Porsche of Roanoke

Panamera Exposed Part 5 - World Premiere in Shanghai

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:06:00 +0000

911 Turbo. The Commencement.

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:06:00 +0000

Porsche Panamera stands straight up in the freight elevator

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:11:00 +0000

The Porsche Panamera was unveiled at the 2009 Auto Shanghai to the world's media on Monday. Little did they know that on the eve of its debut, the Panamera was transported to a more intimate setting being held at the Shanghai World Financial Center.

The event took place on the 94th floor and getting anything of size up to such levels requires either heavy cranes, scaffolding or a helicopter. The organisers opted to take the elevator. They packed the five-metre long Porsche upright into a service elevator using a motor ramp and some serious manpower. In the end they were able to take the Panamera 425 metres (1,394 ft) up to what is described as the world's highest event platform.

German Porsche dealerships are now taking orders for the four-door performance sedan which debuts there in September with three initial models. They are the 400 hp (298 kW) two-wheel drive Panamera S and all-wheel drive Panamera 4S, and the 500 hp (373 kW) twin-turbocharged all-wheel drive Panamera Turbo.

Driving the wheels is the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) 7-speed double-clutch gearbox. US manufacturer suggested retail prices will be US$89,800 for the Panamera S, US$93,800 for the Panamera 4S and US$132,600 for the Turbo when it launches in October.

Source: Porsche

Porsche Panamera makes World Debut in Shanghai

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:07:00 +0000

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, presented the Panamera to the world public today at the 13th Auto Shanghai. Joining the 911, the Cayenne, and the Boxster/Cayman, this new four-door Gran Turismo is Porsche’s fourth model series, with three variants entering the market in Germany on 12 September 2009. The Panamera is making its debut as an eight-cylinder delivering 400 and, respectively, 500 horsepower and with both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, a six-cylinder gasoline model and a hybrid version following later.

Klaus Berning, Executive Vice-President Sales and Marketing of Porsche AG, expressed a clear view at the world debut of the Panamera: ”Introducing the Panamera, we are entering a market segment completely new for our customers and we are once again consistently expanding our model portfolio.“

Through its design and looks alone, the Panamera clearly stands out from the competition at very first sight. Like no other car in its class, it offers a truly unique combination of sporting performance and luxurious comfort. Despite its low and sleek silhouette so typical of Porsche, the Panamera, measuring 4.97 metres (195.7”) in length but only 1.42 metres (55.9”) in height, ensures a generous feeling of space on all four seats.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, Porsche’s Executive Vice-President Research and Development, added an equally clear statement: “Our engineers, technicians, and designers have invested all their know-how, years of experience, a wealth of ideas, and their full passion for sports cars in this four-seater Gran Turismo.“

The Panamera is introducing no less than five outstanding innovations in technology as world premieres to be admired for the first time in the luxury performance class – among them the first Start-Stop system in conjunction with automatic transmission, air suspension with additional air volume available on demand in each spring, as well as active aerodynamics with an adjustable, multi-dimensional, extendable rear spoiler on the Panamera Turbo.

Porsche’s Gran Turismo sets new standards in its market segment in terms of performance, driving dynamics and efficiency, benefiting from Porsche’s traditional core competences and years of experience in motorsport, since efficient and powerful engines, lightweight technologies, and optimised aerodynamics are crucial to success also on the race track. All models in the Panamera range come with Porsche Direct Fuel Injection, low-friction drive systems, and weight-optimised lightweight bodies.

Moving on to the suspension, the customer can choose among steel suspension or adaptive air suspension with a fully-controlled damper system. And thanks to its intelligent chassis concept, the Panamera combines the driving comfort of a luxurious grand touring saloon with the driving dynamics of a thoroughbred Porsche sports car. Depending on his individual style of motoring or current traffic conditions, the driver can choose either a particularly comfortable or an especially sporting set-up most conveniently at the touch of a button.

With its centre console extending back from the dashboard all the way to the rear seats, Porsche’s new Gran Turismo offers an unprecedented feeling of space and motoring pleasure on all four seats, highlighting the personal ambience and style of each individual passenger. The driver’s seat and cockpit offers optimum ergonomics all round, a low seating position providing that direct contact to the road again so typical of Porsche. The passengers, in turn, all enjoy highly comfortable single seats. The luxuriously appointed interior, finally, already offering a supreme standard on the regular series models, may naturally be upgraded on request by a wide range of optional extras and special equipment.

Note: Images on the world debut of the Panamera are available to accredited journalists in the Por-sche Press Database athttp://presse.porsche.de/. Footage is available to registered users athttp://www.thenewsmarket.com/porsche.

VW-Porsche 914 Celebrates Anniversary

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:39:00 +0000

Stuttgart. Everything remained very quiet when today’s Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG established VW-Porsche-Vertriebsgesellschaft mbh, the VW-Porsche Sales Company, together with Volkswagenwerk AG, as it was called at the time, in April 1969. Holding stock capital of DM 5 million, the new company launched the strategy of success for two sports cars still carefully held back from the public pending their final presentation: the VW-Porsche 914 and 914/6.

The establishment of the VW-Porsche Sales Company marked the beginning of a true story of success – and the fortunate end of a dramatic development. Back in the mid-60s VW was looking for a successor to its then rather outdated Type 34 sports coupe, better known as the “Karmann Ghia”. At the same time Porsche was striving to expand its position in the market with a sports car in the promising segment beneath the 911.

Facing this challenge Ferry Porsche and VW’s CEO Heinrich Nordhoff agreed in spring 1966 on a joint venture destined to benefit both parties: Porsche was given the assignment by Volkswagen to develop a low-cost mid-engined sports car intended to enter the market as a Volkswagen with four cylinders and as a Porsche with a six-cylinder boxer engine.

With the development process continuing at a good pace, the Board of Management of VW was suddenly confronted with a tragic change: Heinrich Nordhoff died unexpectedly in 1968 and Kurt Lotz was appointed the new Chief Executive Officer. Lotz rescinded the contract agreed verbally and insisted on Volkswagen receiving the sole and exclusive sales rights for the car being developed by Porsche. After long and tough struggles bringing the 914 to the brink of failure more than once, the two companies agreed in a compromise to call the new car the “VW-Porsche” and to market this new model through a joint sales network.

The VW-Porsche 914 was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show on
11 September 1969 as the first mid-engined sports car built in Germany in series production. The combination of the two brand names Volkswagen and Porsche nevertheless turned out to be an image problem for the new model series commonly referred to by the press as the “Volksporsche” or “People’s Porsche”. This was a particular disadvantage for the 914/6 powered by the two-litre flat-six carried over from the 911 T 2.0. For despite its outstanding performance, the 914/6 was hardly accepted by most of Porsche’s existing customers.

The four-cylinder VW-Porsche 914, on the other hand, became a genuine success in the market, accounting for a production volume of 115,631 units until the series ceased production in spring 1976, and thus becoming the best-selling sports car of its time.

Most of the cars built were exported to the United States, where the 914 was marketed as a genuine, fully-fledged Porsche without the VW prefix.

Today the VW-Porsche 914 is acknowledged as a popular classic supported by numerous 914 clubs the world over. Particularly the 914/6 built only 3,338 times is one of the most sought-after collector cars from Porsche.

The Porsche Museum is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 914 model series with a rare special exhibit on display from 9 April – 10 May 2009: the Porsche 914/8 with its 300-bhp eight-cylinder racing engine once owned by Ferry Porsche himself. With only two of these cars ever being built, one was presented to Ferry Porsche in 1969 as a special gift for his 60th birthday.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Facelift Spy Photos on the Nurburgring

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:11:00 +0000

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS has been caught doing some serious laps at the Nürburgring. Making its recent debut in Geneva, the 911 GT3 facelift received new rear lights, LED daytime running lights, and a new bigger engine providing 20hp more for a total of 435hp. However, these spy shots reveal the GT3 facelift in RS trim showing widened front fenders and a more purposeful rear wing. Looks like the rear LEDhigh-mount brake light strip that is mounted just below the bottom of the rear glass inside a crevice has been repositioned to sit at the base of the spoiler on the ouside of the bonnet. Surely, this wing is one of several different designs that will be tested during the GT3 RS's development.

Power is expected to remain at 435hp from the direct injection 3.8-liter flat six. However, the RS package is known to liberate a couple dozen kilos as a result of carbon fiber and plastic use throughout the interior and body. The 6-speed manual transmission will be standard but Porsches PDK 7-speed dual-clutch should be available as an option, although it is speculated that PDK will be left out for the sake of weight savings. The GT3 RS should be able to better the standard GT3's sprint to 100km/h of 4.0 sec by shaving 0.1 to 0.2 tenths of a second off.

The first public reveal is expected to take place at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September. Meanwhile, stay tuned as more spy pictures of this and other facelifted Porsches keep cropping up.

Source: World Car Fans Additional Photos: Click here

Porsche to revive 356 Speedster in 2013?

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:31:00 +0000

New speculation has emerged about a long rumored entry-level Porsche which could go into production by 2013.

Reports indicate the model would be called the 356 Speedster and it will feature an extremely lightweight two-seater design as well as a mid-engine setup. Based on a production version ofVolkswagen's Blue Sport Concept, the 356 Speedster would only weigh about 760 kg (1675 lbs) thanks to the use of lightweight materials such as aluminum and possibly even magnesium.

While it's impossible to know exactly what engine would provide motivation for the new model, the leading contender appears to be Audi's 2.0-liter TFSI. Considering that the current Boxster uses a 2.9-liter six-cylinder engine that produces 255 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque, the 2.0 TFSI would allow the 356 Speedster to slot slightly below the Boxster in terms of performance as it only produces 211 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Another possible engine choice is the 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine from the Volkswagen Scirocco which cranks out a modest 160 hp, but that seems a little weak for Porsche's premium status.

According to the Autozeitung, Porsche sees the new 356 Speedster as a critical step towards meeting more stringent fuel economy and greenhouse gas emission regulations. Speculated to cost less than €40,000 (in Germany), the model would also help the company attract more budget conscious consumers in a similar fashion that the Boxster did over a decade ago.

Note: 2011 Porsche Boxster artist rendering image above is for illustrative purposes only. Originally published Nov 6, 2007.

Source: World Cars Fans

New Porsche Cayenne GTS Porsche Design Edition 3

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:29:00 +0000

Stuttgart. Introducing an exclusive series of models to be produced only in a limited edition, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is expanding its successful range of SUVs: Production of the Cayenne GTS Porsche Design Edition 3 with its exclusive features will be limited to just one thousand numbered units.

With this new model, the Cayenne is continuing the innovative design line already initiated successfully with the Cayman S Porsche Design Edition 1 and the Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2. The clear handwriting of the Porsche Design Studio based in Zell am See, Austria, one of the world leaders in industrial and product design, comes out clearly from the start in the choice of the Cayenne’s paintwork colour, Lava Grey Metallic emphasising the sporting and purist look of the car, design stripes at the side and on the engine compartment lid highlighting the exclusive origin of this very special Cayenne. The 21-inch SportPlus wheels featured as standard are also finished in this special exterior colour.

The elegant look of this new model is rounded off by bi-xenon headlights featured as standard as well as dark privacy glazing to the rear of the B-pillar and the “Cayenne GTS“ model designation in black with a red “S” at the rear. An extended roof spoiler with its double wing profile fixed in position is available at no extra cost.

Exclusive black leather upholstery with red contrasting seams on the instrument panel and doorsills further enhances the appealing looks of the 405-hp Cayenne GTS Porsche Design Edition 3. The padded three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, in turn, raises the car’s unique sporting character to an even higher level.

Electrically adjustable sports seats with a comfort memory package and high-rising side supports offer the driver and front passenger optimum seating comfort and very good support at the sides. The front headrests proudly boast an embossed Porsche logo, the centre seat sections front and rear are finished in slip-proof alcantara. The same material gives parts of the centre console and door linings as well as the inner sections of the door handles and the complete roof lining a discreet but sophisticated touch of class and elegance, while carbon trim bars bear clear and convincing reference to motorsport. The Porsche Design Edition 3 model designation, finally, stands out clearly on the rev counter, the front door entry trim and the placard in the glove compartment with the serial number of the vehicle embossed on the surface.

The unique experience in sound so typical of a Porsche comes, first, at the touch of a button from the sports exhaust system featured as standard and, second, from the Bose 5.1 Surround Sound System with no less than 14 loudspeakers and overall output of 410 W.

Not only this kind of sound, but also the outstanding performance of this special model with its 4.8-litre 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) V8 arouses particular emotions. On the road, this means acceleration from a standstill to
100 km/h with six-speed Tiptronic S featured as standard in the Cayenne GTS Porsche Design Edition 3 in just 6.5 seconds, as well as top speed of 251 km/h or 156 mph.

By tradition, every Porsche Design Edition comes as standard with unique Porsche Design accessories. The Porsche Design Chronograph exclusively matching each model, for example, stands for particular class and style. In the case of the Porsche Design Edition 3, the Porsche Design Studio has created a Type P’6612 automatic chronograph featuring a light titanium casing measuring 42 millimetres in diameter and further enhanced by a metal strap with DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating. This special coating carried over from racing engines gives the titanium body of the watch its characteristic colour, while the exclusive face of the chronograph takes up striking design features from the interior of the Cayenne.

Another perfect match for this very special vehicle is the four-piece luggage set bearing the Porsche Design Edition 3 label and made up of three trolley cases varying in size as well as a functional briefcase. With the exception of the largest trolley case – offering a capacity of 62 litres – all items may be used on aircraft as carry-on travel baggage.

The market launch of the Cayenne GTS Porsche Design Edition 3 in Germany starts at the end of May. The base price in the Euro area including the chronograph and the complete set of cases is Euro 79,100.-, the retail price in Germany including 19 per cent value-added tax and national specifications is Euro 94,344.-.

Most Successful Porsche Race Cars Reunite at 12 Hours of Sebring

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:29:00 +0000

In March 2008, Porsche celebrated a sensational overall victory with the RS Spyder sports prototype at the 12 Hours of Sebring. Following tradition, the name of the overall winner was added to the front of the pit structure at the Sebring International Raceway before this year’s race. With a total of 18 overall wins and 65 class victories, Porsche is the most successful manufacturer at the long distance classic in Florida. Several days before the season-opener of the American Le Mans Series on 21st March, the first and the last overall-winning Porsche as well as the two most successful models to secure wins at Sebring come together in an unprecedented group picture: The 718 RS 60, the RS Spyder as well as the 935 and 962 models.

The first overall win for Porsche at the Sebring 12 hour race came in 1960 with Hans Herrmann (D) and Olivier Gendebien (B) at the wheel of a tiny 160hp 718 RS 60 featuring a 1.6-litre engine. The compact and lightweight car beat many considerably more powerful rivals and earned itself the nickname “Giant Killer”.

Between the years 1978 and 1984, the Porsche 935 was in a class of its own in Sebring. Seven times in a row, the 590 hp sports car with its 2.85-litre six-cylinder turbo engine dominated all its competitors. The victorious vehicle of 1980 was piloted by Dick Barbour (USA) and John Fitzpatrick (GB).

In 1985, the Porsche 962 continued the 935’s success streak with pilots A.J. Foyt (USA) and Bob Wollek (F). In the years 1986, 1987 and 1988, the 680 hp sports prototype with the 2.85-litre six-cylinder turbo engine also crossed the finish line first in Sebring.

Twenty years after the last overall win for Porsche in 1988 of Klaus Ludwig (D) and Hans-Joachim Stuck (D) with a 962, Timo Bernhard (D), Romain Dumas (F) and Emmanuel Collard (F) triumphed with the RS Spyder. Like so often in the racing history of Porsche, here it was again a case of David defeating Goliath. Despite having 200hp less, the 478 hp 3.4-litre V8 engine contesting the LMP2 class beat all other cars in the faster LMP1 category. The keys to this success were the best reliability, spending the shortest time in the pits, and the best fuel consumption of all sports prototypes. Victory at the season-opener in Sebring laid the foundation for a successful title defence in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).

This coming weekend at the start of the 2009 ALMS season, a total of five Porsche GT3 RSR line up on the grid in the GT2 class. In this category as well, Porsche not only won the 12 hour race in 2008 but went on to claim the championship.

Source: PCNA

Porsche 911 4S Coupe & Cabriolet Pon Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:08:00 +0000

Porsche will show a very limited edition of the new facelifted Porsche 911 (997) 4S at the Dutch AutoRAI 2009 to celebrate the 60th birthday of the first Porsche importer in the world, Pon Porsche Import. The limited edition will be available as a 4S coupe and 4S convertible and just 15 Pon Edition 911 4S’s will ever be build.

In 1949 Pon signed a contract with Porsche and became the first Porsche importer in the world. 60 years later Porsche builds this limited edition to underline this special occassion.

The Pon Porsche limited edition is based on the facelifted 997 4S coupe and 4S convertible and available only in the exclusive color Diamondblack metallic with a black leather interior. All cars are numbered and the 60 years-Pon Porsche logo can be found in the doors and on the dashboard. Both the coupe and cabriolet are available with a manual gearbox or with Porsche’s new PDK transmission.

Special features include the name Porsche on the engine cover that is a homeage to pre-1973 Porsche’s that all had the Porsche name on the engine cover instead of the model name or number. The Pon Porsche limited edition’s are the first facelifted 997 911’s that come equipped with a sport exhaust.

The limited Pon Porsche edition is only available in the Netherlands and carries a 172.911 euro pricetag for the 911 Carrera 4S Coupé and the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet ‘Pon Edition’ costs 188.261 euro. Both prices are including Dutch taxes (40% BPM, 1600 euro environmental tax and 19% VAT).

Source: gtsprint

Five Innovations in Technology making their World Debut in the Porsche Panamera

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:25:00 +0000

Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is proudly presenting the key technologies of the new Panamera prior to the world debut of this truly outstanding Gran Turismo in Shanghai, among them no less than five innovations in technology to be admired for the first time in a production car in the luxury performance range and therefore marking world debuts themselves. These include the first automatic start/stop in conjunction with automatic transmission, air suspension with additional air volume on demand, as well as active aerodynamics with a multi-stage, adjustable rear spoiler moving up when required on the Panamera Turbo.

Offering the premium customer an unprecedented vehicle concept, the Panamera is a four-seater Gran Turismo featuring the most supreme standard of dynamic performance and superior elegance all in one.

As Porsche’s fourth model series, the Panamera is to achieve the same outstanding position that the 911, the Cayenne, the Boxster, and the Cayman already hold in their respective segments. While competing with well-established models in the premium class, the Panamera is most definitely the segment leader in terms of performance, driving dynamics and efficiency. Indeed, these have always been Porsche’s core competences, since efficient, high-performance engines, light-weight engineering and optimised aerodynamics have always been crucial in motorsport.

Now the Panamera for the first time combines this DNA of Porsche and the emotional character of a sports car with the superior space and comfort of an outstanding luxury performance saloon, creating a unique Gran Turismo in the process.

The powertrain: maximum performance and efficiency

The unique combination of comfort, performance and efficiency offered by the Panamera begins with the powertrain: The Panamera comes exclusively with high-tech power units featuring the most advanced and fuel-efficient Direct Fuel Injection. The consistent optimisation of friction on these engines is further enhanced by innovations such as map-
controlled coolant / temperature management, as well as ancillary units with enhanced efficiency.

Introducing the PDK transmission, Porsche is offering a double-clutch gearbox for the first time in this market segment, contributing both to enhanced fuel economy and to an even higher standard of sporting performance.

Far superior to a conventional automatic transmission in its efficiency, the PDK transmission is able to save even more fuel through its long, overdrive-like top gear. At the same time it offers outstanding performance with driving dynamics typical of Porsche through its optimum gear increments and unparalleled, ultra-fast gearshift without the slightest interruption of engine power.

Yet a further milestone featured in the Panamera is the first start/stop system in a premium car with an automatic transmission. And again, the result speaks for itself: In conjunction with other specific improvements enhancing the efficiency of the overall vehicle, which include tyres with minimum roll resistance and disc brakes with residual brake forces likewise reduced to a minimum, the Panamera S with its PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe makes do with just 10.8 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 26.2 mpg imp) in the New European Driving Cycle – and it does so despite the car’s superior performance.

Chassis and suspension: driving dynamics and comfort all in one

The chassis and suspension of the Panamera is not a compromise between sporting performance and superior comfort, but rather a combination of the two. In its basic setting it offers a very high standard of driving comfort. But then, at the touch of a button on the active PASM damper system, it turns into a thoroughbred sports suspension.

As another highlight the adaptive air suspension with its extra volume added on whenever required – an absolute innovation in automotive technology – featured as standard on the Turbo and otherwise coming as an option on the other models, offers an even greater variation of sporting and comfort features.

As yet a further point driving dynamics and motoring comfort may be enhanced additionally on all models by active PDCC stability control available in combination with a fully controlled rear axle differential.

Through their Sport Plus button, the optional Sports Chrono Packages enable the driver at the touch of a button to choose the uncompromising high-performance set-up of all drivetrain and suspension systems including PTM Porsche Traction Management with its fully-controlled all-wheel drive. PTM comes as standard in both the Panamera 4S and the Panamera Turbo.

Body: light and functional

The body is the synthesis of lightweight technology typical of a sports car, superior comfort, generous spaciousness, and efficient aerodynamics. The most advanced production methods and materials are used on the body of the Panamera, geared in all cases to specific requirements and functions. These include all kinds of steel grades, light alloys such as aluminium and magnesium, as well as plastics. The lightweight doors feature a load-bearing structure made of laser-treated pressure-cast aluminium, an aluminium outer skin and door window frames made of thin-walled pressure-cast magnesium. Thanks to this intelligent lightweight structure, the Panamera S, for example, weighs just 1,770 kg or a bit more than 3,900 lb.

The rear seats set new standards in the luxury performance class in terms of both comfort and variability. Perfectly contoured as single seats, they offer maximum comfort also at the rear through their wide range of electrical adjustment and seat climate functions and the headrests tailored to the seats.

The Panamera also comes with a highly functional, variable luggage compartment. Tilting forward individually, the seat backrests with additional through-loading provide luggage capacity of up to 1,263 litres or 44.2 cu ft and keep the floor of the luggage compartment absolutely smooth on one consistent level from front to rear.

The Panamera is the first car in its segment with a complete cover on the under-floor also extending all round the drivetrain tunnel and rear-end silencers. This clearly helps to reduce both air resistance and lift forces on the axles, which in practice means lower fuel consumption and higher driving dynamics.

The visible highlight of the overall aerodynamic package is the active four-way rear spoiler on the Panamera Turbo. Through its efficient management of control angles and surface geometry geared to driving conditions, the rear spoiler optimises the car’s aerodynamics and performance all in one.

Acoustics: sporting sound and superior touring comfort

Achieving a perfect balance of sound on the exhaust system, the air intake and engine as well as the car’s aeroacoustics, Porsche’s development engineers have succeeded in giving the Panamera a harmonious, characteristic sound pattern all round, bringing together seemingly contradictory requirements.

Aeroacoustics, for example, were analysed on a clay model right from the start at a very early point in the development process, then being optimised by way of numerous technical improvements with specific, individual effects. The result is a truly low level of noise within the interior most appropriate for the luxury performance segment. But at the same time the typical Porsche sound full of power and dynamism comes out clearly when accelerating, the wide range of sound offered by the Panamera thus extending from discreet modesty while cruising all the way to powerful emotion whenever the driver wishes to experience a sporting style of motoring.

Using both new and proven technologies, Porsche’s engineers in Weissach have succeeded in intelligently solving all conflicts of interest in developing the Panamera. The result is a car with a wide range of features most appropriate for such an outstanding Gran Turismo: the engines are powerful and dynamic, efficient and clean. The Panamera combines comfortable touring characteristics with sports motoring so typical of Porsche. And despite the car’s dynamic proportions and coupé-like silhouette, the interior, apart from lots of space and superior comfort, also offers outstanding function and variability.

We Have One Word for the Porsche Cayman S – Doppelkupplungsgetriebe!

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:19:00 +0000

It’s rare when a single component transforms the nature of a car, but that’s what the dual-clutch automated manual transmission does for the Porsche Cayman S. Its name is Doppelkupplung – PDK for short and it’s worth every penny as an option on the Cayman S.

If the availability of the PDK doesn’t give you a tingle, perhaps the prospect of owning a truly special Cayman S will. The Cayman S Sport is a very limited edition with more power than a “stock” Cayman S. It features a freer-flowing exhaust, which raises power from 295 hp at 6,250 rpm to 303 hp at an identical 6,250 rpm. The Cayman S has striping on the sides and black 19-inch wheels, as well as an Alcantara steering wheel directly from the 911 GT3 RS. The body is lowered by 0.4 inches, and the performance exhaust system is louder. Reportedly, there are only 100 earmarked for North America.

Most of us will have to “settle” for the Porsche Cayman S, which is a joy to drive. Its mid-engine layout provides perfect weight balance. In turn, that multiplies the performance of every other function. For 2009, most Cayman S functions have been tweaked and tuned to perfection.

The Cayman S boxer 3.4-liter six with Porsche Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) gets a 25 hp increase from 295 hp to 320 hp. The Tiptronic S automatic gearbox gives way to the available seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, and a limited-slip differential is offered for the first time on the Cayman S. Another Cayman first is the availability of a Lights Package featuring bi-xenon headlights, dynamic cornering lights and LED daytime driving lights. Replacing the fog lamps, these light units are made up of four LEDs arranged in round light units like the eyes on dice.

Acceleration is particularly thrilling and quick with the optional Sports Chrono Package Plus featuring Launch Control. This system offers maximum acceleration from a standing start and also a Race Track Gearshift Strategy for the fastest conceivable gear change when combined with the PDK transmission. Porsche says the Cayman S with PDK and Launch Control accelerates from zero-to-62 mph in 4.9 seconds, a new benchmark for this model. By the way, using Launch Control is as simple as pressing a button. “No special protocol or incantation required; just press the stability control button on the center stack, hold the brake pedal down and mash the throttle. A telltale "launch control" message lights up in the gauge cluster and you're off,” explained a Car and Driver reviewer.

Of all the improvements to the Cayman S, the PDK is the most interesting. Think of it as two gearboxes in one unit. Clutch A and Clutch B divide the shifting duties. One clutch is for the first transmission unit with the uneven gear ratios (1, 3, 5, 7) and reverse, and the other clutch is for the second transmission unit with the even gears (2, 4, 6). Via a number of pressure valves, the hydraulic control unit masterminds both the wet clutches and the shift cylinders activating the transmission ratio required. The gears are already ‘in mesh’ when shifting and the power of the engine need not be interrupted in the process. No time is wasted. Shifts are instantaneous and perfectly performed. Let the PDK do its magic in automatic mode and you lose nothing compared to shifting manually.

Porsche lightly restyled the exterior of the Cayman S. The headlights now feature the LED strip similar to that found on the latest 911s. The front fascia is modified, and the trapezoidal grille’s orientation is changed. The taillights are more sculpted, too. Inside, there’s the latest version of the Porsche Communication Management system, and a new, more streamlined touchscreen navigation system.

The Cayman S starts at an MSRP of $60,200, quite a bargain when compared to its competition. What makes the Cayman S such a special car? Here’s how the reviewers at Car and Driver see it. “The Cayman S remains a delight to drive and is one of the few cars that really can deliver complete driving bliss. Those who think mid-engine Porsches are not real Porsches clearly have never driven a Cayman S…The ride and handling balance has always been near perfect, and it’s even better now, thanks to a retuned suspension. Top it off with the Porsche Active Suspension Management variable-shock system, and it just gets better.”

Those who own a Cayman S know the score. Their car is one of the most focused, nimble and thoroughly enjoyable rides they have ever known. Equipped with the PDK, the Cayman S won’t disappoint in stop and go traffic. On your favorite driving roads, the PDK will reward you further in your Cayman by making the most of its impressive assets. What’s more, you’ll be able to concentrate on your senses, not your heel and toe shifting rhythm.

With the Cayman S, Porsche has taken one of its best and made it better, especially with the addition of the PDK. Don’t take our word for it. Come on in and see for yourself. You’ve dreamed of driving a Porsche, right? Is it an impossible dream? Absolutely not! As they say at the Porsche website, “YES! You Can.”

Porsche 997 V-RT Edition Turbo by Vorsteiner

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:55:00 +0000

Vorsteiner V-RT (Vorsteiner Race Technologies) is now offering an aerodynamics body kit and a new set of wheels in a styling package for the Porsche 997 Carrera.

The aerodynamics tuning on offer here comes with plenty of air ushering carbon fiber parts.

At the front, the 997 gets a new face with larger carbon fiber air intakes without fog lights as in the GT2 version. The fog lamps had to go in order for the proper placement of a removable carbon fiber front spoiler that greatly increases down force on the 997.

At the back is a new bumper giving the car a wider stance that features a twin-finned carbon fiber rear diffuser for the quad exhaust and comes with larger side vents to improve airflow.

A carbon fiber wing also improves down force and there is a carbon composite engine lid with extra air scoops to feed even more oxygen to this huffin' and puffin' 997.

The V-306 20-inch wheels are forged from 3 pieces with a twin, 7-spoked and center mesh design. They come with Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires.

The tuning package is available for sale as of March 23rd.

Source: World Car Fans

Porsche to debut the Cayenne Diesel and 911 GT3 in Germany

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:16:00 +0000

Stuttgart/Leipzig. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, will debut its Cayenne Diesel, the second generation of the 911 GT3, as well as the new Boxster and Cayman models, for the first time in Germany at the 19th AMI Auto Show, which will be held between March 28 and April 5.

"Since the opening of our Leipzig plant in August 2002 Porsche and the Leipzig region have been closely affiliated. Therefore it is a given that Porsche will once again be represented at the AMI," emphasizes Bernhard Maier, Chairman of the Executive Board at Porsche Deutschland GmbH. "Our commitment in Leipzig shows the high value that Porsche places on the German market," further explains Maier.

For the Cayenne Diesel its debut at the AMI means a true "home game" because it will be built in the Porsche plant only a few miles away. A particular treat for sports car fans is that Porsche will unveil the new 911 GT3 for the first time in Germany during Press Day on March 27. With 435 HP (320 kW) and a top speed of 312 km/h, it is stronger and faster than its predecessor and will be available at dealerships starting in May. Porsche cars will be on show in Hall 5 and can be viewed daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

High-quality refining programme for the new Porsche 911 by MANSORY Switzerland

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:08:00 +0000

World premier at the 79th Geneva Auto Salon 2009

The company Mansory is situated in Bavaria and one of the top addresses for refining premium sports cars. Whether Bentley, Rolls-Royce, McLaren, Ferrari or Porsche - the refining specialist shows its technical talent for every automobile. The subsidiary company Mansory Switzerland AG, the in-house expert for Porsche cars, presents a comprehensive tuning programme for the model 911 from the recently revived Porsche Type 997 series at the Geneva Auto Salon 2009. This tuning programme mainly focuses on improvements concerning the aerodynamics, engine performance and handling of this sports car icon.

Modular spoiler pack allows various design possibilities

When developing the 911-programme, the Mansory engineers attached great importance to an individual design, but also aerodynamic efficiency. In order to save weight and guarantee highest quality standards, the body components are made of PU-RIM. Also, parts of the serial auto body are made of this resilient and inherently stable material. The core part of the body kit is a lift-reducing front mount in a sportive-dynamic look. In connection with the hood, the front apron offers various design possibilities. On the one hand, it forms the perfect symbiosis with the serial hood, as an especially designed inlay allows a seamless junction. And on the other hand, the apron can be combined with the Mansory carbon hood whose striking side beads demonstrate individuality and underline the sportive character of the modification. The rear apron is not less impressive: it accommodates the new fourpipe exhaust system and therefore renders a harmonic rear finish. The visual perfection of the aerodynamics pack is accomplished with the side skirts which also fulfil functional tasks. They significantly calm the air flow between both axles.

Sport air filter and amended exhaust system enhance the performance

The power engines also profit from the comprehensive changes of the 911 engine range. But here, the engineers do not perform any excessive open-heart surgery, but only replace existing parts by modified proprietary developments. A new sport air filter and a new exhaust system come into operation. Especially the exhaust system renders an optimised exhaust gas flow. This enable the 911 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h even faster than the serial versions.

But the special highlight of the exhaust system is the integrated throttle system which - if desired - can also be operated by remote control and allows changing the sound scenery.

Light alloy rims and sport running gear in approved MANSORY quality The refining specialist developed a forged wheel with an exclusive design which was tailor-made for Porsche requirements. The one-piece wheel with five double spokes measures 8.5 x 20 inches at the front and 12 x 20 inches the back. Not only its sportive look, but also its excellent manufacture makes it so impressive. The reduction of unsprung masses by the exceptional and elaborate production technology does not only lead to a shorter braking distance, but also improves the acceleration and the handling of the car. For best possible grip, Mansory uses
Michelin Pilot Sport wheels sized 245/30 at the front and 325/25 at the rear. Moreover, the newly developed running gear which lowers the car´s centre of gravity by 30 millimetres also sets sportive accents.

Interior programme for exclusive tastes

The crowning finale to the Mansory Porsche refinement is the interior applications. Of course, only the most precious materials are used. The leather, e.g. for the seats and the dashboard, is extremely resilient, but still enormously soft. With its individual graining and the perfectly applied decorative stitching, the newly designed sport steering-wheel and its environment render an extravagant impression. In order to emphasise the dynamic character even more, Mansory customers can equip their interior with anti-skip aluminium pedals and real carbon components.

Source: Mansory via World Car Fans

High-quality refining programme for the 955 Cayenne by MANSORY Switzerland

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:36:00 +0000

Impressive Design Pack in PU-RIM

Perfect surface quality and custom-fit manufacture are the hallmarks of the liftreducing Mansory auto body design for the current Cayenne models. With the striking design, the SUV turns into the centre of attention on the streets and off-road. A far more dynamic front apron with larger air inlets is the outstanding element at the front. An ultra-light bonnet additionally strengthened with carbon supplies the front engine with extra fresh air via ventilation ducts. By broadening the wings, the Mansory makeover gains an individual character. With the additional side skirts, the serial auto body is broadened by 40 mm and already imbues the car with pure power even when it is still parked. The Mansory rear apron with an integrated diffuser has enough room for the end pipes of the valve-controlled sport exhaust system and seamlessly fits into the overall package.

Wheels and running gear - components for best road holding characteristics and an excellent look

Mansory developed its dynamically elegant rim design especially for the requirements of the Cayenne. The 5-spoke mono block wheel does not only convince with its exclusive appearance. By manufacturing the wheel in forged technology, the unsprung masses were reduced and this significantly improves both the acceleration and also the braking distance and the handling. Mansory closely follows the individual wishes of its clientele and offers the rim in the dimensions 10x22 inches or 11x23 inches. The new aluminium wheels are particularly underlined by the special chassis springs. Thereby, progressively turned springs lower the SUV´s centre of gravity by a maximum of 35 millimetres at the front- and rear axle. With the Mansory sport module, cars with air suspension can be lowered by up to 45 millimetres. The newly extended product programme of the dynamic accessory programme includes a newly developed sport braking system. Braking disks sized 420 x 40 mm (at the front) and 375 x 30 mm (at the back) are grabbed by the front eight- and back four piston systems and render optimised deceleration values.

Interior design without limits

At Mansory, only the most precious materials are fitted into the interior. Pedals made of aluminium perfectly match with the applications made of carbon fibre and render motor sports feeling. Perfect decorative stitches on the instrument panel and the
seats set further design trends. Masterly hand-craft, individual shape and highest quality as far as the eye can see. On demand, we can provide everything that makes your heart beat faster - from personalised floor mats up to full leather interior, everything is manufactured with unsurpassed precision.

Mansory managed a perfect symbiosis between dynamic functionality and luxurious ambience.

Source: World Car Fans

Porsche to debut the Cayenne Diesel and 911 GT3 in Germany

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:34:00 +0000

Porsche debut at the Leipzig AMI Auto Show 2009

Stuttgart/Leipzig. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, will debut its Cayenne Diesel, the second generation of the 911 GT3, as well as the new Boxster and Cayman models, for the first time in Germany at the 19th AMI Auto Show, which will be held between March 28 and April 5.

“Since the opening of our Leipzig plant in August 2002 Porsche and the Leipzig region have been closely affiliated. Therefore it is a given that Porsche will once again be represented at the AMI,” emphasizes Bernhard Maier, Chairman of the Executive Board at Porsche Deutschland GmbH. “Our commitment in Leipzig shows the high value that Porsche places on the German market,” further explains Maier.

For the Cayenne Diesel its debut at the AMI means a true “home game” because it will be built in the Porsche plant only a few miles away. A particular treat for sports car fans is that Porsche will unveil the new 911 GT3 for the first time in Germany during Press Day on March 27. With 435 HP (320 kW) and a top speed of 312 km/h, it is stronger and faster than its predecessor and will be available at dealerships starting in May. Porsche cars will be on show in Hall 5 and can be viewed daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“Greatest racing car in history” celebrates its birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:44:00 +0000

Anniversary: 40 Years of the Porsche 917

Stuttgart. Forty years ago on March 13, 1969 at the Geneva International Motor Show, today's Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche unveiled a car that, even by today's standards, is underestimated when it is described as the “super sports car”: The Porsche 917. It became a legend as one of the fastest and most successful racing cars of all time.

Porsche fired the starting shot for Project 917 in June 1968, after the international motor sports authority or FIA had announced a class of “homologated sports cars” with up to five liters cubic capacity and a minimum weight of 800 kilograms. Under the supervision of Ferdinand Piëch, the stipulated 25 units of the new racing car model were completed by April 1969 so that the 917 could begin its racing career in the same year. After it initially dropped out of its first three races due to technical problems, the 917 success story began in August 1969 at a 1,000-kilometer race at the Österreichring with a victory by Jo Siffert and Kurt Ahrens.

The engine configuration of the 917 was just as unusual as its different car body versions: Behind the driver's seat extended an air-cooled, twelve-cylinder engine with horizontal cylinders, whose crankshaft designated it as a 180-degree V engine. The 520 HP engine had an initial cubic capacity of 4.5 liters. The tubular frame was made of aluminum, the car body out of glass fiber reinforced synthetics. Porsche engineers developed different car body models to best meet the different demands of different racetracks. The so-called short-tail model was designed for heavily twisting roads in which a high contact pressure was necessary for fast cornering. The long-tail model was designed for fast racetracks and a high final velocity. Then came the open 917 Spyders, which were used in the CanAm and Interseries races.

At the end of the 1970 race season, Porsche confirmed its superiority with the 917 and 908/03 models, winning the Racing Series World Championship [Markenweltmeisterschaft] in nine out of ten possible victories. This series of victories began in Daytona and continued in Brands Hatch, Monza, Spa, on the Nürburgring racetrack, at the Targa Florio, in Le Mans, Watkins Glen and the Österreichring. However, the season's high point was the long-desired overall win of the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race, a trophy that Hans Herrmann and Richard Attwood brought home to Zuffenhausen on June 14, 1970. Their
917 short-tail model painted in the Porsche Salzburg colors of red and white with the start number 23 not only successfully defied its competitors but also the heavy rainfall.

As in the previous year, the 1971 season was dominated by the
917 model so that the Racing Series World Championship [Markenweltmeisterschaft] went to Porsche again with eight out of ten race victories. And once again, a Porsche 917 was victorious at the
Le Mans 24-Hour race – this time with Gijs van Lennep and Dr. Helmut Marko, who set a world record with an average speed of 222 km/h and 5,335 kilometers driven, a record that still stands today. One special feature of their 917 short-tail model, visually characterized by its “shark fin”, was the tubular frame made of magnesium. A 917 long-tail coupe model set a further record in 1971: On the Mulsanne straight stretch, which is part of the route in the Le Mans 24-Hour race, the sports car with the start number 21 recorded the highest speed of 387 kilometers per hour. Another Le Mans racecar achieved major recognition: The
Porsche 917/20 was a mix between the short-tail and the long-tail models and was notable for its broad proportions. Although the pink colored racecar, nicknamed “the Pig”, dropped out halfway through the race, its unusual paint color made it one of the most famous Porsche models ever.

When the European FIA regulation for the “five-liter sports car” expired at the end of the 1971 season, Porsche decided to enter the Canadian American Challenge Cup (CanAm). In June 1972, the private Penske race team in motor sports used the turbo-charged Porsche 917/10 Spyder for the first time. With a performance of up to 1,000 HP, the Porsche Spyder dominated the race series and won for Porsche the CanAM championship with victories in Road Atlanta, Mid Ohio, Elkhart Lake, Laguna Seca and Riverside. In the following year, the 1,200 HP 917/30 Spyder had its racing premiere. The superiority of the monster car driven by Mark Donohue was so obvious that the regulations of the CanAM series had to be changed in the end in order to exclude the 917/30 from competing further in the 1974 season. Typical for Porsche: The technologies for increasing performance developed for these races were successfully transferred to the on-road sports car. That's how the 911 Turbo, with its side-exhaust turbocharger, began its career in 1974 and has been, since this time, a synonym for the performance capacity of the Porsche sports car.

To date, the reputation of the 917 is legendary. Therefore, 50 international motor sports experts from the famous British trade magazine “Motor Sport” nominated the 917 as the “greatest racing car in history”. All in all, Porsche built 65 units of the 917: 44 sports cars as short-tail and long-tail coupés, two PA Spyders as well as 19 sports cars as CanAm and Interseries Spyders with up to 1,400 HP turbo engines. Seven of the most important 917 models – among them the Le Mans victory cars from 1970 and 1971 and the 917/30 Spyder – are currently on exhibit in the new Porsche Museum in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

Porsche 911 GT3 gets First Public Showing at Geneva Motor Show

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:54:00 +0000

The legions of Porschephiles who snap up every tidbit of information the moment it drops (you know who you are) are already intimately familiar with the new 911 GT3. Here's a brief recap, to celebrate the first round of show-floor pictures from the car's official launch in Geneva, and to get everyone else caught up.

The 2010 911 GT3 gets a slight power boost and a round of the subtle styling upgrades that Porsche is known for. The front and rear bumpers have been restyled with track performance in mind; this is the version that's designed to be stripped down for racing, after all. The air intakes are larger, with mesh screens, and the lighting has been upgraded as well, with new bi-xenon bulbs up front and LED taillights. The design of the rear spoiler has also been updated.

The naturally-aspirated flat-six engine has been bumped out from 3.6 to 3.8 liters, and makes 435 horsepower and 317 ft-lbs of torque in 2010 form. That's an increase of 20 horsepower over the 2009 911 GT3. Porsche claims a top speed of 194 mph.

Control is maintained by Porsche's Active Stability Management (PASM) system which enables the 911 GT3 to switch between a streetable level of comfort and the stiffest track settings yet. Porsche has also updated its Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system. When left alone, it provides stability and traction control and helps keep the powerful GT3 manageable for the average driver. Above-average drivers can opt to deactivate the system in stages, tailoring the level of assistance to individual need. Ceramic-composite brakes are used, of course.

The most athletic Porsche goes on sale later this year. Prices for the 2010 911 GT3 start at €98,100 in Europe and €116,947 in Germany thanks to VAT and special home-market only features. The bottom line in the United States is $112,200, and it stickers for £81,914 in the UK.

Source: World Cars Fan

roanoke.porschedealer.com

The Evolution of the eRUF in Collaboration with our Technology Partner Siemens Corporate Technology

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:47:00 +0000

Software and sensor technology and of course electric drive train systems, and the The research organization of Siemens (Corporate Technology) is working intensively on the topic of electro mobility, which could become part of its environment portfolio, with 19 billion Euros already contributing a mere 25% of total revenue. The demands made on the electric vehicle and the design of the power network infrastructure play a decisive role. Topics being investigated include, among others, energy generation and distribution, traffic and energy management, smart metering, power electronics, recovery and storage of energy. Within the scope of this research, Siemens Corporate Technology has developed an integrated system consisting of a motor/generator, power electronics and an interface with a battery connection for electrically powered cars.

The fundamental ideas that led RUF Automobile GmbH to develop an electrically driven vehicle came from Alois Ruf. The head of the automobile manufacturer from the Bavarian town of Pfaffenhausen had a vision of a simple energy transfer concept: his hydroelectric power plants, which feed 35 million kW hours of electricity per annum into the Germany electrical network, could also propel the eRUF. The symbiosis of two leading companies - Siemens as a leader in the electric industry and RUF in the automobile industry - will leverage the best possible synergies for the future of electro mobility.

Siemens Corporate Technology has developed an adapted power train for the eRuf "Greenster". Thus, a preliminary version of the concept for the innovative eDrive from Siemens will already be on display in Geneva. While the vehicle to be presented in Geneva is still equipped with a central motor with a power output of 270 kW and 950 Nm [Wort gelöscht] torque, the following version will be produced as a small series with Ruf as a double-motor concept with the innovative integral eDrive. As such, the eRUF will be the world's first electric vehicle fitted with a bi-directional network connection, which without the otherwise necessary additional recharging electronics - is capable to be recharged in less than an hour at a 400-volt power outlet - and can use the same power outlet to feed energy back into the power network if required. The small series planned on the basis of this concept by RUF Automobile is expected to hit the streets in 2010.

Technical data of the eRUF Greenster - status as of March 2009

open body version with removable roof and "soft" rear window and safety roll bar
forged 19" aluminium five-spoke wheels
brake system with ceramic brake disks in the front and the rear
drive train by Siemens AG
mid engine with an output of 270 kW and a torque of 950 Nm
reduction gear unit 2:1, full electronical forward and reverse gear selection
lithium-ion-accumulators of GAIA
weight: 1695 kg
performance:

- 0 - 100 km/h: approx. 5 sec.
- maximum speed: 250 km/h
- reach: 250 km; with enlarged battery block: 320 km

Source: eRuf roanoke.porschedealer.com

Sportec SPR1 M Revealed in Geneva

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:37:00 +0000

One of the Sportec Geneva monsters has been tracked down to a space surrounded by the AC Schnitzer stand on one side and Mitsubishi on the other. The Sportec SPR1 M is now on exhibition at the Swiss show where it is looking mildly menacing. Only a few details like the outstanding rear wing and massive wheels hint at something more than normal. Those kind of looks mask a car that is probably capable of shooting off from 0 - 100km/h in under 3 seconds.

The Porsche 911 Turbo forms the foundation for the SPR1 M so one could say the groundwork is already quite solid from the start. Sportec was not satisfied however and proceeded to rebuild the car from scratch using mostly carbon fiber. The result is a car that weighs as much as the post-it paper tag on which its price will be printed.

The T80 M engine package positioned in the vehicle gives it power of 858hp (631kW) and maximum torque of 880Nm. While Sportec prepares its performance figures we can guesstimate that the SPR1 M will go under 3 seconds because its standard sibling the SPR1 is less potent at 800hp and that car does 0 -100km/h in 3 seconds.

Source: World Car Fans

roanoke.porschedealer.com

The 250,000th Cayenne to roll off the line is a fuel-efficient diesel vehicle

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:33:00 +0000

Leipzig. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has today produced the 250,000th Cayenne at its Leipzig plant. The milestone vehicle is a white, 6-cylinder model with a diesel engine that will be delivered to a customer in Austria. The Cayenne, an sporty SUV, has been produced in Leipzig since 2002. “The introduction of the Cayenne as the third model in the series was an important strategic step for Porsche. The fiveseater is not only a great addition to the range for our many long-term Porsche customers, but it also opens up to us an entirely new customer segment on international markets,” explains Dr. Wendelin Wiedeking, Chairman of the Board of Porsche AG. Thanks to its typical Porsche genes, the easy-to-handle Cayenne uniquely combines sportiness with robustness and absolute off-road capability.

Porsche has sold 150,000 vehicles worldwide from its first generation. Since the market launch of the second generation in February 2007, Porsche has been able to increase sales even further thanks to the vehicle's fuel efficiency, higher drive performance, and improved drive-handling. For this reason the sports car manufacturer has also continued to expand production at the Leipzig location. In the 2007/08 fiscal year just expired Porsche was able to sell 45,478 units of the Cayenne series. Important Cayenne sales markets are, apart from Germany and the USA, the future markets of China, Russia, Latin America as well as the Middle East.

Today the Cayenne series is available in seven different models: The entry-level model comes with a 3.6-liter, six-cylinder engine with
290 HP (213 kW). The diesel model, which Porsche will unveil for the first time between March 5 - 15, 2009 at the Geneva International Motor Show (Automobilesalon), has a three-liter cubic capacity engine with
240 HP (176 kW) and has a fuel consumption of, on average, only
9.3 liters per 100 kilometers [25 mpg]. The more powerful S version is driven by an 8-cylinder engine with 4.8 liters cubic capacity with
385 HP (283 kW) while the Cayenne Turbo achieves a 500 HP (368 kW) performance. The leading model of this product line, the Cayenne Turbo S has a twin turbocharger with a 550 HP (404 kW) engine. The particu-
larly athletic GTS model offers, in addition to its 405 HP (298 kW) powered 4.8-liter engine, a specially developed sports suspension and an accentuated dynamic design. The seventh model is the Cayenne S Transsyberia for on-road and off-road driving. The road version of the robust Cayenne Transsyberia rally car is based on the Cayenne S, however with the increased improvedperformance engine model from the Cayenne GTS.

The most recent survey results from US market research institute
J.D. Power rate the Cayenne for its excellent manufacturing quality and high reliability. Last year the renowned company surveyed 81,500 new car buyers in the USA on their satisfaction with the vehicle. The result: Porsche achieved the best ratings. The Cayenne customers surveyed were impressed by all aspects of their athletic SUV. This also applies to owners of older models: In used car analyses trade magazines confirm the Cayenne's “fantastically low defect rates.” Even with high kilometer readings and engine stress, there were practically no engine and transmission damages, axle problems or worn-out steering. The early Cayenne vehicles from 2002/2003 have already covered distances of more than 300,000 kilometers, often on dirt roads and uneven terrain.

Porsche Announce Two RS Spyders to Compete in Le Mans

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:56:00 +0000

The successful Porsche RS Spyder customer project heads into the next phase. Two teams will again field a Porsche RS Spyder each at the Le Mans 24 hour race (13-14 June). The NAVI Team Goh from Japan and the Essex squad from Denmark are eager to repeat the double victory of the RS Spyder in the LMP2 class last year. Porsche works drivers Sascha Maassen (Germany) and Emmanuel Collard (France) support the teams in their campaign.

Maassen (39), who already piloted a RS Sypder last year in Le Mans, will contest the event for the NAVI Team Goh. His team mates are the experienced Seiji Ara (Japan) and youngster Keisuke Kunimoto (Japan). Ara (34) won the overall classification in Le Mans back in 2004 with the Goh team, whilst the 20-year-old Formula 3 pilot, Kunimoto, contests the endurance classic at La Sarthe for the first time this year. The team’s Porsche RS Spyder is the winning car from last year that the Japanese outfit obtained from Van Merksteijn Motorsport. With the regulations requiring a substantial downsizing of the air-restrictors, the 3.4-litre V8 engine now delivers 440 hp instead of 476. Moreover, the rear wing and the underbody have been modified to conform to the regulation changes. Michelin is the team’s tyre partner.

Emmanuel Collard (37) joins up with Casper Elgaard (Denmark, 30) and Kristian Poulsen (Denmark, 33) to drive for the Essex team. The squad, who secured second place in the LMP2 classification of the 24 hour event in 2008, will race Michelin tyres for the first time. Both squads will conduct tests at the second round of the Le Mans Series in Spa on 10 May.

“I’m very pleased that, with Goh and Essex, we have two highly professional customer teams contesting Le Mans with a Porsche RS Spyder,” says Porsche’s Head of Motorsport, Hartmut Kristen. “Setting the quickest lap times of all LMP2 cars last year, the vehicle underlined its reliability and had the best efficiency of all participating sports prototypes. We have modified the cars to comply with the new technical regulations and I’m sure that both RS Spyder will again be very competitive in the LMP2 class.”

Source: PCNA

http://roanoke.porschedealer.com

Gemballa Mirage GT ‘Carbon Edition’

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:43:00 +0000

Looks like Gemballa are not quite finished with the Carrera GT yet. They’ve updated there website today to give us a glympse of the Gemballa Mirage GT ‘Carbon Edition’. There’s very few details however apart from the fact that it has 670bhp and that it will do 335 km/h (208mph).

It’s claimed that it will also do 0–100 km/h (62mph) in 3.7 seconds (Stock 3.9) 0-200 km/h (124mph) in 9.7 seconds (Stock 9.9). We suspect that this Mirage will be lighter than the other through the use of Carbon Fibre and Ceramic Brakes. I suppose we’ll have to wait until they provide us with more information but from what we see at the moment it looks very promising!

Porsche Design Driver's Selection

noreply@blogger.com (Nixon) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:47:00 +0000

Functionality and strong colours - the '911 To The Core' collection

Stuttgart. Modern generation 911 models have special appeal for drivers thanks to technical innovations befitting the motto 'inner strengths'. Porsche Design Driver's Selection offers the '911 To The Core' collection of clothing and accessories to complement these sports cars. The products meet high standards and stand out thanks to their functionality, high-quality materials, modern designs and strong colours.

The wind and water resistant, breathable Comfort Mapping jacket in elegant black offers optimum protection and comfort. A variety of materials and specially developed GORE-TEX® laminates are designed to meet the body's various needs. Intricate tape-sealing technology protects against moisture and wind. Elastic material is used on the elbows and back. The polo shirt stands out thanks to its high-quality material and modern cut, with striking details including a Porsche logo on the breast pocket. The slightly fitted black shirt included in the collection is likewise sure to make an impression. Matching accessories, including a cap and key strap, complete the outfit.

Ladies have a choice between strong purple or timeless black. The attractive polo shirt has a contrasting colour button facing and Porsche print on the back. The black fleece jacket for boys also appeals with its coloured details - decorative blue quilted seams and an elaborate 911 print on the back. The children's T-shirt means the little ones can step out in style as well. Even the tiniest fans can discover the big wide world in a Porsche velour romper suit. The anti-slip 911 print on the feet provides a secure grip.

Items from Porsche Design Driver's Selection are available at Porsche Centers and on the Internet at www.porsche.com/shop. Some of these products may be available only in certain countries.

Source: PCNA

http://roanoke.porschedealer.com