Porsche 911 Turbo
Monday, December 4th, 2006
According to Porsche, the new 911 Turbo is quicker from zero to 60 (3.7 seconds vs. 3.9) with the optional five-speed Tiptronic automatic than it is with the standard six-speed manual. We also heard the next-generation model will handle better if you drive with one hand at 12 o’clock and the other on the stereo, but Porsche officials were not amused when we tried to confirm this possibility.
Porsche claims the added quickness of the Tiptronic-equipped model is a result of the Turbo’s new variable-turbine technology, a revised traction control system, and a retuned Tiptronic shift program. No matter how it all comes together, the fact remains this is one of the quickest 911s ever.
Obviously it’s the latest turbocharged engine which deserves most of the credit for this 911’s quickness. It displaces 3.6 liters and develops 473 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 457 pound-feet of torque at 1,950 rpm.
The power is distributed to all four wheels by an electromagnetically controlled clutch that optimizes the power from front to rear for maximum traction. And there’s yet another new trick up this Turbo’s sleeve for 2006. With the optional Sport Chrono package engaged, the Turbo can deliver short periods of increased turbo boost which bump maximum torque up to 502 pound-feet. Hasselhoff would be proud.
Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) is standard equipment, so the Turbo will retain its crown as one of the most daily-drivable supercars around. In Comfort mode, you won’t feel every single bump coming through the 19-inch wheels, but call up Sport mode and it will stiffen up all the settings for maximum control. With 235/35 tires up front and 305/30 rubber in back, there’s plenty of traction to go around. Hard-core enthusiasts can order a mechanical limited-slip in back if they don’t agree.
Six-piston brake calipers and 13.7-inch front brake rotors were borrowed from the Carrera GT supercar. Four-piston calipers are used in back with the same 13.7-inch cross-drilled rotors. The system features caliper preloading and emergency brake assist to help shorten stopping distances during hard usage. Or you can opt for the optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) option for the ultimate in track-ready, lightweight brake performance.
Interior changes are minimal for the Turbo. Leather trim comes standard along with a navigation system and a revised 13-speaker Bose audio system. LEDs now brighten up the gauge cluster and a digital boost pressure gauge is integrated into the tachometer face. The 2006 Porsche 911 Turbo goes on sale this summer for $122,900.[Edmunds]
Tags: 2006 porsche, porsche 911, porsche turbo, 911, turbo
Share This: Email This To A Friend or Social Bookmark It!
If you were interested in Porsche 911 Turbo, you may also be interested in:
600HP Cayenne Turbo by TechArt Magnum: Based on the already brutal 450bhp Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the Magnum's bodywork and engine have been extensively reworked by renowned German Porsche specialist, TechArt, to
Porsche Panamera 4 Door: Even though we've stood in front of it in Frankfurt, talked to the people instrumental in its existence and even told you when and where
2010 Porsche Panamera: Concept Car: Porsche has officially confirmed it'll build a four-seat, four-door sport coupe for the 2009 calendar year (2010 model year). To be called Panamera (supposedly for