2008 Porsche 911 Turbo

2008 Porsche 911 Turbo

2008 Porsche 911 Turbo

Did you know that the current 2008 Porsche 911 Turbo line-up now includes a drop-top Cabriolet model, as compared to it being previously available only as an all-wheel-drive Coupe, offering the same power?
Both models, the Cabriolet and the Coupe have been noted to dish out 480 hp from their rear-mounted six-cylinder engines. Surprisingly this is power that exceeds even their previous generation’s limited-production 911 GT2 @ 477 hp. Transformations taken effect for these models go well beyond their new skin, with the additions of two variable-geometry turbochargers, includes a new all-wheel-drive system and laced with an updated engine transmission.
It’s definitely everyman’s dream “Everyday Supercar” (how I wish this could be parked in my garage!). Well, every man with a fat bank account that is, and is someone who tolerates Porsche’s Tiptronic transmission.
Porsche recently updated their current five-speed automatic Tiptronic S transmission to allow for a higher turbo boost at launch time. Said to propel the 911 Turbo to an amazing 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, which is, slightly faster than the standard six-speed manuals 3.7 seconds. But even with either one of those transmission types, Porsche engineers say that their 911 Turbo tops out at 193 mph.
Being a latest technology for Porsche, their latest version of Tiptronic should be noted to be a showcase of automatic transmission wizardry in every word. Featuring what Porsche now calls a “fast-off” function, something that would eventually keep the transmission from up-shifting when you decide to abruptly lift off the throttle. And to complement this, a “fast-back” feature is also included to promote quicker downshifts under braking. But to top it all, I personally fancy engaging their “Sport” button, which immediately sends the 911’s turbochargers to generate an additional 2.9 psi of boost, uplifting the torque by 45 pound-feet, and bringing it in to a peak of 505 lb-ft for up to 10 seconds at any given time.

2008 Porsche 911 Turbo

So, with the exception of the Tiptronic transmission, we have to admit that it’s an overall magnificent machine. It feels just right in all the ways a sports car should. Fitting snugly, like it’s wrapped around the you, the driver. It has an enormous source of power, huge grip and the best brakes you could ever get your hands on. It’s among the best all-around performance cars we’ve ever known.

But at Car Crazy, as much as we adore this, we still do believe that a car with such an enormous amount of personality to it, truly deserves pure manual transmissions. Call us one-tracked, narrow-minded or whatever, but hell, that’s how a sports car should be.
Performance
480 hp @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.7 sec (Manual) / 3.4 sec (Triptronic S).
Top Track Speed: 193 mp

2008 Porsche 911 Turbo

2008 Porsche 911 Turbo

2008 Porsche 911 Turbo