A modestly revamped 911 line of coupes and Cabriolet convertibles debuts for 2005, and is highlighted by a number of engineering upgrades. For starters, the base 911 Carrera gets a slight boost in power, with its rear-mounted 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine now generating 325-horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque. Top speed is claimed to be a sensory-overloading 177 mph. The Carrera S takes this performance up a notch with its 355-horsepower 3.8-liter engine, though it's speed-limited at the same 177 mph; it also incorporates a newly designed active suspension system. Meanwhile, a new 911 Turbo S is said to raise the output of its 3.6-liter powerplant up to 444 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. Ceramic composite brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels and high-performance tires are also newly added to the Turbo S. In addition, the refreshed model range includes both a revised chassis, and a new six-speed-manual gearbox. Inside, aluminum gauge faces now grace a facelifted instrument panel.
Porsche's least-expensive convertible is offered with only minor changes for 2005, in base and S trim levels. A 225-horsepower, 2.7-liter six-cylinder engine, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission, comes standard, while the S receives a 258-horsepower, 3.2-liter six-cylinder powerplant and a six-speed manual gearbox. Both models can be equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission that offers manual gear selection. A power-operated top, along with four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, automatic air conditioning with air filtration, a CD stereo, speed-dependent extendable rear spoiler, partial-leather upholstery, heated washer nozzles, and locking alloy wheels come standard. For customization's sake, an Aerokit Package with integrated front and rear spoilers is offered, along with one of the longest lists of available interior and exterior cosmetic tweaks in the business. A second-generation model arrives early next year as a 2006 model.
Carrera GT
2004 Porsche Carrera GT |
The limited-production Carrera GT entices wealthy enthusiasts who can afford in excess of $400,000 with a racing-bred mid-engine design and 5.7-liter V-10 engine that delivers a supersonic 605 horsepower. The GT's unique monocoque structure and subframe are made of carbon fiber, with a flat bottom and a rear diffuser for added structural rigidity. It rides on specially forged-magnesium wheels, and the car's convertible top consists of two individual carbon-fiber shells that can be stowed in the front compartment. Expect few, if any, changes for 2005.
2004 Porsche Carrera GT by Marty Padgett (8/2/2004) The cheapest Le Mans substitute Porsche has to offer.
Cayenne
Porsche's first-ever truck (heck, it's even their first four-door vehicle) shares platforms and certain systems with the Volkswagen Touareg, and is about as sporty an SUV as they come. The base Cayenne S includes a 340-horsepower, 4.5-liter V-8, while a 247-horsepower 3.2-liter V-6 was added to the model mix during 2004. For the current model year, the six-cylinder model will be available with a six-speed-manual transmission. For those who are able to indulge themselves for the sake of speed, the top Turbo version comes fitted with a Porsche-designed twin-turbocharged V-8 that generates a stout 450 horsepower, though this version is priced beyond reason. Porsche's Drive-Off Assistant system, newly available on manual-transmission versions, helps the driver start off on steep grades without having to finesse the gas and clutch pedals. Also new for 2005 is power-closing rear tailgate. Permanent four-wheel drive with an inter-axle differential lock and additional low-range gearing come standard, as does Porsche's Stability Management System.
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