August 11, 2008 - Porsche has announced a significant upgrade to its Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program that will now include an enhanced warranty for all CPO cars sold in the United States and Canada.

Since August 1, customers who purchase a Certified Pre-Owned Porsche will receive a company backed 2-year or 50,000m / 80,000km (whichever comes first) limited warranty that mirrors the new car limited warranty coverage. Additionally, for customers who buy cars with a balance of the New Car Limited Warranty Coverage, this remaining balance will be added to the new Certified Pre-owned Limited Warranty coverage.

Customers will only be responsible for normal wear and tear components such as brake pads, wiper blades and regularly scheduled maintenance. Twenty-four hour roadside assistance is also included in the pre-owned package.

"This upgrade to the CPO program will add even more value - and peace of mind - for these important customers, many of whom are just entering the brand; obviously, we want to create a very positive Porsche experience with these new customers,'" said Kevin Harvey, Porsche Cars North America's Manager, Pre-owned Operations. "Our goal is to make the pre-owned experience just as satisfying as the new car one."

Harvey said the CPO program at Porsche, which is now five years old, is growing in success each year, and this year he expects record results. North American Porsche dealers sold a total of 6,985 units in calendar year 2007. Sales are on pace for over 7,500 units in calendar year 2008. In the last five years, Porsche Dealer pre-owned sales penetration has grown from 16 percent of the total Porsche Pre-owned market to 33 percent. This is largely due to the on top sales volume the Certified Pre-owned Program has created for the dealer network.

Only the best used Porsches are selected as Certified Pre-Owned Porsches. Every certified used car undergoes a rigorous 111-point inspection and a detailed reconditioning process by Porsche -trained technicians whose goal is to bring the car back to new as close as possible.

1) 1909 Peerless Model 19 Touring Car

2) 1941 Willys Coupe Street Rod

3) 1951 Nash Rambler Custom Landau "Roll-Top" Convertible

4) 1967 Porsche 912 Soft Window Targa

5) 1957 Volkswagen Beetle

6) 1974 Chevrolet Camaro IROC Race Car

7) 1974 De Tomaso Pantera L

8) 1958 GMC Series 101 Pickup

9) 1966 Amphicar 770

10) 1959 Fiat Jolly 600

So there you have it, our picks for the crappiest cars up for sale at this year's 2008 Monterey Auctions. We know some of you will think we're heretics for picking a few of these, but by and large these rides just don't cut the mustard when masterpieces like the 1938 Bugatti 57SC Atalante are on the same block. So what do you think? What's the crappiest car of this years auctions? Feel free to fight it out in the space below.

Post publish commentary: Since some of you seem to have checked your sense of humor at the door and consider everything a serious offense to the senses now, I'll go out of my way to make it clear the term "Crappy" is being used in the jocular sense. Perhaps I didn't lay it on thick enough, but the main beef is with the culture of auctioneering driving the prices up on relatively normal cars. I don't think these are crappy, but the multi-million-dollar classic car gold rush is forcing the prices up and the prestige down on otherwise neat, but normal cars.

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Porsche celebrates 60 years by showing the mid-engine 'Porsche No. 1' sports car that Dr. Ferry Porsche built when he could not find the car of his dreams

Atlanta, August 5, 2008 - Porsche No. 1, the one-of-a-kind, two-seat sports car Dr. Ferdinand 'Ferry' Porsche developed and built after he searched and was unable to find the car of his dreams, makes its North American Concours d'Elegance debut when it joins other notable and historic vehicles August 14th at California's famed Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

This occasion is a happy one as Porsche No. 1's first North American trip, to Porsche's 50th Anniversary celebration at the Monterrey Historics in 1998, was thwarted when it was damaged in Chicago on its way to California. This trip also is special as it helps commemorate Porsche's 60th anniversary. Before arriving at the Pebble Beach Golf Links®, Porsche No. 1 had a starring role in Porsche Cars North America's 60th Anniversary celebration at its Atlanta corporate headquarters.

Affectionately called Porsche No. 1 by the Porsche family and thousands of the brand's loyal followers worldwide, this legendary sports car and the lynchpin of Porsche's design philosophy began life in June 1947 as engineering project Type 356 in the Porsche design office in Gmünd, Austria. Officially known as Type 356-001, Ferry Porsche's design concept took shape through the leadership of Karl Rabe, Porsche's talented chief designer who worked alongside Ferry's father to develop the original Volkswagen (VW).

In post-war Germany and Europe where resources were few yet the desire to rebuild was strong, the Porsche team diligently started building the innovative sports car. Starting with a hand-built tubular steel frame, engineers fitted already existing VW components including the suspension, headlights, clutch, gearbox, cable-operated brakes, worm-gear steering, and various small parts. VW parts were a natural choice due to the early VW-Porsche relationship and because of VW's key role in the post-war rebuilding effort after British military officers brought VW's Wolfsburg factory back online in 1945 to fulfill car demand and to stimulate the nation's economy.

The basic Volkswagen air-cooled, 1.31-liter flat-four engine put out just 25 horsepower at 3,300 rpm, so the skilled Porsche team enlarged the bore from 70 to 75 mm, increased compression from 5.8:1 to 7.0:1, and added slightly larger inlet valves and ports and twin carburetors, boosting output to between 35 and 40 horsepower.

The engine and transaxle were fitted into the frame in such a way that the engine ended up positioned in front of the rear axles with the transaxle trailing behind, making this a true mid-engine design. Mated to a four-speed gearbox, the drivetrain proved to be both lightweight and reliable.

Erwin Komenda, who along with Ferry Porsche and Karl Rabe formed the foundation of the fledgling car company, penned an aerodynamic and easy-to-build open roadster design. Friedrich Weber from Gmünd, one of just three of the company's body artisans, formed each of the car's aluminum body panels by hand, beating the then rare sheet metal and massaging it into shape over the wooden body buck Komenda had designed. The result was as shapely and beautiful as it was functional, with minimal protrusions to upset the aerodynamics or its visually graceful lines.

As with every Porsche since, form followed function on Porsche No. 1. The interior featured a bench seat to accommodate a third passenger if needed, a simple dash with only a tachometer (a speedometer was added later), a locking glove box, and map pockets on the leather door panels. An ample luggage compartment and the fuel tank were placed under the front hood, and the mid-engine layout provided space for a spare wheel and tire and battery behind the engine and above the transaxle. Finally, a frameless and low twin-panel front windscreen provided wind protection while accenting the sports car's gentile lines.

The unique roadster weighed merely 1,290 pounds, and thanks to the modified engine it could reach a top speed of between 84 and 87 mph. In May 1948, Ferry Porsche himself set off on the first long road test, driving from Gmünd to Zell am See, Austria. During the rigorous test drive over some of Europe's most spectacular climbs, the rear torsion bar suspension failed but was repaired en route. Through this car's entire test period, this proved to be the only mechanical failure.

Journalists tested the car on July 4, 1948, and Robert Braunscheweig, editor of Switzerland's highly respected Automobil Revue, concluded, "This is how we imagine modern road motoring to be, where the advantages of modern springing and the resultant driving comfort are combined with the adhesion of an equally modern, low and handy sports car." On July 11, with Herbert Kaes at the wheel, Porsche No. 1 won its class in the Rund um den Hofgarten local race in Innsbruck, Austria. Just as today, testing and competition proved to be solid underpinnings for the company's commercial and motorsports success.

Soon after, Porsche ramped up production of the 356 sports car at the company's tiny factory in Gmünd, abandoning the complex steel tube frame in favor of a stamped floor pan. The engine also was repositioned behind the axles to provide more interior space and room for a rear seat. Not too much later Porsche moved its production operations in 1950 to its current home in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

After passing through the hands of several owners, Porsche No. 1 was reacquired by Porsche AG and became a centerpiece in the Porsche museum. As Porsche nears completion of its new museum alongside the Porsche factory in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, Porsche No. 1 will be prominently displayed in a way befitting the historic car that shaped all future Porsche vehicles.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Not content to leave mocking its own brand to cars like the Porsche Cayenne and the ever-pending Panamera, Porsche seems happy to offer marginal upgrades with forced exclusivity in exchange for large sums of money. And good on 'em: If you can make a buck, why not, right? Consider these cars a tribute to someone's ego and, while still great performers, not worth the extra dough. That is, unless you really want that new wristwatch.

MORE POWER AND UNIQUE DESIGN CUES MARK NEW PORSCHE BOXSTER S AND CAYMAN S LIMITED EDITIONS ATLANTA, AUGUST 4, 2008 - A comprehensive list of enhancements, led by more powerful engines and unique visual features, will distinguish the new, limited-edition Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2 and Porsche Cayman S Sport mid-engine sports cars when they are introduced in October by Porsche Cars North America (PCNA) and Porsche Cars Canada. Porsche will build 500 Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2 and 700 Cayman S Sport models, and less than 50 of the Boxster S and approximately 100 of the Cayman S limited-edition sports cars - each one with a glove box plaque bearing its number from the exclusive series - will reach U.S. shores. Both cars will be available through authorized U.S. Porsche dealers this October, and the Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2 and Cayman S Sport U.S. MSRPs are $66,900 and $69,900, respectively.

A range of standard equipment, beyond the eight-horsepower bump to 303 from the 3.4-Liter engine, further sets these variants apart from the standard Porsche Cayman S and Boxster S. The Cayman S Sport's appearance emulates that of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, beginning with standard GT3 RS exterior colors of green or orange, which are enhanced by GT3 RS touches likeblack rims, exterior mirrors and air-intake grilles and a black interior design package. Like the GT3 RS, the sides of the new car feature its model designation, "Cayman S" in black letters. In addition to orange and green, the Cayman S Sport will be available in black, Guards Red, Speed Yellow, Carrara White or Arctic Silver.

Performance upgrades standard on the Cayman S Sport beyond the engine include Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with a 10mm-lowered suspension, as well as 5mm spacers on the 19-inch SportDesign wheels. Additional standard features include Bi-Xenon headlamps, the Sports Chrono Package, sports seats, alcantara finish for the gearshift lever, hand brake and the rim of the GT3 steering wheel, as well as a sports exhaust system featuring a twin-chamber tailpipe. Spotting the new Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2 will be easy - look for the Carrara White mid- engine Porsche roadster with white finishes on the star-spoke, painted 19-inch SportDesign wheels, side air intakes, center console and instrument dials. Contrasting the white features are grey stripes lengthwise along the body, and black standard leather upholstery and convertible top in stone grey. Echoing the white tachometer and speedometer is the included Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2 Chronograph, a men's wristwatch from the Porsche Design Dashboard Collection designed in conjunction with the car.

Still, it's an interesting car, based on a 60s or 70s chassis, and so I figure it qualifies for this series. There's no telling what engine it's got, though the most likely candidate is some member of the souped-up, larger-than-1600cc Type 1 family. Chances are this machine is quite a bit quicker than a real Speedster, though the handling might not be quite up to Porsche standards.


The original Speedster was a stripped-down, lightweight 356 Cabriolet, initially sold only in North America. You could get one for $2,995 in 1954, 700 bucks cheaper than the 356 convertible (but $800 more than a new MG TF).

The Panamera is a German luxo-barge which, by definition, has to be able to carry slick-haired dandies and their boatload of hand-stitched leather luggage at the same time. We're assuming that pop-up spoiler on the tail means the engine is back there, it is a Porsche right? But the blokes in the pictures are putting their bags in the rear. Shouldn't they go up front, where the nose-trunk is supposed to be? We're so confused by this car, why build a front-engined Porsche with a pop-up spoiler? (Thanks for the shots Peter)

According to Porsche, the most notable advantage — after the power upgrades — is the improved energy efficiency. With lower fuel consumption, the engine not only makes the car go faster, it keeps it out of the pits, a key to any race, endurance or otherwise. Also interesting is that Porsche seems to have aped GM's "No Lift Shift" present in the Chevy Cobalt SS for the new car, with the option of full-throttle shifts. We won't expand on how much this last bit amuses us.

Direct Fuel Injection Lowers Fuel Consumption and Increases Performance in 3.4-Liter V8 for 2008 Porsche RS Spyder in the American Le Mans Series
ATLANTA - July 31 - Following in the footsteps of the street Porsche Cayenne and 911, the sports prototype Porsche RS Spyder now profits from direct fuel injection technology (DFI). The new engine, with which Porsche underlines its role as technology leader in energy efficiency, celebrated its race premiere with an LMP2 victory in the American Le Mans Series as Timo Bernhard (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France) took the class win at Mid-Ohio earlier this month. The power output of the successful 2006 and 2007 championship winning Porsche, which has so far claimed victory from four of the six races run in this year's ALMS, increased with the new engine from 476 to 503 hp (370 kW) at 10,000 revs per minute. Maximum torque rose from 370 Nm (273 ft. lbs.) at 7,500 revs to 385 Nm (284 ft. lbs.) at 8,500 revs. The most compelling feature of the DFI version of the successful Porsche 3.4-litre V8 motor is its improved energy efficiency - an important element in endurance racing. Despite an improved power output, fuel consumption was significantly reduced.

After reaching a very high level with the previous engine we raced, we had to put considerable efforts into the development of the direct fuel injection unit in order to significantly improve performance and efficiency," says Thomas Laudenbach, Head of Motorsport Development/Power Train. "In order to achieve revs of up to 11,000 with DFI technology it meant stepping into totally new territory." During the design and development of the engine, synergies of product areas and motorsport departments were utilized to a large extent. "Right from the beginning there was a lively exchange," reminisces Thomas Laudenbach. "We had already recognized the advantages of this technology at the start of the RS Spyder project and adapted them to the very special requirements of motorsport, always in close consultation with our colleagues in the standard development department. The methods and insights we obtained from our co-operation are of considerable value for future development projects involving DFI technology."

Normally an increased engine output is in conjunction with a rise in fuel consumption. This is not the case here. "Thanks to the substantial increase of energy efficiency there's no rise in the absolute fuel consumption despite the significant hike in performance. On the contrary - we're even a bit lower," said Laudenbach. Another advantage of the new DFI engine: At partial load - for example during the many caution phases of long distance races - the engine can be run extremely lean. This further reduces fuel consumption and was not possible with the intake manifold fuel injection which was raced previously.

Moreover, new options open up for the controlling of highly dynamic processes like, for example, gear shifting at full throttle. Such options were not fully utilized before. After the successful premiere in Mid-Ohio, the new DFI motor will power the two Penske Racing RS Spyder cars for the next round next week at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. With this, Porsche intends to strengthen its top position in the American Le Mans Series. "Competition in the LMP2 class is at an extremely high level and it gets tougher race by race," says Hartmut Kristen, Head of Motorsport at Porsche. "Therefore now is exactly the right time to race the new engine." # # #

This is getting to be an epidemic here lately. First it was the flying M5, then it was a disintegrated SLR, followed closely by an upended M3. It's craziness. If you have a very nice, very fast car DO NOT GIVE THE KEYS TO YOUR DUMB KID. Given the baked-in stupidity of your average teen, mixed with the "Look how cool I am" braggadocio inherent in prom night, one would think this idea would have been self-evident to the Florida family who handed over the keys to little Timmy so he could impress his prom date. We have a secret for you, Timmy's dad: If you're loaded enough to have a Porsche Carrera GT, and Timmy can't seal the deal without driving it, little Timmy is a failure.

PORSCHE® RELEASES INITIAL INFORMATION AND PHOTOS OF 2009 911® TARGA 4 AND TARGA 4S

New Targa Blends Stunning Looks With Latest Porsche Technology Atlanta, July 28, 2008

Completing a triple update of the 2009 911 model lineup, Porsche is introducing the new 911 Targa, executing this generational change in record time. Two new Targa models will join their brethren, the new generation Carrera coupes and cabriolets that have been introduced in the past two months. The new 911 models will be available at Porsche dealerships in the U.S. starting in September of this year.

The most striking visual highlight of the 911 Targa is its 16.58 square-foot glass roof made up of two segments - an elegant sliding roof at the front and a more practical tailgate at the rear. The roof slides smartly beneath the tailgate within seven seconds, conveniently offering almost five square feet of open space above the passenger cabin when opened completely. The sliding roof comes standard with a new sunblind offering even greater privacy than before. When closed, the sunblind covers the entire area of the sliding roof, opening and closing electrically independently of the roof itself. The glass roof and tailgate are made of special tinted glass, which protects the occupants from UV radiation and excessive heat even in bright sunshine.

The focal point of the Targa's interior is the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 3.0 which features a touchscreen for simplified operation of the audio system as well as the optional hard-disk-drive navigation system. Other important additions to PCM 3.0 are the new options of XM satellite radio with XM NavTraffic capability, Bluetooth® connectivity, iPod® port, USB port and auxiliary jack. Technological highlights of the 2009 Targa include two new engines, with direct fuel injection to improve both performance and fuel economy; the seamlessly-shifting PDK Porsche- Doppelkupplungsgetriebe, or double-clutch gearbox, replacing the optional Tiptronic S automatic transmission; and the electronically controlled Porsche Traction Management (PTM), which takes the place of the former all-wheel drive system.

As before, the latest addition to the new generation of the 911 will come in two variants: the 911 Targa 4 and the 911 Targa 4S. The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a new 3.6 liter flat-six engine, developing a maximum output of 345 horsepower for a top track speed of 176 mph. The 3.8 liter 911 Targa 4S engine delivers a maximum output of 385 horsepower that accelerates this exclusive sports car to a top track speed of 184 mph.

Like the previously announced 911 Carrera and Carrera 4 models, direct fuel injection technology continues to be a central point of the efficiency enhancements in the 2009 Targa. Direct fuel injection increases engine power, while simultaneously contributing to a reduction in fuel consumption. The new-generation Targa models will be available with the Porsche seven-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe, or double-clutch gearbox. An intriguing alternative to the manual six-speed gearbox, the PDK features unparalleled speed during gear shifts combined with superior fuel economy.

The electronically controlled PTM system replaces the viscous multiple-plate clutch all-wheel drive system of the previous Targa models, which results in a more pronounced, Porsche typical driving characteristic. To ensure maximum traction and agile handling at all times, PTM feeds exactly the right share of engine power to the front wheels, as needed, in every driving situation through an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch. As on all new Carrera 4 models, a standard rear-locking differential gives the car even greater driving dynamics. The 2009 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S will be available in the United States in October at a MSRP of $89,500 and $100,100 respectively.

Say your '73 Porsche 911, which you bought brand-new, failed to pass the Washington smog test 17 years later. Would you break out the wrenches and make it pass... or would you convert it to electric power? Exactly! And that's what the owner of this 1973 Porsche 911T did, installing electric motor, batteries, the works. We may have to dock some PCH points here for the good grammar and detailed description (and where's the official eBay CAPS LOCK style?), especially since the seller has a big website full of info on the project, but don't worry- the hell is still there! See, the electric 911 stopped running after 357 miles, and it's been sitting since 1999. The seller straight-up says "This was an electric car. To be one again, a lot of work is needed." There's corrosion from battery-acid leakage. The brakes are garbooned. There's all the stuff you'd normally have to deal with on a car that's been sitting in a damp climate for a decade. But still, electric 911! Imagine getting this thing geared up for some Tesla-hunting!

Could a fully restored, turn-key electric car really be considered a project? You bet... as long as it's a British Leyland product. I don't care how many components you replace, the spirit of Joe Lucas will always come along for the ride in this electric 1980 Triumph Spitfire. The Spitfire is a popular subject for electric-drive conversion; it's small, light, sporty, and the fact that nobody in his or her right mind wants one makes Spitfire deals quite cheap. This one has a 120-volt motor and ten 135AH batteries, and the seller claims it will do 75 MPH. Range? Who knows? The seller says it's at least 35 miles. We suggest ditching all that lo-po gear and building it up to White Zombie standards... well, once you've fixed all the stuff that will break just getting into your garage. Thanks to BZR for the tip!

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TECHART Automobildesign GmbH presents its cutting-edge TECHART GTstreet RS, based on the Porsche 911 GT2 (997), with an impressive best time of 1.06:811 minutes on the short course of the Hockenheim circuit.

Since 2001, TECHART GTstreet vehicles have been among the fastest and highest performance sports cars in the world. This high performance is reflected in the GTstreet RS's statistics - 700 PS and 515 KW - with a maximum torque of 860 Nm. This power is achieved through the use of modified turbochargers, enlarged carbon inlet pipes, specially developed intercoolers, a sports flap exhaust combined with high-performance headers, modified pressure sensor and a sports air filter. The GTstreet model demonstrates a high level of performance in the wind tunnel: with a downforce of 10 kilos on the front and rear axles at a speed of 140 km/h.

GT RS front apron is fitted with a carbon splitter. A special air duct has been constructed to enable the cool air to pass directly behind the radiator and over the newly created air outlet thereby reducing the buoyant force on the front axle considerably. Side carbon flics support this effect in that they increase the downforce considerably by acting as a counterpart. All of the sporty basics are featured, creating a sporty appearance and fast model with its aero-bonnet, headlight shades, mirror shades, GT sill panels and carbon roof spoiler. The GT rear spoiler is particularly striking with its carbon winglets and gurney flaps. The GT RS rear apron with carbon diffuser, air outlet and carbon air wings complete the programme for this club sports car.

The performance of the GTstreet RS is also reflected in the chassis. With its TECHART Formula III forged rims and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Plus tyres, the GTstreet RS offers drivers the maximum performance for a street-worthy sports car. The impressive 1.06,811 min. lap time on the short Hockenheim course emphasises yet again the GTstreet RS's ambitions on becoming one of the fastest sports cars in the world. The special TECHART threaded chassis is also available for the GTstreet RS.

From coloured decorative stitching to complete leather furnishings in the colour of your choice or decorative components in various materials such as carbon or piano lacquer, TECHART offers a virtually endless range of possibilities to meet all tastes in furnishings. Additional accessories such as aluminium pedals, a 3-spoke sports steering wheel and illuminated door sill protectors with an individual logo complete this diverse range of furnishing options.

[TechArt]

Because the 911 and 912 from this era look pretty much the same, and this car has no emblems on the engine lid (anyone have any idea why?), it took me quite a while to figure out what I was photographing. More 912s than 911s were built in the late 1960s, so I was leaning that way... and then I spotted the "912" emblem on the dash. Mystery solved!


For $4,760 (just 220 bucks less than a '67 BMW 2000CS), you got the 912 and a 102-horse four-cylinder. Hand over $5,990 to the boys from Stuttgart, and a 911 with 148 horses could be yours, while $6,990 ($410 more than the cost of a shiny new Jag E-Type) would put a 911S with 180 horsepower in your driveway.


Not being a Porsche expert, I had to consult with circle-track racer Jack Baruth to figure out the year of this car, since Porsche's Teutonic efficiency precluded making frivolous (and easily identifiable) year-to-year changes. Thanks, Jack!

The figures were published by Clean Green Cars, which also pointed out that "Every manufacturer with average new car emissions significantly above 200 g/km of CO2 saw sales slump from January to June." Clearly, voluntary agreements are working. Why oh why then did the EU have to implement non-voluntary emissions targets for 2012? Press release below the jump.

Fiat tops the CO2 league; Porsche is rock bottom

Figures published exclusively by Clean Green Cars today reveal that Fiat and MINI are only mainstream manufacturers whose average tailpipe CO2 is now under 140 g/km. That figure was the target car makers' set themselves a decade ago in their voluntary agreement. Data for 2008 shows how far they have fallen short.

"Some manufacturers have delivered on their promise, but the vast majority have to raise their game significantly," said Jay Nagley of Clean Green Cars. "Porsche has the most work to do: bottom of the league, with CO2 emissions that actually went up slightly in the first half of 2008.

"What is interesting is that, as fuel prices rocket and the new car market falters, car makers with the highest emissions are being punished by the consumer. They have been complaining about pressure from the EU to meet what they say are 'unrealistic' targets. Now they are having to face much stiffer targets from the people that really matter: consumers."

Every manufacturer with average new car emissions significantly above 200 g/km of CO2 saw sales slump from January to June. Even bigger drops were reported last month by the five with the worst average CO2 output.

Porsche and Jeep sales were down by more than a half, Land Rover and Chrysler fell by nearly 30% while Subaru registrations plummeted 17.8%. As the total market only fell by 6.1%, there is clear evidence that high-CO2 cars are being heavily penalised.

These renderings appeared on the Cayman Club message board, where details of their origin were not known. Internal sources have now revealed to us that these are authentic representations of both new models.

We hate to say it, but it looks like two of the best sports cars on sale are getting better. Direct injection and revised variable cam profiles combine to deliver both improved power and economy, while the standard spec receives a welcome boost. But — and this is a big 'but' — there's still no limited-slip differential, which, in our opinion was the only thing holding the current model back. Regardless, the current Cayman and Boxster are not just our pick of the Porsche litter, but our favorite contemporary sports cars, delivering the right blend of performance, handling and involvement, making them capable of embarrassing cars that cost several times the Cayman S' $59,100 price tag. Oh yeah, and expect that to increase as well.

The revised 7-speed PDK manumatic will cease being the manual's poor relation for 2010, now offering faster shift times and 911-like launch control.

It looks like the 911 Turbo-esque LED driving lights are just an optional extra, rather than an indicator of a new turbocharged model, as previously rumored.

• More power and torque in comparison to Cayman/S:
+20 HP / +25 HP and +27 Nm / +30 Nm (2010 Cayman: 265 HP, 221 lb-ft; Cayman S: 320 HP, 273 lb-ft)

• Performance differentiation in comparison to Boxster II/S II:
+10 HP/ +15 HP (2010 Boxster: 255 HP; Boxster S: 310 HP)

• Improved performance (driving dynamics, laptimes, fun to drive):
- increased power and torque: new DFI technology for S-model
- faster acceleration and take-off:

• PDK 7-speed with new steering wheel, shifts faster than manual gearbox

• Launch Control, with Sport Chrono package in conjunction with PDK
- improved driving dynamics/lap times: axle-differential-lock,

• PDK, PASM and 19" wheels

• Reduced fuel consumption:
-2% - 14% (with DFI Engine + PDK) vs. Cayman I

• Improved standard equipment:
6-speed MT, CDR 30, PSM+, drive-off assistant

• Light Innovation
- New double tube headlights
- LED front position lights,
- Bi-Xenon headlights incl. dynamic cornering lights and LED daytime running lights (option)

• Interior Change
- New CDR 30 with 5 inch screen
- New PCM 3.0 touchscreen (option)
- Air ventilated seats (option)
- New PDK steering wheel

• Style Change
- Front and rear end
- Mirrors
- Exhaust pipes
- Wheels 17" / 18 "/ 19"

• Light Innovation II
- LED taillights
- LED brake lights
- LED rear fog light

• Chassis Innovation
- Revised chassis setup
- Rear axle-differential-lock (option)
- Brake assistant
- Larger brake disc/caliper front

• Improved dynamics

• Powertrain Innovation
- New DFI-engine generation for 3.4 l
- New VC+ 2.9 l engine
- New 7-speed PDK (option)

• Improved fuel efficiency

Jerry Seinfeld Porsche Vehicle Description This 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo 'S' is the only one ever produced in the unique BLUE TURQUOISE color. The car was special ordered by Jerry Seinfeld and flown over to CA when the car was completed - this $4K charge is on the copy of the window sticker. I also have the certificate of authenticity and copies of some service records. Vin # - WPOAC2991VS375741. I also have a copy of the Jerry's original title.

Jerry put 7,839 miles on the car before he sold it on 4/14/05 and it has been in the hands of several collectors since that time. He had the special phone console installed at the dealer in Los Angeles as well as European springs added - everything else in 100% stock condition.

The car has zero flaws and I just had the car service at the local dealership here in Atlanta. The special ordered yellow seat belts are a beautiful blend w/ the stock 'S' brake calipers and is simply a breath taking Porsche. The car also features the carbon fiber steering wheel as well as the carbon fiber backed heated sport seats.

I am condensing my collection and it must go. Some Porsche collectors view this 'S' has the ultimate one of the production run.

[eBay Motors via Motive Formus]

Although we expect automakers to scream about the new sticker destroying profitability and requiring at least 10 years of development work to implement, we think the program makes some serious sense. In fact, the numbers we've seen peg the potential savings at $240 million US dollars. Not bad for a cost per-vehicle of just $1.90.

Apparently, some automakers have already recognized the writing on the wall. Hyundai is installing the new tamper-resistant stickers on its entire Australian fleet, and Subaru, BMW, Audi and Porsche all used them on at least some models, resulting in improved theft rankings from NRMA Insurance. This all sounds like the kind of thing our friends at Unique Performance would be solidly against...if, you know, they weren't going to jail.
[Drive.com.au; (Photo Credit: Insurance.com)]

Nobody seems to have been hurt here, but there are definitely some bruised egos. It's worth the trip over to the BBC website to check out the video, as it's rife with funny British words and pronunciations like "sa-LEE-ka," talk of bonnets, and amusing Irish accents. We're going to hell, we know. [BBC]

7:29.03 - Nissan R35 GT-R
The calling card of the new Nissan GT-R is technology witchcraft. On paper, you wouldn't expect much from a 3800lb car with a V6. But on the track, the grip of the trick AWD system channeling 480 HP from the twin-turbocharged engine is pure magic.

7:26.40 - Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
The instant legend. Keep in mind, there was reportedly a strong headwind on the main straight, which could have actually slowed things down a bit. Could the ZR1 possibly set an even faster time in the future?

6:55 - Radical SR8
With only about 360 HP, the Radical is not about raw power. Its strengths instead are a race-style chassis, complete with real downforce-generating spoilers. Or course, since the car only weighs about 1430 lbs, the Radical has an incredible power-to-weight ratio. A slightly less powerful 320 HP Radical SR3 Turbo has even run a 7:19 lap. Though we doubt you'll find one being valet-parked at the country club, the Radical is technically streetable. As such, it is the fastest road-going car around the Nordschleife.

6:11.13 - Porsche 956
If the ZR1 is fast, then this is warp speed. it's the fastest official lap time ever recorded on this configuration of the track. What makes it even more amazing is that this was 25 years ago, back in 1983.

[laptimes]

While you guys were publishing some amazing DOTS finds on the site on Sunday, I had my own 'slam on the brakes-where's my camera?' moment.

I was driving through a village in West Oxfordshire, about 80 miles outside of London, when it caught my eye.

The off road parking appeared to be to take advantage of the shade but it could be down to lack of space on the drive due to presence of a 996 Targa, Bentley Conti GT and an E61 M5 estate.

It looks like a legit Carrera RS, probably the Touring model though I'm not positive. The paint finish was really amazing and the whole car was in remarkable condition. The UK vehicle registration database has it listed as a 1973 MY car but was first registered in the UK in April this year, so must be an import.

New Engines, Double-Clutch Transmission and Electronically Controlled All-Wheel-Drive

Atlanta, June 25, 2008 - New engines, all-wheel-drive systems, transmissions, interior features and exterior cues will mark the evolutionary advances of the new 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S models upon their introduction this fall when they join the already announced two-wheel-drive 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S.

Like the improvements to the rear-wheel-drive models, the combined changes for the Porsche 911 Carrera 4/4S will result in enhanced performance coupled with better fuel economy and reduced emissions.

The output of the 3.6 liter engine in the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 increases by 20 horsepower to 345 hp. The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S with its 3.8 liter engine is equally impressive, with an increase of 30 horsepower to 385 hp.

The revolutionary PDK works in conjunction with direct fuel injection for the flat-six engines and electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system to provide these seemingly diverse improvements to performance, fuel-economy and emissions.

The new generation of the Porsche 911 Carrera 4/4S replaces the former all-wheel drive viscous multiple-plate clutch system with a more dynamic electronically controlled PTM (Porsche Traction Management) system. This system, originally developed for the Porsche 911 Turbo and adapted for the normally aspirated variants, combines the driving pleasure typical of Porsche with a high level of driving stability, traction and agility, which is further enhanced by a (now standard) mechanical locking rear axle differential.

Standard on all versions of the new model are a proven six-speed manual transmission. As an alternative, the new Porsche 911 Carrera 4/4S are available with the Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or double-clutch, which replaces the Tiptronic S automatic transmission. The PDK offers faster gearshifts and better fuel efficiency. The PDK gearbox comes with seven gears shifting hydraulically without the slightest interruption of traction and pulling force.

The new generation of the Porsche 911 series visually stands out through discreet, but striking, modifications to the front and rear lighting. The new models come with BI-XENON™ headlights and new LED daytime driving lights. The redesigned rear-light clusters feature LED technology. For the first time in a 911, Porsche offers dynamic bending lights as an option, which moves in the direction the steering wheel and the car is turning.

The Porsche Carrera 4 models retain a rear muscular stance, as before, 1.73-inches wider than the two-wheel drive version. A new reflector trim bar between the LED rear lights gives the rear end of the new car even more character.

The most compelling interior upgrade is the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 3.0 which features a touchscreen for simplified operation of the audio system as well as the optional hard-disk-drive navigation system. Other important additions to PCM 3.0 are the new options of XM radio with XM NavTraffic capability, Bluetooth® connectivity, iPOD® port, USB port and auxiliary jack.

The 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S Coupe and Cabriolet models will be introduced in the U.S. on October 25, 2008. The 911 Carrera 4 Coupe is priced at $81,700, while both the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet and 911 Carrera 4S Coupe are $92,300. The 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet is $102,900.

To make Porsche feel better, many other companies will be racing around the 'Ring, lowering the average times. We're cool with the Audi R8 V10, and the TT-RS is probably pretty quick but... the 2010 9-4x? We're guessing the Porsche is faster than that. [InsideLine]