Porsche Boxster 2.9 – RATTLE AND HUM
There’s definitely something to be said for buying an entry-level car. Most of the important bits are the same as in the pricier version you could have had and at the end of the day, you have to ask yourself exactly how much a chromed gear knob is really worth. All right, so more money buys you a bigger engine and more power, but even that doesn’t always justify the extra outlay. For proof, check out the Porsche Boxster 2.9 we’re looking at here. Especially in its latest 255bhp guise, this is a car you’ll want to drive just for the sheer kick of it.
Acceleration is punchier than owners of early Boxster 2.7 models will remember, whilst the torque curve has been extravagantly plumped up across the midrange. Porsche claim this Boxster is tractable from 700rpm right through to 7200rpm and they’re probably right. The first thing you notice about the engine is that it’s the most vocal unit in Porsche’s range. The latest 3.4-litre powerplant in the Boxster S is slightly more muted whilst contemporary 911 engines all have pretty low-key soundtracks. Should you get medieval with the gas pedal, you’ll see 60mph come and go in 5.9 seconds on the way to around 160mph.
The Boxster now looks different but not massively so. The latest car has reshaped headlamps with indicators built in that resemble the units on the Carrera GT supercar. The air-intakes below have also been reshaped with horizontal bars for the outer ones in the front bumper that also house LED side lights. There’s more of the in vogue LED lighting at the rear where the bumper has come in for some subtle tweaks. Overall, the Boxster looks as classy as ever from the outside and the interior ambience has been raised a notch or two by the inclusion of higher quality materials and a beautifully contoured steering wheel.
All these improvements are welcome but none is as significant as the inclusion of Porsche PDK twin clutch gearbox. An automatic Porsche was once frowned upon by the marque’s aficionados in the same way as a Suzuki GSX-R1000 with stabilisers might be viewed in superbike circles. The PDK gearbox models, by contrast, encourage nothing but respect from those in the know. It’s a twin-clutch ‘box which shifts between ratios many times faster than you can say Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (don’t worry, we’ll stick to PDK from now on). The system actually shaves 0.1s from the 0-62mph time of an expertly driven six-speed manual car, such are the slickness and speed of its shifts. With the optional Launch Control function which manages traction off the line, a further 0.2s can be stripped from the performance envelope.
“The Boxster just feels as if it’s been built by people who know what they’re doing ”
Porsche has tinkered with the suspension settings on the Boxster and predictably claims improvements to both handling and comfort. The power steering system has also been remapped with the aim of achieving a more agile and spontaneous feel. The Porsche Stability Management system is rightly regarded as the leading technology of its type and now features Brake Pre-Loading that primes the brakes in anticipation when the driver lifts off the throttle suddenly. An optional feature that’s now available will please those who felt the Boxster was only a limited slip differential away from being a better car than the 911: it’s a limited slip differential. This ensures that the car can put its power down more effectively in extreme handling scenarios and will be a must for buyers planning to take their Boxster to the track.
On the move, handling is as exemplary as you’d expect from a Porsche that boasts near perfect weight distribution. With the electrically-powered hood up you do get a couple of squeaks and shudders over the more horribly pockmarked surfaces that make up a British B-road, but the ride is pretty compliant. All of the controls are beautifully designed and weighted, the brakes are superb and the depth of engineering is instantly apparent not to mention enormously confidence inspiring. The Boxster just feels as if it’s been built by people who know what they’re doing.
The refreshing thing about this car is that it’s largely as fast as you want it to be. Unlike the S model where a possible custodial sentence is a mere dip of the ankle away, the Boxster 2.9 makes you aware of your velocity through its volume and in the way the engine still responds to a soaring tachometer needle, doing its best work at the upper end of the rev band. The Bosch Motronic fly-by-wire throttle delivers the sort of feel and precision that proved beyond electronic loud pedals of the past.
The audio and communication systems have been comprehensively upgraded in the latest model. The standard car gets a plush CD radio system but the set-up to have is the optional PCM (Porsche Communication Management) version 3.0. This includes a hard disc satellite navigation server and a 6.5″ touch screen monitor which houses all the controls neatly under one roof. Voice control makes the interface even more user-friendly and further options box ticking will bring iPod, USB and Bluetooth compatibility.
The further plus side to Porsche’s tinkering under the Boxster’s bonnet is enhanced efficiency. A roadster this quick is never going to be an environmental hero but 31mpg from the 2.9-litre engine with 221g/km emissions is a decent showing and a 10% improvement over the old car. Remarkably, the PDK gearbox model is fractionally cleaner than the manual.
Since its launch in 1996, the Boxster has seen of all comers. Driving the latest 2.9-litre car, you soon realise that still nothing comes close…
By Andy Enright
TECHART’s New Porsche Cayenne Magnum
Author: Evander
And just like the previously produced Magnum the new TECHART Magnum is given a distinctly stunning aerodynamic-enhancement package that suits all versions of the Porsche SUV. All of the body components used for the new Magnum are from PUR-RIM plastic OEM quality.
So far in terms of design the noticeable parts include the curved TECHART fender flares that add to the width of the Cayenne. The rocker panels also provide a subtle transition between the wider wheel arches. Likewise the aprons found on the front and rear was placed there instead of their production counterparts and was designed to match up with the contours of the wheel arches.
The front apron provides the Cayenne with an even more striking appearance with its large air inlets featuring chic styled slats that provide cooling air for radiators and front brakes plus some air intakes like KN air intake that enables the car to breathe easier resulting to additional power and a much better gas mileage. Four auxiliary headlights plus some daytime running lights were equipped on the new Magnum to improve safety.
The rear apron of the Magnum with its integrated diffuser minimizes lift on the rear axle which provides the perfect backdrop for the TECHART stainless-steel sport exhaust system with the addition of two chrome tailpipes on either side.
In addition the body conversion is rounded up by the moldings for front and rear lights plus the inclusion of a new hood that features two new air outlets that optimizes heat balance in the engine bay.
The Magnum is also equipped with custom-tailored wheels and tires with the largest version featuring TECHAART Formula II light-alloy wheels in size 10.5Jx22in the front and 11.5Jx22 at the rear. In terms of optimal tires, TECHART has chosen the ContiCrossContact UHP tires in sizes 295/30 ZR 22 and 335/25 ZR 22 which are authorized for used on the Cayenne for top speed of 300 km/h.
These same tires also make the Magnum a prime candidate for the engine tuning of the Cayenne Turbo which is presently being developed to produce 620 hp/456 kW. Likewise the air suspension of the Cayenne Turbo was altered using the TECHART sport module to lower the ride height.
There were also countless TECHART interior options ranging from exclusive magnum accessories such as the ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel plus carbon fiber applications for the cockpit offered in different colors. The de Sede leather skins are altered by the company’s very own TECHART upholstery shop turning them into stunningly finished upholstery for seats, door and side trim, dashboard, roof pillars and headliner. Aside from the TECHART’s interior lines they are also known for state-of-the-art multimedia systems.
Help Preparing to Buy a Used Porsche 911
Author: Xavier Diaz
The approach to buying a performance sports car like a Porsche 911 should not be rushed into and there are pitfalls in buying any used car. But let’s face it with the passion and cost at stake when buying a used Porsche 911, there is a lot more at stake than when you are buying a mass market family hatchback.
Our first rule of thumb to follow is; if it looks dodgy or too good to be true, then chances are it could be. So don’t rush in and ensure you protect yourself and your investment. Buying privately can bring great savings over buying from a reputable dealer, but be prepared that you have very little comeback if something goes wrong with your car. Again, I just recommend that you do as much research as you can and always get a mechanic involved who knows about Porsche 911′s, especially if you have no clue where to look for the engine, let alone know if the manifold is leaking!
Your preparation needs to start when look at adverts and websites for your Porsche, the great thing about used Porsche 911′s, is the fact that there are hundreds of styles and specs available, so the choice is great. Get a clear idea of what you are after and make a list as this will help you to narrow down your list of prospective motors, try to be flexible as you may just find that a bright green 2 year old car may catch your eye more than that 1970′s classic 911. Do some research on prices of the cars you like, a company like Parkers price guide will give you a decent idea, but I find the best way is to look at what people are selling their cars for. Get an ideal dealer and private seller price for the model and mileage you are after.
The next stage will be to build your shortlist of cars you want to view. I recommend producing some sort of checklist so that you can ask all the appropriate questions and note them down on a list. This way its easy to compare that essential points about the cars. When you enquire about the cars, be sure to ask questions about: The Porsche’s documentation, previous owners, service history, bad points, warranty, and reason for the sale. One trick that you should try is asking them the price of the 911, many people will lower the price of the car but not update their adverts, so you may be on for a bargain before you start. If you are talking to a dealer I would try to get a lot more detailed information from them about the Porsche’s history and performance to find out if they are a Porsche specialist or reputable dealer.
Once you have a list of used Porsches you want to view, if some of them are with dealers, I recommend taking the time to go online and search for some reviews or info about the dealer. Any dealer that has a bad reputation may have information about them online, it’s worth the effort and you never know what you will find. Right, now you ready to go out and visit some sellers.
I am going to write a follow up article to detail what to do when you’re viewing a used Porsche. I Hope this article helps as a good starting point.
Ensure you get quality advice when buying a used Porsche 911, I used a local dealer to me. A Birmingham Porsche dealer called Autobahn.
Porsche’s Spyder Storms Geneva Motor Show
Porsche’s Spyder Storms Geneva Motor Show
By: Ian Bell
The 80th edition of Geneva Motor Show has become a launch-pad for new models, and the focus seems to be on hybrids so far. More and more manufacturers, including Audi, are now gearing their research, development and assembly line procedures to ensure that they are ahead of the rest when it comes to hybrid technology.
One of the most interesting facets of the Geneva Motor Show has been the emergence of hybrids. And Porsche did not let its lovers feel bad by showcasing the 918 Spyder. One cursory glance at the 918 Spyder meant that the car merited a close discussion. It raised eyebrows and it captured the attention of news reporters and technical analysts as well.
For those few who had the chance to see the Porsche’s Spyder, there was only one question. When will it be available? The concept car has been a huge hit at the Geneva Motor Show. And Porsche’s design team has really done a commendable job in coming up with a hybrid for the next generation.
Porsche has maintained that the same design team that designed Carrera is a part of Spyder’s design exercise. And if that is indeed true, then the product looks like one-up on the existing model of Carrera.
Spyder is powered with a 3.4 litre engine that offers 500 bhp power. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles in 3.2 seconds and can top the speed up to 198 miles. The emissions are 70 gm/Km and the mileage figure is 78 mpg, thus making it very energy friendly. It uses electric motors and lithium ion batteries that can be charged at home. All in all Porsche 918 is one concept car that should become a reality soon, thus making it one of the trendiest hybrids that could be available at all times.
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Porsche Buying Tips – Things You Should Know
By: Steve Mallard
Certainly, leasing a Porsche will offer you freedom. You would have not made any long- term commitments. You are essentially renting, therefore the total cash expenditure is much less. Additionally, monthly lease payments are generally less than purchase payments. Subsequently, you are able to drive a more expensive vehicle, hence the stimulating Porsche. A vehicle that is usually $500- $600 monthly to buy, may costs $450 monthly to lease. If you decide to lease a Porsche, you will not be responsible for major repair and/or maintenance issues that inevitably occur as the car ages. When you lease the car, it will typically be under factory warranty for the duration of the lease. Furthermore, many lease contracts provide additional provisions that address routine maintenance, such as oil changes.
During the time that you are considering a Porsche, one of the key buying tips that you should know is satisfaction. You will gain the comfort of knowing that the car will be eventually paid for and the classic will be your free transportation. More so, once you own the vehicle, you would have built impressive value. The Porsche does depreciate through the years, yet it will always maintain some value which can be used as a trade- in or sold privately for the car�s current value. Furthermore, if you purchase the Porsche, you will have full control over mileage. Contrarily, the leasing agreement specifies its limitations and also includes penalties for passing the limits. Buying your Porsche allows you to make any changes to fit your interests that may even increase the value. Coincidently, buying a Porsche can be beneficial with proper care for at least 8 to 10 years and 100,000- plus miles.
Test driving a Porsche is extremely imperative. Undoubtedly, you will be attracted by the combination of styling, features, price and image, but all that adds up to be is a potentially beneficial purchase. A Porsche buying tip is to also test drive the dealership. Be aware of the Porsche dealership reputation. Also, be intuitive to your immediate impression of the sales staff. Upon visiting the dealership, expect to spend at least 20 minutes with the vehicle that you are considering. When you physically test drive the car, include the freeway as well as rough surface streets. This test drive is important in that it will determine some major factors to assist with your final decision. Bottom line, trust your gut feeling. The more time you spend with the car of your dreams and making your decision, you are sure to bank on riding quality.
Financial options are actually available to you during this process. It is imperative that you are aware of your budget in order to receive affordable monthly payments. Most lenders require a 20% down payment which will assist with obtaining low monthly payments, however there are some lenders that don�t require a down payment at all. Maintenance and repair costs may be kept at a minimum if you were to maintain regular service checkups as required by warranty. You may even obtain a vehicle service agreement with the Porsche dealer. Your goal, rather leasing or buying, new or used should be to obtain quality and personal satisfaction
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Article Written by Johnnie Meiss.
The Porsche Panamera
By: Lauren Cooke
Porsche are very well known for their classic and somewhat iconic range of sports cars. With fabulous famous models such as the powerful 911, it is fair to say that this brand is very at home with producing elegant and speedy cars that are the very epitome of sporty. In fact, I am not sure I have ever seen a Porsche that didn’t manage to channel some element of sportiness throughout its design – and that includes their beast of a 4×4.
Whilst their 4×4 may look sporty is clearly isn’t a sports car – and many people would argue that this is largely because it isn’t a two seater. After all, sports cars have to have room for only two people, so that you can drive along romantically, possibly with the top down, speeding through roads the likes of which only exist of car adverts.
Actually, this isn’t true. Porsche have set out to dispel the rumour that sports cars have to be impractical and restrictive with their Panamera model. This is a Porsche through and through – you only have to look at it to know that – but at the same time in comfortable seats four – the best of both worlds!
I suppose the looks are the best place to start when we talk about this car. If one of these expensive and luxurious cars drove past you at high speed, you could be forgiven for mistaking it for another car in the Porsche range – a Cayman, perhaps, or a Boxster. That is how similar it is to all its brand siblings – it features the same proportions from the elegant bonnet through to the curved rear end. It stretches a little further back in order to fit in the extra passengers, but essentially Porsche have stuck with a design that they know very well. They know it is streamlined, they know it is good looking – so there isn’t really any reason to change it.
The engine too doesn’t make any concessions just because more people are going to be travelling in the Panamera. The S version has a substantial 4.8 litre V8 naturally aspirated engine with direct fuel injection (DFI), VarioCam Plus and a variable intake manifold – all of which combines to make for a fast and very powerful ride. In neat numbers, the Panamera can do 0 62 in 5 seconds exactly, with a impressive top speed of 175 mph. Not to be scoffed at, eh?!
Essentially this car manages to disprove all the misconceptions about what a supercar has to be. Instead, it shows us that you can have an exquisite decadent leather interior in a 4 seater just as much as you can in a 2 seat, that a decent engine will perform well even in a bigger car, and that speed is definitely still part of the fun. I think this should be enough to convince anyone with hesitations to consider spending around £70k on a brand new one – or to head to a local used Porsche dealer and see if they can find a deal.
Author Resource:-> Lauren Cooke is a writer and a car enthusiast. He currently writes for the automotive industry. Here she discusses http://www.sytner.co.uk/porsche/home.aspx Used Porsche cars.
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Dealerbid.co.uk – Get the best price for your Porsche
Get the best cash offer for your Porsche at Dealerbid.co.uk
This great website has a network of dealers who subscribe to receive vehicle offers from members of the public looking to sell their car for cash.
So if you dont want the hassle of selling privately this is a great site for you.
The great thing about this site is that instead of you having to visit lots of cash for car websites input all your vehicle details and wait for an offer you can simply visit www.dealerbid.co.uk enter your vehicle details once and they will send your vehicle details to all dealers registered looking to buy your type of car.
This means instead of one offer you could potentially get lots – great increasing you chances of a stronger price!
AND GUESS WHAT? there’s lots of Porsche main dealers, specialists and general dealers!

