35 years after the first Porsche Turbo, Porsche presented the 997 Turbo. Later, with phase 2, appeared the S version. Real evolution or simple pleasure?
Presented for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2006, the 997 Turbo phase 1 was expected at the turn. Indeed, although equipped with many qualities, its predecessor the 996 Turbo struggled to find a place in the hearts of Porschists.
Porsche understood it well, you had to hit hard with the 997 Turbo. When Phase 2 came out, Porsche declined the Turbo S soon after. Real interest? We will answer you.
PORSCHE 997 TURBO VS 997 TURBO S, WHAT ARE THE AESTHETIC DIFFERENCES?
First key point that raises doubt in this comparison, the look of the two models. Did you see a noticeable difference? There are, however, some subtle differences. A clearly visible sign is the monogram. The 997 Turbo S also features RS Spyder rims as standard. However, a “normal” 997 Turbo owner can get one if they wish. The Turbo S has adaptive directional headlights which are not on the 997 Turbo.
On the interior side, the Turbo S offers adaptive sports seats, and a two-tone leather interior, paddle steering wheel, cruise control, CD changer (rare commodity today!), and degraded tinted windscreen.
Finally, if we favor aesthetics, there is not much point in acquiring a 997 Turbo S rather than a 997 Turbo.
MECHANICALLY, WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?
The Porsche 997 Turbo makes 500 hp while the 997 Turbo S puts out 530 hp. Until then, Porsche only used large turbos on the GT2s. Finally, after a test, it turns out that the result is final: 7”6 on the same 100/200. 8 tenths better which makes the 997 Turbo S a faster car than the 997 GT2! As a reminder, the GT2 is in manual gearbox and the 997 Turbo S in Sport Plus mode PDK gearbox. The 997 Turbo is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox but has the PDK gearbox as an option.
In a way, the Turbo S is considered the Turbo “plus” where its value for money is more interesting than the 997 Turbo (you still had to count €24,000 more to afford it).
The 997 Turbo S comes out on top in terms of performance and keeps all its promises under its “S” name. Something to delight those who love when “it sends”.
CONCLUSION, WHICH PORSCHE 997 TURBO TO CHOOSE?
Aesthetically, the two models are similar, so it's under the hood that it's played. Clearly, the 997 Turbo S dominates the 997 Turbo and offers more interesting sensations. If you want to buy a Turbo without too many options, it is better to stay on the “normal” 997 Turbo. If you are looking for more performance and more equipment, we recommend the 997 Turbo S without hesitation. Whatever your choice, the name Turbo is evocative and makes you dream, so treat yourself!
To find the full comparison, dive back into No. 234 via the digital subscription.
Personal anecdote, the 997 Turbo is the model that made me love Porsche when I was little. Years later, it is a pleasure to be able to write again about child dreams.
Porsche 911 Turbo S (997.2)Technical Specifications
| Engine Type | Flat 6 |
| Induction | Twin-turbocharged |
| Cooling | Water-cooled |
| Valvetrain | Double overhead camshafts |
| Injection | Direct Fuel Injection |
| Bore X Stroke | 4.02 in/102 mm x 3.05 in/77.5 mm |
| Displacement | 231.80 cu-in/3,800 cc |
| Horsepower | 523 bhp @ 6250 rpm |
| Torque | 516 ft lbs @ 2100 rpm |
| Max Rpm | 7000 |
| Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Transmission Options | 7-speed PDK |
| Chassis Type | Rear-engined, all-wheel drive |
| Curb Weight | 3,494 lbs |
| Height | 51.18 in/1,300 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 3.78 in/96 mm |
| Length | 176.26 in/4,477 mm |
| Wheelbase | 92.52 in/2,350 mm |
| Width | 72.91 in/1,852 mm |
| Track Front | 58.66 in/1,490 mm |
| Track Rear | 60.94 in/1,548 mm |
| Drag Coefficient | 0.31 |
| Wheel Size Front | 19 x 8.5 |
| Wheel Size Rear | 19 x 11 |
| Tire Size Front | 235/35ZR-19 |
| Tire Size Rear | 305/30ZR-19 |
| Brake Caliper Front | Fixed 4-piston |
| Brake Caliper Rear | Fixed 4-piston |
| Disc Type Front | Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake discs (PCCB) |
| Disc Type Rear | Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake discs (PCCB) |
| Disc Size Front | 14.96 in/380 mm x 1.34 in/34 mm |
| Disc Size Rear | 13.78 in/350 mm x 1.10 in/28 mm |
| 0 To 62 Mph | 3.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 195 mph |
| Mpg City | 17 |
| Mpg Highway | 25 |
| Mpg Combined | 19 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.7 U.S. gallons |
| Required Octane | Premium unleaded (91+) |
Greetings, automotive enthusiasts! As a seasoned expert in the world of high-performance vehicles, I've had the privilege of delving deep into the details of various iconic cars, and one that stands out prominently in my repertoire is the Porsche 911 Turbo series. With a passion for precision engineering and a keen eye for automotive nuances, let me guide you through the intricacies of the Porsche 997 Turbo and its subsequent evolution, the 997 Turbo S.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts and elements covered in the article:
Porsche 997 Turbo Evolution: Unveiling the Turbo S
Historical Context:
The discussion kicks off by acknowledging the 35-year milestone after the introduction of the first Porsche Turbo. In 2006, Porsche unveiled the 997 Turbo at the Frankfurt Motor Show, marking a significant moment in the evolution of the Turbo series.
Aesthetic Differences:
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Exterior Features:
- The article touches upon the aesthetic differences between the 997 Turbo and its S version.
- Notable distinctions include the monogram and the standard RS Spyder rims on the Turbo S.
- Adaptive directional headlights are exclusive to the Turbo S.
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Interior Features:
- The Turbo S boasts adaptive sports seats, a two-tone leather interior, paddle steering wheel, cruise control, CD changer, and a degraded tinted windscreen.
Mechanical Comparison:
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Power Output:
- The 997 Turbo generates 500 hp, while the Turbo S takes it up a notch with 530 hp.
- The Turbo S breaks tradition by using large turbos, traditionally reserved for GT2 models.
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Performance Metrics:
- Despite the 997 Turbo having a six-speed manual gearbox (PDK optional), the Turbo S, with its Sport Plus mode and PDK gearbox, outperforms the 997 GT2.
- The Turbo S accomplishes a remarkable 7.6 seconds on the 100/200 test, making it faster than the GT2.
Making the Choice:
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Aesthetic Considerations:
- While the article concedes that both models are aesthetically similar, the real decision-making factor lies under the hood.
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Performance Recommendations:
- The Turbo S is positioned as the "Turbo plus," offering better value for money with enhanced performance and features.
- The 997 Turbo S emerges as the top choice for those seeking superior sensations and performance.
Technical Specifications (Porsche 911 Turbo S - 997.2):
- The article concludes with detailed technical specifications of the Porsche 911 Turbo S, providing a comprehensive overview of its engine, transmission, chassis, dimensions, and performance metrics.
In essence, whether you're a long-time Porsche enthusiast or someone looking to delve into the world of high-performance sports cars, the 997 Turbo and its S variant offer a captivating journey into the evolution of automotive excellence. Feel free to indulge your passion and savor the thrill of driving a Porsche Turbo!
