|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Main
Editorial
|
|
2003 was a great year for new Porsche cars with the brilliant Boxster getting a significant revamp at the end of 2002 for the start of MY2003 (Model Year 2003).
Almost every moulding on the car was updated to give it a fresh new appearance; one that will probably see it through MY2004 and possibly 2005 too, after which significant changes are anticipated with the 986 model Boxster being replaced by a new 987 version. Cleverly, the MY03 changes don't alter any of the major panels which date back to the original panels on the first 2.5l Boxsters introduced over 7 years ago. And yet the car has a up to date new look that will sustain sales at the levels that the company requires.
Along with the visual tweaks, there were also suspension changes, and the very welcome addition of Variocam to the already excellent engine. Performance was slightly improved with increased torque across the engine's range, and an extra 8bhp at the top end. The changes gave the Boxster 228bhp resulting in a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds, and the Boxster S an impressive 260bhp which would see it reach 60mph in just 5.7 seconds.
Meanwhile, 2003 was the 40th birthday of the Porsche 911.
Truly one of the world's greatest cars, its birthday was celebrated in style with parties across the globe. We have pictures of the UK Porsche 911 Celebrations here.
2003 also saw the release of a new GT3 that answered a calls from enthusiasts for a slightly harder car; and just released for the 2004 season is the 911 GT3 RS, an even more single minded performance car that's set to take on the BMW M3 CSL. The current GT3 is capable of 0-60 in only 4.3 seconds, thanks to its awesome 3.6l engine which produces 376 bhp.
But of course Porsche's most significant introduction in 2003 was the Porsche Cayenne which was designed in partnership with VW. Digging deep into their history, and prolonged success in major transcontinental rally events, Porsche introduced this third model in their range with style and efficiency.
From not producing an SUV, to having the very best off roader that money can buy, is an achievement for any company, and particularly so for a small independent manufacturer like Porsche. Highly acclaimed for its technical ability both on and off the tarmac, the Cayenne is beyond doubt a masterpiece of engineering.
Some would criticise the Cayenne's appearance, but none can doubt its ability. And the people who matter, the buyers, won't be put off by the comments about the car's looks as they know that you can't produce a huge SUV and expect it to be as sleek as 911 coupe or a Boxster convertible.
The third car in the Porsche model line-up is available in two engine sizes with a third on the way for 2004. For starters there's the S which produces an impressive 335bhp to propel it from 0-60 in 7 seconds, but to top that, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo can complete the 0-60 dash in just 5.4 seconds thanks to its massive 450bhp V8 Engine.
And there's more. For 2004, not only do the company have the GT3 RS and a number of other special 911s on the way, but they have the fourth model in their line-up; the beautiful Carrera GT. This awesome supercar might be a few miles per hour slower than Ferrari's brilliant new Enzo, but in overall terms it's going to set the standard that Ferrari, Pagini, Mercedes and Koenigsegg must aspire to.
|
||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
|
|
info@pictures-of-cars.com |