Turbo Kraft

Arizona's Porsche Authority

The Ultimate Porsche 911 Buying Guide

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Porsche 911 photo
When You Find a Porsche 911 for Sale

If you are shopping for a Porsche 911, finding one for sale shouldn’t be too much of a challenge.  Finding the perfect 911 is the hard part.  The Porsche 911 is an icon for a legendary brand and the initial design was magic, that just got better over time.  The 911 gives many options and variations to choose from.  The first step to finding your dream car is identifying which qualities in a 911 are most important to you.  Are you shopping for sheer speed?  Do you need something powerful but luxurious?  Are you looking for a perfect blend of performance and comfort or does your heart desire the fastest vehicle possible?  The first step to purchasing your perfect Porsche car is to narrow down your wants and preferences and prioritize the items most important to you.

Used Porsche 911 Buying Guide

You need to consider all aspects of your potential Porsche 911 including these three possible deal breakers: age, trim, and engine.

When looking at a used Porsche 911, you need to consider the innovations and changes that have come over time.  The oldest 911’s will come with more challenging steering and air cooled engines.  The newer 911’s reflect the benefit of improvements and technology and are produced with more power and lighter weight materials.  Not everyone is a fan of the new and improved models as they also come with water cooling systems and technology that can handle the challenge of driving for you.  An additional consideration with an older 911 is the cost of any necessary restoration.  While we have a team of Porsche specialists that can restore any 911 to its original glory, you should consider the time and financial investment needed prior to purchasing any vehicle. In addition tho this facts, it should be oil leak free.

The trim varies greatly throughout the Porsche 911’s history.  The Carrera, Targa, Turbo and GT3 are the 4 major trims available for various 911’s.  The Carrera is considered the base model while today’s Targa comes with a retractable, partially removable roof.  The Turbo is a faster version of the base model and the GT3 is geared towards racing.  The GT3 may not be the fastest variation on a straightaway but it built for speed and handling on a track.  There are dozens of additional offshoots from these four primary categories.

The next consideration is the engine of your dreams.  The Porsche 911 simply outdoes itself in offering a huge range of options, horsepower and torque.  A Carrera or Targa 4 engine comes equipped with a 3.4 liter flat 6 engine that gives up to 350 horsepower and 287lb per foot torque.  Meanwhile, a wide range of 911’s such as the Carrera S, Targa S, and Turbo S utilize a 3.8 liter flat 6 engine with more maximum horsepower and torque.  If that’s just not enough you can look into the GT3 RS and its 4 liter flat 6 engine that comes with a maximum 500 horsepower and 338 lbs per foot torque.

Vehicle specs aside there are some other important things to keep in mind when choosing the used 911 of your dreams.  First and foremost, you need to buy the Porsche you want.  Everyone will have an opinion.  Porsche’s history and offerings are too plentiful for everyone to agree on which model is the best one.  Don’t be swayed by your buddies, your coworkers or resale considerations.  At the end of the day, people buy Porsche’s for the sheer pleasure they bring.  Make sure you are buying the 911 that best suits you and makes your inner child giddy with joy.

Professional Guidance in Buying a Porsche 911

You have many avenues available to you when looking at buying a used Porsche 911.  Our favorite choice is an Official Porsche Center (OPC).  These centers sell cars that are held to Porsche standards and include a two-year warranty.  This gives you some protection in the event there are unforeseen issues.  You can also purchase your 911 from an auction but it is hard to vet the vehicle and its history.  This can be a much more challenging proposition that comes with the possibility of expensive repairs.  Private dealers can also be a good way to purchase.  Private dealers should offer a discounted price but quality cars priced well will usually go fast.  If you decide to use a private dealer you should always be prepared to get the vehicle checked out prior to completing the purchase.  Contact our experts at TurboKraft and allow us to do a thorough inspection of the vehicle.  We can give you an honest assessment of the vehicles condition and estimate costs for any immediate issues that need to be addressed.  We can also give you an estimate for any restoration or customization services required to make the vehicle absolutely perfect.  When it comes to your future Porsche 911 don’t settle: consult with experts, do your research, and with our help you can easily buy or create the perfect 911 for you.

Contact our Porsche experts at TurboKraft and allow us to do a thorough inspection of the vehicle.  We can give you an honest assessment of the vehicles condition and estimate costs for any immediate issues that need to be addressed.  We can also give you an estimate for any restoration or customization services required to make the vehicle absolutely perfect.  When it comes to your future Porsche 911 don’t settle: consult with experts, do your research, and with our help you can easily buy or create the perfect 911 for you.

 

Things to Know About the Porsche 919

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Porsche 919 photo

The Porsche 919 originally debuted at the 6 hours of Silverstone in 2014 and finished third.  The 919 is a quintessential racecar with something extra, built for speed and endurance and some views it as the most beautiful Porsche ever built.  Porsche reworked and adjusted the 919 to battle its way to the top spot and take home first place at LeMans and the remaining five races of the season.  Porsche took everything it excels at and placed it in this car.  It is a tribute to Porsche’s innovation and engineering mastery.

The Porsche 919 Model

Porsche took home the title at the 2016 World Endurance Championship.  They are upping the ante for 2017 with the 919 hybrid model.  Porsche is determined to defend their title and has taken the 919 hybrid to another level.  While the 2017 offering looks similar to last year’s predecessor, Porsche has reworked and redesigned approximately 60% – 70% of the vehicle and introduced new aerodynamic packages.  One of which is a specifically redesigned aerokit to address long straightaways and another which is customized to tight, twisty courses.  Powertrain upgrades and energy dispersion help make this car the most exciting to watch, yet.  The engine is responsible for powering the rear wheels only while the lithium battery provides power to an electric motor on the front axle.  Along with the new changes comes a new nose and the biggest headlights Porsche has ever used.  Porsche Previous models suffered from spent rubber and debris on the track. The improved design doesn’t miss a beat.

Racing regulations play an important part of any car design, and the 919 hybrid is no exception. Lemans put in place rules to slow down cars around the corners while the World Endurance Championship encourages teams to push the limits.  Porsche designed the 919 hybrid to tackle both.  Initial races became important proving grounds with Porsche making necessary tweaks and adjustments after all of them.  Car number 14 suffered from a false alarm which turned the hybrid system off altogether, while initial LeMans testing suffered from understeering.  Further testing led to both 919’s catching fire while in the pit causing concern.  It was later discovered the flexing engine cover and turbocharger were too close together, causing a small fire.  Despite these minor setbacks and adjustments, or perhaps because of them, the 919 became an exquisite force to be reckoned with.

Porsche 919 Engine

The 919 Porsche hybrid originally hit the track in June 2013 but the engine has been overhauled and redesigned many times since then.  The original design suffered an engine vibration issue which caused breaks in the suspension.  This along with many other things have been corrected since. The hybrid features a V4 turbo which works in perfect harmony with the rest of the vehicle.  The engine feeds the rear axle which in turn powers the exhaust recovery system that helps the cars hybrid system.  Another part of the hybrid is the lithium batteries which hold and store excess energy recovered from the front axle brakes or the exhaust system.  One of the things that sets the 919 hybrid apart is the use of two turbines in the exhaust system.  One turbine is linked to the compressor while the second is linked to an electric motor, not the other turbine or a compressor.  This allows the second turbine to fully recover any expended energy when the vehicle is running.  Energy is stored in the lithium batteries provided by A123 systems. Porsche has only released one photo of the 919 hybrid engine and it’s beautiful.  It’s also certain that changes and adjustments have already been made so to truly be able to appreciate everything this engine has to offer, you have to drive it.

Porsche 919 Top Speed

Porsche describes the 919 hybrid vehicle type as a LeMans Prototype class LMP1.  It is constructed with composite fiber made up of carbon fibers and honeycomb aluminum core, all to create a beautifully designed vehicle that thirsts for speed.  The energy generator unit or EGU on the front axle, 7 speed racing transmission and sliding tripod, universal joints drive train all help the 919 hybrid deliver while still weighing less than 2000 lbs.  The V4 2 liter turbocharged hybrid engine and design that allows for no energy lost create a top speed of greater than 211 miles per hour and 400 horsepower. When WEC racing regulations were adjusted, limited teams to 3 sets of tires for the entire weekend, Porsche responded.  The hybrid management system and adjustments to traction control have been implemented specifically to make tires last longer.

The 919 brings Porsche back to its true identity.  While the prettier, more polished Cayenne’s and 911’s of the Porsche family give the Porsche name its refined and sophisticated reputation; the 919 brings it back to its raw, racing roots.  The superb design and incredible thought behind the 919 have created a monster of a race car and a thing of beauty.

If you’re considering to buy Porsche 919, call Turbokraft. Everything you need to know about Porsche 919 from why it was built, engine make up, and top speed, their porsche specialist will be happy to assist you.

 

Porsche Restoration: What You Need to Know

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Porsche specialists photo

What Porsche Restoration Specialists Can Do

Time can heal all wounds but it can also wreak havoc on cars.  Classic cars suffer from exterior wear and tear, wiring and parts breaking down and overall damage and deterioration.  Whether you drive your Porsche like a racecar every day or park it in the garage and only bring it out on special occasions, the erosion of pieces and parts over time can’t be avoided.  This is where Porsche restoration specialists come in.

Porsche restoration specialists wear many hats.  They have to be experts in all things Porsche, not just the mechanics but the history.  For a specialist to truly bring a car back to its full glory, he or she needs to know exactly how Porsche intended the vehicle to be built and driven.  Our restoration specialists have a high level of mechanical and electrical knowledge and expertise.  Their roles as Porsche historians allow them to appreciate and understand the mechanisms of your vehicle.  Our Porsche restoration team can rewire, rebuild and restore your Porsche to its original glory.  Rebuilding engines, repairing or customizing clutches and transmissions and retooling suspensions are all part of a restoration specialist’s skillset.

Some restoration companies will have dedicated specialists for various parts of the vehicles.  Some experts will be masters of custom paint jobs and specific paint projects while others will have specific electrical talents.  Make sure that your restorer’s talents match the needs of your project.  At TurboKraft, we have a team of specialists that can custom build or restore your Porsche from the ground up.

When looking for your Porsche restoration specialist you need to be selective.  Some Porsche owners want to restore their vehicles themselves while others only want an expert to make minor adjustments to their car.  There are also some owners that have expertise in one area but not in others, calling in specialists only for those times that are needed.  Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum of “do it yourself” your restoration partner should understand and work with your needs.  You need to be able to communicate your expectations regarding the final product and feel confident that your restoration specialist can deliver.

If you are looking for a restoration specialist you have many resources to help.  If you enjoy Porsche car shows or high-end auctions talk to other owners.  If there is a restored car that you covet or admire get as much information about the restoration as possible.  If you are looking for a restoration company, interview them much the way you would a prospective employee: ask for references, previous restoration work experience and meet with them in person if possible.  You want your restoration project to be an enjoyable one and the first step to success is to hire the right professional for the job.

Workspace and equipment matter.  When dealing with a custom build or restoration, your specialist needs to have the tools necessary to get the job done.  If your Porsche needs extensive metal fabrication, your specialist should probably have a metal brake, English wheel and other important metal working tools. The workspace should also reflect the care needed to restore a vehicle.  While working on cars can be nitty gritty, workspaces should be organized and clean.  Restorations can be big jobs and a professional restoration company should have ample room for their craftsmen and cars.

Communication is key.  Any restoration project should include consistent communication between the client and company.  From the first meeting, a restoration specialist should ask questions to completely understand what the client is looking for.  Once the scope of the project is agreed upon, pricing needs to be established.  Moving forward from there, your specialist should be in regular contact with you giving updates on the status of the vehicle and notifying you of any changes or unexpected issues.  Communication and craftsmanship are the hallmarks of quality restoration specialists.

How Do You Get the Best Porsche Restoration Parts?

At TurboKraft, we customize engines and fabricate parts in-house to ensure the highest quality.  Purchasing specialty factory parts can be very expensive and time-consuming.  We achieve the same high-level quality with less time and expense by making our own Porsche Parts.  From replacing your clutch to rebuilding your exhaust system to completely overhauling your engine; if it’s mechanical it’s our specialty.  We have the tools and skills to customize your Porsche to meet your needs. Whether you are looking for a more reliable family car or a faster ride around the track, we can execute your vision. Our professionals are Porsche craftsmen, treating every project with precision and care. Whether you want to restore a classic, upgrade a current model or build your dream car from scratch, give us a call and let us bring your vision to life.

 

 

What is the most beautiful Porsche ever built?

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Best Porsche car

 

What is the most beautiful Porsche ever built?  It’s an incredibly, delightfully difficult question.  Over the storied history of Porsche, there have been some fantastic specimens of beauty to choose from.  Beauty is so subjective, your answer may very well depend on the Porsche traits you find most valuable.  if you are a traditionalist or innovator your perception of beauty may be totally different.  Either way, Porsche has you covered.  For the purposes of this article the Porsche Carrera GT is the most beautiful Porsche ever built, at least for now and here’s why…

Porsche-Best Car in the World

Porsche has built a legacy on constructing street legal race cars in the most beautiful way possible.  Because Porsche is so good at what they do, it makes picking just one almost impossible.  For now, we will argue that the best Porsche when tackling the question of beauty is the Carrera GT.  The Carrera GT was launched in 2004 and built through 2007.  This incredible specimen is a limited-edition sports car with less than 1300 built.  It’s speed and spectacular design command a base price of around a half a million dollars.  The sleek body design and textbook Porsche engineering delivers a 5.7 litre engine and a v10 engine.  This car produces 612 horsepower and can go from zero to sixty in 3.5 seconds.  With a top speed of 208 miles per hour, this car is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced driver.  The Carrera GT demands a driver that is up to its standards and can manage its breakneck speed and power.

The design and engineering of the Carrera GT also help set it apart.  The engine is set in the middle of the car and stability control is non-existent, as Porsche decided that it was simply not needed.  The strength and build of the ceramic composite brake system and lightweight drive train create a weightless and smooth driving experience. The Carrera GT responds immediately and without pause or unnecessary effort.  Because of the build and ability of this car, it is best enjoyed on the open road or racetrack.  If you decide to so something as normal as taking this car grocery shopping, be careful of speedbumps and other such everyday hazards that can damage the carbon fiber bottom.

Best Classic Porsche to Buy

The Carrera GT is one of the most tempting Porsche’s to purchase.  It was originally intended to be built for racing at LeMans with the V10 initially constructed for a Formula One team.  In 2000, a prototype borrowing the V10 technology drew large crowds at the Paris Motor Show.  Production began and the first Carrera GT’s went on sale in 2004.  With less than 1300 ever built, the existing supply is becoming more sparse making them more rare and expensive.  The existing vehicles can suffer damage from accidents or simply wear and tear over time.  If you can purchase a Carrera GT you will own a piece of Porsche history that will become increasing more rare.  The Dupont Registry currently has approximately ten vehicles for sale ranging in price from $450,000 to $1,050,000.This car offers its owner an opportunity to drive a street legal racecar and the low production numbers make it a valuable piece of history.

Best Selling Porsche

Beauty by the numbers supports the choice of the 911 Carrera GT.  If you use sales price as the measure of a car’s appeal, the sales figures for this car can’t be denied.  With a starting price of $440,000 and upwards of over a million dollars, this cars strength and appeal are obvious.  While there are other Porsche’s that have sold for more, this particular Porsche mode consistently sells high and retains value.

Which Porsche is the best?

While it is difficult to definitively say which Porsche is the best ever, we stand behind the sleek look and powerful design of the Carrera GT.  With that being said, there are a few runners-up that should be acknowledged.

The Carrera GT’s successor, the 918 Spyder is a sight to behold with its fantastic lines and brute speed.  One of the defining visual characteristics of the 918 Spyder is the exhaust system which helps fumes exit the vehicle from two cannon like airflows placed above the heads of the occupants.  With 887 horsepower and the ability to top out around 211 mph, it could easily be the most beautiful Porsche to many, and just for fun it’s also a hybrid.

Also a strong contender, the Porsche 356 Roadster.  Porsche only produced 21 of these cars.  While the Roadster has a 4 cylinder, air cooled engine it had no problem keeping up with larger sports cars of its time and looking good while doing it.

There are too many other contenders to list.  Porsche has excelled for many years in creating masterpieces.  Their cars are the epitome of speed, luxury and beauty.  While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, Porsche has given us many fantastic specimens to behold.  Today we choose the Carrera GT as the most beautiful of them all, but ask again tomorrow.

Top 5 Best Roads in Arizona to Drive Your Porsche

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Arizona road photo

Porsche owners appreciate the speed and handling that come with this luxury brand.  Porsche engineers street legal race cars with varying levels of luxury, depending on the model you choose.  Some Porsche drivers sacrifice comfort for speed while others want all the creature comforts that money can buy.  Determining the best road trip is similar.  It’s all a matter of taste and personal preference.  That being said, Arizona roads have something to offer everyone.

Plan Your Arizona Road Trip

There is nothing like the feeling of taking your finely engineered Porsche out on the open road and letting it sing.  Arizona has some of the most breathtaking scenery along the desert expanse.  Enjoy making a plan and deciding how to best soak it all in.  The first thing you need to decide is how long you want to be gone.  You can spend weeks crisscrossing along the state and taking in the sights while enjoying the drive.  The next thing you should consider is the goal of your trip.  Are you looking for twisty turns or long straightaways?  Do you have a dream destination and just need to plan the best way to get there?  Are you looking for the best day trip possible?  Have no fear, our scenic drives and best Arizona road trips have a little bit of something for everyone.

Scenic Drives in Arizona

If you are looking for a little kitsch and fun, then look no further than Route 66.  Start at Topock in Western Arizona and travel north and through the desert to Kingman, all the while enjoying 173 miles of road.  While part of the trip is now named the Oatman Highway, it gives ample room for speed and hairpin turns.  Along the way, take in some local culture.  Grand Canyon Caverns in Peach Springs features cave tours, rafting, and a 1960’s shop complete with themed memorabilia.  Another fun pit stop is Seligman, a kitschy town that greets visitors with a retro motel and throwback museums and gift shops. Finish up this particular drive in Holbrook and spend the night in a concrete teepee.

If you prefer more comfort and luxury than kitschy fun, perhaps Highway 89 is more your speed.  Take your Porsche from Wickenburg to Flagstaff with some time in Skull Valley and Sedona in between.  Wickenburg offers a real dude ranch as well as southwestern culture and experiences.  Once you are done soaking in the Wickenburg sites, hop in your Porsche and cruise through the beautiful desert to Skull Valley.  The town is small and has a population of just 500.  While it won’t take long to see all of Skull Valley, you can continue northeast up through some beautiful national forest until you reach Sedona.  Sedona is less fun to drive, as its incredible red rock vistas and reputation for healing draw hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, but it is a relaxing place to rest and recharge before hitting the road the rest of the way north to Flagstaff.

If you and your Porsche prefer a more rough and rugged adventure, the Apache Trail may be perfect for you.  The Apache Trail offers 38 miles of road that is both dirt and paved; and takes the driver through the desert, mountains and lakes.  This trail highlights the best of the scenery that Arizona has to offer.  It also challenges the nerves of any driver with steep cliffs and sheer drop offs.  This trail is not for the faint of heart but is perfect for a well-crafted, easily maneuvered Porsche.

Best Road Trips in Arizona

When you and your Porsche decide to take a drive in Arizona you have many choices.  Easily one of the best road trips is around the Grand Canyon.  If you are starting in the southern part of the state, you can start in Tucson and migrate north to Mount Lemmon and the Tonto National Forest.  The Mount Lemmon highway is a driver’s dream with an elevation increase of 6,000 feet and spectacular scenery along the way.  Tonto National Forest has almost 3 million acres of land that varies from Saguaro cacti to pine tree covered mountains.  From there you can continue to Flagstaff and then on to the Grand Canyon.  The Grand Canyon is incredibly picturesque and has miles of roads and trails to be explored.  It is truly a breathtaking place that can consume your time with the canyon but also spectacular prairie’s and plateau’s.

Arizona roads have an incredible range and expanse to offer Porsche drivers.  If you are looking for death defying cliffs and twists and turns, look no further.  If long and fast straightaways are more your speed we have those too.  You can make a drive through Arizona as much or as little as you want it to be.  There is so much to explore, you can hop in your Porsche for an hour or a week, and enjoy.

 

Five Reasons the Porsche 930 is an Icon

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Porsche 930 Emblem

Classic Porsche prices are on the rise and this is especially true for iconic versions like the Porsche 930.  The Turbo 911, built between 1975 and 1989 was known to the builders and manufacturers as the Porsche 930. The debut of the 911 Turbo was the Paris Auto Show in 1974 and the first cars available for purchase came the following spring in 1975.  These cars are part of Porsche’s long and storied legacy and have at least five distinctive features that help contribute to the 930’s status as an icon.

  • Porsche’s 911 Turbo – emphasis on Turbo

Porsche began experimenting with the turbo design on their racecars as far as back as the 1960’s.  Regulations and production requirements meant that Porsche manufactured what was originally intended to be street legal race cars.  The Turbo technology was adapted from Porsche racecars by Ernst Fuhrmann.  While some people were not thrilled with Porsche’s use of a four speed instead of the manual 5 speed, it did not prevent the 911 Turbo from reaching new heights and taking the honor of being the fastest car in Germany during its prime production years.  It reached its fastest performance in 1984 with a top speed of 278 km/hr and zero to sixty in 4.6 seconds.  The original iteration of the Porsche 930 was very fast but also very demanding to drive.  Some common issues in the beginning were a tendency to oversteer and turbo lag.  This is not a car that you can ignore.  An early 930 is a vehicle that demands your full and undivided attention.

  • Iconic Design Improvements

One of the easiest and most identifiable 930 characteristics are the rear spoilers used to help more air vent to the engine.  While some Porsche enthusiasts consider the whale tail and tea tray spoilers an eye sore others choose to celebrate it as part of the 930 design.  The whale tail spoiler was an integral part of the original 911 Turbo but was adjusted in 1978 to the tea tray design to help accommodate the added intercooler.  In 1978 Porsche upgrade the 930 with an enlarged 3.3L engine and an intercooler, which helped increase output substantially.  Porsche also increased the brake size slightly and lifted and adapted the spoiler to make more room.  As Porsche created more models of the Turbo 911 they made additional improvements for easier driving such as wider rear wheels with upgraded tires.

  • Easily Identifiable Body Styling Like the Slant Nose

The slant nose or “Flachbau” style was part of the special order program starting in 1981.  These were created by taking a standard 930 and giving them a 935 slantnose or flatnose, front end.  The traditional round headlights and frame were traded for a distinctive slanted front end and pop up headlights.  Front fenders were cut and shaped by hand.  Because of this hand crafted attention, the slant nose 930’s are much fewer and command a much higher resale price than some of their counterparts.  The unique body styling of the slant nose helped contribute to Porsche’s reputation and made these particular models easy to note as Porsches from a simple glance.

  • History

Porsche 930 has an intriguing history with its introduction of the 930s in 1975.  The 930s development and sales were actually quite bumpy along the way.  While the initial 930 had incredible speed it was also dangerous in the hands of inexperienced drivers.  It was originally brought to the production market due to homologation regulations in the racing realm.  While the 930 came to fruition due to regulations it was also derailed by them in 1980.  At the time emissions regulations became much tighter and Porsche opted to pull the 930’s from the U.S. and Japanese markets in 1980.  They remained available in the Canadian and European markets and came back to the United States and Japan in 1981 as a special order slantnose option.  Regularly produced 930’s didn’t become available to the U.S. and Japan again until 1986 when a 278hp emission controlled engine was included.

  • Reputation

In addition to an interesting history, the Porsche 930 simply has a storied and famous reputation.  This model has the notoriety of speed, challenge and fame that has contributed to the Porsche name.  In 2015, Steve McQueen’s 1976 Porsche 911 sold for 1.95 million dollars.  Purchased four years before McQueen’s death, this pristine vehicle came with the 3.0L engine and non-intercooled engine. While the famous man behind the car certainly contributed to the eye popping sale price, there is a reason the rich, famous, and selective choose these iconic cars.

The Porsche name is synonymous with speed, design and high performance.  The 930 series is no exception.  From their inception to the end of production, the Porsche 930s are iconic.  It is easy to see why the 930 has become an icon and coveted classic.

Why Do People Like the Porsche Cayenne?

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White Porsche Cayenne photo

 

The Cayenne is Porsche’s crossover SUV and like so many of its predecessor’s, the Cayenne offers all that is synonymous with Porsche’s brand: drivability, comfort, sheer speed, luxurious detailing, and an overall experience that is second to none.  The Cayenne receives a 5 out of 5 from Car and Driver and a 9 out of 10 from US News Cars.  The Cayenne’s blend of Porsche craftsmanship, lineage built from cars that belong on a track, and superb handling and comfort make it a perfect choice for almost anyone.

Porsche Cayenne Interior

Porsche describes the interior of the Cayenne as being derived from the 918 Spyder and stresses that the Cayenne design is rooted in motor sport racing.  The emphasis of the interior design is convenience and accessibility.  The driver has all the controls within arm’s reach.  The rising center console brings everything you could need within easy reach and the multifunction steering wheel creates an even easier driving experience.

The interior also includes Porsche’s PCM or Porsche Communication Management System.  The PCM includes a navigation system and fits seamlessly into the interior design.   The Porsche Communication Management System is standard in all Porsche models and contains all your information and entertainment needs in one easy to navigate console.  Your PCM includes 2 SD card readers, Bluetooth capability and an internal hard drive for all your sound system connectivity needs.

The materials and bells and whistles used for the Cayenne interior are what you would expect from Porsche.  These include genuine wood grain and leather with detailed stitching.  The cargo space is typical of a midsize SUV and the seats can do it all.  Standard seats are all ergonomically designed to provide comfort for long drives and every seat can be power adjusted into 8 different position.  Rear seating can recline and slide.  Upgrade packages include rear heated seating.

While not the sexiest part of the Cayenne, the included safety system and features shouldn’t go unnoticed.  The Cayenne comes with standard airbags and side curtain airbags for both the first and second row.  The Cayenne also boasts daytime running lights, rear child safety locks, ABS and driveline traction control as standard features.  Optional add-ons include cornering lights, directionally adaptive lights, as well as lane departure and blind spot warning systems for increased visibility and safety.

Porsche Cayenne Pricing

The Cayenne pricing depends on the year and model that you are looking at.  The basic Cayenne model brand new MSRP’s at around $59,600 while the fully loaded turbo model lists an MSRP of $159,600.  There are several factors that increase the price as you go.  As mentioned above, optional features such as rear heated seating and additional safety items such as lane departure and blind spot warning systems will add on to the base model price.  There are eight different versions of the Cayenne available for purchase, the Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne Platinum Edition, Cayenne GTS, Cayenne Turbo, and Cayenne Turbo S.  You also have hybrid options in the form of the Cayenne S E-Hybrid and the Cayenne S E-Hybrid Platinum Edition.  Pricing for your Cayenne will depend on which model, engine, and bells and whistles you choose.  The base model Cayenne starts at $59,600 while the GTS starts at $97,200 and the Cayenne Turbo base model has an introductory price of $116,500.  They hybrid Cayenne S-E starts out at $78,700 and the hybrid platinum edition starts at $81,600.

Porsche Cayenne Top Speed

If you are looking at purchasing a Cayenne and have a need for the fastest possible option, look no further than the Cayenne Turbo S.  The Turbo S offers 570 horsepower at 6000 rpm and can go from zero to sixty in 3.8 seconds.  The Cayenne Turbo S has a top track speed of 176 mph.  If you are looking for maximum speed and cost is not a consideration the Turbo S is your best bet.

If you are looking for speed with a slightly less hefty price tag, the Cayenne GTS is also a strong contender.  With 440 horsepower at 6000 rpm and a top track speed of 163 mph, the GTS provides speed and horsepower with a potential $20,000 savings.

Whether you analyze the value of a vehicle based on cost, speed, luxury, or a combination of all three; consider what you get for what the Porsche Cayenne costs.  The Porsche brand and various Cayenne models exemplify what a crossover SUV should provide: a smooth, quality driving experience with the muscle and power of a racecar.  With the Cayenne interior and the sleek exterior design including Porsche craftsmanship, the Cayenne is a fantastic choice for anyone that needs the room and wants the luxury and power the Cayenne has to offer.  What’s not to like?

 

15 Things You Might Not Have Known About Porsche 993

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Porsche 993 photo

Quirky item number three about Porsche 993 can prevent you from developing expensive oil leaks.  This and the other fourteen items below you might not have known can be very helpful.  Aside from fun Porsche trivia, these items might help you get to know your car a little bit better and help you save money in preventable repairs.  Enjoying your vehicle to the fullest means keeping your Porsche in top condition.  Some of the items below are common knowledge while others may be known only to the most diehard Porsche aficionados.  Sit back and enjoy 15 things you may or may not know about Porsche 993.

  1. 993 is the common term used for 911s built between 1995 and early 1998.
  2. The 993s were the last of the Porsche air cooled engines. For some Porsche collectors, air cooled engines are a must.  Air cooled engines were often more reliable than their early water cooled counterparts.  In addition, air cooled engines tended to be more efficient and lightweight. Water cooled engines have pumps, pulleys and the weight of the actual water which all add to the overall weight of the car.
  3. There are two oil filters in 993s, one large and one small. It is important to check and change them both.  Your oil is the lifeblood of your engine so make sure you keep it clean and serviced.  Talk to your Porsche technician about your engine and driving habits to determine the most optimum servicing schedule.  Depending on the type of engine and the frequency with which you drive will determine if you need to change your oil and filters more or less often.
  4. The 993s were originally slated to have a completely redesigned dash but this was shelved late in the process due to cost concerns. Porsche experienced financial straits in the early 1990s and had to cut costs where possible.  There was a sharp financial slump in the United States in the early 1990s, impacting approximately 50 percent of potential Porsche buyers. During this financial hardship, Toyota tried to purchasee Porsche, but the family turned down their offer.
  5. 993 was Porsche’s code name for the vehicles designed to replace the 964.
  6. You need to drive your 993 about a mile in order for it to warm up, in part due to the air cooling system. Your brakes will need about a mile as well before being at full pressure.  (That being said, you don’t have to worry about warming a 993 up.  Just get in, drive, and enjoy).
  7. A 993 has 3 oil gauges, one of which has to be read when you are stationary in idle. These gauges can actually be more accurate than your dipstick so use all the tools at your disposable when ascertaining your oil change needs.
  8. Tire technicians will usually recommend 40 PSI for your Porsche tires. Beware, your Porsche manual will most likely recommend Front PSI of 36 and 44 Rear.
  9. You can remove the windshield wiper delay control and your wipers will then rest on the passenger side.
  10. Failure of the original manufacturers heat/AC controllers is not uncommon. It can cost around $1,000 to replace a control head.
  11. You can easily test the remaining battery life in your key remote. The further away you can open the car, the more battery life you have.  If you have to get closer to your vehicle in order to get the remote to work, make a trip to purchase replacement batteries.  The weaker the battery, the closer you will have to be in order to make the signal work.
  12. These cars weren’t built with cup holders. These cars were made for beauty and performance, not driving to work and sipping your morning coffee.
  13. The 993 was the first 911 to have a standard six speed transmission.
  14. The side mirrors are not symmetrically positioned. If you don’t believe us, examine a picture of a Porsche 993 head on closely.
  15. The chassis isn’t symmetrical either. If you assumed that the chassis is positioned in the center, you’d be incorrect.  It is actually skewed slightly to the passenger side.

Whether you are a proud owner or simply an admirer of the Porsche 993, these are fifteen fun facts for you to enjoy.  Some, such as the code name and Porsche’s previous financial struggles are well-known, while others such as the lack of symmetrical side mirrors are chassis may be surprising.  One of the best things about Porsches is their storied history and quirks and little details that help make them so special.  The 993 era is one of incredible design and performance, with legendary vehicles to show for it.

Take Care of Your Porsche

Regular maintenance is key in taking good care of your Porsche.

The Best Porsches from Russo and Steele’s 2017 Scottsdale Auction

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Auctions are a fantastic opportunity to see what vehicles are up for sale and even if you aren’t in the position to do some buying, you can always indulge in some serious window shopping.  This year’s 2017 Russo and Steele’s Scottsdale auction was no exception.  Whether listed in the catalog or turned up in the final sales results, these were our favorite Porsche offerings.

1977 Porsche 930 Turbo Coupe

The 1977 Porsche 930 was the last of the original 3.0 series 930s.  After this series, Porsche adopted significant changes to the design moving forward.  This 1977 930 has a K-Jetronic fuel system, “featuring a higher-output fuel pump, a reinforced 4-speed 915/66 gearbox with 4.222:1 final drive, an upgraded 930/33 transmission to suit the increased 16″ wheel size, added ATE brake servo and slightly thicker brake discs.”

1959 Porsche 356 A T2 Sunroof Coupe

A rear engine, rear wheel drive, the 356A T2 is built for handling.  This vehicle is air cooled and features the curved windshield found in the 356A models.  The 356A was initially introduced in 1955 and the T2 is the second revision of the model.

2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

This six speed rear engine, newer version brings a little extra to the table.  The 2011 GT3 RS goes from zero to sixty in 3.5 seconds and tops out at 193 miles per hour.  This version also continues with the lighter weight trend in design and materials for maximum speed and handling.

2007 Porsche GT3 RS

This car was designed for the track.  The RS is short for Renn Sport or “racing sport.” Production of this car was limited to several hundred.  The focus in its design is on performance although it meets street legal requirements.  This Porsche can drive around the neighborhood but is much more satisfying on the racetrack.  With a six speed transmission and lower vehicle weight, the GT3 RS achieves 415 bhp at 7,600 rpm and zero to sixty in 4.2 seconds.  Maximum speed is around 192 miles per hour.  The RS is wider at the rear but is still lighter than the GT3 increasing maneuverability and stability.  The lighter weight is achieved in part due to the use of carbon fiber both in the wing and seats.

1997 Porsche Andial Turbo Coupe

With 600 horsepower, this car is a find.  In the 1980’s, Andial was a name synonymous with racing and speed.  Andial was formed by three friends and partners, Alwin Springer, Dieter lnzenhofer and Arnold Wagner.  Together, this trio created a powerhouse engine building machine.  Andial become known for its racing partnerships, including a win in a 935 at the Daytona 24 hours in 1983.  Over time, Andial’s partners aged and retired, and Porsche has purchased the Andial name.  This is an air cooled 993 Turbo built for speed.

1994 Porsche 965 3.6 Turbo Coupe

This 965 3.6 Turbo Coupe flaunts an updated 3.3 liter 930 engine.  It shows off an impressive 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm.  This version was updated and designed for greater torque than previous models.  This is another perfect example of a road legal vehicle that much prefers to be on a racetrack.  This particular model is one of only 1,587 sold and as such is in high demand from collectors and Porsche enthusiasts.

 

1969 Porsche 911 E Targa

The Porsche Targa stood out in its design with a stainless steel roll bar.  This particular vehicle features refurbished Fuchs 5-spoke alloy wheels.  The 911 S was the first model to display these legendary rims and cloverleaf design.  This model was designed to add comfort and drivability to Porsche’s speed.  This edition of the 911 addressed previous models spark plug issues with a new high voltage capacitor ignition system.

1986 Porsche 911 930 Turbo Coupe

The 911 930 was known as the fastest production vehicle available in Germany at its peak.    The 1986 version could go from zero to sixty in 4.6 seconds and tops out at 155 miles per hour.  The car represents the year that Porsche reintroduced the 930 model to the U.S. market but with an improved emission-controlled engine.

1963 Porsche 356B Coupe

A 4 cylinder, rear engine, uniquely built Karmann notchback vehicle, this is a find.  This design has a mixture of the Cabriolet and the T6 coupe.  This particular vehicle is powered by a “1963 Super 90 Type 616/7 T6 1600 engine.”

1976 Porsche 911 S Strosek Edition Cabriolet

This model boasts a custom and hard to find wide bodied Strosek design kit.  Strosek Design was the most common Porsche conversion provider at the beginning of the 21st century.  Vittorio Strosek was the founder of Strosek Designs and focused primarily on aerodynamics.  The engine is air cooled and the has a 2.7 liter 6 cylinder, 5 speed engine. It also has the Strosek rear spoiler.

Whether classic, unique or simply mind-numbing fast, with so many Porsches to choose from, it’s hard to have a favorite.  We’ll have to try again at the next auction.

Top 10 Fastest Porsches That Sold at Barrett Jackson

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Barrett Jackson’s Top 10 Porsche Cars

Barrett Jackson and Porsche are names that are synonymous with classic, luxury cars.  The auction house hosts one of the most prestigious car auctions in different cities every year.  Car enthusiasts—and we here at TurboKraft certainly qualify—flock to these auctions to purchase or just peruse the vehicles available.  Porsche owners and admirers have been able to take in hundreds of breathtaking vehicles over the years.  Here are our picks for the top 10 Porsches that been put up for auction at Barrett Jackson:

  • 2015 918 Spyder Weissach (sold for 1.76 million)
  • 2005 Carrera GT (sold for $616,000)
  • 1986 959 Prototype (sold for $440,000)
  • 1955 356 Speedster (sold for $137,500)
  • 1962 356 Super 90 Cabriolet (sold for $126,500)
  • 2007 911 GT3 RS (sold for $110,000)
  • 1970 917 Recreation (sold for $181,500)
  • 1977 911 Turbo Carrera (sold for $264,000)
  • 1984 DP-Zimmerman 935 Street Targa (sold for $110,000)
  • 1989 Carrera Speedster (sold for $57,200)

Each of these vehicles has different characteristics that helped it make our list of top 10 Porsches: speed, historical significance, design improvements, etc.

Among the Top 10 Fastest Porsche Cars

Of the top 10 fastest Porsches, the sheer speed of the following five helped them make this list:

  1. 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach

This 918 Spyder Weissach sold for $1.76 million and with good reason.  It landed on our top 10 Porsches list for a variety of reasons. The 887hp 4.6-liter V8 hybrid engine with PDK transmission was in flawless condition and is extremely rare.  These cars were limited edition, with only 918 ever made.  This car is built for speed with a lighter design, trimming the weight from the usual 3,715 lbs to 3,616 lbs.  This limited edition hybrid features a top speed of around 210 miles an hour and can go from zero to sixty in around 2.5 seconds.

  1. 2005 Porsche Carrera GT

The Carrera GT features a 5.7 liter DOHC, 605hp, aspirated V10 engine and a 6-speed manual transmission.  This roadster accelerates from 0 to 60 in less than four seconds, putting it in our top 10 Porsches list.  In typical Porsche fashion, this model has the iconic rear wing spoiler which deploys around 70 miles per hour and the ignition is located to the left of the steering wheel.  Top speeds for the Carrera GT are around 205/mph.

  1. 2007 911 GT3 RS

Next on our top 10 Porsches list is the 2007 911 GT3 RS. The RS of this model is short for RennSport, German for racing sport.  With 475 horsepower, the GT reaches 0-60 in 3.4 seconds.  Its design is built for the track with a top speed of 200 mph.  With racing in mind, Porsche kept the design sleek and minimalist by keeping excess weight to a minimum.

  1. 1986 959 Prototype

One of the 7 V-series prototypes, this car is one of only four surviving prototypes.  When Porsche discontinued the 959 project most of the cars were destroyed; this is one of the few exceptions.  This car was originally introduced in the late 1980’s and was the fast street legal production car of its time.  With top speeds of up to 195/mph the 959 was a leader and it earns its spot on our top 10 Porsches list. Equipped with a PSK system, the 959 was able to redistribute torque between the front and back of the car and maintain stability with the all-wheel drive system. According to Total 911, The Porsche Magazine, the 959 is among the top 10 fastest Porsche cars ever built.

  1. 1984 DP-Zimmerman 935 Street Targa

This entry on our top 10 Porsches list was made for street racing and designed for speed and handling.  The 935 was built to race and made a name winning at venues such as Sebring and Daytona.  This car sold with the Zimmerman plate still on it and documented mileage and title.

Among the Top 10 Most Historically Significant Porsches

In addition to speed, some of the top 10 Porsche cars earn their credentials with their historical significance:

  1. 1955 356 Speedster

This car is rear engine, rear wheel drive and tends to be coveted by collectors.  The 356 was first produced in the 1940’s and was Porsche’s first production vehicle, making it worthy of a spot on our top 10 Porsches list.  The 356 has a rear engine and is air cooled, which many collectors prefer over water cooled vehicles.

  1. 917 Recreation

Sold in Scottsdale in 2006 for $181,500, this car is a recreation of the famous Steve McQueen Porsche driven in the movie “LeMans.” The 917 gained notoriety when it won the 24 hours at LeMans race, and that’s the reason we choose it for our top 10 Porsches list.  There are many different variations of the 917, but the original featured a long tail that made handling challenging.  As the years went by the improvements in design focused on stability.

  1. 1962 356 Super 90 Cabriolet

While there are many iterations of the 356, the super 90 is in a league of its own.  The engine was designed and targeted to the American market with an emphasis on speed.  The Super 90 improved engine and suspension helped make it the best in class of its time and landed it on our top 10 Porsches list.

  1. 1989 Carrera Speedster

The Carrera Speedster was designed to put Porsche back into the limelight and up the company’s profile with discerning buyers.  The plan worked—and it caught our attention for our top 10 Porsches countdown.  The Carrera Speedster helped Porsche regain its prolific clientele and reputation as the premier sports car provider.

  1. 1977 911 Turbo Carrera

The last entry on our top 10 Porsches list is this gem. The 1977 version of the Carrera has a six-cylinder engine and is air cooled as opposed to water cooled.  It was one of the most successful racing vehicles on the road in the 1970’s—one of the top 10 fastest Porsches ever built at the time—which helped propel it in popularity.  It was originally supposed to be called the “901” but the name had to be changed when Peugeot objected on the basis of trademark infringement.