Porsche 911 Turbo

By Jan Hvizdak

Porsche’s new 911 Turbo houses a pioneering, twin turbo-charged 3.6 litre boxer engine, which produces the output of 480 horsepower. It holds the crown as the world’s first petrol engine to use variable turbine technology (VTG), boasting an upgraded all-wheel-drive system and contemporary style.

The 911 Turbo’s engine represents a new output record for the 3.6 litre Boxer engine, producing 133 bhp per litre. The engine’s new variable turbine geometry system generates 480 horsepower at 6000 rpm. In terms of torque, the previous 911 Turbo’s peak rpm range was between 2,700 – 4,600 rpm. The new 911 Turbo extends this range from 1,950 – 5,000 rpm, with peak torque at 457 lb/ft. A 10-second, mid-rpm-range “overboost” can be produced in the optional Sport Chrono Package. This temporarily increases turbo boost by 2.9 psi, taking peak torque to 502 lb/ft.

The six-speed manual gearbox is capable of 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds which is significant value, with the optional Tiptronic S five-speed automatic gearbox reaching the same speed in just 3.4 seconds. Both gearboxes are capable of a top speed of 193 mph.

At the heart of the 911 Turbo’s increased performance is its variable turbine geometry system. This technology is based on adjustable guide blades, which change position to guide engine exhaust flow onto the impeller wheel of the turbocharger in the most effective way possible. This equips the 911 Turbo with improved dexterity and acceleration, especially at lower rpm outputs.

The 911 Turbo brings this improved power to the road with a modernised all-wheel-drive system and a new, electronically controlled multi-disc clutch. Variable power distribution, to both the front and rear, is provided by Porsche Traction Management (PTM). This equips the new 911 Turbo with outstanding agility on meandering roads, superb grip in adverse weather conditions and impressive safety features at even the highest speeds. The PTM system results in one of the lightest all-wheel-drive setups available.

The 911 Turbo’s exceptional acceleration is matched by its braking system – six-piston monobloc calipers on the front wheels and four-piston monobloc calipers on the rear wheels. Also available is Porsche’s Ceramic Composite Brake system (PCCB). This setup offers larger front discs, complete corrosion protection, superior fade resistance and a weight saving of 37 pounds against the standard braking system.

Styling

The new Porsche 911 Turbo boasts advanced styling features. The changes to the front end include rigid cooling air inlets, sunken fog lights and LED indicators, which are found in the side air inlets. The rear of the vehicle is wider than the previous model by 22 mm (0.9 in.). The new wing spoiler has been matched to fit the wider profile of the car, sloping downwards at both ends to complement the contours of the rear fender. The redesigned side air inlets and new air ducts allow for more efficient engine cooling.

Porsche’s 2007 911 Turbo is available in the United States and Canada from this summer.

Jan Hvizdak, the author of this article works for sport-cars.org where you can find another article on Porsche 911 Turbo. However, if you like luxury, off-road and safe cars, you're welcomed to visit article on Mercedes-Benz G Guard too.