Total 911 Magazine

Editor's Welcome

Lee Sibley, Editor, welcomes readers to an issue dedicated to the Porsche 911's 50th anniversary. He highlights the revolutionary new 991 GT3, the evolving nature of the 911, and the significance of the Goodwood Festival of Speed's 911 celebrations. The editor notes the shift towards advanced technology like PDK in modern Porsches and encourages adaptation to this new era.

Community Engagement:

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• Website: www.total911.com (7,887 comments)

Opening Shot

An image depicts three iconic Porsche 911 models – a 1963 original, a 1973 2.7 RS, and the latest Carrera 4 – suspended 34 metres in the air over Goodwood House as part of the model's '50 Jahre' (50 Years) celebrations in the UK. Photographed by Steve Hall.

Contents Overview

This issue features a comprehensive look at the new 991 GT3, the investment potential of the European 2.7 Carrera, a review of the 991 Cabriolet, coverage of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, a history of 911 gearboxes, an ultimate guide to the 930 3.3 Turbo, an interview with racing legend Derek Bell, a feature on a 950bhp 996 Turbo, an inside look at the 991 GT3 Cup, owner reports, and a detailed data file on 911 models.

News & Updates

First Pictures of 991 GT2 in Action

The all-new, hardcore Porsche 911 GT2 prototype has been spotted testing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. It features wider rear fenders with large side air intakes, a centre-mounted dual exhaust, and a fixed rear spoiler. Expected to produce around 570bhp from a turbocharged 3.8-litre engine, it aims to be the fastest production 911 in history.

Turbo Cabriolet also spied

The 991 Turbo Cabriolet was also seen testing at the Nürburgring, indicating its production is nearing completion. Expected early next year.

What's on in 2013

• June-September: Porsche Museum '50 years of the Porsche 911' display.
• September: Sao Paulo WEC (991 RSR), Frankfurt Motor Show (911 50th birthday).
• September-November: First deliveries of GT3, Turbo, and anniversary edition 991s.
• October: British GT final round, GT3, Turbo & Anni 991s.

Spring into action: Aftermarket Suspension

Recommendations for aftermarket suspension upgrades:

• Bilstein B16 'Damptronic': PASM-compatible, height adjustable (-20mm to -40mm).
• Von Shocks Coilovers: For classic 911s, available with gas or street inserts, various configurations.
• H&R Street Performance: For water-cooled models, optimises handling, lowers car.

In Brief: Products

• Steve McQueen t-shirt: Blue cotton t-shirt with McQueen artwork.
• Passport cover: Aspinal of London range.
• Must-have app: '911 GT3 Cup' free via iTunes.
• Porsche insurance: 20% discount on servicing with Performance Insurance via Auto 2000.
• 2.7 RS table: 'ducktail' inspired table from Guards Red Design.

Your Views

Readers share their thoughts on various Porsche topics. Topics include the Cayman vs 911 debate, reactions to the Goodwood Festival of Speed's 911 celebrations, a detailed account of a 4,424-mile solo road trip across four European countries in a 997.2 C2S, comments on the 993 Turbo S production numbers, and appreciation for the 'Living the Legend' section. A competition winner expresses thanks for a data logger.

Hot Topic: Goodwood Festival of Speed 50 Years of 911

• Tweets mention the Porsche sculpture, 935 Moby Dick, and GT3/918 Spyder prototypes.

Letter of the Month: Dan Morgan details a 10-day, 4,424-mile road trip through France, Spain, Andorra, and Gibraltar in his 997.2 C2S, praising the N260 road in Spain.

993 Turbo S Discussion: Kevin Lindsell provides detailed information on 993 Turbo S production numbers, correcting figures and highlighting its exclusivity.

Living the Legend? Alun Morris encourages owners to use their cars rather than just polish them.

Competition Winner: Neal Harron thanks Total 911 for a DL1S data logger.

Competition: Win VentureShield Paint Protection

Total 911 has teamed up with 3M to offer a lucky reader a VentureShield Paint Protection Film standard package with free installation for their Porsche. VentureShield is an invisible urethane film that protects against stone chips, scratches, and environmental damage. It is pre-cut for specific car models and applied by 3M-approved installers. The competition question is: "VentureShield is an almost invisible protection film made from what?" The closing date is 11 September 2013.

Porsche Driver's Selection: '50 Years of 911' Collection

Porsche Driver's Selection celebrates 50 years of the 911 with a collection inspired by the model's evolution, featuring meticulous craftsmanship, precision engineering, and timeless design. Products include clothing, luggage, and a limited edition chronograph. Available at Porsche Centres and www.porsche.co.uk/shop.

Feature: 991 GT3 First Drive

The Verdict

Porsche has dramatically evolved the GT3 with the 991 generation, introducing advanced technologies that, while successful, may divide traditionalists. The new 3.8-litre flat-six engine produces 468hp at 8,250rpm, revving to 9,000rpm. It achieves 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 195mph. The engine features extensive modifications from its Carrera relations, including dry sump lubrication and enhanced cooling. The controversial adoption of the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, weighing 25kg more than the previous manual, is highlighted. Porsche claims PDK offers a significant performance advantage, shifting in under 100 milliseconds. The article praises the electromechanical steering for its responsiveness and feel, and the addition of active rear-wheel steering for improved agility and stability. Brakes are described as mighty, and the integration of driver aids is seamless. While faster and more capable, the loss of the manual transmission is noted as a significant change for traditionalists, potentially broadening the GT3's appeal at the cost of some uniqueness.

Specification: 991 GT3 (2013)

Total 911 Verdict

• Excels: Sensational looks, 9,000rpm redline sound, precise steering feel.
• Consider: Loss of manual transmission for traditionalists, increased civility reduces race-car refugee feel, potential for rear seats.

Feature: The Power of the Euro - 1975 Carrera 2.7

Overview

This article argues that the European impact bumper 911 Carrera 2.7, built in 1974-1975 with the 2.7 MFI engine, is a rare and valuable investment, potentially worth around £80,000. It's described as rarer than the iconic 2.7 RS and RS Touring, yet offers similar performance and excitement at a fraction of the price.

History

Following new US crash and emission regulations, Porsche introduced the G Series with impact bumpers. European models had a simpler rod system. The 2.7 Carrera MFI (Euro Carrera 2.7) used the 911/83 RS mechanically fuel-injected (MFI) engine producing 210bhp, making it the last street car Porsche produced with MFI. Production was limited: approximately 1,036 in 1974 and 518 in 1975. Right-hand drive production was particularly scarce, with an estimated fewer than 20 remaining.

Driving Experience

The car is praised for its snappy response from mechanical fuel injection, the sound of the Bosch system, and its nimble handling. The compliant chassis absorbs bumps well. The main drawbacks are the brakes, which can fade under hard use, and poor fuel economy (around 22mpg, falling to low teens when pressed).

Specification: Carrera 2.7 (European) (1975)

The article concludes that the Euro Carrera 2.7 MFI is a highly desirable investment due to its rarity and driving characteristics.

Feature: The Cabriolet Convert - 991 Carrera 4 Cabriolet

Overview

A 1,000-mile journey through France in a new 911 Cabriolet aims to convert a Coupe die-hard. The article praises the modern Cabriolet's improved rigidity, seamless electric roof operation (13 seconds), and practical open-air motoring experience. Despite initial reservations, the reviewer finds the 991 Cabriolet to be a superb-looking and capable car, yielding little to the Coupe when the roof is up.

Driving Experience

The 350bhp 3.4-litre engine is described as flexible and powerful, with a Jekyll & Hyde character. The seven-speed manual gearbox is noted as complex, with a risk of selecting the wrong gear. Fuel economy is good for a performance car, averaging 30.1mpg over 1,000 miles. The all-wheel-drive system provides reassurance in all conditions, with impressive grip and cornering ability. The chassis strengthening adds about 70kg but maintains outstanding rigidity. Visibility is slightly compromised with the roof up, and UK road surfaces generate tyre noise, but the overall experience is highly positive.

Specification: 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet (2013)

Feature: Goodwood Festival of Speed - A Festival of 911

The 20th anniversary of the Goodwood Festival of Speed celebrated the 911's 50th anniversary. The event featured a diverse range of 911 models, from historic to modern. A central feature sculpture by Gerry Judah displayed a 1963 original, a 1973 2.7 RS, and a 2013 991 Carrera 4 suspended 34 metres high. The article highlights the presence of numerous iconic 911s, including the Moby Dick, 911 SC Safari, and 935. The new 991 GT3 made its UK debut. The sound of Porsche flat-six engines was a constant presence. The Porsche Experience Centre showcased a silver-themed history of the 911. The event was a resounding success, showcasing the 911's enduring health and appeal.

911 Heaven: Best of the Festival

• 911 above the rest: Description of Gerry Judah's 911 sculpture.
• 911s on display: Mention of various generations and museum pieces.
• 991 GT3 on track: First UK appearance.
• Concours D'elegance: Featured fine collections of 911 exotics.

Driving an Icon: 911 SC Safari

Richard Aucock recounts driving the 1978 911 SC Safari, a Martiniliveried rally car, up the Goodwood hillclimb. He describes the challenging cockpit, the loud engine start-up, and the raw driving experience, highlighting its historical significance and crowd appeal.

911 Evolution: The Legends' Perspective

Interviews with racing legends Vic Elford, Richard Attwood, Jochen Mass, and John Fitzpatrick discuss the longevity, success, and evolving soul of the Porsche 911 over its 50-year history. They share personal anecdotes and insights into their experiences with various 911 models.

Feature: History of the 911 Gearbox

This article traces the evolution of Porsche's 911 gearboxes from the early VW-derived units to the modern PDK. Key milestones include the development of Porsche's own gearboxes, the introduction of the 915, 930, and G50 manual transmissions, and the progression from the Sportomatic automatic to the Tiptronic and finally the PDK dual-clutch system. The article discusses the technical challenges, the shift away from manual transmissions in favour of PDK for performance and emissions reasons, and the debate surrounding the seven-speed manual's complexity.

Key Gearboxes:

• Early 356/901: VW-derived, then Porsche's own design, first five-speed.
• 915: Introduced with 911 2.4, derived from 908 racer, first six-speed (in racing).
• 930: Reinforced four-speed for Turbo.
• G50: Introduced in 1987, replaced 915, hydraulic clutch, later became six-speed.
• Sportomatic: Two-pedal option from 1968, torque converter.
• Tiptronic: Four-speed automatic, later five-speed on 996.
• PDK: Doppelkupplung (dual-clutch), introduced on Gen2 997, now standard on GT3/Turbo, offering faster shifts and better efficiency.

The article questions the future of the manual gearbox in the 911, especially with PDK becoming standard on performance models.

Feature: Ultimate Guide - 930 3.3 Turbo

Overview

This guide details the evolution of the Porsche 930 Turbo, focusing on the more powerful 3.3-litre model introduced in 1978. The 3.3-litre engine increased capacity to 3,299cc, boosting power to 300bhp and torque to 412Nm, featuring an air-to-air intercooler. The car offered improved brakes derived from the 917 racer and a distinctive 'tea tray' rear spoiler.

Technical Evolution

The 3.3-litre engine featured increased bore and stroke, a higher compression ratio, and strengthened internals. The addition of an intercooler significantly lowered intake air temperature. The braking system was substantially upgraded with cross-drilled discs and four-piston calipers. The four-speed '915' gearbox remained, though later models adopted the five-speed G50. Minor exterior changes included the 'tea tray' spoiler. The interior featured standard luxury items and an optional boost gauge.

Timeline & Variants

• 1974: 3.0-litre 911 Turbo (260bhp).
• 1977: 3.3-litre 930 Turbo (300bhp).
• 1990: 964 Turbo (320bhp).
• 1995: 993 Turbo (twin-turbocharged).
• 2001: 996 Turbo (420bhp).
• 2006: 997 Turbo (480bhp).
• Slantnose: A special variant with restyled bodywork and increased power (330bhp) was available.
• Targa & Cabriolet: Turbo versions were also offered in Targa and Cabriolet body styles.

Specification: 930 3.3 (1978)

Buying tips include checking for corrosion, engine condition (head studs, oil leaks), heating system, and interior originality.

Feature: 911 Hero - Derek Bell

An interview with five-time Le Mans winner Derek Bell, discussing his extensive racing career, particularly his successes with Porsche. Bell shares insights into driving the 911 variants like the 934 and 935, his experiences with the 917, the transition to the 936, 956, and 962, and his favourite co-drivers like Jacky Ickx and Hans Stuck. He reflects on the dangers of motorsport in his era compared to today and the enduring appeal of the 911.

Key Career Points:

• Five-time Le Mans winner (1975, 1981, 1982, 1986, 1987).
• Won the World Sportscar Championship twice.
• Drove for Ferrari in F1.
• Recounts a near-miss with a cyclist during testing.
• Discusses the loss of fellow drivers and the difference in safety standards.
• Praises the driving characteristics of various Porsche race cars.

Feature: 215mph 996 Turbo

Overview

This article profiles a heavily modified 996 Turbo, tuned by Nine Excellence (9E), boasting approximately 950bhp and capable of over 215mph. The owner, Henrick Hoeffner, sought extreme performance, leading to the development of the '9E17' package. The car is still used daily by its owner.

Tuning Philosophy

Nine Excellence focuses on delivering verifiable, real-world performance figures, measured by 0-300kph acceleration times. The 9E17 package involves hybrid K24 turbos, a custom exhaust, redesigned fuelling, upgraded internals (a forged 3.8-litre engine), and chassis/brake upgrades. Traction issues were addressed with a revised boost controller.

Performance & Driving Experience

The 9E17 achieves 0-300kph in under 20 seconds and a top speed of 215mph (gearing limited). The driving experience is described as a 'controlled explosion', with immense acceleration, sharp handling, and a refined yet brutal power delivery. Despite its extreme performance, the car retains daily usability, including air conditioning.

Specification: 996 Turbo (Modified by 9E)

Feature: Inside the 2013 991 GT3 Cup

Mobil 1 Supercup driver Ben Barker provides an in-depth review of the new Type 991 GT3 Cup car. He discusses its improvements over the outgoing 997 model, including increased power (450bhp), a new Cosworth electronics system with a colour display, and revised dimensions (longer wheelbase). Barker notes the car's brutal power, improved reliability, and enhanced safety features like a redesigned cage and rescue hatch. While praising the paddle-shift transmission for its ease of use, he expresses a longing for the manual shift. The chassis is described as stable but requiring adjustment due to its size, with the new wing mirrors offering a useful reference point for car width.

Key Changes:

• Powertrain: 3.8-litre engine, 450bhp (+10hp), reliable.
• Electrics: Cosworth system with colour display.
• Dimensions: Longer, lighter, wider wheelbase (+100mm), more stable but slower to change direction in slow corners.
• Safety: Redesigned cage, innovative driver's seat, rescue hatch.
• Transmission: Electro-pneumatic paddle shift, praised for ease but misses manual feel.
• Chassis: Revamped, stable but needs rear-end settling.

Ben Barker also shares his season progress in Supercup and ambitions for the future.

Living the Legend: Owner Reports

A collection of owner experiences with their Porsche 911s:

• Tony McGuiness (San Diego, USA): Drove his 2011 997 GT3 RS to an HRE Wheels event. Experienced a slow puncture from a nail.
• Chris Wallbank (London, UK): His 2005 997S Cabriolet had a remap, improving performance but reducing MPG.
• Ray Chandler (USA): His 2003 996 Turbo had a front diff seal leak and needed new rear tyres.
• Maxie Islam (UK): His 2006 997 Carrera 4S has been stored while he was abroad.
• Gina Purcell (UK): Her 1989 964 Carrera 4 restoration is nearing completion.
• Kris Clewell (UK): Took apart his 1972 911T engine during driving season.
• Maurice Tillaard (UK): Received a free RS rear bumper and plans engine build to RS spec for his 1972 911T/RS Hot Rod.
• Ben James: His 996 GT3 has a rear suspension knock; new LSD plates and geo have improved stability.
• Ben Przekop (Georgia, USA): Returned his 2007 997 GT3 to trackdays after upgrades including a new rear diff, racing pads, and braided lines. He also attended a Driver's Ed weekend.
• Joel Newman (London, UK): Attended an Advanced Driver Training day with Andy Walsh in his 1999 996 Carrera 4, learning car control techniques.

Premier Porsche Section

This section features advertisements from Porsche suppliers. Key companies and offerings include:

• DMS Automotive: Specialist tuners focusing on ECU remapping and hardware upgrades for prestige marques, especially Porsche. They offer performance gains through ECU work and exhaust systems, and are developing software for future technologies like hybrids and active suspension.
• Hendon Way Motors: A showroom listing a wide range of Porsche models, including 997, 996, 993, Cayman, Boxster, and classic 911s, as well as Ferrari and other classic cars.

(Note: Full showroom listings and detailed company profiles are extensive and have been summarized for brevity.)

Data File: Porsche 911 Model History

A comprehensive overview of Porsche 911 models from 1966 to 1996, detailing specifications, performance figures, and ratings.

(Note: Ratings are represented by star emojis. Full specifications for each model are detailed in the original document.)