Introduction
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The Porsche 911 combines driving excitement with everyday comfort. It's our top choice for enthusiasts who want a sports car for daily driving. The latest-generation model, designated 997, is the best ever. It was launched for the 2005 model year.
For 2009, the 911 lineup gets a significant overhaul. The Carrera and Carrera S come with new engines. Even bigger news is a new dual-clutch automated manual transmission called the PDK, or Porsche Doppel Kupplungsgetreibe. The 2009 Porsche 911 models also get larger brakes. The exterior is slightly modified with new bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights. Inside, the center console is reworked, the Porsche Communication Management screen is larger and features touchscreen capability, the navigation system comes with a 40 gigabyte hard drive, Bluetooth connectivity is offered, and ventilated seats are now available.
The 2009 Porsche 911 lineup presents a wide range of models, from the Porsche Carrera to the 911 Turbo. Coupes and cabriolets are available, along with a Targa. Most offer endless options. Just about every possible combination is available between coupe and cabriolet, 3.6-liter and 3.8-liter engines, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. You name it, they've got it. Let's start at the top.
The Porsche 911 Turbo is one of the easiest supercars to live with in daily use. It's more user friendly than competitors, from the Corvette to the Ferrari F430. Getting in and out of it is relatively easy. It rides smoothly and comfortably by sports car standards. It's happy to putt around all day at a Buick pace, particularly with the new automated manual transmission. It's easy to drive, whether streaking down a highway like a bullet train, charging up a mountain road, poking along in rush-hour traffic, or working the tires and brakes on a racing circuit. It's neither fragile nor unreliable. It really is a terrific car.
The base model is the Carrera coupe, but owning one is hardly settling for second rate. It's a fantastic sports car, exceedingly enjoyable to drive, and quite comfortable. The Carrera 4 adds the traction and handling benefits of all-wheel drive and is loaded with active safety features; it's the best choice for rain and winter weather, an unbeatable foul weather car. Cabriolets put the wind in your hair and sun in your face. The Targa features a clever clear roof that slides back to provide a top-down feeling. High-performance GT3 and GT2 models are not available, at least not yet.
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