So how much reliable power can you really get out of a 6 cylinder engine? Well it looks like Porsche aims to answer that question.
The new 2008 Porsche 911 GT2 (997 Body Style) has an astonishing 530 hp turbo charged 6 cylinder power plant that will sling shot it 0-60 mph in about 3.6 seconds with a top speed of about 204 mph. Another really impressive figure is the claimed 0-100 mph in 7.4 seconds.
Combining that incredible power with Porsche’s uncanny ability to put that energy to the road, the rear wheel drive GT2 will give any super car a run for its money.
The 2008 Porsche 911 GT2 (997 body) is expected to hit the states in early 2008 with a MSRP about $191,700.
This is not a classic car that you take on a leisurely Sunday drive; it’s a classic car that can destroy a lot of new sports cars at the line.
The 1976 to 1977 Porsche Turbo Carrera (930) arrived at dealers with an astonishing 234 hp with 253 lbs of torque weighting only 2635 lbs. It is powered with a turbo charged 2.7 liter flat 6 cylinder air cooled engine. With the impressive horse power to weight ratio, the Porsche Turbo Carrera (930) redefined the term “turbo lag”. The Porsche Turbo Carrera will rocket 0-60 mph in about 4.9 seconds. The turbo lag in this model is so predominant that it almost makes the vehicle dangerous. Great care must be taken in taming this beast.
The 1976 and 1977 Porsche Turbo Carrera (930) does suffer from some mechanical imperfections (as reflected in the market price of these models), so great care must be taken in selecting one of these historic vehicles.
The Porsche GT2 (996 model) defines what a super car should be able to do, go really fast for a long period of time. The Porsche GT2 is not a street car it is a track car that has been legalized for the road. Porsche took the already impressive Porsche 911 Turbo (996) platform and turned it into a super car.
It always amazes me how Porsche can make a 3.6 liter flat 6 cylinder engine produce such tremendous reliable horsepower. The Porsche GT2 packs an astonishing 456 hp and 457 lbs of torque which will rocket this race car from 0-60 in about 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 194 mph.
What makes the Porsche GT2 different than the Turbo? Well here are a few key distinctions:
• About 39 hp (Porsche 911 Turbo 996 has 415 hp).
• The Porsche GT2 has rear wheel drive and the Turbo has all wheel drive.
• About 350 lbs (the Porsche GT2 weights about 3150 lbs and the Turbo weights 3500 lbs)
• Lower to the ground. If you have a driveway with an incline or decline, you will probably rub if you attempt to pull a Porsche GT2 up or down it.
• 2 Seats (Porsche GT2 does not have rear seats like the Turbo)
• $65,500 difference in price (Porsche GT2 base MSRP was about $181,700 and the Turbo’s base MSRP was about $116,200)
With all of the above differences, Porsche created an absolute monster. Although the Porsche GT2’s are rare, current pricing is relatively reasonable (for a super car) since Porsche announced the release of the 997 GT2.
Louder, lighter, barer and a little faster than the Carrera 2, is a pretty good description of the Porsche RS America which was produced in 1991, 1992 and 1993. In 1991 Porsche released the RS America into the USA market in hopes to answer a demand from enthusiasts yearning for the RS available in Europe at that time.
The RS of Europe was virtually a race car for the weekend warrior. Unfortunately the Porsche RS America fell short of its European cousin because for US laws regulating the release of new cars into the USA market. For a car to be approved for the roads in United States they are required to be crash tested and pass strict emissions (among many other things), so what makes the RS of Europe truly great could not be fully adopted by the RS America.
The RS America is essentially a lighter version of the Porsche Carrera 2. The RS America did come stock with a stiffer suspension and an upgraded set of wheels (which where both options for the Carrera 2 and 4) and the brakes are from the stock Carrera. The appearance inside and out is slightly altered. The Porsche RS America came standard with a fix mounted whale tale and an aluminum hood. The interior boasts 2 Recaro seats, removed rear seats, less sound dampening, pull strap inside door handles and thinner side glass. The modifications to the Porsche RS America lightened it by about 80 lbs and lowered the original sticker by about $10,000 (less than the Carrera 2). Their where only 4 options available on the Porsche RS America; Limited Slip Differential, Air Conditioning, Radio and a Sunroof.
The Porsche RS America has a 3.6 liter air cooled flat 6 cylinder engine that powered the Carrera 2 and 4. With 247 hp and 228 lbs of torque the Porsche RS America goes 0 to 60 in about 5.4 seconds (factory).
To many enthusiasts, this special edition brought Porsche back to a more functional time. Due to its limited production numbers, the Porsche RS America is rather rare and typically demands a price accordingly.
For more information on the 1991, 1992 and 1993 Porsche RS America please visit RSAmerica.net (Porsche RS America Registry)
In mid 1989 Porsche introduced a dramatically reengineered version of their famed 911 called the 964. Porsche claimed that they had changed over 80% of the car from the previous model year. The new Porsche 964 had a slightly more rounded look, but maintained the classic overall shape of the Porsche 911. The real innovations were to the Power plant which was increased to a 3.6 liter air cooled flat 6 cylinder and the revolutionary all wheel drive Carrera 4.
The Porsche Turbo 964 which was released in 1991 did not receive the same advances to its power plant as the Carrera 2 and 4 (C2, C4) and was released with the relatively same 3.3 liter Turbo motor from the 1989 Porsche 930. The 1991 and 1992 Porsche 964 Turbo engine had 320 hp and 337 lbs of torque. With the 3.3 liter turbo motor the Porsche Turbo 964 went 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds (according to the factory). The main advantage of the 1991, 1992 Porsche Turbo 964 was the power plant that had been in development for over 10 years and most of the kinks had already been worked out.
In 1994 (1993 for Europe and the rest of the world except USA) they released the Porsche Turbo 964 with a turbocharged version of the 3.6 liter air cooled engine. The turbocharged 3.6 liter engine pumped out an impressive 360 hp and 383.5 lbs of torque propelling this rare Porsche Turbo 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds (factory). The Porsche 964 Turbo is able to go 0 to 100 mph in an impressive 10.1 seconds and get to 113 mph in the ¼ mile.
The 1994 3.6 Liter Porsche Turbo is one of the rarest Porsches because of its very low production numbers. Production was limited because of the introduction of the Porsche 993 in mid 1994 and Porsche did not release another Turbo until 1996 (Porsche 993 tt (Twin Turbo)).
So you are looking for German engineering and classic lines, well here is a short list of our top 5 picks for Sporty German cars between $10,000 to $20,000 (as of this publish date). We choose these cars for their performance and overall everyday drivability. Keep in mind that this list represents the opinion of the author. Keep in mind that prices can vary in different markets and the pricing was based off of edmunds.com “true market value” and listings available online on Autotrader.com and Ebaymotors.com.
(They are in no particular order)
1996-1999 BMW E36 M3 – If you needed one word to describe the E36 BMW M3, the word would have to be “handling”. The naturally aspirated inline 6 cylinder engine packs a smooth and sweet sounding 240 hp and 236 lbs of torque (USA version). Capable of going 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 145 mph (electronically limited). During its production the E36 BMW M3 was the benchmark for sports sedans.
In 1997 and 1998, BMW offered a 4 door version of this special sedan. Among owners and enthusiasts it is a common belief that the 4 door has a stiffer body. In 1998 and 1999 they offered a convertible version.
Prices range from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on condition, year, etc. As with any used car you should definitely consider having a pre purchase inspection (PPI) completed.
1978-1983 Porsche 911 SC – In 1978 Porsche released the 911 SC with a new more reliable power plant and a much needed galvanized body. Powered by an air cooled flat 6 cylinder engine, the Porsche 911 SC had 180 hp at 5500 rpm in 1978 and 1979, 188 hp in 1980 and 204 hp at 5900Rpm in 1981, 1982 and 1983. The Porsche 911 SC managed 0 to 60 mph in about 7 seconds and had a top speed around 135 mph.
Sporting the classic style that has defined Porsche since the 1960’s, this vehicle is absolutely stunning. Pricing can vary greatly due to condition, but there are definitely some good examples available for under $20,000. Make sure you find a good Porsche mechanic and you should absolutely get a Pre Purchase Inspection (PPI).
2000-2002 Audi S4 (B5) – In 2000, Audi released their answer to the BMW M3 in the USA (was available in Europe from 1997). Powered by a twin turbo charged V6, the Audi S4 (B5) has 250 hp and 258 lbs torque. The Audi S4 is capable of going 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds and is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The S4’s real advantage lies in its all wheel drive system which has been the root of Audi’s identity since the 1980’s.
The Audi S4 was available in as a 4 door sedan and also as the Avant (wagon). Pricing ranges from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on condition. The 4 door sedan in good supply, while the Audi S4 Avant is much rarer find. Again, as with any used vehicle a pre purchase inspection is a good idea.
1997-1999 Porsche Boxster – In 1997 Porsche released this beautiful roadster with a warm reception from the American public. This Porsche was priced within range of a much larger group of people than its 911 big brother. The Porsche Boxster is a perfect example of what a roadster is suppose to be; fast, fun and easy to drive. The Boxster is powered by a smooth 6 cylinder that generates 201 hp and 188 lbs of torque. The Porsche Boxster will run 0 to 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds.
A good example of a 1997 to 1999 Porsche Boxster and be purchased between $10,000 to $20,000. The years are chosen based off of the pricing, you may be able to find a 2000 Porsche Boxster under $20,000, but the 1997, 1998 and 1999 Porsche Boxsters are more readily available in this price range. Pre Purchase inspection is once again suggested.
1998-2000 BMW M Coupe- The BMW M Coupe definitely commands a second look. You will either love the look or absolutely hate it. Awkwardly beautiful is how I like to describe this sport coupe. Powered by the BMW M3’s 240 hp and 236 lbs of torque inline 6 cylinder, the BMW M Coupe will sprint 0 to 60 mph in about 5.3 seconds.
Handling is excellent and the sound is equally impressive. Pricing for a 1998, 1999 or 2000 BMW M Coupe is on the upper end of the 10,000 to 20,000 range. Once again a pre purchase inspection is suggested.
All of the aforementioned cars are somewhat specialty vehicles that can and do require expensive parts and maintenance to insure they continue to perform.
This is just a short list from a long list of awesome German vehicles. Please feel free to comment on your favorite German car in this price range.
Like its early 1970’s predecessor the New 2007 Porsche 911 GT3 RS promises to command the attention of collectors and true enthusiasts. Bearing the same graphics as the 1970’s RS this version was created with the same buyer in mind, the weekend race car driver.
The 2007 911 Porsche GT3 RS manages to squeeze 415 hp and 300 lbs of torque out of this Non turbo charged 3.6 liter, 6 cylinder engine. With this impressive power plant the new RS manages 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds and a top speed around 193 mph. Although the speed is impressive, the real distinction is the overall setup of the vehicle which makes the handling near legendary.
With production numbers limited to just a couple hundred vehicles, this RS should be in short supply. Porsche has a MSRP of $124,060 and customization options that can easily bring the price up another 20% +-, but with these limited production numbers, you may end up paying a lot more.
In 1987 a legend was born from an already impressive vehicle, the Porsche Ruf CTR “Yellowbird”. When this modified Porsche 911 Carrera was released, it absolutely thumped its competition. Reaching 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds and an astounding top speed of 211 mph, the Yellowbird was (and still is) a real super car.
The 1987 Porsche Ruf CTR Yellowbird truly defined the capabilities of an aftermarket company to take an already great car and make it spectacular. Weighting in at only around 2500 lbs this twin turbo neck breaking monster handled more like a race car then a refined sports car.
A true testament to this creation is the continued use as a comparison vehicle to new supercars. The industry still thinks of this vehicle as a benchmark.
Weight: 1550 kg(2535 lb)
Power: 469 hp@ 5950 rpm
Torque: 408 ft•lbf@ 5950 rpm
Specific output: Apprx. 137 horsepower per litre
Power to weight ratio: Apprx. 5.4 pounds per horsepower
0-60 mph: 4.0sec
0-125 mph: 11.4sec
Quarter mile: 11.7@ 133.5 mph
Top Speed: 211 mph
Video of the Porsche Ruf Yellowbird at Nürburgring:
Carrying the same 2 liter air cooled flat 6 cylinder engine as the standard model, the 1967 Porsche 911S added an additional 30 hp. The 911S still came standard with a manual 5 speed transmission and Weber carburetors.
This model in the minds of many is one of the most significant 911’s to ever made. The performance was suitable for the track and the acceleration felt like no other Porsche that had been produced (till then), going 0 to 62 in 8 seconds. The styling set an appeal that has continued to present day.
As again with any non galvanized vehicle decay is definitely a real concern. To find one that is in good mechanical and cosmetic condition is definitely a diamond in the rough.
In 1965 Porsche introduced the first 911 to the public. This 130 hp, 2 liter, flat 6 cylinder air cooled engine mated with a 5 speed transmission made for excellent accelerating car (for its time), going 0 to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds. Handling was superb for its time with a tradition bit over steer (rear gets out from under it). For the first year and a half the Porsche 911 came with a Solex carburetor which they changed over to in mid 1966 to the Weber carburetor. An interesting piece of information is the wiper blades rest on the right side as apposed to every other model except for the 1967 with rest on the left side when not in use.
When purchasing a used 1965 or 1966 Porsche 911 you look out for the following:
1. Change over from Nadella rear half axles to Lobro’s. It is easy to spot the if the car still has the original Nadella’s if the U joints are exposed as apposed to the Lobro’s that have a rubber dust boot over them. You definitely need to look out for this repair since it can be a very costly one.
2. Another plus to look out for is a switch from the original Solex carburetors over to the later Weber carburetors. Not to say that the Solex are not quality, but they apparently very difficult to set up.
3. Lastly as with any vehicle that has not been galvanized body rust is always a real concern.
With any used Porsche (or with any used vehicle) you should definitely get a pre purchase inspection.
