2006 Porsche 911 997 Carrera 4 and 4S review

Porsche 911 997 Carrera 4 and 4S review:

Porsche today released initial details and photography of its next generation all-wheel drive 911 model ? the 2006 Porsche 911 Carrera 4. The new version offers significantly more engine, braking and handling performance than its highly respected predecessor. For the first time, the model will be available with two engine options. It also features wider bodywork, to accommodate larger rear tires, and an enhanced Porsche Stability Management system designed to provide shorter stopping distances and optimal braking.

A direct descendant of the famed all-wheel drive Porsche 959, the 2006 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Coupe is offered with two engine variations. The standard Carrera 4 is powered by the proven 3.6-liter, flat-six cylinder 325 hp (SAE) engine that propels the car from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.9 seconds and to a top test track speed of 174 mph (280 km/h). The Carrera 4S is equipped with a larger 3.8-liter power plant that develops 355 hp (SAE) and accelerates the car from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.6 seconds and to a top test track speed of 179 mph (288 km/h).

The most striking exterior feature of the new Carrera 4 Coupes is their more muscular rear bodywork. To fit the Carrera 4?s 295/35ZR 18 and the Carrera 4S? 305/30 ZR 19 larger and higher performing standard rear tires, the rear fenders are 1? inches (44 mm) wider.

The Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system on the new Carrera 4S has two new functions to enhance braking. To eliminate the air gap between the pads and the disk and shorten stopping distances, the brake system is pre-filled prior to full brake application. For optimal braking, the hydraulic pump builds up extra pressure to bring all the wheels into the ABS range if the driver depresses the brake pedal quickly but not forcefully.

As with the previous version, the Carrera 4?s all-wheel drive system has a multi-disk viscous coupling that transfers between 5 and 40 percent of the driving force permanently to the front wheels. This feature provides excellent handling in curves, straight-line stability at high speeds, and improved traction on slippery roads.

To further enhance handling, for the first time the Carrera 4 is available with the new Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system. Standard on the Carrera 4S and an option on the Carrera 4, PASM allows the driver to select between the comfort of a Grand Touring car and the track-ready precision of a genuine high performance sports car at the touch of a button.

The optional Sport Chrono Plus package is also offered as an option on both models. For sportier performance, it modifies the engine management characteristics and the control behavior of the PSM and PASM systems.

The 2006 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Coupe and Carrera 4S Coupe will be introduced to the United States and Canada in the fall of 2005 at a price of $77,100 US and $112,800 CDN for the Carrera 4 Coupe and $87,100 US and $127,500 CDN for the Carrera 4S Coupe.

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga., and its subsidiary, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd., are the exclusive importers of Porsche 911, Boxster and Carrera GT sports cars and Cayenne sport utility vehicles for the United States and Canada. A wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG, PCNA employs approximately 250 people who provide Porsche vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 206 U.S. and Canadian dealers. They, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service. End of Porsche 911 997 Carrera 4 and 4S review.