Category: Porsche (Page 19 of 24)

IN THE NEWS: Long-Awaited Porsche 911 GT3 RS Premiers in Geneva

March 3, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Atlanta. The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS breaks down the barrier between road-going sports cars and race cars. It is equipped with the maximum amount of motorsport technology that is currently possible in a street-legal 911 suitable for everyday driving. Extensive modifications to its drivetrain, aerodynamics, and lightweight design take performance to an even higher level than the 911 GT3. With a Nuerburgring Nordschleife lap time of seven minutes and 20 seconds, the new 911 GT3 RS surpasses the 911 GT3 by five seconds, making it the fastest current generation 911 on the famous German racetrack. The 911 GT3 RS is celebrating its world premiere at the 2015 Geneva International Motor Show.

Motorsport expertise is the driving force behind this superior performance. The 911 GT3 RS is powered by a four-liter six-cylinder engine developing 500 hp and 338 lb.-ft. of torque, combined with a specially developed PDK transmission. The engine has the largest displacement and most power of any naturally aspirated engine with direct fuel injection in the 911 family, accelerating the high-performance sports car from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.1 seconds and propelling it through the quarter mile on the track in 11.2 seconds. Functions such as declutching by “paddle neutral” – which is comparable to pressing the clutch with a conventional manual gearbox – and speed limiting via the Pit Speed button have been adapted from motorsport use. They give drivers more freedom in terms of driving dynamics, while providing them with a maximum level of control and engagement.

The 911 GT3 RS is a masterpiece of intelligent lightweight design. For the first time, the roof is made of magnesium; carbon fiber is used for the engine and luggage compartment lids, and other components are made of weight saving materials. This makes the RS model around 22 pounds (10 kilograms) lighter than the 911 GT3. Furthermore, the lightweight roof lowers the sports car’s center of gravity which improves its already excellent lateral dynamics. The body comes from the 911 Turbo, and it signifies its status as a race-inspired driving machine with its RS-specific aerodynamic enhancements. The front spoiler lip, which sits close to the ground, and the large rear wing reinforce its dominant look.

A 30 centimeter wide recess extends centrally over the CFRP hood and the magnesium roof. This feature is a stylistic reference to the recess on the luggage compartment lid of the classic 911 models with air-cooled engines, while highlighting the two largest lightweight components of the new 911 GT3 RS. Another characteristic is the unique front wheel arch air vents that extend into the upper section of the fenders – just like on purebred race cars. They increase downforce at the front axle.

The chassis of the 911 GT3 RS has been tuned for maximum driving dynamics and precision. Rear-axle steering and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus with fully variable rear axle differential lock increases agility and dynamics, and the wider track in front and at the rear reduces body roll even further than in the 911 GT3. In addition, the 911 GT3 RS comes with the widest tires of any 911 model. The results: even more agile turn-in characteristics, even sharper steering response, and even greater cornering speeds.

The interior design of the 911 GT3 RS with Alcantara^® elements is based on the current 911 GT3. One key new feature is the full bucket seats, which are based on the carbon bucket seats from the 918 Spyder. The optional Sport Chrono Package features – in addition to its integrated timers – the Porsche Track Precision app for smartphone use. The Track Precision app can be used to have times automatically measured via GPS, and to log data on a smartphone for many driving parameters such as vehicle speed, lateral acceleration as well as deceleration and acceleration in the driving direction. It manages this data and lets the driver share and compare it with results from other drivers.

The 911 GT3 RS can be ordered now, and it will launch in the U.S. in early July of 2015. In the United States, the MSRP is $175,900, not including a $995 destination charge.

IN THE NEWS: Porsche Unveils Race-Ready Cayman GT4

February 4, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Atlanta. Porsche’s GT family is proud to announce the addition of an exciting new member: the Cayman GT4. This is the first Porsche GT sports car based on the Cayman and features components of the 911 GT3. Clocking a lap time of 7 minutes and 40 seconds on the North Loop of the Nürburgring, the Cayman GT4 earns the same lap time as the 2011 911 GT3 and positions itself as the new benchmark atop its market segment. The Cayman GT4 clearly demonstrates Porsche’s dedication and passion to continue to promote truly industry-leading two-door sports cars in the future – sports cars that are developed at the Motorsport department in Weissach.

The engine, chassis, brakes, and aerodynamic design of the Cayman GT4 are configured for maximum driving dynamics while retaining the versatility and everyday utility that are typical of the two-seater Porsche coupe. Powered by a 385 hp 3.8-liter flat-six engine derived from the 911 Carrera S engine, the Cayman GT4 transmits its power solely through a six-speed manual transmission with dynamic gearbox mounts. Zero to 60 mph is accomplished in 4.2 seconds; its top track speed is 183 mph. The chassis – which features a 30 mm lower ride height and a generously sized brake system – consists almost entirely of components from the 911 GT3.

Ready for the race track: The first Porsche Cayman with added downforce at both axles
The exterior of the Cayman GT4 highlights it as a member of the Porsche GT family and provides a clear distinction to related mid-engine coupes. Three pronounced inlet openings at the front and a large fixed rear wing are part of an aerodynamic package which is systematically designed for downforce. Upon request, the performance capabilities of Cayman GT4 can be taken even further. Available options include the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system, full bucket seats made of carbon fiber composite, and a custom Sport Chrono Package featuring a Track Precision app.

The interior of the Cayman GT4 focuses on maximizing the experience of unfiltered driving enjoyment for both driver and passenger. Standard sport seats, which are upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara^®, offer excellent lateral support. The new Cayman GT4 sport steering wheel guarantees ideal control and direct steering feedback due to its compact dimensions.

Technical aspects of this new GT sports car are based on the 911 GT3. As a mid-engine sports car and a prime example of driving dynamics in its class, it follows the conceptual tradition of such cars as the 904 GTS, 911 GT1, Carrera GT and 918 Spyder.

GT sports cars engineered by Porsche embody the most passionate connection possible between everyday driving and Porsche’s competition heritage and highlight the sporty core of the brand: Intelligent Performance.

The Porsche Cayman GT4 celebrates its world premiere in early March at the Geneva International Motor Show. This vehicle will arrive at U.S. dealers in July 2015. The starting MSRP for the Cayman GT4 is $84,600. MSRP does not include a destination charge of $995.

AT THE SHOW: More Powerful, Dynamic Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS Premiers in Detroit

January 12, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

To mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Targa, Porsche is offering this very popular model in the more powerful and dynamic GTS version for the first time. The concept of the 911 Targa 4 GTS delivers confident driving enjoyment with all-wheel drive and a Targa bar; it also delivers open-air fun with a fully automatic Targa top. Contributing to a boost in dynamic performance are the 430 hp GTS engine together with the standard Sport Chrono package, PASM chassis, 20-inch center lock wheels, and sport exhaust system.

Despite its significantly extended features, the power to weight ratio with the 430-hp engine was improved compared to the S model to less than 8 pounds per horsepower. This lets the Targa 4 GTS reach a top track speed of over 186 mph, and the stopwatch records 4.1 seconds for the sprint from zero to 60 mph when equipped with the PDK transmission.

Using the wider Carrera 4 body as all Targas do is the perfect starting point for the design of the new 911 Targa 4 GTS. The front is defined by the sport design front fascia with an opening for the auxiliary middle radiator and the tinted Bi-Xenon™ headlights that feature the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS). When viewed from the side, characteristic GTS attributes are the matte black 20-inch center lock 911 Turbo S wheels, the sport design side mirrors, and “GTS” signatures on the doors. The “targa” logo on the silver Targa bar is also finished in black. At the rear, black accents are finished with a glossy trim on the air inlet cover and chrome exhaust pipes, accompanied by the matte black model logo

GTS DNA also defines the interior of the 911 Targa 4 GTS. The stopwatch of the standard Sport Chrono package sits atop the dashboard. In the front, the four-way adjustable Sport seats Plus – with their black GTS logo on the head restraints – provide additional lateral support and long-distance cruising comfort for both driver and passenger. The dominant interior material is black Alcantara®, which is half the weight of leather.

The Targa has been an established member of the 911 lineup since it made its debut back in 1965. Around one out of eight 911 cars ever sold was a Targa. The market share of the latest generation of this exquisitely styled 911 with its characteristic Targa bar is 13 percent – and it is growing. With the 911 Targa 4 GTS, Porsche is extending its lineup of the modern classic by adding a top model whose extensive package of standard features and price are appealing.

The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS will be launched in the United States in late-April 2015. The MSRP for the 911 Targa 4 GTS is $132,800. MSRP does not include a destination charge of $995.

ON THE LAWN: Porsches Play at the Park in Sarasota

December 13, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

The 14th Annual Porsches in the Park, presented by Suncoast Porsche, was held today on St. Armand’s Circle in Sarasota Florida. With 140 Porsches, ranging from an early 356 Cabriolet to the brand new 911 (991) Carrera 4 Targa, the breadth of the legendary marque was well represented.

While entries were down from last year, the quality and array were the best in its history. This included a number of front-engined Porsches from a stunningly well-kept 924S to the new Macan. Perhaps most impressive was the showing of the “impact bumper” cars such as the 911S, 911SC and 911 Carrera 3.2. In past years, these made a token appearance, but this year reflected their spike in popularity on their way to becoming the next classic. Best of show honors in the air-cooled class in fact were awarded to a gorgeous Petrol Blue 911 SC Targa.

A moratorium on events held at St. Armands Circle puts the future of Porsches in the Park in jeopardy. However, thanks to an active community along the Suncoast region, other events dedicated to the admiration of the cars are planned. Next up is Porsches and Polo, taking place in Lakewood Ranch, Florida later in February.

IN THE NEWS: Lamborghini Sarasota Kicks Off Sarasota Exotic Car Fest

December 12, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

December 11, 2014, Sarasota FL – The Sarasota Exotic Car Fest fired up its 13th year with a reception at Lamborghini Sarasota. The event will be held February 20-22, 2015 with a theme honoring the 30th Anniversary of Miami Vice and its car culture. Several guests at the reception got into the spirit, donning their ‘80s attire. While the centerpiece of the weekend will be the exotic cars, several other activities will be taking place, offering something for everyone.

“We continue to grow, drawing entries from as far as Washington state. This year, with the Miami Vice ‘80s theme and one-of-a-kind Cocktail Theater, promises to be our best one yet.” – Marilee Roberts, Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Chair

The weekend begins Friday night, February 20, with a luxury lifestyle reception featuring a silent auction, wine, cocktails, haute cuisine, private jets from presenting sponsor Southern Jet, and a hangar full of exotic cars from Aston Martin, Bentley, Lamborghini, Maserati, Mclaren, Rolls Royce, and more. The next day, these cars and many more will line the streets of downtown Sarasota for an up-close-and-personal look. The concours is free and open to the public, with a VIP area presented by Full Moon Productions. A dinner follows, featuring a unique cocktail theater, presented by world-renowned mixologist Rob Floyd, as well as dancing and entertainment. Sunday begins with a rally, touring some of the area’s best driving roads, ending at The Founders Golf Club for a closing brunch.

For the third year, all proceeds benefit United Cerebral Palsy of Southwest Florida, Inc. For tickets or more information please visit sarasotaexoticcarfest.com.

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Co-chairs Marilee and Gary Roberts

ON DISPLAY: Singer Vehicle Design Showcases Two Masterpieces at the 2014 Connected Car Expo

November 13, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

LOS ANGELES –November 13, 2014 – With the finest in technology and creativity at its core, Sun Valley, Calif.-based Singer Vehicle Design (SVD) demonstrates the evolution of the company’s restoration services. Singer’s philosophy — blending tradition with modernity to re-create bespoke, one-of-a-kind masterpieces to each customer’s desires within perfectly optimized air-cooled Porsche 911s. Two examples will be shown at the 2014 Connected Car Expo and MPG Motoring Invitational, November 18^th and 19^th, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, during the media kick-off to the annual Los Angeles Auto Show.

SVD, the dedicated restoration company that modifies existing vintage Porsche automobiles for discerning customers, has set the stage to make a very bold statement – with the combined display of the company founder’s very first restoration, a 1969 Porsche 911E affectionately known as “the Brown Bomber” and one of SVD’s recent re-imagined 911 machines, sometimes referred to as “Connecticut” for its destination. Invoking elements of both past heritage and future development, both vehicles clearly showcase the simple, yet extravagant, perfection that Porsche enthusiasts have come to appreciate in the vehicles that have been restored by SVD.

According to Rob Dickinson, creator and founder of SVD, while each 911 his company has modified seems to appeal to Porsche aficionados on a myriad of levels, the original “Brown Bomber” is the one that personifies the most emotion for himself. “As an Englishman coming to the U.S., I had little knowledge or experience in what would set the trends in LA” said Dickinson. “But I optimized the car of my dreams to the specifications that caught my own attention, and soon found that my own personal statement was appreciated by ‘Porsche-philes’ and car fanatics on a global level.”

In fact, Dickinson noted that the Brown Bomber could actually be described as the genesis for what eventually became known as Singer Vehicle Design. “This was a car that foreshadowed Singer but proved my ideas had a broad appeal,” said Dickinson. “And as a result, inspired us to form the company and take our unique services to the next level.”

And while the Singer brand has become synonymous with truly bespoke customization services for automotive enthusiasts, which as Dickinson contends, borders on obsession – it is indeed the uniqueness of each handcrafted vehicle that currently make fans worldwide covet a viewing, while longing for a drive. With limited availability and a 8-10 month restoration cycle, vehicles have more recently been commissioned by Porsche owners in Hong Kong, Moscow, Canada, England, Germany, New Zealand and Norway.

“We are streamlining our services to reflect the increased demand for our work,” said Dickinson. The unique level of personalization and customization remains, even with recent updates to the Singer facility.

1991 Porsche 911

The recently enhanced 1991 Porsche 911 that will make its home in Connecticut is a very highly specialized machine that includes a Cosworth developed 3.8L air-cooled flat-six engine producing 360 HP, coupled with a 6 speed gearbox and LSD. The car boasts suspension by Ohlins and upgraded braking by Brembo and of course signature carbon fiber bodywork, exquisite attention to detail and final execution described by many as ‘a work of art’. Each vehicle is restored by hand as a uniquely personalized and exquisite reflection of its owner’s dreams and desires. This particular owner selected a Downton Blue Exterior and Tobacco Brown Leatherweave interior.

1969 Porsche 911E

“The Brown Bomber,” built as a personal project for mixed road and track use from a 1969 Porsche 911E, was restored by Rob Dickinson and TRE Motorsports in Los Angeles. Drawing inspiration from the British “café racer” motorcycle scene, California hot-rod culture and the great Porsche road/race cars like the 911R, 911ST, Carrera RS and RSR, this machine marks the genesis of Dickinson’s belief – epitomizing the vision of a real gentleman’s racer for the road. With a Bahama Yellow exterior and Black Embossed vinyl interior, the ‘Brown Bomber’ sports a 1978 3.0L 911SC engine; 5-speed transmission; Bilstein suspension; Centre Race fuel filler; and Fuchs Wheels finished by Harvey Weidman.

Singer Background:

SVD, through its own hand-crafted artistry, restores cars for a global audience and is prepared to remain on the cutting edge for restorative work. Dickinson’s company redefines the magic of air-cooled technology by restoring a vintage icon into a coveted piece of automotive exclusivity.

Working with key Southern California-based partners – such as internationally-renowned motorsport engineers, Ed Pink Racing Engines and Mirage International, together with globally-recognized composite experts, Aria Group – Singer has gained invaluable experience that guarantees world-class standards. Ed Pink, Mirage and Aria share in Singer’s passion for restoring the iconic air-cooled Porsche 911®for its customers.

SVD’s vision involves taking a customer’s existing 964 model Porsche 911 (from 1990-1994) vehicle and performing both restorative work and cutting–edge modifications to update the cars’ performance, aesthetics and modern day use-ability in an attempt to optimize its strengths, while preserving the essence and magic of the original.

“This is a celebration of Porsche’s genius,” said Dickinson. SVD begins with a customer’s car and repatriates the 911 chassis of the early ‘90’s with the most beautiful Ferdinand ‘Butzi’ Porsche coachwork from 1964. The goal is to preserve a moment in time for the owner and capture a snapshot of the air-cooled period of the Porsche 911. Dickinson concludes, “The essence of the Porsche 911 is vivid and unique –we’re simply trying to bottle and preserve it for our customer to savor.’’

Pricing and How to Acquire Singer’s Services:

Singer works collaboratively with each owner to restore, optimize and personalize their machine to their specific tastes. A typical restoration takes approximately 10 months to complete.

SVD prices reflect a no-expense-spared content, performance and design philosophy and meticulous standards, with prices starting at $395,000 to acquire Singer’s services to comprehensively restore and optimize the owner’s Porsche 911®, and typical pricing surpassing the $450K mark.

About Singer Vehicle Design

Singer Vehicle Design (SVD) restores and modifies existing Porsche® automobiles for its customers. Singer does not manufacture or sell automobiles.

SVD is not sponsored, associated, approved, endorsed nor, in any way, affiliated with Porsche Cars North America, Inc., or Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche, AG (www.porsche.com). The Porsche® name and crest are trademarks of Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG, and any other products mentioned are the trademarks of their respective holders. Any mention of trademarked names or other marks is for purpose of reference only.

The product of Singer’s painstaking effort is a Porsche 911® restored and reimagined by Singer. Out of respect for Porsche, and to respect Porsche’s trademark rights, this incredible machine should never under any circumstances be referred to or described as a “Singer,” “Singer 911,” “Singer Porsche 911” or a ”Porsche Singer 911,” or in any other manner that suggests that it is anything but a Porsche® 911®.

ON THE BLOCK: Coy’s “True Greats” Christmas Sale Highlights Niki Lauda’s First F1 Car and Porsche 904/6 Carrera GTP

November 7, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

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With more than seventy cars going under the hammer, including Niki Lauda’s first F1 car and a huge number of cinema posters, Coys end of season ‘True Greats’ Christmas sale at the Royal Horticultural Halls in London on December 2nd is likely to be a real blockbuster.

Chris Routledge, Managing Partner at Coys, said: “We have an amazing number of interesting cars going under the hammer. It will be a truly unique opportunity for any serious collector to acquire some of the most spectacular cars available on the open market.”

The auction will feature three times World Champion Niki Lauda’s first F1 car. This iconic former Grand Prix March from the “Golden Era” was built in 1971 for Ronnie Peterson, who used it as his initial Works Team Car at Kylami, Monaco and the memorable Zandfort race. This then became his spare car after he took over the new 711 -6 chassis at the German Grand Prix of that year. It was at this time in 1971 that this car became the career opener for Niki Lauda when he started at Peterson’s team as the second works driver. It is estimated at £450,000 to £500,000.

The sale will also feature a 1964 Works Prototype Porsche 904/6 Carrera GTP, possibly one of the finest and most successful Porsches ever constructed. It kick started a program of racing cars, that would eventually result in the all-conquering 917. It also holds a unique spot in the manufacturer’s history as the last dual-purpose sports scar Porsche ever built. The car comes with a file containing letters from Porsche Works confirming 904-108`s works prototype history and pictures of its works participation at the 1965 Targa Florio. Immaculately presented, ready for use and running as it should, this is a world-class car for a world-class collection. It is estimated at £1,100,000 to £1,300,000.

A wonderful 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/2 6 C is also on offer. This is an early short nose example in excellent all round condition in its distinctive Giallo Fly, a colour that complements the 275’s lines beautifully. Mechanically, it is in outstanding condition, it boasts an interesting specification, proudly bearing the rare and desirable 6 carburettors. It is estimated at £1,100,000 to £1,400,000

Serious collectors or Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts will find an example of one of the most desirable sports-coupes ever made, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. This exceptional car boasts a desirable original specification and retains its original engine. It is estimated at £950,000 to £1,100,000.

A 1936 Alvis Speed 20 Vanden Plas Tourer, ex Brooklands winning car and one of only six produced will be on sale, estimated at £110,000 to £130,000. This matching numbers car, with extensive pre and post war race history, is offered in its original factory specification. Finished in silver beige over black with a complementary and original beige interior, it is supplied with full VSCC and FIVA papers, which enable it to compete in many events worldwide. It is estimated at £90,000 to £110,000.

The auction will also feature a 1970 Renault Alpine A 110 Factory prototype “Group 4” with FIA papers, estimated at £190,000 to £ 220,000; a 1934 Bugatti Type 57 Series I Ventoux, estimated at £250,000 to £280,000; a beautiful and original 1948 MG TC, estimated at £20,000 to £25,000; and a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS, estimated at £350,000 to 450,000.

IN THE NEWS: Porsche Unveils 911 GTS with Enhanced Power and Performance

October 8, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Atlanta. Porsche has revealed the second generation of 911 Carrera GTS models. The GTS models are available as coupe and cabriolet versions, with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. These new models bridge the gap between the 911 Carrera S and race track tested 911 GT3. Several technical features heighten dynamic performance and driving pleasure, including the 430 horsepower engine from the Carrera S Powerkit which incorporates the Sport Chrono package and Sport Exhaust. The standard PASM active damper system lowers the ride height by 10 mm compared to the 911 Carrera.

When equipped with PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung dual-clutch transmission), the 911 Carrera GTS sprints from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds (Cabriolet: 4.0 seconds) – which is one-tenth of a second faster than the S model. Top track speeds for the GTS models range from 187 to 190 miles per hour, depending on drivetrain and transmission. Despite quicker acceleration and higher top speeds, the GTS versions retain a similar level of efficiency as the 911 Carrera S models.

Added performance and an extended range of standard features make the new models attractive in price as well. Standard equipment includes Bi-Xenon™ headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and the Sport exhaust system, which delivers an unmistakable GTS sound. The Alcantara® interior features leather-trimmed sport seats with center panels made of made of Alcantara® – a traditional feature of all Porsche GTS models.
The exterior of the new GTS models differs significantly from the other Carrera variants. All GTS versions are based on the 911 Carrera 4 body with flared rear wheel arches and a wider track.

Also standard are 20-inch center lock wheels, painted in an exclusive gloss black. Special trim elements and tinted Bi-Xenon™ headlights accentuate the front end, while black trim strips on the customized GTS air intake and black chrome-plated exhaust tailpipes distinguish the rear of the Carrera GTS models.

With the addition of the new GTS models, the 911 family now consists of nineteen sports cars which range from 350 to 560 hp. MSRP for the 911 Carrera GTS starts at $114,200, while the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet starts at $126,100. The 911 Carrera 4 GTS will have an MSRP of $120,900 in Coupe and $132,800 in Cabriolet form. A destination charge of $995 is not included in the MSRP. The four models will be available at U.S. dealers by the end of 2014.

IN THE GARAGE: 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe

September 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

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VIN	WP0AD29917S783821
Exterior	[L041] Black
Interior	[LE] Stone Grey Full Leather
Motor	3.6 L Turbocharged H4 rated at 480 bhp
Gearbox	[G975] 6-Speed Manual
Exterior Condition	Excellent (2+)
Interior Condition	Outstanding (1)
Drivetrain	Excellent (2+ )
Braking	Excellent (2)
Suspension/Ride	Excellent (2)
Tires/wheels	Very Good (3+)

THE EVERYDAY SUPERCAR. Porsche Turbo. For four decades, those two words have evoked breathtaking performance, meticulous engineering and an assertive, sometimes audacious sense of style that has never been equaled. While each generation of the 911 Turbo aimed to one-up the previous one, perhaps the greatest leap came with the 997 model Turbo in 2007. It not only sported impressive numbers like 480 hp and 505 lb-ft of torque (with the Sports Chrono package), but it was the way in which that performance was applied. Porsche’s new Variable Turbine Geometry all but eliminated turbo lag and back pressure, thus the powerband of the twin-turbo 3.6-litre motor was unlike anything before in a turbocharged performance car (peak torque 1,950-5,000 RPM), virtually equal to one that is normally aspirated. Mated to a pinpoint 6-speed gearbox—the last generation to feature a manual—and the 997 Turbo Coupe delivers an exhilarating, driver-oriented experience. The 911 Turbo presented here is well optioned to further enhance that, including:

Sports Chrono Plus
Adaptive sports seats
Full leather interior
Factory short shifter
Multi-function leather steering wheel

Massive Bridgestone Potenzas with very good tread (~75% remaining) surround the stock 19″ Turbo alloy wheels OR Gloss Black 19″ Tech Art Alloys. Combined with the Turbo Coupe’s standard adaptive AWD, 350mm inner-vented disc brakes with multi-piston monobloc calipers, and an alphabet soup’s worth of electronic driving aids, it makes for a incredibly civilized canyon carver or track-day darling.

OVERALL CONDITION
The first thing we notice about this 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe is the deep, brilliant shine of its all-original Black paint. It is near flawless and the pampering given by its two owners is evident in every detail. Likewise, the interior is showroom fresh. The full leather upholstery shows virtually no wear and is more indicative of a car with test-drive miles than one that’s been enjoyed for more than 60K. Again it’s a testament to the care it’s been given its entire life. Mechanically, it benefits from a fresh major service and is entirely free of leaks, smoke and unusual noises. Clutch and gearbox are taut with no signs of wear. The 997 Turbo’s electronic, variable-assisted steering is precise with no slop, while the stock suspension provides superb feedback, perfectly balancing the car’s blistering performance. The optional Tech Art wheels are flawless while the stock Turbo alloys show only one minor rash on one wheel. Both sets are shod with Bridgestone Potenzas, with very good tread on both (Turbo alloys ~75%; Tech Arts ~%70). This 911 Turbo Coupe truly is the best of both worlds. It presents like a garage queen, but fully recognizes—at its soul—that it is a Porsche and isn’t the least bit shy about being driven.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
In many ways, the Porsche 997 Turbo Coupe is the materialization of all things Porsche. It unmistakably carries the legacy of Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche’s ideal of the “formally harmonious product” he envisioned when designing the 911, yet it is an awe-inspiring marvel of technology at the same time. The combination of its revolutionary Variable Turbine Geometry combined with a host of electronic driver aids like adaptive all-wheel-drive, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), Enhanced Porsche Stability Management (PSM), and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), to name a few, made this the most drivable turbocharged performance car ever. It is brute power delivered through an unprecedented range. It invites the driver to explore its limits but can also keep itself perfectly in check, should the driver choose not to challenge their abilities. Porsche 911 Twin Turbo Coupe No. 3821 takes that even further with the added torques from its Sports Chrono Plus package, as well other driver-oriented options like Adaptive Sports Seats and a thicker, multi-function three-spoke steering wheel. Despite the technological brilliance of the PDK gearbox found in the 997.2 and 991, there is and never will be a substitute for the supple yet crisp shifts of its optional short shifter working through manual gears. It is neck-snappingly quick—3.7 seconds to 60 MPH and a top speed of 193 MPH—putting it within a car’s length of exotics like the Ferrari Enzo, Lamborghini Murcielago and McLaren MP4-12C. Yet it’s a car that is equally at home hauling bags of mulch with pygmy relatives in the back seats. Creature comforts like cold air conditioning, power windows and sunroof, and a full leather interior make for a pleasant cockpit. Ride is firm but not punishing, steering easy at lower speeds without losing road feel, and fuel economy is decent to boot. Maintenance costs are more akin to its Audi and Volkswagen cousins than the supercars it is compared to on spec sheets. It is a car that provides staggering performance in a real-world package. Formally harmonious, you might say.

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ON THE BLOCK: Inaugural Salon Privé Sale a Roaring Success

September 5, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

The inaugural Salon Privé Sale, hosted in partnership between Silverstone Auctions & Salon Privé London, achieved some roaring results in London last night, with a 61% sales rate and a total sales value of £9.9 million.

Topping the bill at the Sale and securing a believed world-record price was an incredibly rare 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spyder which sold for a premium inclusive £2.27 million. A stunning 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Pininfarina Series II Coupe sold for a premium inclusive £707,215, more than £330,000 over its lower estimate also achieving a believed world-record.

Another rare Ferrari, a 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L ‘Lusso’, sold for a premium inclusive total of more than £1.89 million.

Getting the auction off to a fantastic start was a limited edition 2013 Patek Philippe 5960P-016 Gentleman’s Annual Calendar Chronograph, all proceeds of which were donated to the Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity.

Porsche 911 prices continue to rise with a 1973 Porsche 911 S Targa, part of the Henry Pearman collated‘Stradale’ Collection, selling for £195,500, more than £80,000 over its lower estimate. A piece of motoring history, Range Rover chassis number 001, sold for a premium inclusive £132,250 whilst last year’s ‘Most Elegant Design’ winner, a 1954 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback, sold for a premium inclusive £1million. Aston Martin’s proved as popular as ever with a beautiful 1970 DB6 MK.II Volante selling for £954.500.

Commenting on the results Managing Director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: “We’re delighted with the results from our first sale at Salon Privé. Some of the prices paid for particular cars are truly staggering and hope that both buyers and vendors alike are as happy as we are.”

“The Salon Privé Sale has exceeded all expectations, the atmosphere was both tense and electrifying with phone bidders from all over the world and in person filling the Garden Room Marquee and we are certainly looking forward to next year,” added Andrew Bagley, Managing Director and Owner – Salon Privé London.

For the full results list please visit http://www.silverstoneauctions.com/salon-prive.