DETROIT — The world premiere of the Porsche 911 Turbo was featured at the 2016 North American Auto Show in Detroit. I spoke with Frank Wiesmann, Product Experience Manager, about the differences between the 911 Turbo and the 911 Turbo S.
Wiesmann states the 911 Turbo has a six-cylinder engine with 540 horsepower in 3.8 liters of displacement. The 911 Turbo S has 580 horsepower thanks to new turbochargers with larger compressors. Porsche is still the only manufacturer to utilize turbochargers with variable turbine geometry in gasoline engines. The Turbo S has more standard features, more options on interior, better suspension and can go from zero-60 mph in 2.8 seconds, while the Turbo can go zero-60 mph in 2.9 seconds. The 911 Turbo can go to 198 mph, while the 911 Turbo S can go to 205 mph.
The 2017 Porsche 911 Turbo has new wheels, a new front fascia, a new rear fascia with new tail lights and a newly designed rear deck lid cover. Inside there is a new steering wheel with mode switch where you can select a softer mode, or sport and sport plus mode to give you an aggressive response. Individual mode for sharper throttle response gives you a softer ride. Both have the seven-speed dual clutch doing the shifting. The Turbo S shift times are quicker. It has virtual gears of PDK transmission to improve efficiency. Higher fuel injection pressures and improved air flow improve fuel economy as well.
“There is a new seven-inch navigation/infotainment system which includes Apple car play, google street view, real time traffic information and wi-fi-access. It’s standard on the car,” says Wiesmann. Both Turbos include standard front and rear parking assist and LED headlights. Porsche is offering the new 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S in both coupe and convertible versions.
“Prices for the 911 Turbo start at $159,200 while the Turbo S starts at $188,100. They are built in Germany and will be coming here in April 2016, but you can order it now. We are waiting on numbers for mpg and there are no current plans for electric in the Porsche 911,” added Wiesmann.
