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Car
Reviews: 2003 Porsche 911 Debuting in 1964 as a replacement for the aging 356 series, the Porsche 911 kept the basic Porsche tenets intact -- light weight, an air-cooled engine hung out aft of the rear wheels and a no-nonsense cockpit. The fearsome Turbo debuted in 1976 and, along with its blinding acceleration, sometimes taught overzealous or inexperienced (or both) drivers the meaning of drop-throttle oversteer -- a tendency for the tail to swing around if the driver jumps off the gas. During subsequent years, Porsche steadily increased power but also fine-tuned the suspension to the point that only the foolhardy could get into trouble while piloting the sharp-handling 911.
Still unmistakably a 911, the current-generation model is longer and wider than its predecessor; however, it produces less drag and is lighter than the car it replaced. Complementing this new styling was the new engine—water cooled for the first time in 911 history. Wit the addition of the new Turbo in 2001 and the GT2 for 2002, the already high-performance 911 model line has been taken to new levels. The 2003 Porsche 911 is available in seven trims: the Carrera Coupe and Cabriolet; Carrera Targa; Carrera 4S; Carrera 4 Cabriolet; Turbo and GT2. Safety features include dual front and side airbags, an anti-lock brake system (ABS), an optional Porsche Stability Management system (standard on Carrera 4 and Turbo, N/A on GT2), and full-time all-wheel drive (Carrera 4 and Turbo). Powering the 911 Carreras is a 3.6-liter horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine that produces 315 horsepower. The Turbo boasts a turbocharged 3.6-liter engine producing 415 horsepower, while the GT2 gets a modified version of the Turbo engine that increases power to an impressive 456 horsepower. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard; a 5-speed Tiptronic S dual-function transmission is optional on all except the GT2. Standard equipment on the Carrera Coupe includes automatic climate control, power door locks and windows, a power sunroof, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM/Cassette stereo and 17-inch alloy wheels. The Cabriolets add a rollover protection system; an electric, folding cloth top; a glass rear window; and a removable aluminum hardtop. The Targa features an integrated dual-panel power glass roof. The Carrera 4S adds the all-wheel drive chassis, body design and feature content of the 911 Turbo. The Turbo is differentiated from non-turbo 911s by its three large air scoops in front, flared wheel arches, 18-inch light alloy wheels, a two-piece retractable rear-wing spoiler, and a top speed of almost 190 mph.
The GT2 features larger front air intakes, a fixed rear spoiler, Porsche Ceramic
Composite Brakes (PCCB), slightly larger wheels and brakes, and deletion of the
spare tire, rear seat, sunroof, and some luxury amenities to reduce weight. The
additional power and reduced weight allow the GT2 to reach 60 mph in around four
seconds on its way to a top speed of 195 mph. What's
not to like? With MSRPs ranging from nearly $70,000 to $180,000, the Porsche heritage
still includes sapping a big bundle of cash out of your wallet. The company also
charges a fortune for many of the 911's options. But if you're looking for supercar
performance in a legendary package, it's tough to top the 911. More car reviews: 2003
Bentley Arnage -Jan 2003 Promotional
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In
1999, the 911 underwent its first all-out "clean-sheet" redesign since
its introduction in the mid-'60s. The new age 911 was slightly longer, wider and
sleeker than any previous version. That year also saw a switch to a water-cooled
version of the flat six, a seeming improvement from the standpoint of more efficient
engine cooling and cabin climate control. But not everyone agreed; some car buffs
flew the Porsche flag at half-mast. These diehards were afraid that some of the
car's character was lost with the disappearance of the air-cooled design and its
unique sound. They were partially right; even though the "new" 911's
performance was impressive, the engine and exhaust were too subdued. Last year,
along with more power was brought a better soundtrack that resurrected the intoxicating,
metallic throbbing and full exhaust note that are unmistakably 911.