer to launch.

Fitted to every Porsche 911 GT2 RS is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

Porsche GT2 RS - Key facts and technical specifications
Lightweight features developed for the Porsche 911 GT2 RS include: use of lighter aluminium transverse arms and diagonal struts in the rear suspension, carbon fibre reinforced front lid and rear spoiler, polycarbonate rear window and side windows, lightweight engine cover, lighter single-mass flywheel, lighter lithium-ion battery.

Dynamic enhancements include: new charge air intercooler, metal support bearings complete with ball joints in the front suspension; lightweight door panels, wider front track, turbo boost increased to 1.6 bar from 1.4 bar, wider front track with wider tyres (same dimensions as GT3 RS).

Technical specifications

    * Cylinders: 6
    * Displacement: 3.600cm3
    * Max. power (DN): 620 hp @ 6,500 rpm
    * Max.torque: 700 Nm @ 2,500-5,500 rpm
    * Compression ratio: 9.0 : 1
    * Boost pressure: 1.6 bar
    * Transmission: Six speed manual
    * Wheels
          o Front: 9 J x 19 ET 47
          o Rear: 12 J x 19 ET 48
    * Tyres
          o Front: 245/35 ZR 19 (sports tyres)
          o Rear: 325/30 ZR 19 (sports tyres)
    * Unladen weight (DIN): 1,370 kg
    * Power to weight ratio: 2.21 kg per hp / 452 hp per tonne
    * Top Speed: 205 mph (330 km/h)
    * 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h): 3.5 s
    * 0-99 mph (0-160 km/h): 6.8 s
    * CO2 emissions: 284 g/km
    * Turning circle: 10.9 m
    * Drag coefficient: 0.34
    * Combined fuel consumption: 23.7mpg
    * Length: 4,469mm
    * Height: 1,285mm
    * Width (inc wing mirrors): 1,852mm (1,952mm)
    * Wheelbase: 2,350mm
    * Price: £164,107 inc VAT

2010 PORSCHE Cayenne S Hybrid pictures, review

2011-11-27T20:12:00.000-08:00

2010 PORSCHE Cayenne S Hybrid

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2010 PORSCHE Cayenne S Hybrid

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid

Porsche shared more information about the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid, which will debut in 2010. Using a parallel full hybrid design with the electric motor between the combustion engine and the transmission, Porsche engineers have been able to drive at speeds up to 86 mph without at all using the combustion engine.

This engineering achievement allows the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid to roll freely - or 'coast' -- at highway speeds without the combustion engine on, greatly minimizing engine emissions and fossil fuel consumption. This differs from current hybrid concepts that deliver benefits mainly in city traffic. Porsche, in cooperation with Volkswagen, opted for the parallel full hybrid design as it also significantly improves acceleration, a concept that matches the company's philosophy of offering outstanding performance and efficiency. It also fits in the current Cayenne design with minimal alterations and without affecting interior space or luggage capacity.

When it comes to market in 2010, the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid is expected to emit some 20 percent less C02 than comparable combustion engine vehicles with similar power output. Covering a 0-to-100 km/h sprint in just 6.8 seconds, it earns its 'S' designation by delivering V8 performance and four-cylinder efficiency, all while complying with the Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEVII) emission standards.

The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid uses a supercharged Audi 3.0-liter V6 engine with Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), 333 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque from 2,900 to 5,300 rpm. It is mated with 52-horsepower three-phase synchronous electric motor that produces up to 221 lb-ft of torque and also acts as an alternator, and the combined power units are joined to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Also on board is a 154-lb. no-maintenance 38 kW nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery. Measuring 13.7" x 24.9" x 11.5", it fits in the spare tire well, thus not compromising luggage capacity.

The Hybrid Manager is the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid's "Heart"
The heart of these technologies is the powerful Hybrid Manager, which requires some 20,000 data parameters to operate (compared to a conventional engine control unit that operates on less than one-third of the data). Since a parallel full hybrid operates in three classic hybrid modes - power generated by the combustion engine and electric motor, power generated by the combustion engine only, and power generated by the electric motor only - the Hybrid Manager's main function is to seamlessly coordinate these modes to deliver optimal performance and efficiency.

With a clutch being the key connection between the combustion engine and the electric motor, the Hybrid Manager has the tough job of providing smooth but quick switching among the three hybrid modes without delay or a noticeable transition felt by the driver and passengers. For example, the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid can motor along solely on electric power for up to 1.2 miles with the combustion engine off, and the Hybrid Manager will fire up the engine as soon as the driver presses the accelerator, increase engine speed appropriately and engage the clutch to transfer power to the transmission without the driver or passengers noticing what is happening. And, it does this within just 300 milliseconds.

When driving with just the combustion engine, the Hybrid Manager also will ensure the engine is operating as efficiently as possible in reference to its load. It switches the electric motor to an alternator mode, so the fuel consumed by the combustion engine not only efficiently powers the Cayenne but also generates electricity that can be 'parked' in the NiMH battery. Finally, when the driver presses the brake pedal, the Hybrid Manager feeds as much energy as possible from the electric motor (again running as an alternator) to the battery.

The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid also has electrically driven ancillary components such as the air conditioning compressor and the power steering pump.

Unlike conventional Cayenne SUVs, the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid uses an eight-speed automatic unit. Porsche engineers added to the conventional transmission oil pump a new electrical drive pump to shift gears smoothly and efficiently also in electric mode. Top speed comes in sixth gear, and the two higher gears serve to further reduce engine speed to enhance fuel economy. Eighth gear, for example, enables the driver to 'coast' along without the combustion engine at speeds up to 86 mph.

Porsche expects the Cayenne S Hybrid to consume less than nine liters of fuel per 100 kilometers in the New European Driving Cycle. EPA fuel economy figures are not yet available.

A similar hybrid system will find its way into the new Porsche Panamera four-door gran turismo sometime following Porsche's fourth model line debut in late summer 2009.

2011 PORSCHE 911 Turbo S pictures

2011-11-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

2011 PORSCHE 911 Turbo S

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2011 PORSCHE 911 Turbo S

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 Turbo S

The engineers at Porsche have developed the new Porsche 911 Turbo S in response to customer demand for greater power, performance and driving dynamics. Building on the success and reputation of the revered Porsche 911 Turbo, at the heart of this most exclusive high-performance athlete is a six-cylinder 'boxer' engine boosted by two turbochargers with variable turbine geometry.

An increase in horsepower over the Porsche 911 Turbo of 30 hp boosts peak output to 530 hp (390 kW) and maximum torque is a most impressive 700 Newton-metres (516 lb-ft). Despite its significant increase in power and dynamic performance, the new Porsche 911 Turbo S returns 24.8 mpg Combined (11.4 l/ 100 km) and as such offers identical fuel consumption to the regular Porsche 911 Turbo, making it by far the most efficient sports car in its performance class.

The Porsche 911 Turbo S offers as standard the high technology features that are otherwise available as options on the 911 Turbo. Thus, the Porsche 911 Turbo S comes exclusively with the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch gearbox - with steering wheel-mounted paddle shift levers - which conveys drive power to Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive. Driving enjoyment and safety is optimised to an even higher standard courtesy of the Dynamic Engine Mounts, and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) including a mechanical limited slip rear differential.

In conjunction with the Launch Control function of the Sport Chrono Package Turbo that is also fitted as standard, the Porsche 911 Turbo S accelerates from a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.3 seconds and reaches 124 mph (200 km/h) in 10.8 seconds. Top speed is 196 mph (315 km/h). Lightweight and fade-resistant Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) provide the same outstanding performance in terms of stopping power.

Further underlining the outstanding class and calibre of this first Porsche 911 Turbo S in five years, the supreme level of standard equipment also includes Dynamic Cornering Lights, 19-inch RS Spyder design wheels with centre lock nut, adaptive sports seats, cruise control, a CD/DVD changer and exclusive two-tone leather upholstery in Black/Creme or Black/Titanium Blue.

The new Porsche 911 Turbo S goes on sale from May 2010 priced from £123,263 in Coupe bodystyle and from £130,791 as a Cabriolet. Fitted to every Turbo S is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard. Further technical and specification details will be confirmed nearer the on-sale date.

Customers will also be able to explore the dynamic attributes of their Porsche 911 Turbo S, and further develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

PORSCHE pictures 911 GT3 RSR 2012

2011-11-27T19:18:00.000-08:00

2012 PORSCHE 911 GT3 RSR

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2012 PORSCHE 911 GT3 RSR

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche 911 GT3 RSR

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RSR is ready to race. The top model of Porsche Motorsport's customer racing vehicles will head into the 2012 season with extensive modifications. Particularly striking at first glance are the changes to the body: the width of the new 911 GT3 RSR has grown by 48 millimetres. Built to conform to the A.C.O. "LM" GTE regulations, the 911 represents the crowning pinnacle of a range of successful customer sport race cars that are based on the 997 type 911 GT3 RS street sports car.

Powering the new Porsche 911 GT3 RSR is a particularly efficient six-cylinder boxer engine with a four-litre capacity. With a mandatory air-restrictor, it generates 460 hp (338 kW) and drives the 310 millimetre wide rear wheels. The diameter of the front wheels has increased by 30 mm to now measure 680 millimetres. The Porsche sequential six-speed gearbox is operated via paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

The nose and rear panels are adapted to the flared front and rear wheel arches, as are the door sill and the wheel arch coverings. The aerodynamic concept is complemented by a new ducting of the intake air. Openings in the rear side sections, as known from the turbo variants of the Porsche 911, replace the air scoop on the engine hood, which is very similar to the 911 GT2 RS street sports car.

The new 911 GT3 RSR can be raced at the Le Mans 24 Hours, the FIA World Endurance Championship, the Le Mans Series, the American Le Mans Series as well as the International GT Open and in other series and races.

"Our customer teams can expect a technically mature, high performance race car with which they will be highly competitive at international long distance races," assures Hartmut Kristen, Head of Porsche Motorsport. "Our test programme on various international race tracks is currently running at full speed. We are very pleased with the car's performance and driveability."

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RSR will be delivered to customer squads around the world from January 2012. The selling price is 498,000 Euro plus value added tax of the respective countries.

2011 PORSCHE Boxster S Black Edition | porsche pictures |

2011-11-26T09:21:00.000-08:00

2011 PORSCHE Boxster S Black Edition

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2011 PORSCHE Boxster S Black Edition

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

The Porsche Boxster S Black Edition combines the timeless appeal of the classic open-roofed roadster with a powerful engine and dramatic styling. Just 987 will be available worldwide, each one finished in black and with a range of special features that accentuate the driving dynamics and muscular appearance of the two-seater sportscar.

As is typical of a Porsche sportscar, at the heart of the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition beats a flat-six 'boxer' engine. Mounted in front of the rear axle behind the seats, the 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine is similar to that fitted to the Boxster S, with direct fuel injection for greater power and efficiency. In the Black Edition its output is 320 hp - 10 hp more than in the Boxster S. The revised engine reaches its rated power at 7,200 rpm, the Boxster S power pack at 6,400 rpm. Peak torque of 370 Nm - boosted by 10 Newton metres - is available at 4,750 rpm.

This increase in output and power equals more dynamics, and the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition underpins its leading position with a superior driving performance. With its standard six-speed manual transmission, it accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds, a tenth of a second faster than the Boxster S. This extra performance has not been achieved at the expense of fuel economy, however, for the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition contents itself with as much fuel as the Boxster S: 28.8 mpg Combined (NEDC).

As a consequence of the low centre of gravity provided by the flat-six engine, the Boxster chassis delivers an impressive level of agility. A decisive contribution to the enhanced driving dynamics of the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition is the particularly lightweight ten-spoke design alloy wheels, previously fitted to the Boxster Spyder, and which save 5kg overall. These are fitted with 235/35 ZR 19 tyres on the front axle and 265/35 ZR 19 on the rear.

When fitted with the seven-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch gearbox, dynamics and efficiency are raised even further. This shortens acceleration times from 0-62 mph to 5.1 seconds, and in combination with the Sports Chrono Package Plus with launch control this can be lowered further still to 4.9 seconds. In comparison with the manual transmission, the intelligent gear shifting strategy of PDK lowers fuel consumption to 30 mpg Combined (NEDC) and, more significantly, reduces the CO2 emissions to 221 g/km; placing the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition in vehicle excise duty Band K.

The colour concept of the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition is consistent in every detail. The model lettering painted in black on the rear luggage compartment lid identifies the Black Edition as much as the embossed Black Edition model designation on the side of the fabric hood. The roll-over bars are painted in black, together with the rear side air intake grilles and the twin tailpipe of the exhaust system.

The black theme of the exterior is continued inside. The stainless steel door entry guards feature the "Black Edition" model lettering in black. The standard, three-spoke Sport Design steering wheel has a black leather rim. The trim strips of the dashboard and of the gear shift lever or PDK selector are painted in black. The dials on the instrument cluster are black, as are the partial leather seats with the Porsche emblem embossed in the headrests. A bespoke badge on the glove compartment lid further identifies each Black Edition.

Comfort and convenience is also enhanced for the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition with standard features including anti-dazzle interior and exterior mirrors with integrated rain sensor, cruise control and a climate control system. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) including satellite navigation module is also standard. In addition, the universal audio interface offering MP3 player compatibility and Bluetooth mobile phone preparation are also standard. The Sound Package Plus creates an impressive audio experience, and standard Bi-Xenon headlamps with dynamic cornering lights and LED daytime running lights ensure safety on dark roads.

Upon request, the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition can be individualised even further with other options. For example, the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) is an option as well as the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and the adaptive sports seats with memory function.

The Porsche Boxster S Black Edition goes on sale in the UK and Ireland from March 2011 and is priced from £47,426. Included in the purchase price is the invitation for customers to explore the dynamic attributes of their Boxster and develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

2011 PORSCHE 911 GT3 R Hybrid 2.0. Porsche pictures, review

2011-11-26T09:15:00.000-08:00

2011 PORSCHE 911 GT3 R Hybrid 2.0

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2011 PORSCHE 911 GT3 R Hybrid 2.0

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Porsche AG will enter the Nürburgring 24 hour race on June 25, 2011, with a more advanced version of the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid. The priority for this latest edition was improvement of efficiency through the targeted optimization of hybrid components, which also resulted in a 20 percent weight reduction. Version 2.0 of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid is intended to achieve the same lap times as its predecessor but with less fuel consumption.

The general layout of the hybrid was adopted from the previous model. A portal axle with two electric motors drives the front wheels and supplements the four-liter - depending on the balance of performance classification - approximately 470 hp, six-cylinder boxer engine at the rear. The output of both electric motors has increased from 60 to 75 kilowatts each. For bursts of multiple seconds at a time, drivers now have almost an additional 200 hp at their disposal with the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid 2.0. Depending on the programming, this power is automatically activated through use of the throttle pedal. Moreover, pilots can manually call up this extra power, for instance when overtaking.

The electric flywheel accumulator, with its rotor spinning up to 40,000 rpm and storing energy mechanically as rotational energy, is now housed with the other hybrid components in a carbon fiber safety cell on the passenger's side.

At first glance, the new GT3 R Hybrid is clearly distinguishable from the previous model. Thanks to the optimization of the hybrid system's high voltage components, the large louvers in front of the rear fenders were no longer necessary. This reduces drag and also lowers fuel consumption. All in all, the weight of the vehicle decreased from 1,350 to 1,300 kilograms.

"We've collected a great deal of information from our races on the Nürburgring, at the ALMS race at Road Atlanta, as well as from the ILMC race on China's Zhuhai circuit. The data was invaluable for the further development of our racing laboratory," says Hartmut Kristen, head of Porsche motorsport. "The emphasis of our work was on improving efficiency. That means we want to keep the lap times consistent with 2010 but use less energy, hence less fuel. In this way, we support future developments of road-going, sporting hybrid vehicles."

The cockpit of the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid has also been completely revised. Most of the displays and controls have moved to the steering wheel. Drivers can operate the rest of the functions via backlit buttons now situated on the centre console. Priority was placed on the ergonomics and the clear layout for pilots - particularly in darkness.

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

2010 PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS pictures | Porsche car review |

2011-11-26T09:10:00.000-08:00

2010 PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2010 PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

Offering increased engine power, lower weight, shorter transmission ratios and a chassis optimised to an even higher standard, the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS sets the foundation for homologating the racing version of the 911 GT3.

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS thus provides the key ingredients for extending the unparalleled racing record of Porsche and continues the series of absolute, uncompromised, motor sport-oriented editions of the 911 that are homologated for road use and which can trace their roots back to the classic Carrera RS 2.7 of 1973.

The heart of the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the power unit, is based on the proven flat-six cylinder 'boxer' engine already featured in the 911 GT3. Like the latter, the RS power unit now displaces 3.8 instead of 3.6-litres, but in this new model is tuned to deliver even more power and rev even faster and more dynamically.

The engine in the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS delivers 15 hp more than its counterpart in the 911 GT3, providing a maximum output of 450 hp from the naturally-aspirated power unit. This is 35 hp more than the prior model Porsche 911 GT3 RS, and translates into a specific output of more than 118 hp per litre from the six-cylinder, an extremely high figure for a non-turbocharged engine. And unlike many other high-performance drivetrains, the power unit in the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS remains well suited to everyday use.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS comes exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox - with a short-throw gear lever - which is also optimised for low weight and high efficiency. To enhance the level of performance throughout the entire range of engine and road speeds, the gears have a shorter transmission ratio than on the 911 GT3, deliberately making concessions in terms of even higher top speed.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS features Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which, for the first time, has been purpose-built and specially set-up to further improve the sporting behaviour of the chassis. With a wider track not only at the rear but also on the front axle, the body of the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS is widened accordingly. For the new car, the use of additional wheel arch covers increases the span across the nose. Beneath these pronounced front arches sit 9-inch wide wheels with 245/35 ZR 19 sports tyres, and 12-inch wide wheels with 325/30 ZR 19 sports tyres sit at the rear.

Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts (PADM) are featured as standard and raise the driving dynamics of the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS to an even higher level. Depending on driving conditions, the engine mounts change in their stiffness and damping effect to resist the movement of the drivetrain in the bodyshell; this provides dynamic advantages when driving quickly on a challenging course such as a race track or twisting road.

The qualities of the car on a race track further benefit from the fact the aerodynamics of the RS develop even more downforce than on the GT3. Racing qualities are also why Porsche is introducing another new option in 2010, a lithium-ion battery delivered with the car. Replacing the conventional lead battery, this innovation reduces weight by more than 10 kg (22 lb).

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS shows its close connection to motor sport also through the dynamic looks of the car and this is borne out in particular by the new, extra-large carbon-fibre rear wing with its specifically designed aluminium wing supports. Aside from the bold livery, other distinctive sporting motifs include the low ride height, the characteristic dual tailpipes of the extra-light titanium sports exhaust and special front and rear parts exclusive to this model.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS will go on sale in the UK and Ireland in February 2010 priced from £100,760. Standard equipment includes a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard. Further technical and specification details will be confirmed nearer the on-sale date.

Customers will also be able to explore the dynamic attributes of the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS, and further develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

2010 PORSCHE 911 GT3 R pictures | porsche car review |

2011-11-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

2010 PORSCHE 911 GT3 R

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

2010 PORSCHE 911 GT3 R

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

For the 2010 motor sport season, Porsche has prepared a further development of the 911 GT3 for racing; the Porsche 911 GT3 R. Created for racing in series based on the international FIA GT3 regulations, and succeeding the 911 GT3 Cup S, the main focus with this new car was to deliver even better driveability and even easier handling.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R is powered by a six-cylinder 'boxer' engine of four-litres capacity, which delivers a maximum output of 480 bhp (353 kW) transmitted to the rear axle by a sequential six-speed 'dog-type' gearbox.

The starting point in developing the Porsche 911 GT3 R, which weighs just 1,200 kg (2,646 lb), was the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, that was first presented at the Frankfurt Show in September and which will compete in the Porsche Supercup supporting selected Formula One races in 2010. However, thanks to its increase in engine size by 200 cc, the Porsche GT3 R offers 30 bhp more than the Cup model. Both cars are based on the 911 GT3 RS road car, which goes on sale in February next year.

An anti-lock braking system, traction control and an electronic throttle with 'blip' function on gearbox down-changes make it much easier for drivers to get used to this new GT3 race car than its predecessor, with the consequence that the new model is also more appropriate for the ambitious amateur racing driver rather than purely experienced professionals.

Additional flared wheel arches front and rear bear clear testimony to the wider track of the Porsche GT3 R than on the former model. And like all second generation versions of the 911, the new 911 GT3 R also comes with striking LED rear light clusters.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R is making its world debut on 14 January 2010 at the Autosport International Show at the NEC in Birmingham. The car is built by the Porsche Motorsport Department at the Weissach Development Centre and will be delivered to customer teams around the world as of spring 2010. The base price of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS is 279,000 Euros plus local sales tax/VAT.

TechArt PORSCHE 911 Turbo GTstreet R 2009 porsche pictures

2011-11-26T08:43:00.000-08:00

2009 TechArt PORSCHE 911 Turbo GTstreet R

PORSCHE PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits

TechArt PORSCHE 911 Turbo GTstreet R (2009)

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)

TechArt presented the direct successor to the TechArt GTstreet RS - the new TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet R.

'Quod erat demonstrandum' (this completes the proof) - it was with this sentence that Sir Isaac Newton always completed the presentation of his mathematics and physics-based evidence. At TechArt, the phrase stands for the challenge of kitting out 'Non plus ultra' ex works vehicles with impressive performance capabilities. The result: the TechArt GTstreet RS based on the Porsche 911 GT2.

This vehicle concept is now being applied to the Porsche 911 Turbo in the form of the TechArt GTstreet R. The latest addition to the TechArt GTstreet family, which has stood for uncompromising sportiness since 2001, is therefore one of the world's top performing sports cars.

Impressive performance data
The TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet R is fitted with the TechArt performance kit TA097/T3 with an engine performance of 485 kW (660 hp) and a maximum torque of 860 Nm at 4,600 rpm. The GTstreet R with Tiptronic S can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and with manual transmission it only takes a tenth of a second longer. The remarkable propulsion levels out at a top speed of 345 km/h.

An ample increase in performance is guaranteed thanks to the new turbochargers, large carbon fibre inlet pipes, special intercoolers, a sports exhaust system combined with high-performance manifolds and an improved sports air filter. A balanced downforce on the front and back axels and specially adapted TechArt VarioPlus coil over suspension guarantee excellent driving performance at high speeds and ensure extra driving stability and safety.

Technology meets emotion
The design of the car body brings sporting agility and a perfect exterior design. The aero-bonnet, headlight trims and mirror trims, striking sill panels and carbon fibre roof spoiler characterise the dynamic design of this sports car. Precise air ducts on the front spoiler and rear wing optimise the engine ventilation. The striking rear apron with its carbon fibre diffuser and air ducts to the intercooler are additional special features of the comprehensive TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet R aerodynamic programme.

TechArt interiors stand for exceptional quality and care worldwide and are produced by hand at the TechArt saddlers department. This also applies to the diverse range of interiors available for the TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet R. A high degree of design freedom is on offer including individually tailored leather fittings, striking decorative stitching and sporty highlights in individual colour combinations. Additional accessories such as the non-slip TechArt 3-spoke sports wheel, aluminium pedals and much more round off this comprehensive range of interiors.

Porsche pictures. All Porsche Models. List of Porsche Cars

2011-11-26T04:03:00.000-08:00

All Porsche Models. List of Porsche Cars

Porsche 2013
• Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet [8]
• Porsche 911 Carrera S [8]
• Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet [4]
• Porsche 911 Carrera [9]

Porsche 2012
• Porsche Panamera Turbo S [7]
• Porsche Panamera S Hybrid [5]
• Porsche Panamera GTS [7]
• Porsche Panamera Diesel
• Porsche Cayman S Black Edition
• Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0
• Porsche 911 GT3 RSR [5]
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS

Porsche 2011
• Porsche Cayman R [7]
• Porsche Cayenne
• Porsche Boxster S Black Edition [3]
• Porsche 918 RSR [10]
• Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Turbo S [4]
• Porsche 911 Speedster
• Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid 2.0 [3]
• Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid [6]
• Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
• Porsche 911 GT2 RS [4]
• Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera GTS
• Porsche 911 Black Edition

Porsche 2010
• Porsche TechArt Porsche Panamera Black Edition
• Porsche TechArt Porsche Panamera
• Porsche TechArt Porsche Cayman
• Porsche TechArt Porsche Boxster
• Porsche TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo Aerokit II new
• Porsche TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo
• Porsche Panamera
• Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid [3]
• Porsche Boxster Spyder [6]
• Porsche 918 Spyder Concept
• Porsche 911 Turbo
• Porsche 911 Sport Classic
• Porsche 911 GT3 RS [6]
• Porsche 911 GT3 R [5]
• Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
• Porsche 911 GT3

Porsche 2009
• Porsche TechArt PORSCHE 911 Turbo GTstreet R [3]
• Porsche GT3 RSR
• Porsche Cayman S Sport
• Porsche Cayman S
• Porsche Cayman
• Porsche Cayenne Turbo S
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Targa 4
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4
• Porsche 911 Carrera
• TechArt Porsche Cayenne
• TechArt Porsche 911 Cabrio Aerokit I
• TechArt Porsche 911 Aerokit I
• Edo Porsche Cayenne GTS

Porsche 2008
• Porsche Cayman S Porsche Design Edition 1
• Porsche Cayenne Hybrid
• Porsche Cayenne GTS
• Porsche Cayenne Diesel
• Porsche Cayenne
• Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 GT2
• Porsche 911 Carrera

• TechArt Porsche Cayenne Magnum
• TechArt Porsche Cayenne
• TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet R (3)
• TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet Cabrio [5]
• TechArt Porsche 911 GT2 GTstreet RS
• Hamann Porsche 911 Turbo Stallion

Porsche 2007
• Porsche Cayman S
• Porsche Cayman
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Turbo
• Porsche 911 Targa 4S
• Porsche 911 Targa 4
• Porsche 911 GT3 RS
• Porsche 911 GT3
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4

• TechArt Porsche Carrera GT
• TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet
• TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet
• TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo
• Rinspeed Porsche 997 Turbo Le Mans 600 [5]
• Hamann Porsche Cayenne Cyclone
• Edo Porsche Carrera GT
• Edo Porsche 997 Turbo Shark
• Edo Porsche 997 GT2 R

Porsche 2006
• Porsche Cayenne Turbo S
• Porsche Cayenne S Titanium
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Carrera S Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

• TechArt Porsche Cayman S
• TechArt Porsche Cayman
• TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo 997
• TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera S Police Car
• TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera 4 997
• Strosek Porsche Cayman
• Rinspeed Porsche Indy 4S 997
• Rinspeed Porsche Imola Cayman 987
• Edo Porsche 996 Turbo Red-Black

Porsche 2005
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Turbo S
• Porsche 911 Carrera S
• Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera

• TechArt Porsche Boxster
• Strosek Porsche Cayenne
• Rinspeed Porsche Indy 997 Carrera S
• Edo Porsche Cayenne Turbo
• Edo Porsche 996 GT2 RS
• Edo Porsche 996 GT2 R

Porsche 2004
• Porsche Cayenne Turbo
• Porsche Cayenne S
• Porsche Cayenne
• Porsche Carrera GT
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe
• Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Targa
• Porsche 911 GT3
• Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

• Hamann Porsche Cayenne
• Hamann Porsche 997
• Hamann Porsche 996 Turbo

Porsche 2003
• Porsche Cayenne Turbo
• Porsche Cayenne
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Turbo
• Porsche 911 Targa
• Porsche 911 GT2
• Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S
• Porsche 911 Carrera

• Rinspeed Porsche Bedouin 996 Turbo
• Hamann Porsche 911 GT3 San Diego Express

Porsche 2002
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Turbo
• Porsche 911 Targa
• Porsche 911 GT2
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S
• Porsche 911 Carrera

Porsche 2001
• Porsche Boxster S
• Porsche Boxster
• Porsche 911 Turbo
• Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Coupe
• Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet

Porsche 19xx
• 1997 Porsche 911 Carrera
• 1995 Porsche 911 Carrera RS
• 1994 Porsche 968 Sport
• 1994 Porsche 968 Cabriolet
• 1993 Porsche 964 Speedster
• 1993 Porsche 911 Turbo
• 1993 Porsche 911 Carrera 2 Cabrio
• 1980 Porsche 930 Turbo [1]
• 1963 Porsche 901 [1]
• 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder [1]
• 1948 Porsche 356 No 1
• 1948 Porsche 356