2004- 2005
The 911 Turbo in 996 guise was a superb car, but in 2004 Porsche suddenly made an even better version. The 996 Turbo S had an output of 450bhp, thanks to a 30bhp power upgrade that had previously been offered as an option to buyers of the standard Turbo. The upgrade consisted of larger KKK turbochargers, uprated intercoolers and a revised engine management system. As well as the extra power (which peaked at just 5700rpm), the torque was increased from 560Nm to no less than 620Nm, which was available from 3500 to 4500rpm.
To keep this power in check, the 996 Turbo S was fitted with Porsche’s ceramic brake discs. Made from carbon-reinforced silicon carbide, these were gripped by six-piston calipers that had a distinctive yellow finish. The advantage of these brakes, said Porsche, was that they were lighter, more responsive, performed better in the wet and would last for over 150,000 miles.
Visually, the 996 Turbo S was identical to the 996 Turbo, but the 18-inch alloys were finished in GT Metallic Silver – a shade that was used on the bodywork of the Carrera GT supercar – with coloured Porsche crests in the centres.
Inside, there were one or two more changes. The ‘Turbo S’ logo appeared on the door sills, centre console tachometer. The instruments themselves had a unique aluminium finish, while the leather of the seat centres, steering wheel rim, gearlever and handbrake lever have a special embossed finish. Standard equipment for the Turbo S included sat-nav, six-CD changer and cruise control.
These extras, plus the power upgrade and ceramic brakes made the 996 Turbo S actually seem good value for money, despite being substantially more expensive than the standard version.
Variations
Cabriolet
The 996 Turbo S was available in open-top Cabriolet guise, as was the standard Turbo.
Specification
Capacity: 3600cc
Compression ratio: 9.4:1
Maximum power: 450bhp at 5000rpm
Maximum torque: 620Nm at 3500 to 4400rpm
Brakes: Front: 350mm discs; rear: 350mm discs. Servo assisted with ABS
Suspension: Front: Lower wishbones and MacPherson struts with combined coil springs and dampers, plus anti-roll bar
Rear: Multilink with combined coil springs and dampers, plus anti-roll bar
Wheels & tyres: Front: 18x8J with 225/40ZR18 tyres. Rear: 18x11J with 295/30ZR18 tyres
Length: 4435mm
Width 1830mm
Weight: 1590kg (coupé)
