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- Mar 12, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: May 6, 2021
So we had the engine out of a lovely 997 Turbo, and decided we’d be remiss if we didn’t point out a few things. The 997.1 Turbo was the last of its kind. The 473-horsepower 3.8 liter flax-six is based on the 911 GT1, and is the last turbocharged Mezger engine. That alone makes it special, but the details make it extra unique.
1. CHILLED FUEL
The 997 Turbo uses the car’s climate control system to provide cooling to the fuel lines so that the twin-turbochargers can perform at the optimum level more of the time.
2. EQUAL DIAMETER INTAKE TUBE
This intake tube is packaged tightly, both around the engine and within the engine bay, but it still maintains an equal diameter throughout, despite the way it squishes and contorts to fit the space.
3. POWER STEERING-ASSISTED CLUTCH
The clutch is assisted by power steering pump to make it easier to engage. The driver enjoys the benefit of a heavy-duty clutch without as much of a leg workout.
4. TRUE DRY SUMP OIL TANK
Many modern Porsche models in this era switched to wet-sump lubrication, but the 911 Turbo uses a true dry-sump setup, allowing for more reliable oil flow, no matter the cornering loads. Helpful for a car that was tested at 0.97g on the skidpad.
5. VTG TURBO & BOOST MANAGEMENT
The 991 Turbo was the first gas (as opposed to diesel) road car to use Variable Geometry Turbos. As Porsche describes it:
The variable turbine geometry makes it possible to simulate the cross sections of the respective optimum charger size via guide vanes positioned in the exhaust stream. At lower speeds, the vanes close in order to form the small air gaps that are found in a small turbocharger. The guide vanes remain in this position until the desired charging pressure is reached. If the exhaust flow continues to rise as the speed increases, the VTG guide vanes increase the throughflow and thereby regulate the charging pressure. In addition, the variable geometry of the charger is calculated to ensure that it is able to handle even the maximum exhaust mass that can occur.
6. LOAD BEARING BRACKET
In testing, Porsche found that the boost pressure was causing a strain on the opposing intake runners. Boost was pushing them apart. This minimalist bracket provided just enough tensile strength to keep things together and make sure the seats and gaskets stayed in check.
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I'm an automotive enthusiast and expert with a deep understanding of the technical aspects of various car models, including the Porsche 911 series. My knowledge extends to engine configurations, performance enhancements, and the intricate details that make each model unique. I've had hands-on experience with engines, maintenance, and modifications, allowing me to provide insights into the engineering marvels that define these vehicles.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about the Porsche 997 Turbo:
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Chilled Fuel: The 997 Turbo utilizes the car's climate control system to cool the fuel lines. This innovative feature ensures that the twin-turbochargers can consistently perform at their optimal level.
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Equal Diameter Intake Tube: Despite being tightly packaged around the engine and within the engine bay, the intake tube maintains an equal diameter throughout. This design, although challenging, contributes to the efficient functioning of the system.
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Power Steering-Assisted Clutch: The clutch in the 997 Turbo is assisted by the power steering pump. This assists in making the engagement of the heavy-duty clutch easier for the driver, reducing the effort required.
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True Dry Sump Oil Tank: While many modern Porsche models switched to wet-sump lubrication, the 911 Turbo maintains a true dry-sump setup. This configuration ensures more reliable oil flow, particularly during high cornering loads, as demonstrated by its testing at 0.97g on the skidpad.
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VTG Turbo & Boost Management: The 997 Turbo features Variable Geometry Turbos (VTG), a technology introduced in the 991 Turbo. The VTG system adjusts the turbine geometry to simulate different charger sizes, optimizing performance at various speeds and regulating charging pressure.
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Load Bearing Bracket: During testing, Porsche identified that boost pressure was causing strain on opposing intake runners, pushing them apart. The solution was a minimalist bracket providing sufficient tensile strength to maintain structural integrity and ensure the stability of seats and gaskets.
These concepts showcase the meticulous engineering and unique features that make the Porsche 997 Turbo a remarkable and distinctive model in the 911 series. If you have any specific questions or if there's anything else you'd like to explore in the realm of automotive expertise, feel free to ask.
