The Porsche 997 (pronounced Nine Nine Seven) is the current version of the iconic Porsche 911 sports car built by the German manufacturer Porsche
Porsche began production of various version of the Carrera in 2005, the Turbo and GT3 models went on sale in 2006, with the 997 GT2 hitting the market in 2007. The renowned Targa was also added to the lineup, thus you can also get Targa versions of the Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S.
In 2009 Porsche saw it fit to make several comprehensive changes to the 997 lineup, some of these changes included several small styling changes. The engine saw improvement, with increases in engine displacement across the board, the addition of Gasoline direct injection.
Porsche also introduced the company’s new dual clutch transmission known as Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) as well as other mechanical changes. Consequently, the updated Porsche 997 models are lighter, faster and even more fuel efficient in relative to the previous models. This was all done to improve one’s driving experience, by an increase in the power of the 997, along with better road addling.
With regards to the 997 Turbo, Porsche did a comprehensive re-tuning of the all wheel drive system with an optional “torque vectoring” system which was also added to the upgraded package.
The numbers do not lie, and the numbers tells us the Porsche 997 is the most commercially successful 911 of all time, having sold over 100,000 units between its introduction in 2005 and July of 2007. In addition to that accomplishment, it has also received mostly positive reviews from the worldwide motoring press; even British motoring journalist Jeremy Clarkson, who is a known detractor of Porsche vehicles, forced to put his foot in his mouth when he said regarding the 997 will “make love to your fingertips and stir your soul.”
2006 Porsche 997 (911) Specifications and Features:
Engines & Power: The Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S Coupe have a 3.6L 444 hp H6T engine, Horsepower 444 hp @ 5,700 RPM with 475 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM of Torque.
The 911 Carrera Cabriolet and Carrera Coupe models have a 3.6L 325 hp H6 engine, Horsepower 325 hp @ 6,800 RPM with 273 lb-ft @ 4,250 RPM of Torque.
The Carrera S Cabriolet and Carrera S Coupe models have a 3.8L 355 hp H6 engine, Horsepower 355 hp @ 6,600 RPM with 295 lb-ft @ 4,600 RPM of Torque.
The GT3 Coupe has a 3.6L 380hp H6T engine, Horsepower 380 hp @ 7,400 RPM with 285 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM of Torque.
Transmissions: A standard 6 Speed Manual Overdrive transmission comes with all models. An Optional 5-Speed Automatic Overdrive is available for all models except for the GT3.
Fuel Economy: All the Carreras including the Cabriolets offer 18 mph in the city and 26 mph on the highway. While the Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S Coupe offer 14 – 15 mph in the city and 22 mph on the highway. The GT3 offer 15 mph in the city and 23 mph on the highway.
Comfort & Convenience: Air Conditioning (optional for the GT3), Cruise Control, Tachometer, Tilt Steering (except for the Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S Coupe), Leather Steering Wheel, Telescopic Steering Column (optional for the Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S Coupe and N/A GT3), and Genuine Wood Trim (optional for the Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S Coupe and N/A GT3).
Trip Computer (except for the GT3), Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Driver Multi-Adjustable Power Seats (except for the GT3), Leather Seats and Second Row Folding Seat (except for the GT3).
Sunroof is standard with all models except for the Cabriolets and the GT3. Navigational Assistance is standard on the Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S (optional for the 911 Carrera including the Cabriolets and N/A GT3).
Entertainment: Radio, CD player and Subwoofer (N/A GT3).
Safety: Driver and Passenger airbags are standard on all models; Front Side Airbag with Head Protection (N/A to the 911 Carrera including the Cabriolets). Power Windows, Electronic Parking Aid (optional for all models, N/A GT3), Power Door Locks, ABS Brakes and Trunk Anti-Trap Device (only for the Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S and GT3). Keyless Entry (Remote Lock/Unlock) (only for the Turbo S Cabriolet and Turbo S and GT3). Traction Control (N/A GT3). Stability Control (N/A GT3).
