OURCOVERFEATURE this month is an obvious one, but no less exciting for that: the arrival of a new generation of GT3. Now, normally this would be an event heralded by the unfurling of flags and the breathless excitement of the Porsche community -in fact, the whole performance car world at that. Yet, this time, I detect a certain softening of the reception to Weissach's latest road-racer. It may only be anecdotal evidence, true, but a number of past and present GT3 owners have expressed to me a sense of disillusionment with (their perceived) lack of material progress with the second-generation car. Perhaps there's a kind of 'GT3 fatigue' after a 25-year-long conveyor belt of new models and the manner in which the type has become inexorably linked to the investment market?
The oft-heard counter argument is that, in the face of mounting emissions legislation and the switch to electrification, we should simply be grateful that there's another 500bhp, 100 per cent ICE-powered GT3 that revs to 9,000rpm in the first place. I wouldn't mind betting it's the last of its kind and I don't mind saying I think that depressing statement is a tragedy.
However, are we not in grave danger of getting ahead of ourselves? Until it's driven by those who genuinely know what they're talking about, everything else is just speculative spec-sheet-based personal opinion and little else. Thankfully, I'm pleased to say that our GT3 'first drive' marks the debut of Jethro Bovingdon in these pages and, if anyone can get under the skin of a new GT3, it's Jethro -one of the world's leading road testers and presenters, and a handy racer too. Oh, and of course, as many of you will know, he owns a very special -and unique -996 as well.
PorscheClub
GreatBritain
ADAMTOWLER EDITOR
LI.I
Elsewhere, we devote much of the features section to the humble but absolutely brilliant 944, particularly in 2.5-litre, second-generation form. Once the archetypal 'first Porsche', that role has been inevitably bequeathed to the 986 Boxster, which leaves the good old 'eight-valve' heading into a classic territory of its own. Does it still make for a good first Porsche? Can it still be a daily driver? There's no better man to help answer those questions than Steve Bennett, who has run multiple 944s as his primary car over the years. All I can say is that, having read his story, I once again have a burning desire to add a basic 944 to my own fleet!
This is also a key month for your magazine because, after 14 years with Dialogue, we've embarked upon a new era with a major player in the contract publishing world: Think Publishing. I'd like to take this opportunity, on behalf of everybody at Porsche Club Great Britain, to thank the entire Dialogue team for all their hard work over so many years and welcome Think to the Porsche Post team.
I don't know about you but, among the salty, grimy roads and freezing temperatures, I've suddenly noticed those evenings are drawing out. That can only mean one thing: driving season can surely only be a challenging 5-bend away. Hang in there everybody, not long now!
As ever, enjoy the magazine and your Porsche, and I'll see you next month.
What’s going on within Porsche Club Great Britain and the wider world of Porsche
PORSCHE WINS 24 HOURS OF DAYTONA
Porsche has been victorious in the 63rd running of the 24 Hours of Daytona, one of the classic endurance races in the sports car racing calendar.
The win is Porsche’s 20th outright victory in the event since it was first held in 1962. Moreover, the winning No. 7 Porsche Penske Motorsport 963 featured British driver Nick Tandy on its roster, earning him a unique new accolade as the first driver to win all four major 24-hour races: the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 24 Hours of Daytona, the Spa 24 Hours and the Nürburgring 24 Hours.
The historic victory makes Porsche’s 963 the most successful hypercar in the top LMDh class – quite a feat given the extensive manufacturer participation in a form of motorsport that has enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years.
The ‘works’ Porsche Penske Motorsport cars enjoyed a near-faultless race, with both team cars showing strongly. In fact, the
L-R: Laurens Vanthoor, Nick Tandy and Felipe Nasr
No. 7 car of Brazilian Felipe Nasr, Belgian Laurens Vanthoor and Tandy led over half the laps and its sister car only relinquished second place towards the end of the race, taking the final podium spot. A privately entered 963 also came sixth.
A 911 GT3R came home third in the production-based GTD class, but Porsche had to give best in both the GTD and GTD Pro classes to other marques.
The Daytona win is Porsche's second successive victory at the Florida classic and makes an ideal opening to both their IMSA campaign and the sports car racing season as a whole, where once again Penske will run Porsche's effort in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) with an identical pair of 963s. The WEC calendar started in Qatar at the 1,812km race on 28 February, shortly after this magazine went to press.
STARTYOUR ENGINES!
AndyMcGregor,MarketingDirector of PorscheCarsGreatBritain,hasabusy yearahead of him!
I enjoyed my first visit to Cornbury House late last year, where it was great to meet with many of the Club's Board. The visit gave me a real insight into the passion that you all have for our company and its cars, but I also came away with a deeper understanding of how the Club serves the wider Porsche community.
With such a long and continuous history with the marque, the Club's knowledge and enthusiasm is obvious, but learning about the work done nationally and at a Regional level -both in support of owners and also attracting new fans -impressed me.
Our history of cooperation is well understood, with a unique link direct from the factory through to the individual countries and the Club organisations. I am excited to continue this tradition of working together and supporting the various activities we have planned for the coming year. An obvious highlight of 2025 will be the Goodwood Festival of Speed; details are still being worked out, but we can guarantee another showstopper!
Before we get to the summer, however, there is the kick-off for both the Club's motorsport programmes and our own Carrera Cup GB and Cayman Sprint Challenge Championships to look forward to. The fastest single-marque GT racing championship in the UK, Porsche Carrera Cup GB enters its 23rd season in 2025, kicking off at Donington Park in April. Remarkably, the Porsche Sprint Challenge GB is entering its sixth season, having welcomed the arrival of a new car to the single-marque GT racing championship for the mid-engined coupe in 2024.
Everyone who races with Porsche, from the grassroots through Club competition and up the amateur and professional ranks, becomes a part of the Porsche family. Whether you are taking the first steps on your motorsport journey or rejoining our community of passionate racers, you become part of the story and enduring Porsche racing history.
It is well known how success on track continues to feed into the product development process at Porsche and we will welcome the latest edition of the original trackday hero, the 911 GT3, into Porsche Centre showrooms in the coming months. I am sure those fortunate Club members with a build slot are looking forward to their new car arriving.
I hope to meet many more of you over the year ahead at the various special occasions and events that fuel the Club's community spirit.
MAROCCHALLENGEUPDATE
AFTERLASTMONTH'Scover story featuring Matt Faulks' 957 Cayenne and the Maroc Challenge, the Club has had a brilliant response to the proposal that it could put together a 'works' PCGB team for the November 2025 running of the event.
We have had multiple expressions of interest but our ranks are by no means full yet so, if you feel the lure of the
desert and want to be a part of it in any shape or form, then please get in touch with the Club at cayenne@ porscheclubgb.com. Despite the epic nature of the undertaking, it's actually a very cost-effective enterprise by the standards of most motorsport and you'll have a vehicle that can be used for all sorts of off-road or on-road driving in the UK afterwards.
Preparations for the event are moving ahead, with our team leader Matt refining the recommended specification of the cars. The very latest news is that he will be working with Rally Raid suspension specialist GMC on some remote reservoir spring/damper units that are specifically designed for the 955/957 Cayenne and should give the car more than enough capability over the very rough terrain.
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I I
LEMANSWITHSTYLE
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the biggest dates in the international motorsport calendar and one that has a particularly important place in the diary for Porsche. The demands it places on cars and drivers are extreme so, unsurprisingly, engineering quality is rewarded.
Porsche holds the record for the most overall victories with 19 and has played a major part in many of the records set by the most successful drivers. That's just one reason why it attracts vast numbers of Porsche enthusiasts. Last year, there were around 1,000 91 ls in the parking area reserved for Club members from around the world.
This year, Porsche Club Great Britain offering three different Le Mans experiences, from the camaraderie of camping in our trackside enclosure up to the luxury of a local chateau, reserved specifically for the race weekend.
TENTSANDGLAMPING AT PORSCHECURVES
As we go to press, there are only a handful of places left at our Village on the Curves site, where Club members can bring their own tent, book a two-or four-person ready-erected tent or choose a home-from-home glamping tent with a proper bed, duvet, pillows, towels and a table and chairs.
Booking with the Club means you can sleep trackside, shower, breakfast, dine and watch the race from one of its most dramatic locations, all without leaving your perfectly positioned Village on the Curves enclosure managed by Club partner, Lycian Events.
All options include a weekend ticket and a programme and, because you will be trackside, there is no need to join the frustratingly long queues suffered by those staying offsite.
You'll also have access to a trackside beer garden managed by Lycian and a free circuit bus. To ensure the best possible availability of grandstand and VIP grandstand tickets, Lycian has purchased the largest of four UK ticket providers authorised by Le Mans organisers, the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO). "It isn't just the quality of the offering; it's understanding what might go wrong so we can ensure the most relaxing, enjoyable experience," says
Lycian director and PCGB member Stephen Fowell. "That's why we have 90 per cent repeat business every year."
Findoutmoreatlyclanevents. com/le-mans
LUXURYCHATEAU ACCOMMODATION
For those wanting a truly luxurious Le Mans experience, we are offering an opulent stay at an exquisitely decorated 18th-century chateau, just 20 minutes from the circuit and curated for the 24 Hours of Le Mans by Le Jardin Prive 24. The package includes period rooms with air-conditioning, a seamless 24-hour circuit shuttle and a dedicated concierge service. From arrival drinks to sizzling
LEMANSCLASSIC
The Le Mans Classic will follow the 24 Hours this year. Club members can immerse themselves in the heady nostalgia of wonderful period motorsport from Lycian's Village on the Curves.
New for 2025 are inclusive breakfasts and dinners at the Cafe Virage, while in most other ways the options are similar to those for the 24-hour race. Whether you are bringing your own tent or treating yourself to a Village Belle glamper, you still get all the home-from-
home comforts at the Village including exclusive guest-only toilet and shower blocks, plus an information point within the Village staffed by the always-helpful Lycian specialists.
Findoutmoreatlyclanevents. com/classic-le-mans
BBQs, continental breakfasts and sumptuous brunches and dinners prepared by a Michelin-starred chef, every meal is included. All guests will also be invited to exclusive soirees only a short complimentary bus ride away at Le Jardin Prive's partner monastery chateau, where you will find a party vibe with DJs and entertainment. A limited number of VIP grandstand tickets are also available for the race, purely on a first-comefirst-served basis due to very restricted numbers.
Lycian Events are also offering pod accommodation, like a mini hotel room, within the grounds of Chateau de Sourches, just 27km outside Le Mans.
Positioned in the chateau park, each pod comes with two single beds, a shower, heating and air-conditioning, all bedding and toiletries, outside table and chairs and a parking space. Breakfasts and dinners are included, ranging from buffet dining to a formal dinner in the chateau on the Friday night. Transportation to and from the circuit is included each day, along with a champagne reception on arrival and a private tour of the chateau by the owner. A concierge will ensure your stay is just how you like it.
Club members choosing Chateau Glamping can book the Village at the Curves trackside viewing and hospitality package separately through Lycian.
Findoutmoreatlycianevents. com/manors-chateaux
FACTORYTOURS
HAVEYOUEVERwanted to see how your Porsche is made or visit the world-famous Porsche Museum in Stuttgart, but don't know where to start?
The Club has been running official Porsche Factory and Museum visits for more than 40 years (see On the Road in this issue), allowing Club members to see the craftmanship and technology that goes into every Porsche up close.
Each year, the Club organises three bespoke tours, with at least one to Stuttgart and another to Leipzig, where the on-and off-road tracks are available to drive with expert tuition.
Places for our first tour of the year in April are likely to have been filled by the time this copy of PorschePost slips onto your doormat, but there is still time to reserve your place in
May's 'flying in' trip to Stuttgart or to register your interest in September's longer driving tour. As well as giving you the opportunity to explore the touring capabilities of your Porsche, these longer trips include scenic stop-offs and visits to areas of both historic and automotive importance.
from Club members who joined Porsche Club of America (PCA) on a truly remarkable cruise to Alaska last year, the two major national Porsche communities will be setting sail together again in 2025. As this year marks the 70th anniversary of the formation of PCA, we're promised something particularly special.
The fourth 'Treffen at Sea' ('Treffen' meaning 'meeting' in this context) will be the biggest so far, packed with more entertainment and more Porsche activities than ever before, and it's all happening on one of the most picturesque routes that cruise operator Princess sails: Canada and New England. The route will travel along the rocky shores of the Atlantic, where guests will dine on award-winning cuisine and pause to visit fascinating historic towns.
Places are filling up fast, especially the premium cabins, so be sure to book your place soon by calling our PCGB concierge line on 0344 3388 663 or going to porscheclubgb.com/ events/2025/august/porscheclub-cruise-treffen-at-sea
FROMSOMEOFthe UK's most stunning scenery to iconic European mountain passes, Scenic Car Tours has helped our members drive many of the world's most beautiful and exciting roads. This year, the partnership is providing two exclusive tours. The first, in June, is a wonderful nine-day tour to Lake Maggiore, including four nights in the beautiful lakeside town of 6 Stresa. Nestled in the Southern Alps, Lake Maggiore is one of the largest and most u:j beautiful of the Italian lakes, with a mild Mediterranean micro-climate where beautiful gardens and exotic plants flourish.
Next up is a 12-day tour in September, driving through Portugal and northern Spain, winding through the Picos de Europa and the Douro Valley. From beaches to mountains, this tour encompasses Cantabria, Asturias
and the Pyrenees in a treasure trove of landscapes full of fabulous scenic roads, ancient towns and untouched villages.
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We have been around Porsches since 1985 and havea large amount ofknowledge. Notsurewhatpartor can't find the part you want, just speakto one of our helpful advisors
BACKTO COMBUSTION?
Technology,supply chainand market trends are driving Porscheback to combustion engines.What will this mean for the electric 718replacement?RichardGotchreports
CORPORATECOMMUNICATIONS CAN but it also meant addressing some be a frustrating profession. major supply chain challenges. When Porsche's latest business The biggest of these is for performance press release high-voltage traction batteries. dropped into my inbox, it was Since 2016, the proportion clear they had consciously of an EV's value accounted for led with the story they knew by the battery has fallen from would make headlines, roughly 50 per cent to roughly despite it being an admission 30 per cent. But, while cost is of a major strategic reversal. important, it is far from the only Beating strong headwinds to consideration. Very few analysts broadly meet all their key understand the complex mix of financial targets was relegated supply chain, geopolitics and to the second paragraph. technology scale-up challenges
So, with a deep breath faced by those trying to change and a huge sigh of relief, the the status quo in which 80 per headline announcement is cent of vehicle traction batteries "the expansion of the product are supplied by just five portfolio to include additional companies and at least 80 per vehicle models with combustion cent of the processed battery engines or plug-in hybrids". Like materials come from China. a luxury EV, the previous goal of According to McKinsey, just 80 per cent of sales being fully three per cent of global EV electric by 2030 disappeared battery cell production (not to silently over the horizon. be confused with battery pack assembly) is currently in Europe.
UNEXPECTEDSHOCKS
One of the few really useful Back in 2021 when Porsche reviews comes from Goldman announced the Mission R, a Sachs, who point out that Cayman-like electric coupe creating a new battery concept, analysts, pension funds manufacturer takes about 10 and other organisations on the years just to move from R&D, green bandwagon (including, through validation, sourcing and strangely, the Church of England) customer acquisition and then to were publicly castigating those first production. Even then, it will brave vehicle manufacturers who take more time to fully scale up could see that the entire world at a consistently high level of market was not going to go fully quality. Pointing to technologies electric in one model cycle. Today, that are successful at a laboratory the tables have turned, with the scale does not mean they will be same analysts praising the in next-generation vehicles. wisdom of those manufacturers who pressed on with a multi-
and more tightly packaged sports car was thought to require a new generation of batteries with a significantly higher energy density. According to German newspaper Handelsblatt, the company pressed the big red GAMBLE button and entered a supply contract with Swedish start-up Northvolt.
718
ELECTRIC
energy strategy and are now in That brings us to Porsche's a far stronger position to invest ambitious plans for an electric in new, cleaner technologies that 718 replacement. Balancing the meet this decade's customer needs need for a secure supply chain in every market. with the need for cutting-edge Riding the electric wave was battery technology has bitten always going to be high-risk. Not Porsche hard. While batteries only was it unclear how the early for the Taycan and the Macan E majority (following the early are supplied by established adopters)' would take to EVs or manufacturers (China's CATL how quickly the infrastructure for the Macan E, assembled would be put in place to make at their plant in Germany), them as convenient as hybrids, developing a much smaller
Now, Northvolt showed a lot of promise, which is why Volkswagen had invested about €900m to become their largest shareholder, followed by a €500m cash injection. By 2024, the company had raised more
than €13bn in debt and equity. They were well-funded, you would think. But, last year, Northvolt started to unravel. It appears that, to satisfy the ambitions of some investors, they continued to invest in new businesses and new technologies, losing sight of the need to generate revenue by satisfying demand from their existing customers. In June 2024, lead customer BMW lost confidence and cancelled its €2 billion order.
A few months later, Volkswagen pulled out of the board and significantly reduced its
"RIDINGTHEELECTRIC WAVEWASALWAYSGOING
shareholding. Within days, and Development, Michael Northvolt filed for bankruptcy in Steiner, explains that the driver the USA via its local subsidiary. will sit close to the road in the new car and this would be
REINVENTING
THECAR
impossible in a conventional Why is this important? Because skateboard-type vehicle where those close to the matter suggest the driver is on top of the battery. that much of the new electric It's a huge advantage. "[We are] Boxster/Cayman was engineered putting the centre of gravity as around the compact Northvolt close to the driver as possible," batteries. Instead of using a he says, making the car as agile 'skateboard' architecture with a as possible to counter the flat battery pack along the floor additional weight. as in most EVs, the batteries in Steiner is also proud of the the new car will sit behind the brake feel being achieved in the driver, where the engine is in prototype electric sports cars; today's models. The company another technology developed says it has learned a great deal with the help of experience in from its Formula E electric racing Formula E. To the relief of programme, especially around many who have driven more how to use energy efficiently and conventional electric vehicles, how to deliver the balance and the strategy is to not have any feel that top drivers need. degree of one-pedal driving. Porsche's member of the "We aim to preserve the signature Executive Board for Research sports car drive," he says.
RUNNINGTOCATCH UP
Some commentators have interpreted this as indicating limited brake regeneration, but Steiner notes that efficiency isn't just related to the design of the motor but also to the software and braking, suggesting that high levels of regeneration will be achieved. Reference to merging the regeneration systems with the traditional brakes suggests that a lot of work is going into the significant challenge that engineers call break blending, allowing regeneration to blend seamlessly with traditional friction braking. The electric 718 replacements were due to go on sale by the end of 2025. Is that still possible? When Handelsblatt asked for a statement, Porsche declined to comment. However, it did say that it was "unable to
comment on the situation in the supplier industry", suggesting that the Northvolt failure (which could still be temporary, at least for the Swedish gigafactory) may indeed be at the root of the delays. In its latest business statement, Porsche says: "Expenses in particular relating to vehicle development and in connection with battery activities in Porsche's own subsidiaries will lead to significant additional expenditures".
Rather impressively considering the headwinds, the company says its automotive net cashflow margin for 2024 will be marginally over forecast at 10 per cent (forecast: 7-8.5 per cent) and that the other important performance indicators will "not show significant deviations from the forecasted ranges".
DURAMAT-THEUK'S FAVOURITEGARAGEFLOORING
Since 2007, DURAMAT have forged a strong reputation in the UK garage flooring market and are widely renowned for producing high-quality PVC garage floor tiles and heavy-duty floor products.
Garage flooring from DURAMAT offers an innovative solution for homeowners looking to revamp their garage flooring. Their interlocking garage floor tiles are designed for quick and easy installation, requiring only basic tools and no prior knowledge of flooring installation. Their tiles are built to last, with superior resistance and durability, and the different colours and finish options allow you to create a unique floor layout to match your theme.
Their click-and-lay installation system is the perfect choice for those who want to update their garage floor without the hassle of traditional flooring installation methods. With DURAMAT interlocking tiles, you can create a custom garage
AVERYDENNISON®PAINT PROTECTIONFILMS
Protect and enhance AVERY h ·h DENNISON your Porsc e wit Avery Dennison® Paint Protection Films (PPF), the ultimate solution for maintaining its luxurious appearance and value.
With Avery Dennison's advanced technology, our PPF not only protects but also enhances. Choose from a variety of stunning finishessuch as satin, matte or high gloss -that give your car a customised and refined look. Enjoy 10 per cent off on Avery Dennison® PPF (material and installation) with discount code ADPPF10%. Contact Mike Rees at mike.rees@eu.averydennison.com and he'll connect you with a certified installer to ensure your Porsche gets the protection it deserves. For more details, please visit ppfad.eu
floor design that is both practical and stylish, all installed in just a matter of hours. For anyone wanting to take their flooring to the next level, custom logo etch printing options are also available. For a limited time, Club members can enjoy a 10 per cent discount on purchases and half price etch printings upon request. Use discount code PORSCHE10 at duramat.co.uk or call 01206 390570 for more information.
IRISHFERRIES
On the Irish Sea routes, Irish Ferries operates up to 16 IRISH FERRIES sailings a day with a fleet of modern cruise and fast ferries. On the Ireland to France service, an overnight crossing departing up to three times weekly throughout the year, Irish Ferries operates the award-winning W.B. Yeats. Our modern ships cover the following routes:
UK-IRELAND:Holyhead to Dublin and Pembroke to Rosslare
UK-FRANCE: Dover to Calais
IRELAND-FRANCE: Dublin to Cherbourg
Contact our friendly team to book your trip using the discount code PORSCHEC at business@ irishferries.com or find out more at irishferries.com
The Club has negotiated a whole range of exclusive discounts and incentives for our members from more than 50 companies and organisations. These cover a wide range of products and services to help you make the most of your Club membership and your Porsche. Simply scan the QR code here and you'll be directed to the full list of discounts on our website. Once logged in to your account, you can access the necessary discount codes or exclusive links to help save you money. If you know of a business that would be open to offering Club members a discount, please ask them to contact the Clubhouse team to see what can be arranged.
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PORSCHECLUBATBROOKLANDS
Following the remarkable success of the 2024 Club event at Brooklands, which was one of our largest of the year, we're excited to be returning to Brooklands Museum on 29 June. This iconic venue, which is steeped in both automotive and aviation history, will once again serve as the perfect backdrop for a celebration of Porsche excellence that the whole family can enjoy.
Among the hundreds of Porsches on display,we'll have two very special transaxle displays to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 924 and 30 years since the end of 968 production.
Club members can enjoy discounted entry of £19.99 per person, which includes full access to the museum and exhibits.
SUMMERSOLSTICE@BOXENGASSE
Watch the sun set over hundreds of Porsches on the longest day of the year and join hundreds of Club members and the wider Porsche community for our all-new summer party at Boxengasse, one of the most exciting automotive venues in the UK.
Enjoy an evening soaking up the summer sun on 21 June with live music and mouth-wateringly good food. Whether your flavour of choice is air, water, electric or hybrid, come and join old and new friends in this Porsche paradise! We will be choreographing grouped drives from various starting points across the UK, so keep an eye out for details.
THECOTSWOLDSRALLY
Tickets for the Cotswolds Rally are now live and selling fast! This mystery tour of the picturesque Cotswolds is always a Club favourite and this year is no exception. Taking place on 27 July, enjoy a guided tour to a secret destination in what is arguably one of the most beautiful regions of Britain.
After an early breakfast, participants will embark on a magical mystery tour via a Tulip map roadbook, promising an unforgettable experience for drivers and passengers alike.
Follow the instructions correctly and you'll find lunch waiting for you at the finish line, along with a wonderful collection of classic and contemporary Porsches!
OULTONPARKSUPERCARPAGEANT
Strap in for an action-packed day of motorsport at Oulton Park's Supercar Pageant on 28 June, with Club members able to enjoy a free infield parking pass and entry ticket!
The Supercar Pageant will see the historic Cheshire circuit filled with breathtaking performance cars. The infield will be transformed into a stunning display of automotive excellence filled with Porsches, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Bentleys and many more.
Our very own Porsche Club Championship and Boxster Cup will bring high-speed thrills, while wheel-to-wheel Caterham battles await in the 7 Racing Championship. Indulge in a spectacular display of modern and classic road-going supercars, along with more exciting off-track entertainment to be announced soon.
DISCOVERMOREGREATCLUBEVENTS
FROMTHE
A new car prompts PCGBChairNick Taylorto wonder if a tide is turning
Curiosity killed the cat, but I've taken the plunge anyway and swapped my Macan GTS 'daily' for a new Taycan Cross Turismo. So far, I love its torque, traction, tech and balance. Charging while away from home remains a lingering concern but, if I can fit an EV into my free-flowing life, I'm guessing most of us would be able to. We'll see.
I found a compelling deal, as seems to be the way at the moment for Porsche EVs and their European competitors. Supply seems some way above demand. For businesses and business users, the economic case can be very attractive. And yet I wonder: am I swimming against the tide? Porsche made one of the industry's biggest strategic bets on a mandated EV transition that now seems questionable. Sales in its biggest market (China) collapsed and everyone seems to be struggling to sell luxury EVs.
In the weeks since I took delivery, Porsche announced a new €800m investment in combustion and hybrid engines and then the loss of 1,900 jobs at Zuffenhausen and Weissach, with a further 2,000 temporary jobs going this year. Directors with responsibility for finance, sales and marketing are said to be leaving.
Porsche, one of the most profitable car makers, expects profit margins this year to fall to 10-14 per cent, far below its long-term range of 20 per cent -although it's worth remembering that many other vehicle manufacturers would be envious of that lower figure. Porsche is not going bust, but it is seemingly facing some headwinds. Where does this leave Porsche enthusiasts as we consider personal investment decisions into the brand that we love? I can't see EVs going away in the same way as new diesels. They are deeply embedded in many markets
that are much bigger than the UK. I suspect all of this is a pragmatic hedging of bets rather than a major strategic reversal. If EV Macan sales disappoint, perhaps Porsche will once again re-engineer the Audi Q5 (now a plug-in hybrid) into a Macan to provide some optionality.
Will there be a stay of execution for the ICE 718 which is already 'off sale' in the EU (see P16)? And what about the heralded Mission X, which debuted at Porsche's 75th birthday? Time will soon tell. But I can't remember the last time Porsche brought out a new car that wasn't hailed as best or near-best in class. So, while we can expect some changes in the product mix, I don't worry for the company or the cars we drive. I've hedged my bets. I'll keep a naturally aspirated Porsche sports car for as long as the law and my faculties allow.
In other news, Board nominations are in. If you give a damn about how the Club is governed, I urge you to take a look at who has thrown their hat into the ring and vote as you think appropriate.
"ILOVEITS TORQUE,TRACTION, TECHAND BALANCE"
READ,WATCH,LISTEN
Project 989 was an all-new, four-door sports car with a hatch at the back and a VS at the front. The project was binned, but would it have sold? Our friends at evo tell the story.
This 1967 Porsche 910 racer sold for $2.5 million in 2023 and was worth the money just for its intoxicating howl.
youtube.com/ watch?v=Llo46jxlz1 o
Finally, work has started on making some modest changes to our Clubhouse to make it a warmer and more welcoming hub for members to visit. Please watch this space. Literally. • D
This podcast from Andrew Frankel and Dan Prosser of The Intercooler takes a fascinating and detailed stroll through Porsche's special edition sportscars. tinyurl.com/ lntercoolerEp223
1 1 • c:.:, ~I-
Cr:,C::::, <CZ:
NOTICEISHEREBY given that the 43rd Annual General Meeting of Gmiind Heritage Limited trading as Porsche Club Great Britain (PCGB) will be held from 1pm on Sunday 27 April 2025 to consider the following business:
1. Apologies for absence
2. Approval of the minutes from the Annual General Meeting held on 28 April 2024
3. Approval and adoption
of the Directors' Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024
4. Reappointment of Auditors
5. Appointment of Commercial Director
6. Appointment of IT Director
7. Appointment of Finance Director
8. Appointment of Legal and HR Director
9. Appointment of Regions Director
10. Appointment of Registers Director
11. Questions from the Membership
12. Any other business
The meeting will be an Electronic General Meeting as provided for in our Articles of Association. A physical meeting will take place at Cornbury House and a secondary location (details to be provided) in combination with an electronic platform that enables members (or their proxies) to participate in the meeting without physically attending.
ByOrderoftheBoard
SueTaberner ClubSecretary
Any Member wishing to raise a matter at this meeting should write to the Club Secretary, at Cornbury House, by Friday 4 April 2025.
In accordance with the Companies Act 2006 s.324, a member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting convened by the notice set out above is entitled to appoint another person as his proxy to attend, speak and vote in his place. In order for a proxy to be valid, a fully completed and signed original Proxy Form must be received at Cornbury House, Cotswold Business Village, London Road, Moreton-inMarsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0JQ. It would be helpful to the Club in terms of preparing for the meeting if proxies could be received as soon as possible and no later than 1pm on Wednesday 23 April 2025.
NOTICEISHEREBY given that the 22nd Annual General Meeting of Porsche Club GB Motorsport Limited will be held on Sunday 27 April 2025 commencing after the conclusion of the main Club AGM to consider the following business:
1. Apologies for absence
2. Approval of the minutes from the Annual General Meeting held on 28 April 2024
3. Approval and adoption of the Directors' Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024
4. Reappointment of Auditors
5. Questions
6. Any other business
ByOrderoftheBoard
SueTaberner ClubSecretary
DEAREDITOR,
Moving from a 3.2 Carrera to something more modern was a big step for me and one that I put off (foolishly) for rather too long. May I say how helpful your July article comparing the 997.2, 991.1 and 992.2 was.
Approaching it from the perspective of a Club member taking this difficult decision helped me understand which of them was the right choice for me and I am delighted to tell you, rather like one of those 'revisited' property programmes, that I have just purchased a 997.2 C2S PDK which-so far -is ticking all my practical and emotional boxes. It's a great magazine, thank you for the considerable effort it must take to produce, and please don't forget how valuable these comparisons are to us humble Club members who don't have an opportunity to test drive so many cars.
AubreyGTaylor
DEAREDITOR,
I read your review of the new Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupe with GT Package in the January 2025 edition of Porsche Post with interest. Is it just me or is this a completely pointless vehicle? Titanium tail pipes? A weightsaving carbon roof on a vehicle that weighs just a whisker short of two-and-a-half tonnes? More than £150,000 before options ... who buys these cars? I've come to appreciate the Cayenne over the years for what it does and what it's done for the Porsche company, but this just seems a Cayenne too far...
GrantRice
I suspect the answer is that Porsche wouldn't make it if it didn't feel there was a market for it. And it has to be said that, as a piece of engineering, the Coupe with GT Package is almost surreally capable. I con(ess it's not for me, but then that's what makes our 'Porsche world' such an interesting, diverse place - Adam Towler
DEAREDITOR,
Great that you're getting Colin Belton to spill the beans! I reckon he's one of the few UK air-cooled 911 experts who hasn't retired yet. Keep up the good work.
TonyCarey
1 MARKET REVIEW
Is the price of 911sactually better than it seems?
WORDS:ANDYJACKSON
Anew year is always an excuse for a clear-out and, a few weeks ago, I stumbled across an old 911 price list. A 3.2 Carrera was just over £25,000, which raised important questions given the current market: how does that relate to a 911 today? And are we better or worse off?
There have been several noticeable price increases over the past 18 months, at a time when most people are feeling that affordability is a real issue. It would be fair to say that, as we feel the pinch, so does Porsche. The cost of raw materials has gone up and so has R&D thanks to increased pressures to go green. While some technology is shared within the Volkswagen Group, it's still a cost that needs to be amortised. The cost of shipping has also risen, as have wages, so it is no wonder prices have had to rise. Did they need to rise by quite so much?
The short answer is yes. There are many good things about a 911 and one is its evolution over the past 60 years -which, for a price comparison exercise, is very handy. The chart below shows the price of a 911 Carrera over the past 40 years alongside the adjusted price for inflation. To create it, I have used a variety of price lists, websites and the Bank of England inflation calculator.
YearModelRRPAdjusted
1985 3.2 Carrera
1990 964 Carrera
1996 993 Carrera
1998 996 Carrera
2010 997.2 Carrera
2012 991 Carrera
2015 991.2 Carrera
2019 992 Carrera
2024 992 Carrera
£25,301
£47,198
£61,250
£64,650
£63,070
£71.449
£76.412
£86,750
£99,800
£76,897
£114,533
£120,644
£123,141
£100,896
£100,826
£103,577
£108,749
As you can see, the latest 911 Carrera looks like a great buy on paper, so why does it not feel like it?
Inflation is a funny thing. I'm not an economist, but I know that while we have seen it rise and fall over the past couple of years for one reason or another, I am still paying twice as much for a coffee as I was four years ago
and electricity still costs a fortune (and many will feel their incomes have not risen with inflation - Ed). It's no wonder that a basic Carrera at £100k and one with a few choice options at £115k feel expensive, and even more so when funded because cautious finance companies have reduced residual values and interest rates are still higher than a few years ago. Not that this make it feel any better but, from the previous chart, it's fair to say that the latest 911 Carrera is arguably cheaper than it has been in the past 40 years, with the exception of the 3.2. You could say that the base model has to look attractive, as is the case with most manufacturers, but applying the same logic to the top model yields comparable results:
I appreciate that the majority of 992 Turbo S models in 2024 had around £25k in extra options, but take a look at the 993 Turbo -that was punchy in 1998! It might not feel like the 911 is cheaper now than it was pre-COVID, but it is when linked to inflation. The availability of new cars is currently plentiful, but we are at a pivotal point that needs careful and considerate management. Get it wrong and it would be disastrous for the brand and the used car market. There is still plenty of interest in new cars but, as prospective buyers wrestle with affordability, margins are being eroded.
This does have a bearing on the used car market because the shorter lead times on new cars and an abundance of 2023/24-registered 91 ls has hit prices hard. However, the demand for early 992s is strong at present. This is due in part to the smaller volumes produced during the pandemic. This week, I watched in disbelief as a 27,000-mile late-2020 C4S with a big spec sold through the trade for £91,500. That's a whopping £15k over the guide price and remarkably close to retail, leaving little margin for prep and profit -crazy when you consider a 2022 C4 GTS is £99,000-106,000 retail!
There is little comfort in knowing that new car prices are in line with inflation and it's not Porsche that's being greedy. The 992.2 offers more performance, refinement and tech than the earlier model but, given the UK's road network and traffic, is it necessary? If you had an earlier GTS, would a new Carrera S suffice instead? PP
Catch a glimpse of an early 996 GT3 these days and it looks tiny, tough and absolutely rippling with intent. Star quality doesn't just fade away and especially when it comes to track-focussed 911s.
From the original 2.7 RS via the 3.2 Club Sport, the 964 and the 993 RS, there's just an innate rightness that seems to amplify rather than diminish with time.
Even so, who could have imagined back in 1999 -more than a quarter of a century ago now -that this fierce car would be the progenitor to a whole new branch of the 911 family? Every generation has grown in intensity and come to dominate racetracks and, in fact, the entire Porsche scene. Everyone wants a GT3, so a new version of this hallowed model is pretty big news -even in a world where the gloriously extreme 992 GT3 RS exists. Or the Goldilocks SIT which, honestly, could be called the GT3 SIT, seeing as it owes so much to the standard car.
The upshot is that we arrive in Valencia in Spain for the launch drive event of the 992.2 GT3 with a sense of excitement and almost zero trepidation. Porsche Motorsport doesn't get the GT3 wrong. Unless something very strange has unfolded behind the scenes, I would bet my house that the newest GT3 will be, er, pretty damn good. How good? We have a couple of hours on track and an afternoon on Spain's mouthwatering roads to find out.
The day starts with a slightly deflating press conference that mostly demonstrates how difficult it is merely to fight for the survival of a normally aspirated sports car like the GT3. Ever-tightening emissions and noise legislation threatens to literally strangle and suffocate the GT3's 4-litre flat-six. For example, NOx legislation in the USA demands a 44 per cent reduction
in emissions even since the first generation of 992 GT3 was homologated. It's mind-blowing and has forced huge effort to be spent to both retain the GT3's 9,000rpm rev limit and make sure it's worth holding out for the needle to sweep into the upper reaches of the rev counter. And it is. The engine produces 503bhp at 8,500rpm, just as it did before, despite a new exhaust with four cats and two particulate filters and hence higher back pressure. New GT3 RS-spec camshafts with a longer duration, flow-optimising of the individual throttle valves to increase cylinder filling (worth around 5bhp alone), improved cooling and a host of other small detail changes keep the engine and the spirit of the GT3 alive. Torque does fall slightly (from 3471b/ft to 332lb/ft) but, to compensate, the GT3 has an eight per cent shorter final drive in both manual and PDK configurations features. Great for performance and interaction too. Slightly long gearing is perhaps the closest thing the outgoing car had to an actual 'fault'.
SIXOFTHEBEST
Our weapon for the track is a Paint to Sample Greenyellow GT3 inspired by Manthey's 'Grello' livery that's often seen winning little races like the Niirburgring 24 Hours. It proudly wears a wing and comes with the no-cost option six-speed manual 'box. The wing cars are PDK by default, whereas the Touring (which we'll drive later) is fitted with the manual unless you deliberately tick the box for paddles. It might seem perverse to have a manual for our laps of the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, but I'm not complaining. For me, a few tenths of a second sacrificed is worth it for the added entertainment of working that engine with three pedals and a stick. Maybe the optional Weissach Package, also fitted, will win those fractions back anyway. This 992.2 GT3 really is a GT3
of firsts. The first time a Touring has been available from launch. The first Weissach Package offered on a non-RS product. Oh, and the first GT3 Touring available with rear seats. Our GT3 for the racetrack has the full fat (or should that be skimmed?) Weissach Package, which adds a carbon fibre roll cage to the carbon fibre front air blades, bonnet, mirror shells, roof and end plates for the rear wing (which is carbon regardless), plus carbon fibre rear anti-roll bar and shear panel. It saves around 20kg and costs £19,531 with the carbon roll cage or £15,597 without. A steel roll cage is a no-cost option in Clubsport configuration.
THESAMEOLDSONGANDDANCE
Immediately, so much is familiar. Just pulling out of the pit lane, the GT3's killer ingredients make themselves known. The engine remains something truly special. In fact, its incredibly accurate throttle response, intense howl and savage top-end power only become more covetable with time. Getting access to that magic zone more frequently due to the shorter gearing is a joyous thing indeed. Oh, and the six-speed manual is probably the very best in the world; tight, mechanical in feel and so accurate that you never even think about it.
I'm also pleased to report that the soundtrack still has the capacity to make you involuntarily blurt out expletives, building in perfect harmony with the frenzied power as the revs rise. Porsche has worked hard to ensure the GT3 has put on just 2kg despite new emissions and safety equipment and part of that process was removing what little sound deadening was left for the interior. Another inspired decision.
There's a hint of RS here too. No, the GT3 doesn't have the immense downforce-enabled Hand of God highspeed grip of that car, but changes to the suspension and steering have brought a level of response, stability and absolute body control that feels like real progression. The car stays so flat even as you ask more and more of it. A new lower pivot point for the front suspension (it also benefits from an aero-sculpted rear trailing arm, borrowed from the RS) has significantly improved its anti-dive characteristics. Porsche claims that an emergency stop from 200kph would previously elicit 12mm of dive at the front. That's now been
"YOUFEELABSOLUTELY
reduced to just 6mm. Hard to visualise but, on the track, the tangible benefit is that the car feels impervious to longitudinal forces, allowing you to carry more speed into corners and smooth the transition between braking, turning and acceleration. Shorter bump stops have also created more suspension travel and necessitated a new damper strategy, again with lessons learned from the RS. Any thoughts that the GT3 would simply be an SIT in all but name are eradicated. With rear-steer, the adoption of many RS learnings and this remarkable platform control, the GT3 feels more precise, more alert and a very different flavour.
Perhaps most impressive is that, despite the subtlety of weight transfer and iron control, feel and communication through the steering and seat have a high-definition clarity. To me, the new GT3 makes another little step forward here and it breeds amazing confidence. On the wide-open spaces of a track, that means you can push right to the limit and beyond and find the usual sublime 911 balance. Nothing slides with the grace, efficiency and ever-building momentum of the rear-engined icon.
ANAUTOMATIC HIT
Our road car for the afternoon is a Touring fitted with PDK and rear seats. For many, this is A Very Big Deal and it certainly gives the new GT3 a new breadth. I get it.
However, the best seat in the house remains the (carbon-shelled but now foldable) driver's bucket. There's not the opportunity to try the Leichtbau Package, which is essentially the same as Weissach but with the addition of optional magnesium wheels, so saving a further 9.1kg. It costs £29,223. Our car even has the standard iron brakes.
Yet there's no disappointment here. On the road, the new GT3 is sensational. At lower speeds, there's more time to enjoy the subtle changes. The steering has a new 'automatic friction compensation' programme and feels slightly calmer but more intuitive than before. Moreover, it should remain absolutely consistent regardless of temperature, tyre wear and a whole host of other factors. It acts on a chassis that really does have rare balance. Each tyre seems to share the load evenly and the result is you feel absolutely at the centre
L.J..J of everything, orchestrating a virtuoso > performance like you were born to do it.
§§ The PDK 'box is, as ever, almost
ti:i annoyingly faultless. Shifts are instantaneous
0:::
LJ.... and suit the blade-like sharpness of the power
delivery. For me, the manual remains the choice, but there's no question that PDK is enthralling and rewarding in its own right. Even the new digital display adds a bit of theatre because it's possible to rotate the rev counter so 9,000rpm is located at the 12 o'clock position, just like an old race car. Digital with an analogue heart, then. Spain's deserted roads soar and flow just as reliably as the sun shines bright and warm, even in winter, and the GT3 is in its element. A side effect of the shorter gearing isn't just that you get to zing it up to the red line more often on track or when conditions allow. It also means you don't have to shift quite so frequently and can enjoy the character of the engine in the mid-range too. So, alongside making the GT3 an even bigger thrill at full noise, I think it's more satisfying to simply stroke along. It seems impossible that a car of such precise and instant response also possesses almost effortless fluidity, but such is the magic of the GT3. In short, everybody should still want one of these cars. Did you ever doubt it? PP
Jonathanand Adela Edgoosetook their 718GT4 for a thrilling drive up to the Orkney Islands.
Just don't tell the dog
WORDSANDPHOTOS: JONATHANANDADELAEDGDDSE
It was a spur of the moment thing: let's drive to the Orkneys with the dog in a Skoda Yeti so my wife, Adela, could visit the many archaeological sites on the islands. Unfortunately for Gershwin the dog, he was quickly excluded from the plans, opening up the chance to take the Python Green 718 GT4 instead.
It's a long way to the Highlands from Winchester, but we managed to get to Tebay in Cumbria in just four hours for some cake, then went on to the first overnight stop at the Trigony House Hotel close to Thornhill in Dumfries and Galloway. We'd recommend this place. It's not too much of a detour off the A74M and it gives you the chance to visit places like Drumlanrig Castle and Gardens, which we did. There are some fun roads in Dumfries too, such as the A702 between Thornhill and Abington.
A relative from Scotland advised that we should stop for a break in Culross, which has featured in many films and the TV series Outlander. Sitting on the north bank of the Forth to the east of Falkirk, this 16th century village grew on the back of the coal industry.
National Trust for Scotland has been preserving its historical buildings, which include Culross Palace, since the 1930s.
We headed north and, while skirting around Perth, stopped off for more cake at Branklyn Garden on the edge of the city. It's well worth a visit and a real oasis close to the A93. We then followed the A93, noting that we were now on the scenic snow route through the Cairngorms towards our next destination, Dalmunzie Castle Hotel in the Spittal of Glenshee. The A93 is a great driving road and just got better the further into the Cairngorms we travelled.
NORTHERNDELIGHTS
The Dalmunzie Castle Hotel was interesting -not posh but great service and staff, with plenty of opportunities for walks in the glen. The many stags around the hotel were bellowing, perhaps to warn each other about the arrival of three generations of a Danish family we met in the bar. They were staying at Dalmunzie for a week of stalking and complained bitterly about the effect Brexit was having on taking antler trophies home!
In the morning, we continued along the scenic snow route up the A93 for about 20 miles, stopping at Balmoral Castle to walk around the gardens. We then went on to Ballater, turning left onto the A939. Don't be tempted to take the B road shortcut. This is another great drive through the snow-capped Cairngorms, with lots of gradient changes and sweeping bends past the ski slopes to enjoy.
There's also very little traffic in October.
We followed the road to Grantown-onSpey, then onto the A9 through Inverness
and towards the north, stopping at Dornoch for another break. The A9 east coast route is not my favourite but, with little traffic and decent weather, it wasn't too arduous and we reached our next stop, the Forss Hotel in Thurso, ready for our crossing to the Orkneys the next day. The crossing from Scrabster to Stromness took 90 minutes and we spied the Old Man of Hoy on the way. However, the weather quickly deteriorated and we arrived on Orkney Mainland in heavy rain.
Clockwise from top le~: the GT4 was in its element on Scottish roads; the neolithic village, with some of the best-preserved ruins in Europe
INWESTERNEUROPE"
"AFTERAHOTCHOCOLATEANDMORECAKE,WEBRAVEDTHEELEMENTS TO VISITTHEBEST-PRESERVEDNEOLITHICVILLAGE
ANCIENTWONDERS
There was no turning back, so we headed straight for Skara Brae. It was blowing a gale and pouring with rain but, after a hot chocolate and more cake, we braved the elements to visit the best-preserved neolithic village in Western Europe, dating from around 3,000BC. There are 10 clustered houses and an exhibition centre. We also visited Skaill House next door, which dated from 1620 and was home to Major Malcolm Macrae, who was responsible for the early work in uncovering Skara Brae.
We stayed on Orkney for three nights at the Lynnfield House Hotel. This is a real gem and is owned and run by Malcolm Stout. Malcolm is the proud owner of a Jowett Jupiter, with a Maserati Quattroporte as a daily runner. He's a real character and runs a lovely hotel with top-notch food and very smart rooms. It's a good base, being near to Kirkwall and next door to the Highland Park distillery.
While on the Islands, we also visited the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, all well-preserved neolithic relics. Since the weather had perked up, it was easy to enjoy being outside all day too. We also saw the Churchill Barriers, built by Italian POWs to deter U-boat attacks, and the Scapa Flow Museum. Reached by ferry from Houton, the latter is a brilliant museum on Hoy that takes you through the base's history through two world wars.
HOMEWARDBOUND
After enjoying the museum, we returned to mainland Scotland and headed for Kylesku along the NCSOOroute. The road is great in places and challenging in others. We received a very friendly welcome at the Store Cafe in Bettyhill. No cake this time, but the chips were very welcome.
We also stopped to admire the view at Loch Eriboll before the lovely section of road between Durness and Ullapool. We actually stayed in Kylesku for two nights and drove up and down this section a few times, deviating to Lochinver for another section of A837. The food at the Kylesku Hotel was great, the room was tiny and the bill was unrealistically large. We then headed home via Edinburgh, with an overnight stay at Prestonfield House Hotel. This was a real treat, with truly amazing food and a massive room. I would definitely recommend it for a special occasion.
Finally, we got back to Winchester, having travelled 1,900 miles in 10 days. We had a lovely time and Orkney is well worth the effort. You can definitely have fun along the way, but I'm glad we did it in the GT4. The dog may disagree. PPTheweatherwasn'talwayskindonOrkney,butteaandcakehelped
THE CAR THAT TIME FORGOT
The classic 944 is a testament to advanced engineering and ’80s excess, but how does it stack up 50 years on?
Words: Steve Bennett Photos: Olgun Kordal
eak transaxle Porsche?
PWell, it’s got to be the 944, has it not? And while most features celebrating the 944 would go full boost on the range-topping, 911-challenging Turbo, we are going to celebrate the 944 that really did the numbers for Porsche: the 944 Lux, the basic eight-valve, 2.5-litre, 163bhp ’80s coupé that shifted a none-too-shabby 111,500 units between 1983 and 1987.
Lest we forget, the 944 Lux was greeted with near 100 per cent approval on its launch. ‘A proper Porsche with a proper Porsche engine’ was the general gist of the acclaim, to further drag out the animosity directed at the 924. A slightly bizarre take from the 924 deniers, because there would never have been a 944 to get excited about in the first place without it.
But this is not a history piece. We all know the story of the Porsche that should have been a VW, but kudos to Porsche for rescuing what VW had thrown back and, in typical Porsche fashion, evolved over a 20-year period from the 924 to the 944 to the 968. Sure, by 1995 and the 968, Porsche had squeezed every last development drop from the transaxle platform and, with the Boxster and 996 on the horizon, its time was most definitely up. But, in its ’80s heyday, it was the 944 that looked like Porsche’s future, not the 911. Porsche even pitched the 944 Turbo directly at the 911 Carrera 3.2 in terms of performance and price in a marketplace survival of the fittest.
And the 944 did make the 911 look old-fashioned and a bit quirky, which of course it was. The 944 was a more contemporary machine for more modern
“The 944 was a more contemporary machine for more modern times”
times, its evolution starting in 1975 rather than 1963. Hop between a 911 and a 944 in 1983 and you would be forgiven for thinking that they had come from different manufacturers.
For many who aspired to the Porsche badge but didn’t ‘get’ the 911, saw the 924 as tainted and found the 928 out of reach, the 944 was for them − as Porsche had intended.
And, as the numbers and longevity prove, Porsche clearly got it right. The 944 wasn’t cheap, but it wasn’t completely out of reach either. It helped that it was also a pragmatic choice, with Porsche
making as much noise about its practicality and economy as its performance. As an everyday car, there were very few compromises involved in running a 944.
a place in history
But that was then and this is now. Exactly where does the 944 fit into the classic Porsche firmament in this 50-year celebration of transaxle cars? And should a 944 be on your ‘next classic Porsche’ shopping list as opposed to, say, a Boxster?
I should at this point ‘fess up to being something of a serial 944 owner over the years. No point in pretending otherwise
when the following pages reveal all. From 2001 to 2018, I ran a variety of 944s as my everyday wheels of choice, for all the same reasons that ’80s 944 man would have. Pretty much exclusively, they were of the 944 Lux variety. I am therefore, perhaps, a little biased.
I am also acutely aware that much of the praise for the 944 has so far not been exactly persuasive from a raw seat-of-thepants excitement point of view, and that everyday usability is not necessarily high on the agenda for a car that doesn’t need to play that role. To put it another way, it’s not sexy, is it?
“It’s not a car that wears its heart on its sleeve, but then isn’t that often the Porsche way?”
Design details scream ‘1980s’; bodykit was a factory option
Model behaviour
Time to change the mood a little. How about this from CAR magazine’s 944 Lux first drive feature published in December 1981: “Racing up the hill with no oncoming traffic to avoid and lots of road to use, I took heart and snatched into fourth. As the clutch gripped and the power went down, the tail leaned towards the hill sideways at 90mph. With the body’s right shoulder akimbo and the front wheels delicately held on opposite lock, the 944 flew through the bend, snapped straight as I changed into fifth, and stormed up the hill, accelerating hard…”
C’mon, that’s a bit more like it. Okay, so I’m not planning on replicating such behaviour on this near-zero-degree Friday morning in January, but I do fully plan to use this lovely 1985 944 Lux as the driving
tool it is and put to one side some of the more worthy stuff that sticks to the 944, particularly in Lux form.
A 1985 944 Lux? Keen 944 spotters will have noted that this is a very early oval dash model, 1985 being the crossover year between the square and oval layout. We did deliberate on whether a super-early, square-dash 944 would have been more appropriate, not least because we love the dials with their yellow-on-black faces, but the truth is that the oval dash is so much better, particularly in terms of ventilation.
The later model also gets the Teledials over Cookie Cutters, which are no one’s favourite as Porsche wheels go. Fuchs were an option and give an instant 924 Carrera GT vibe, but hardly anyone ever specced them. And, to get really pedantic, the ’85 and ’86 944 Lux featured a deeper-dished
Teledial than the flatter-faced Tele on the later ABS-optioned 944.
Fine-tuned performance
Bodykit? Ah, you noticed. Not everyone’s cup of Earl Grey, but the boxy side skirts and rear valence were factory options, which is exactly how this particular 944 Lux rolled off the line bound for Porsche Colchester, as specced by its first and current owner, Derek Price. Derek has been the custodian of this 944 on and off for the past 40 years.
Is the 944 a slice of pure ’80s coupé cool? Hell, yes. Flared arches, pop-up headlights − what more do you want? A proper Porsche, then? If the whole engine thing swings it for you, then okay, it’s a proper Porsche. After all, Porsche did make much of that but then, stung
“Flared arches, pop-up headlights –what more do you want?”
“Sure, it’s not powerful per se, but the power it does have is available all of the time”
by the whole 924 van engine fiasco, it would. And there was much to shout about too. The canted-over, all-aluminium, 2.5-litre, four-cylinder used a lot of the 928’s top-end components and featured advanced Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection. Numbers? Well, 163bhp at 5,800rpm was healthy if not heady, but 151lbs/ft at 3,000rpm of pulling power was more informative as to the engine’s character – torquey with a curve that’s long and flat from 2,500rpm to 5,500rpm.
Big four-pots are inherently lumpy and Porsche made a virtue out of a necessity by fitting counter-rotating balance shafts to smooth out the potential bad vibes. It also installed the engine on fluid-damped mounts to further isolate it. The engine and rear transaxle are connected by a torque tube, within which the slender propshaft spins. And, of course, that rear-mounted transaxle equates to the famed 50/50 balance we all like to bang on about.
Down to business
That’s about as techy as we’re going to get. The crucial and emotional question is: what’s it like to drive, particularly in a modern context? It’s been a good few years since I have actually driven one and my abiding memories of 17 years of 944 ownership are of a depth of character that really gets under the skin and a dynamic ability that’s never anything less than deeply satisfying. It’s not a car that wears its heart on its sleeve, but then isn’t that often the Porsche way?
Again, that doesn’t sound exciting, does it? But hang in there, because there are rewards to come and Derek’s car is as good as they get. A bad one, usually featuring knackered engine mounts, chattering torque tube bearings and tired suspension, is a truly horrible thing because all those vibe-supressing measures are as crucial to 944 enjoyment as its famed balance. Start the big four-pot and it churns slowly before catching, idling at a low rumble and kept in check by those engine mounts.
beautiful?
The classic 2.5-litre Porsche inline ‘four’. Aren’t Porsche cam covers
To drive, the 944 Lux feels perfectly modern, save for a higher degree of weighting in the controls. The steering is assisted but still has plenty of resistance and a distinct damping effect at dead centre. There is a linear feel to the clutch and a weight to the floor-mounted throttle. The gear lever is stubby but long and pronounced in its throw. It all feels engineered and cohesive.
The engine is every bit as flexible as the numbers suggest. If peaky 16-valvers are not your thing -and they are resolutely not mine in a road car -then you'll find the 2.5, eight-valve a simple and charismatic companion. It storms smoothly to its 5,800rpm peak and soft cuts at 6,500rpm. But it's the mids
rather than the peaks that make it so compelling. Sure, it's not powerful per se, but the power it does have is available all of the time, which, in a road car, is exactly what you want.
A case in point is the short-lived 16-valve 944 S. Despite having 185bhp, it had such a narrow power curve as to make it pretty much unobtainable on the road, not helped by taller gearing. It certainly couldn't be employed to give the 944's sublime chassis a good workout. In the torquey eight-valve, chassis and engine work together very nicely indeed.
PEAKYBLINDER
Yes, it's handling and balance time, and this is why I loved my 944s so much and why
I'm enjoying myself so much today. That balance, the famed handling ... it's sublime. The suspension -stiff by mid-'80s standards, perhaps -is compliant for today's pockmarked roads and the balance is all there thanks to that 50/50 layout. It's the very antithesis of the pendulum-like 911, but not so benign as to be boringly neutral. Instead, it flows along the road, settling into corners and powering out with a characteristic squat from the rear.
But then the 944's party trick -helped by the engine's power in the mid-range and unfashionable balloon-like 195/65 x 15" tyres (Pirellis back in the day, Toyos today) -is its ability to dance safely at the limit of grip and adhesion, particularly on this greasy January morning. You don't have
From 2001 to 2018, I ran a variety of 944s as my daily wheels. Indeed, for a good few years, I ran one alongside my 'for best' 911 Carrera 3.2. Both cars cost me less than £20,000 and no, they weren't sheds! Different times, for sure. But there is a common theme here. Mostly, I owned 944s of the Lux variety because they were well suited to everyday use. And what a way to get around.
My first Porsche was a black 944 Lux and I loved it. Indeed, I probably loved it a bit too much, lavishing a full respray on it to turn back the clock on its 135,000 miles. I parted with it briefly, but bought it back again at a knock-down price and ran it for another few years until the landlord of my local pub decided he wanted it. He then sold it to one of the bar staff and it became the local communal Porsche. It's still around more than 20 years
on, with well over 200,000 miles on the clock ... .which, a 944 will do quite easily. I know because I bought a lovely one on eBay with 230,000 miles on it and factory Fuchs for a bag of sand. In Zermatt Silver, it had a box of history and I happily took it to 250,000 miles before selling it to a fellow motoring scribe who was seduced by the Fuchs. The wheels were probably worth more than the rest of it.
If I sound like a 944 wheeler dealer, then fair enough. Some did come and go quite quickly, but others stuck around for a good few years. I will always maintain that the oval-dash cars are the ones to go for, but I had to scratch the early square-dash itch so I ran a 1983 Guards Red Lux for four years, with nothing in reserve. I loved it, although the lack of power steering made it hard work and the heating and ventilation were woeful. Stand-out memories include European adventure drives, including a flat-out Autobahn
run when it blew chunks of red-hot carbon out of the exhaust [still pulled 130+mph, though) and a snowy winter drive to Stuttgart to the Porsche Museum.
I did stray from the path on occasion. I had a brief dalliance with an Mk5 Golf GTI, for example, but I very soon became bored with it. The best was the last, a 1986 944 Lux in Diamond Blue Metallic from Paul Stephens who had taken it as part-ex and kindly passed it on to me at the same money. With 70,000 miles, it was a lovely example and I ran it for six years as my daily wheels and alongside a 996 C2 for a time. I waved goodbye to it in 2018. Why? Well, it was just too good to subject it to another filthy winter out in the sticks, covering it in mud and salt, so I decided to let it go and be the classic Porsche it had become. But running a 944 as a daily driver was never anything other than a
deeply satisfying, system-
beating way of getting around.
to drive like a hooligan to animate the chassis or juggle with a peaky top-end when power is available so liberally. If there's a modern equivalent, it's probably the Toyota GR86. It won't surprise you to learn that when I came to replace my final 944, it was with a Subaru BRZ. Porsche will always be best known for its dogged rear-engined doctrine with the 911, closely followed by the mid-engined mantra with the Boxster and Cayman, but the 944 and the
transaxle era was Porsche's take on the front-engined concept and, typically, Porsche did it differently.
Convinced yet? Well, if the dynamic argument isn't quite enough or the Lux isn't up your Strasse, then go for the 220-250bhp Turbo or the grunty 210bhp 3-litre S2. Or even the really rather rare 2.7, eight-valve Lux, model year 1988, with just 5,800 built. Just don't bother with the 944 S. For me, the 2.5, eight-valve has a certain simplicity,
charm and gutsy dependability, but that's just me. As peak transaxle, the 944 Lux deserves its moment.
If you take the plunge, I'm sure you won't be disappointed with any 944 and that you'll find yourself using it a lot more than other classics -Porsche or otherwise. In the modern context, it is exactly that. Trouble is, I've just been looking through the classifieds and ... blimey, where have all the 944s gone? Better add rarity to the 944's appeal. PP
AuthorSteve Bennettenjoying someofthatfamed 50:50weight distribution
Derek was at the epicentre of all things '80s Porsche, running a leading London design agency, Burrows, in an era when design agencies and creative studios were hugely influential, contracts were worth millions and campaigns were glamorous and memorable. For Burrows, the big business was with Ford, and Derek spent most of the decade driving from Essex to Burrows HQ in a succession of front-engined transaxle Porsches.
"Myfirst Porsche was a 924 from Porsche Colchester in 1982," says Derek. "That's when I realised what premium really was. A Porsche for me was a personal bar."
The front-engined cars certainly featured heavily at a time when a 924, 924 S or 944 made for very practical daily driving. "They all used to go in and out of London, no bother."
This particular 944 clearly got under Derek's skin. "That came from Porsche Colchester too," he says.
"It was my company car. It immediately felt right and I loved the factory bodykit"
And it's the car that Derek keeps coming back to. "Well, it keeps coming back to me, really. I've always kept tabs on it either locally or further afield, and I've stepped in when it's not been used or I've been contacted by a new owner. Once, I received a tax rebate out of the blue and, shortly afterwards, someone rang asking 'Would I like to buy my old 944 back?'. The amount was the same as my rebate, which was clearly a sign!"
Is it a keeper this time? "Well, my name has been on the log book far longer than
anyone else's," says Derek. "But yes, I really can't see it leaving me again. I've recommissioned it every time it's come back to me. Paul Stephens looks after it and does a terrific job."
It was at Paul Stephens that we spotted Derek's 944, its condition and original features marking it out as something special. "I like the fact that it's still got the original radio cassette player and the dealer sticker on the rear window. It really is like a time capsule." Or a means of time travel. Every day is an '80s day in a 944 and, compared to the chaotic world we live in now, where would you rather be?
ATASTEWORTHACQUIRING
Over the last 1 5 years that I've transaxle platform still holds iconic poster child of the era, to be a faulty fan temperature been involved with the 944 its own on trackdays and in from appearing in Stranger sensor -a cheap and easy Register, there has definitely classic race series. A word of Things and Marvel movies DIY fix [once you have the been a shift in attitudes and warning, though: appreciating through to its use in print part, obviously]. We fixed it appreciation for the model. that chassis is the gateway and retro advertising. All this temporarily by jumpering the The Autotrader search of drug to wanting more power, has drawn a new generation terminals on the plug out with 'Porsche', 'All Models', 'Sort by and the S2 and especially the of fans to the platform and one of the daughter's hair pins Cheapest First' has seen the Turbo models are always ready they're often in their twenties and the owner drove it home, 944's position as cheap first and willing to satisfy. All that and early thirties, not just otherwise faultlessly. That, to Porsche be robustly claimed brings together a very diverse looking for their 'first Porsche' me, sums up everything about by the 986 Boxster instead. group as 944 owners and the but their 'first classic car' too. 944 owners; they drive them, Anecdotally, this has come one thing that stands out Certainly, when you stack the they cherish them and, on the about for a few different perhaps more than anything 944 up against the whole rare occasion that something reasons, notably all the else is how many of these cars gamut of 'BOs classics, it's goes wrong, there's a fantastic £1,500 rust buckets requiring are such long-termers for a tantalising ownership community of people who are £2,500 worth of welding and their owners. Even those with proposition due to the more than willing to help. paint ending up in the great far newer and more exotic combination of superior Hopefully the appreciation parts bin in the sky by now, but machinery in their garage that engineering, parts availability of the model will continue and also because the explosion in might get changed out every and DIY support for the model. I've noticed an increasing classic Porsche values across couple of years will often have Oh, and don't forget the ace up number of owners not shying the board has seen a rising a well-loved and cherished 944 its sleeve pop-up headlights! away from mild to full-on tide that lifts all boats. sat there gleaming too. I came across a stricken restorations. Ten years ago, But, in a way, that does the It's easy to draw parallels 944 2.5 Bv at a French the approach would have been 944 a real disservice because between the ascension of the service station on the way "How much welding to scrape there is a wonderfully handling 944 and the classic car back from Le Mans last year, through another MOT?". This chassis wrapped up under that market in general, with the the owner and his daughter means we lucky custodians of evocative and timeless body. overlooked and undervalued having driven there from the these cars get to enjoy them Much is made of the 50:50 models being discovered by northwest, and they weren't now and know they'll find good weight distribution, but words a new generation and the only 944 owners I met. homes when the time comes can never convey the appreciated all over again. There was some head- to move them on too.
:s: sensation of how the car just You only need to go online and scratching in the car park as
LLl pivots around your hips as you see the rise of the Neon 'BOs the car was overheating and DavidChapman
> chase down another apex. aesthetic to understand why belching coolant from the 944AssistantRegister
LLl 0::: That's part of the reason the the 944 has become the overflow pipe, but it turned out Secretary
THE LAST
WINNER
As a new book tells the magnificent tale of 962-011, we look back on the car’s career and a fascinating case of ‘what might have been’
Words: Adam Towler
photos: Manfred Giet and Porter Press
The latest instalment of Porter Press’ Great Cars series (the publisher is up to number 19 now) showcases the life and times of a particularly significant Porsche endurance racer: 962-011, the last 962c to win a round of the World Sports Prototype Championship (the period equivalent of today’s WEC).
If author Serge Vanbockryck’s name rings a bell, it’s because he’s already written two definitive works on Porsche’s fabulous Group C legend: Ultimate Works Porsche 956 and Ultimate Works Porsche 962, also by Porter Press. These two huge tomes document these amazingly successful racing cars in minute detail and are a must for the bookshelf of any racing enthusiast.
So, why focus on just one particular chassis? Well, apart from 962-011 holding the aforementioned distinction of that final victory, it also went on to enjoy a career lasting four seasons, in doing so becoming one of the final 962s to see service more than 10 years after the debut of the original 956. As such, it received all the updates that Porsche continued to develop – often on the QT – as Norbert Singer and his colleagues attempted to keep the aging star competitive. It’s a specification it retains to this day. However, perhaps most interesting of all, the story of chassis 011 is a case of ‘what might have been’.
Now, 011 should actually be referred to as a ‘962/88’, a nomenclature that’s not widely known, but one with a fascinating story behind it. With its unique long nose/ short tail configuration and mechanical alterations, this was the car that Porsche Motorsport designed in 1987 with a view to competing in the World Championship the following year. Except, for a while at least, it didn’t see the light of day. When it did, the perception in period was very much that it was private entrant by Joest Racing that had been spearheading the work.
how the mighty fell
Why that’s so is arguably the most illuminating element of Vanbockryck’s latest work. As he writes, in 1986, “Porsche won everything” – the World Sports Prototype Championship, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the IMSA series, the Paris-Dakar with the 959 and, of course, the F1 World Championship as engine
“It also has the distinction of being the marque’s first racing car with a monocoque construction”
The 962-011 today, presented in its ultimate 1993 specification and livery
supplier to the McLaren team under the TAG contract -and its road car sales were buoyant across the globe. The 959 road-going supercar was just around the corner and the motorsport team could reflect on absolute domination over the preceding seasons, from Fl to endurance racing. They were unstoppable. Titans. Then, "in 1987 Porsche won something" -Le Mans, but little else -and then "in 1988 Porsche won nothing". By now, its road car sales were in freefall, particularly in the American market, and it had embarked on a disastrous IndyCar campaign that did little to bolster the brand. Even worse, the humiliating Fl V12 engine project just a few years later put a huge dent in Porsche's reputation, much to the chagrin of its famous engineers. Rarely has there been such a rapid fall from grace.
GETTINGOUTOFATIGHTCORNER
For those that aren't too familiar with Porsche's most successful racing car, the 956 was designed and developed for the Group C formula, which came into effect for the 1982 season. Porsche was an early adopter of the new rules and it hit the ground running. The 956 was its first 'ground effect' racing car, using an
underbody Venturi effect to generate downforce as well as a large rear wing, and it also has the distinction of being the marque's first racing car with a monocoque construction (as the rules mandated).
One of the key strengths of the car was its legendary reliability, helped in part because the 2.65-litre, twin-turbo flat six power plant was already well proven. This engine, with its air-cooled block and water-cooled cylinder heads, had won Le Mans the year before in the back of a 936.
The 962 began life as an IMSA version of the 956 (the American equivalent of the WEC), where rules required the pedal box to be behind the line of the front axle. Porsche lengthened the wheelbase to achieve this. IMSA cars initially had to use an air-cooled engine but, when the WEC adopted similar crash regs, the front end of the 962 was effectively grafted onto the back half of the 956 to create the 962c
('c' for Group C). Fully water-cooled engines arrived for the Group C versions in 1987 and displacement eventually rose to 3.2 litres. By now, a number of outside companies were building 962 chassis, either from aluminium honeycomb (unlike the sheet alloy of the Weissach-built cars) or even in carbon fibre.
ROLLINGTHEDICE
Porsche CEO Peter Schutz had made the decision to tackle IndyCar racing in 1985, and so it was in 1987 that the firm announced it would be leaving the World Championship ... but not at the end of the year; rather, immediately after Le Mans. It was a decision that created plenty of ill feeling among its works drivers, who were left hanging mid-season. Some in the press even accused Porsche of cowardice in running away from the emerging threat of Jaguar and Sauber-Mercedes in the series.
For Porsche, it was a question of resources. Attempting to design, build and develop its own IndyCar left it too stretched to do the same for an all-new sports car, which by now was the requirement to stay competitive. Peter Falk, head of the Racing Department, stated that a new car was coming, but it wasn't clear if
'Brilliant'BobWollekroundsthe La SourcehairpinatSpain011duringthe19891,000kms,onhiswaytoasuperbsecondplacewith regulardrivingpartnerFrankJelinski
this was a 962c update or an all-new car. He may, however, have been talking about the 962/88, which was already underway. This centred around a major aero update for the car, with the graceful sweeping tail cut off and a rear wing mounted on a central pillar. The nose was lengthened, with the engine oil coolers moved from the sides to the nose (leaving more space for the radiators and intercoolers in the sides), ducts beneath the headlights fed them cold air and NACA ducts in the nose panel cooled the brakes. The front wheel arches were peeled back on the rear face and, for the first time, were also vented in the top of the arches, while a new undertray design aimed to improve ground effect and the mounting points of the front wishbones were raised and spaced to provide anti-dive characteristics. Of all the independent Porsche teams, it was Joest Racing that had the best relationship with the factory. The team of Reinhold Joest, from Abtsteinach in Germany, had won Le Mans with a 956 in 1984 and 1985 and often got the best kit first. He knew of the 962/88 plans and saw an opportunity towards the end of 1988. Porsche had retreated and restructured;
the in-house IndyCar chassis had been controversially shelved in favour of a customer March chassis, the Racing department combined with Research, and engineers transferred to other areas - in the great Norbert's case, to working on the rear suspension for the 993. Would Porsche let Singer work on bringing the '88 car to life in his spare time? Ulrich Bez, now head of R&D, approved.
WHATWASANDWHATMIGHTHAVEBEEN
So, having been on the shelf for the '88 season, Joest Racing debuted the 962/88 at round two of the World Championship at Dijon in France in 1989. The team's lead driver pairing of Bob Wollek and Frank Jelinski - under the watchful eye of Singer himself - fought a stern battle with the Sauber-Mercedes cars and, with the help of Goodyear rubber that withstood the hot temperatures better than the Sauber's Michelins, scored Porsche's 39th and final victory in the Group C formula. Joest also scored a second place at Brands Hatch and a third at Le Mans (albeit not with 011), and Wollek nearly won at the 'Ring in 011 before running out of fuel on the last lap.
The book explains that extraordinary 1989 season in great detail and then goes on to recount 011's life over the following three seasons, where it was first relegated to a reserve in J oest's disastrous 1990 campaign (after so much promise with the return of full works backing) and then largely raced in IMSA, including leading at the 1990 24 Hours of Daytona and nearly winning at Sebring. It also claimed the record for the highest average speed on an American road course at Watkins Glen in 1991.
The car's racing career ended after 1993, but it's enjoyed a busy second life in historic racing in subsequent years and, with its final 'FAT Turbo Express' livery, it's become perfectly aligned with Ferdi Porsche's new FAT Porsche movement and events, complete with its wild final evolution bodywork. All in all, it's one of the most important of all Porsche's storied racing cars. Nevertheless, while reading the book, you can't help but be left with the overriding thought of just what Porsche might have achieved with this car in 1988 if it had been entered with the full might of the works team and its drivers - a question that will forever be left unanswered. PP
BACK TO BASICS
Does the entry-level Panamera make a virtue out of necessity?
Words: Adam Towler
There are two ways of looking at the entry-level Panamera. It might be the weakest model in the range; a pale imitation of mightier variants that boast huge power outputs and lots of juicy tech. Or, as can sometimes be the case with cars that wear the shield from Stuttgart, it might just be that the purest, simplest model is arguably the pick of the lot –
by which, I mean the car that best nails the original design brief. The essence of the model, if you will. What sort of experience will the £82,500 Panamera provide? It’s the only rear-wheeldrive model in the range and is powered by the familiar 2.9-litre Porsche twin-turbo V6. Alterations to the engine’s timing, turbo boost levels and injection system provide another 23hp and 37lb/ft of torque, giving new outputs of 353hp from 5,400-6,700rpm
and 369lb/ft of torque, developed over a particularly broad plateau from just 1,900-4,800rpm. The only transmission choice is the familiar eight-speed PDK ‘box, while braking is taken care of by six-pot calipers at the front and four-pot at the rear axle, with 390mm aluminium composite discs and 365mm, front/rear. Wheels are 20” items, although this car has the ‘Panamera Design’ option wheels, also 20”, for an additional £2,219.
Talking of options, this particular Gentian Blue car has a retail price of £104,256 but, for once, there's nothing on the list that has a major impact on how it drives. It's largely materials, trim and electronic gadgetry.
ADEQUATEANDTHENSOME
Perhaps the first thing to know is that, in terms of performance, you'll never feel short-changed by the Panamera. Sure, it can't serve up the instant warp speed of its electric brethren, but this is a car that runs to just a whisker short of 170mph and can sprint from 0-62mph in 5 .1 seconds. On the road, it has the kind of effortless performance that's crucial for a car such as this one. The V6 feels more refined than before. It's never been a musical engine, and probably never will be, but it's got a more purposeful note now and hums away almost silently when not being asked to do anything too energetic. Do you miss four-wheel-drive? To be honest, no, I don't think you do. Accelerate strongly on an uneven road or a slippery one and of course you can
feel that the car is rear-driven. A subtle shimmy from the rear of the car relative to the steering betrays that the engine's considerable torque is being deployed through just two tyres, but so sophisticated is the Panamera's stability control that it never feels like anything more than the mildest of informative gestures. There's a little more fluidity to the steering too, and a glance at the spec sheet reveals the rear-wheel-drive Panamera to be lighter, naturally, at 1,885kg (the Panamera 4 is 1,920kg and, for comparison, the Turbo E-Hybrid is 2,360kg). Although you could
never call the Panamera a lightweight car, in the modern world of large saloons and giant EV crossovers, its sub-1,900kg figure looks almost deft.
As the 'base' car, the Panamera does without the trick new active suspension setup and this car doesn't have it as an option. Nevertheless, the new two-valve/ dual chamber air-sprung PASM setup for the G3 Panamera gives a really comfortable ride quality, smothering the worst of the bumps that British roads can throw at it and impressing with its high-speed body control. Only over poorer surfaces do the wheels occasionally give a thump as the low-profile tyres and weight of those large wheels give the suspension some vexing questions. Even then, it's well isolated from the cabin itself.
So it goes, stops and turns with real ability, and living with a Panamera is an interesting experience. In recent years, it was first SUVs like the Cayenne and latterly the Macan that dominated the four-door Porsche conversation, and now it's the much more topical Taycan. In case you
haven't noticed, big, combustion-engined saloons like the Panamera aren't exactly the a la mode way of travelling (it's markets such as China that have cemented the model's place in the product portfolio), but spend some time with the car and it's not difficult to see why you might want to own one.
SOUNDCHOICES
Whatever Porsche's engineering magicians do with an SUV,they can't make it drive with anything like the aplomb and precision of a car, particularly something as surprisingly low-slung as the Panamera. That's always been one of the car's key attractions: blending a saloon with a grand tourer for something much more exotic than, say, a BMW 5 Series. It's something you readily feel in the driver's seat, with a driving position that feels very coupe-like - and one that I personally find supremely comfortable. This example had the 4+1 seating arrangement, and I suppose it's here that the weakness of the package is exposed if practicality is your thing.
It's a very comfortable place to be, but it offers nothing like the 'family' space of a Cayenne.
Much of the new car's marketing push is based around electronics and so it has the new digital dashboard and instrumentation, with what's described as easy "integration of a user's own digital ecosystem into the PCM". If that's referring to the Apple CarPlay, then brilliant, but I confess I don't tend to tread much beyond that, even if there seems to be hours of touchscreen pressing and hidden functionality available to the new Panamera owner. The digital
"THAT'SALWAYSBEEN ONEOFTHECAR'S
cockpit can be supplemented by an additional passenger screen (£1,289as fitted here), but it feels like a total gimmick to me and I'd rather save the money. There is a huge amount of driver assistance technology too but, again, it's something you have to have, but which I could do without.
It's all a matter of personal preference, as is any view on the styling of the G3 Panamera itself. I recall attending a prototype drive of the new car when it wore heavy, clumsy disguise panels and being told it was much more rakish and sporty under the skin, but the overall effect to my eyes is not as bold as that - although that's not to say it's unpleasant-looking. To show just how fickle humans can be, I almost feel nostalgic now for the much more 'Marmite' styling of the Gl car
Overall, while the entry-level Panamera is far from the most exciting Porsche money can buy, it certainly has considerable appeal. You may want a faster, more extravagant Panamera, but you're unlikely to need such a car. PP
TESTTHE WATERS
What you needto know to get you home safely when driving in the wet
WORDS:STEVESUTCLIFFE
Driving well in the wet is a skill, no question. As with most skills, you need to put the hours in to understand what's going on and to get better at it.
Ultimately, I think driving well in the wet is about confidence, but not over-confidence. It's about understanding what a car is doing beneath you, then making it do what you want it to do -although, to be clear, you should never fight a car if it has other ideas.
To drive well in the wet, you need to tailor your approach from one road or circuit to the next ... or from one corner to the next, and sometimes even from one part of one corner to the next.
As such, there are lots of things to remember when driving in the wet, but the most significant are: traction is king; there is always more grip somewhere in a corner than you think; focus on your entry speed and your exit speed will mostly take care of itself; really look at the road surface below to gauge how much grip there is from one piece of road to the next (most of the time, your eyes will not be wrong); and, perhaps the most important of all, realise that feel comes from the rear axle as much as it does from the front, especially in faster corners and under brakes. Oh, and never over-drive the front end in the wet in any car.
Imagine instead that you're driving an old 911in which 'slow in, fast out' is the age-old mantraand you won't go far wrong in any car in the wet, no matter how modern or technically sophisticated it might be. All those electronic driver systems on a 911 Turbo S... well, most of them are there to help you drive as if you were pedalling a wild, old, tail-happy 911.
A good way to work out how to drive properly in the wet is to swallow hard and switch the traction control and any other safety systems fitted to your car off for a moment (if they exist), then see how dangerous it feels while trying to drive quite fast (please be careful! - Ed). It won't be dangerous because, unless you drive like a complete madman, it isn't, but I guarantee you'll slow down a fair bit E to begin with and become more aware of your own limitations. You'll feel vulnerable, momentarily.
il As a result, you'll brake more smoothly, turn in f less aggressively and use the accelerator as if it were a, primed to go off like a bomb if treated clumsily. _ Your synapses will be a blur of activity to begin ifi with, frantically trying to decipher the messages l being delivered to your hands, feet and backside 'ii via the steering wheel, pedals and seat, each message
being processed in milliseconds to tell you just one thing: how much grip there is available at each tyre. At some point, your brain will then decide that everything is, in fact, okay, that the grip beneath your hands and backside is still there, and you will start to try a little harder at that point. Push a touch further. Focusing in on that precise moment of confidence and then building on it -gradually, sensibly, sometimes aggressively if you feel like it -is what driving well in the wet is really all about. It doesn't matter if you're on road or track. In the end, sussing out what a car is doing beneath you and then playing with it is the endgame.
How you decide to get there and how far you then decide to push things -and ultimately how good you become at doing so -is all built from that very first moment of realisation. Only once this particular penny has begun its journey south can you start to lean more confidently on cars in the wet -to start working out how far is too far or, indeed, is nowhere near far enough. You can add all the electronic safety systems you wish, or huge doses of bravery, or 700 horsepower, or perfect tyres, or whatever other tricks you can summon from within your car's box of toys but, unless you establish this basic platform in the first place, you'll never drive well in the wet.
Once you reach this point, there are all sorts of extra techniques you can use to then hone your skills and speed, such as short-shifting to keep the torque flow calm, not using sport modes again to keep the power delivery smooth or even left-foot braking to maximise traction and balance mid-corner. However, getting the basics right and building confidence in your own ability is far more important than adding party tricks to your repertoire.
If you ever have a crisis of confidence in the wet for whatever reason (in either direction), then revisit the basics and rebuild them gradually. Always stay relaxed, always enjoy the ride and don't get too carried away with your own achievements, but do try to work out why they've happened when they happen (and they will, I guarantee). Do this and you'll be a better driver, everywhere, but especially in the wet. PP
If you have a 718 Boxster or Cayman, you may already be bracing yourself for a costly particulate filter change. But could it be a misdiagnosis?
Words: Richard Gotch
You’re driving a newish Porsche when the Check Engine light flicks on. You have a Porsche warranty and the car still feels in top form. Would you expect a bill approaching £10,000?
This is the situation in which a growing band of Club members find themselves. The problem appears to originate around the technical solution chosen to satisfy increasingly demanding emissions requirements. I say ‘around’ because, despite the issue first arising almost two years ago, the exact nature of the failure is yet to be pinned down. Since the turn of the century, particulate emissions have become associated with
respiratory, heart and other health problems. Initially, it was thought that particles less than 2.5µm in diameter were too small to harm us, but subsequent research revealed the damage caused by nano-size particles (a diameter of less than 100nm/0.1µm) that can penetrate deep into our lungs. Limits on particulate mass and number were therefore added to emissions regulations, which became stricter with each revision.
the root of the problem
To meet these tightening requirements, all new petrol-powered Porsches were ‘successively outfitted’ with gasoline particulate filters (GPF) from 1 September 2018. Six- and eight-cylinder models
received two filters, one for each cylinder block, while four-cylinder models such as the 718 Boxster/Cayman in 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre form were fitted with a single filter. A GPF uses the same purification technique as the equivalent filters in diesel vehicles. The exhaust flows from the engine into a series of closed-ended, porous channels that allow gasses to escape through the walls to similar channels that flow into the exhaust exit. The particulate matter (soot) is retained in the engine-side channels until the exhaust reaches around 600°C, when it is converted into carbon dioxide and water vapour that can escape through the porous channel walls into the exhaust stream. This ‘regeneration’ ensures that the channels never become clogged with soot.
Right: in Porsche’s GPF, exhaust gasses flow into tiny porous channels, blocked at one end, that filter out the particulates
Below: the 992.1 911 Carrera S and 4S have a GPF on each side of the exhaust system. The 718 has a single unit
Packaging the filters presented significant challenges for Porsche engineer Martin Werner and his team. Because larger exhaust systems wouldn’t fit into the tight engine compartments of the 718 and 911, a completely new exhaust aftertreatment system had to be designed, integrating each type of mitigation in as little space as possible. The programme took two years, but delivered a high-efficiency system that has minimum impact on performance and fits neatly into the available space.
The model was already fitted with three-way catalysts, which oxidise carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, convert hydrocarbons to water vapour and reduce oxides of nitrogen to nitrogen. The new Porsche system saved space by integrating
this into the GPF, creating what the company calls a four-way converter. This was achieved by adding catalytic coatings to the filtration channels of the GPF and by designing the filters to be relatively short with large diameters to enable flow into as many channels as possible.
“What we need is answers about why this is happening”
It sounds simple, but the materials technology is cutting-edge and a complex control system surrounds the physical system. By measuring the pressure drop across the GPF, an electronic control unit can identify when regeneration needs a helping hand – usually because many short journeys haven’t delivered high enough exhaust temperatures for passive regeneration. The control unit will then artificially increase the exhaust temperature to force an ‘active’ regeneration to clear out the soot.
This is where it becomes even more complex. There are four factors that determine when and how to force active regeneration: the accumulated soot loading level in the filter; the exhaust oxygen
The2.5-litreflatfourturbofittedtothe718BoxsterS
concentration; the GPF inlet temperature; and the mass flow rate of the exhaust gas. The rate at which the temperature is increased, known as the ramp rate, also has to be controlled because too fast an increase can create a large differential temperature distribution, resulting in significant thermal stresses inside the components of the GPF.
Porsche says that to initiate active regeneration, the exhaust temperature can be increased "for instance, through another combustion or a higher engine speed", which suggests an additional injector pulse late in the combustion cycle or a request to the automatic gearbox to hold lower gears. There are, however, other ways to achieve this, the most usual being to inject additional fuel into the exhaust stream. It isn't clear which combination of methods Porsche uses.
To ensure it all works as it should and is reliable to high mileages, Werner and his team also "put in several hundred thousand test kilometres to put the system through its paces". This would have included hot and cold weather testing and a variety of drive cycles, covering every likely way in which the vehicle would be used.
SOWHATWENTWRONG?
The issue first came to light when a Club member took his 2019 Cayman, only four years old at the time, into his Porsche Centre to have the cause of a Check Engine light diagnosed. The problem, he was told, was a blocked GPF and the cost for fixing it would be £5,800. Although the GPF is
not a service item, it is technically a filter. Most filters are service items and so are excluded from the warranty, so he was
expected to dig deep into his own pocket.
::::e:Other Club members with similar
problems have been told that the GPF is a specifically excluded wear item.
To understand the diagnosis, we need to understand how a GPF becomes blocked. So far, we have covered the accumulation of soot which, when the system is working correctly, is oxidised by the regeneration process to keep the filter channels clear. When you oxidise stuff -essentially burning it -you leave behind the inorganic bits that won't burn. That creates ash which, in a GPF, is composed primarily of oil additives, with smaller proportions originating from fuel additives, metallic wear components and detached catalyst material.
When Porsche's system was developed, the understanding of ash and its impact on the GPF was fairly sketchy. As Corning, one of the world's largest suppliers of GPF technologies, said in a 2018 paper: "Today, very limited experience exists with respect to ash accumulation for gasoline aftertreatment systems".
Corning's paper shows that, over time, ash accumulates in the porous walls of the GPF inlet channels and also creates 'plugs' at the end of the channels. This increases the differential pressure across the filter, which is one of the key parameters used by the car's management system to monitor the health of the GPF. But even this has layers
of complexity because not all of the soot is oxidised quickly, with some of it being retained in the filter pores. This can reduce the accuracy of differential pressure-based load monitoring, which is one of the big question marks in this story.
Measured using this technique, some members' cars are showing an ash level of near 100 per cent; far in excess of anything described in the research papers even for cars that have travelled 100,000 miles in deliberately compromised conditions.
Another member had the GPF on his 718 2.5-litre GTS changed and the ash reading was at 43 per cent within 800 miles.
THEBIGQUESTIONIS:WHY?
One answer proposed by Porsche is failure of the air/oil separator (AOS) which cleans residual gases and vapours from the crankcase before they are released into the intake manifold so they can be burned in the combustion chamber. The device can fail over time, usually leading to a smoky exhaust. More oil in the combustion chamber could lead to more ash in the GPF.
The wrong engine oil could have a similar effect because oils containing higher levels of sulphated ash, phosphorous and sulphur (SAPS),especially those without a premiumquality additive pack, produce higher levels of particulates. These become trapped ash because they cannot be burnt away.
Some OPCs have even claimed that the failures are due to how the cars have been driven; too much idling and too many short journeys, apparently. Considering the range of validation criteria to which the systems were exposed to meet design requirements for a useable everyday car (these aren't GT3s, after all), that seems unlikely.
Or it could be that the GPF is absolutely fine and the diagnostic system is crying wolf. Maybe it's as simple as the Differential Pressure Sensor system (not just the component) slipping out of calibration or having a software error. So far, there have been no reports of forensic analysis of GPFs removed from members' cars. Some quotes for fitting a new GPF are now more than £9,000, yet some OPCs are still struggling to achieve a low ash reading even with new four-way units. Does it matter? That's another question that hasn't been answered.
"There is a potential for this to become a significant issue not dissimilar to the IMS bearing and bore scoring failures on early water-cooled cars. Clearly, we really want to avoid that," states John Dickinson, Register Secretary for Caymans, whose members, alongside Boxster Register members, are supporting Porsche and the OPCs in their investigations. Quite a few cars have been at OPCs, unavailable for members to enjoy, for months. "We as owners are as keen as anyone to protect the fine reputation of Porsche and these wonderful sports cars and to ensure that we can all continue to enjoy them for many years to come. What we need is answers about why this is happening." PP
MONTLHERYREVIVAL2026 From£399.00 I 11'4£iiH ' tooth AnniversaryTour Ii Route66isonyour'BucketList' Then2026istheyearto doit! 25nayEscortedTourstrom£4999.00*PerPerson IncllldingFlights,carHire& AIiHotels
COMPILEALISTof technologies that most affect driving pleasure, safety and fatigue, and decent headlights must appear pretty high up the rankings. For the last 125 years or so, finding better ways to light the road ahead has tested some of the industry's most creative minds and spawned some solutions that early pioneers could not have dreamed about.
Legend has it that the young Ferdinand Porsche
was fascinated by electricity and in 1893, at the age of 18, he delighted his parents by installing an electric lighting system at home. Five years later, he designed the first EV, the Egger-Lohner C.2 Phaeton, which pictures suggest (like most carriages and early cars) was equipped not with electric lights but acetylene lamps. No doubt the young Ferdinand would have been thrilled by what would come a century later.
Electric headlights with simple incandescent bulbs producing light from a white-hot tungsten filament appeared in the early 1900s. Some time later, and in common with others of the period, European 356 headlights consisted of a reflector fitted with a separate bulb. Sealed beam units, where the headlamp reflector and filament became one, were mandatory from 1939
in the USA and eventually superseded separate bulbs elsewhere. It was a step forward because no water or dirt could enter the sealed unit and corrode the parabolic reflector. The sealed beam still generated light using two incandescent filaments for the main beam and dip, and a simple form of lighting powered through basic wiring harnesses and light switches. Power took a jump too, moving from six-volt
(in early Beetles and 356s, for example) to 12-volt systems.
BRIGHTSPARKS
Perhaps the biggest step up and still the most commonly used form of lighting in cars of all ages is the halogen lamp, which also goes by the name of quartz-halogen or quartziodine. The Hl halogen bulb was first introduced in Europe in 1962, featuring a tungsten filament surrounded by halogen gas that burned much hotter to
produce a brighter, whiter light than previous bulbs. The H4 dual filament bulb with a 60W main beam and 55W dip followed, which was a game changer. The H4 was adopted by most of the world, with the exception of the USA where regulations were substantially different and remain so today.
Porsche has generally used the technology of the day throughout the evolution of its models. For instance, the 911 was fitted with the early
bulb headlight, then sealed beam Hl and H4 halogen lights depending on the model and date.
Projector headlights arrived in the 1980s, looking more like robotic eyes than lamps thanks to a lens that focused the beam of light. After the light source bounces the light off an elliptical reflector, the projector headlight has a shutter that protrudes into the bottom of the beam to give a sharp cut-off followed by
a powerful lens to concentrate the light. The first examples were halogen, later using xenon HID (high-intensity discharge) and LED light sources as those technologies were developed. HID technology emerged during the 1990s and brought with it greater complexity. Each bulb contains xenon gas, with the light generated by an electric arc passing through the gas to generate a much brighter light than a conventional hot filament.
Thenew high-resolution PorscheLEDmain headlightswithHD matrixbeamoffera high-resolutionlight distributionup to twiceasbrightthan previoussystems
More than just a bulb, each one is powered by an electronic module called a ballast. They can be single or bi-xenon, with single used for the low beam (as originally used on the 996 and 911, for example) with the main beam being halogen. Bi-xenon lights use shutters to create a main or low beam. Porsche branded its HID lights 'Litronic', with the bi-xenon units including mechanical self-levelling to prevent oncoming drivers from being blinded.
PIXELPERFECT
Lighting became much smarter with adaptive headlights. In Porsche's case, these manifested as the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS)and PDLS+, with features including high :5 and low beam turning into ;:!: corners, low beam redistributed 25 at certain speeds or in fog and staticcorneringlightstoaid
low-speed manoeuvring. PDLS+adds high-beam assist for automatic dipping. Laser headlights almost became the next big thing and BMW and Audi were first to market with them a few years ago. However, the technology was leapfrogged by LED headlights, which is the direction Porsche has taken. It introduced fourpoint daylight running lights a decade ago on its top models and, in 2022, announced the introduction of high-resolution LED main headlights with HD matrix beam. These lights featured two LED chips per headlight, with 16,384 individually controllable pixels and powerful lenses that adapt in milliseconds to light certain areas of the road ahead depending on whether the car's sensors detect any oncoming traffic.
Light patterns include narrow lane illumination, which effectively allows full beam in the lane ahead while masking out cars in adjacent lanes. They can detect and illuminate roadworks ahead and provide adaptive high beam lighting on motorways without blinding oncoming drivers. If no vehicles are detected, an auxiliary high beam unit fires up to illuminate the road 600 metres ahead. In the event of an oncoming vehicle being detected, the auxiliary high beam is turned off in milliseconds and the oncoming vehicle is masked out by turning off selected pixels in the HD LED matrix. This way, a non-dazzling high
beam for oncoming vehicles can be maintained in darkness, eliminating the need for a conventional dip beam, with large areas to the left and right remaining illuminated. The fourth unit provides courtesy light functions and there are static turning lights too.
The new setup means the four-point signature is maintained at night for the first time, with the four-point DRL arrangement doing the same job in daytime as before. In total, there are 32,768 individually controllable pixels in each headlight unit. This staggeringly clever technology has clearly come a long way, and the young Ferdinand Porsche would have been fascinated. PP
CAPACITY CONVERSIONS
ITWOULDN'THAPPENTODAY
Today,the announcement of new technologies, especially those that will create a competitive advantage, is carefully planned by PR departments eager to extend press coverage and excited speculation across social media. It's a difficult decision to take; look at how dramatically Cayenne sales dipped in the run-up to the launch of the new model as customers waited for the latest evolution.
= But announcing a new <i:: technology early can create a buzz of excitement that washes the entire product portfolio with messaging around = performance and innovation.
Think about the 992.2 GTS; a teaser press release a few months before the launch, hints in interviews, then more details, then bang -first drive and wow, the media is on fire with praise. One of the golden rules is to not go too early. Don't let the competitors know what you are planning until it's too late for them to respond.
In 1984, things must have been very different. Engineers were rightly proud of their ideas and eager to share their excitement with the knowledgeable enthusiasts who would appreciate it. So, imagine being on a Club visit to the factory when a
[then-current) Guards Red 3.2 Carrera is rolled out for Club members to admire. 'Take a look underneath," suggests one of the Porsche technical team, indicating where to slither under the front of the car. It's four years before the 964 will be announced [see Eyewitness, page 146) but, peering into the darkness, you see drive shafts. The next 911 would be four-wheel-drive and Club members saw it first.
In an era before health and safety put visitors behind yellow fences, guests from the Club were allowed to wander around the production lines, taking a detailed look at how the cars
were assembled. While the former NSU factory at Neckarsulm was already using overhead cradles and relatively high levels of automation to create the four-cylinder cars, the 911 of the 1980s was still largely hand-built. Welding was a skilled, labour-intensive operation and the quality of fit and finish was the responsibility of craftsmen.
If you have memories and photographs from this period or can add to this story, do please get in touch via editor@ porscheclubgb.com. Thanks to Robin Walker for sharing his memories and photographs with Porsche Post.
ISLANDOFIGNITION
Which places do you associate with driving festivals? Le Mans, the Isle of Man, Goodwood? How about Jersey? Me too, but apparently the Channel Island has a rich history of motorsport that is celebrated each year by the Jersey International Motoring Festival. A loyal contingent of Club members attends to enjoy a truly fabulous four days of fast cars, astonishing demonstrations of driving skill and what looks like a ridiculously tempting barbecue.
Last year's Club mission attracted some magnificent rear wings, including those on this rare 993 GT2 in Speed Yellow and its new friend, a lovely 991 GT3 in Miami Blue. This year's event will be held from June 5-8 when the organisers are planning to increase the use of sustainable fuels among the competition cars. To read more about this important green fuel development, see Porsche Post September 2024.
It's always good to see the classics on a Club run. Here is PorscheMeirion at Portmeirion, a Mediterranean-inspired, Grade II-listed fantasy village that was famously the setting for the cult TV series The Prisoner. The beautiful red 944 Turbo was snapped at Yorkshire Porsche Festival in 2022. Keep an eye on your emails for details of this year's bespoke events for classic and modern classic Porsches. Our full 2025 events calendar is here, with new events still being added: porscheclubgb.com/ events
As per tradition, R1 members met for our New Year's breakfast at Scotts in South Queensferry on 2 January. We were well looked after, with the management putting on complimentary pastries and sitting us in the prime spot of the restaurant, looking out to the iconic Forth Road and Railway Bridges. Despite it being a very icy morning with sub-zero temperatures, a good number of members still arrived in their Porsches. A wonderful start to 2025 with our members!
BREAKFASTMEETATSCOTT'STRDDNANDVISITTD TECHNIK9
This 19 January event was extremely popular and fully booked within the first couple of hours of it going live. The waiting list even numbered almost the same amount of people.
A good majority of our members started the morning by meeting for a wonderful breakfast at Scotts in Treon. Thereafter, we took a short drive to meet up with the additional members at Technik 9. Owner and Club member Colin Dey very kindly put on the day and welcomed us to his premises. He'd arranged to have a 997 up on the ramps to enable us to get up close and under the Porsche while giving us a technical talk. Colin was happy to answer any questions and talked to members about any concerns they had.
MORECOMMUNITYCONTENTONLINE
Visit the Regions homepage where you can click directly to your Region or use our digital map to find other Regions near you, discover their events and sign up for their newsletters. Please visit porscheclubgb.com/regions or scan this QR code.
Should you have the need for his services, Colin can be reached on 07 411 167505 at Technik 9 in Ayr.
R2• SCOTLANDNORTH
JointRegionalOrganisers
Paul Fowler (07803 170352)
Martin Thomas (07836 361937) r2@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegionalOrganisers
The Pit Crew
JANUARYWALKANDLUNCH
Our January walk and lunch at the start of the month was held in Aboyne, traditionally one of the coldest places in Scotland, and so it proved to be!
making it feel like -12°C) to take a short walk around the outskirts of the village and along the banks of the River Dee before retiring to The Black Faced Sheep Cafe, where we were made most welcome with a warm lunch.
There was some discussion of our ambitious plans for 2025, more of which can be viewed on the R2 pages of the Club website.
R3• NORTHEAST
RegionalOrganiser
Dave Carnaffin r3@porscheclubgb.com
Congratulations to Greg and Deb Harm, who are R3's 2024 members of the year - a well deserved and long overdue award
Colin Dey's technical talk at Technik 9 had R1 members rivetted
R1 members at their New Year's Breakfast Meet
Some of the intrepid R2 walkers and their four-legged friends!
INIHlll~Hllfflffl
HOWTOBECOME ATOPMOTORING JOURNALIST
When did you first pick up a car magazine, sit transfixed by the images of youthful figures drifting the latest supercars around Alpine passes and think "I want to be a motoring journalist"?
Perhaps you're expecting this next sentence to reveal that it isn't all glamour. Well, step back not many years and it really was a pretty special experience, as Porsche Post editor Adam Towler explained to guests from R31 (Cotswolds) at their dinner and chat evening in January.
Long nights crafting features for pressing deadlines: check. Frustrating days fighting the weather to get the pies: check. Luxury suites in five-star hotels, Michelin-starred dinners in medieval monasteries, swapping tales of adventures on the twisting tarmac: check that one too.
Adam recounted stories of being a car enthusiast from a very young age and a particular fan of Porsche. From his teens, he knew what he wanted to do and was taking every opportunity to get behind the wheel. We can't set down on paper exactly whose cars were driven and where because it may have consequences, but there was clearly a real determination to learn car control from an early age [not what you're thinking! - Ed).
All that was needed was a first break. After all, editors were once flooded with letters from hopeful young stars. The answer is always persistence and, as Norman Tebbit would have said, getting
on your bike -sometimes literally. Adam wrote to all the top titles, offering his services as a tea maker with the dream of becoming a road tester on a major magazine. That particular offer didn't pop onto his doormat, but there was one from What Car?. Having done his research, Adam knew that What Car? journalists sat at one end of an open plan office. At the other end was Autocar.
"My first week of work experience was at What Car?," he remembers. "It wasn't the most interesting work a lot of the time, but it was a foot in the door. Pretty quickly, I switched to work experience on Autocar and, eventually, a few years later after I'd finished my studies, it led to a full-time job."
"That was a terrific team at Autocar at the time," he reminisces of the early 2000s. "We had some amazing personalities and translated all that energy into brilliant story ideas and some of the best automotive journalism anywhere in the world. And we had a lot of fun. At the time, budgets were so much more generous as magazines -and their advertising income -had no competition from the internet or social media. That meant we'd be on the road all over Europe and think nothing of it, week in, week out. There were some epic group tests."
From that point, talent and hard work paid dividends as Adam rose quickly to be the youngest ever road test editor on Autocar and then editor of Pistonheads, which had been purchased by the same publisher. From there, he enjoyed 1 D years as a freelance journalist working for most of the main titles and then joined
evo as deputy editor in 2017, working for this legendary media brand for knowledgeable and passionate drivers. The overarching theme of Adam's presentation was how the industry has changed during his 25 years working in it, along with a good dose of behindthe-scenes tales throughout. The members learned what happened to the very first Cayenne into the UK, for example (and it wasn't a happy ending). But fun, as they say, must end. For Adam, like many motoring writers, it happened when the lure of the dark side became too strong. With a young family, the fatter pay packet of a corporate job proved too tempting, so a position as a product manager at McLaren was accepted. It lasted just a few months. "I just missed driving cars and writing about them too much. I suppose you only really value something when it's gone". So, it was back to writing as a freelance journalist and presenter and, soon after, a call from the Club's head of communications Richard Gotch inviting him to be the new editor of Porsche Post. "The timing was perfect," says Richard. "I was looking for an editor who was not just an inspiring writer, but who was passionate about Porsches and also had a detailed knowledge across the marque's entire history. We were so fortunate that Adam was available and it's worked out brilliantly." Today, Adam edits Porsche Post alongside a variety of other freelance work. Most memorable moments? "Is that in a good way or a bad way?" Adam jokes. "I think we will keep the worst as our little secret. The best? Probably getting to drive some truly wonderful cars, such as the 2017 991 RSA, Stig's Audi Quattro S1 E2 from the type's debut on the 1985 1 ,ODOLakes and a Marussia F1 car at Spa before qualifying on the Saturday of the 2019 Belgian Grand Prix. Those are experiences I could never even have dreamed of having."
Greg and Deb Harm, R3's 2024 members of the year
for a couple who do so much for the Region. They will be this year's custodians of the coveted Les Murray Memorial Trophy. Additional congratulations to Gary Vasey for the 2024 Spirit of R3 award. As all know, and Gary will agree, the big man is always there to help and support new members, whether in the electric MG (don't judge him) or his recently acquired Python Green 718 Spyder [or, as I told him, Boxster with an overcomplicated roof).
MARCHCLUBNIGHT
On 12 March, the world-famous Albert Walsh will join us at Beamish Hall for the monthly Club night. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Albert, he has been in the car and car club industries for more than 40 years and is a former Director of PCGB. Albert will be giving a talk which is always entertaining and taking questions from the floor.
CLEARAWAYTHECOBWEBS
On Sunday 6 April, the official season opener, lovingly known as 'Clear Away the Cobwebs', will take place. We'll be releasing details very soon and, due to the usual high demand, there will be a booking system in place. Please book early to avoid disappointment.
SOCIALMEDIA
Please can you all keep checking the Forum for upcoming events?
Our private Facebook group is growing steadily but please, if you are requesting to join, fill out the questions when applying or Facebook will automatically deny the request. The group is private simply to keep our events and news for our official PCGB members.
A reminder that Club night is the second Wednesday of every month at the Stables restaurant, Beamish Hall Hotel, Beamish, DH9 We usually gather around 7.30pm with a view to starting the meeting at 8pm. Feel free to come along earlier and = enjoy the Club discount on food and drinks.
6 Hope to see you all there very soon.
= Dave
GaryVasey,2024SpiritofR3
IARYDATEB
12MARCHClubnightBeamishHall
Guest Albert Walsh will join us.
6APRILClearAwaytheCobwebs
Seasonopener
Details released soon.
R4• LINCOLNSHIRE & HUMBERSIDE
RegionalOrganiser
John Lacey -07850 870993 r4@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Karen Collins
ABOWLINGSUCCESS
Well, we started the year's events with fun and it should prove to be the same for the rest of the year.
The year kicked off with members having a degree of rivalry at the annual 'R4 Shield' 1 0-pin bowling competition; more than a degree of rivalry, to be honest! The majority of the scores were neck and neck -well, almost! The final
calculations saw Tim Matsell take the shield from Jason McKinnon by just a few points. Julie Hogan-Shaw was the most improved player, from low down the ranks in 2024 to third place this time. Well done, Julie!
OTHERNEWS
Several events have taken place in the last two months; mainly drive-outs ending in culinary delights.
A number of members have offered their assistance with planning routes, organising trips, helping with social media and writing articles for this column. Thanks for your help, team -it's hugely appreciated.
In March, we are spreading our wings to the southern area of the Region and hope those members 'down south' will feel more connected.
If you have an event or drive-out that is not on our calendar that you would like us to join, please let us know.
Deborah Lea reports: Imagine winning first prize in a raffle and receiving not the expected T-shirt, key ring or toiletries, but a weekend driving a brand new 911 Carrera 2 (992.2).
The bowling teams, with Jason handing the shield to Tim
A dream, you might think, but that's exactly what happened when I won the R5 WOTY raffle in October. Result!
We picked up the car from Dan and team at Porsche Centre Stockport on Friday. They couldn't have been more helpful and they even added Rob [my husband) as an additional driver on the agreement - just as well, because he'd actually bought the raffle ticket.
As I sat in the driving seat, the 992.2's layout and feel were reassuringly similar to my 981 Cayman. The drive is very smooth and planted, as you would expect, and the steering and brakes are instantly reactive - very reassuring in a car you don't own yourself. The interior lighting is subtle and effective (just enough, in my opinion) while the exterior lights are sharp, well balanced, very clear and effective. We did experience slightly different lighting in the dark; the adaptive lighting package occasionally highlighted a square patch further ahead on the motorway, providing great visibility. A great option! The heated steering wheel was also very enjoyable in the cold weather. Generally, we both loved the car but disliked the lane assist feature. It's actually quite aggressive and disconcerting, especially when cornering where the car changes direction quickly. It doesn't allow you to cut through corners without a bit of a tussle. I tried looking it up in the manual, but the one provided with the car was in German. My German is okay, but doesn't run to translating manuals! However, the integrated distance sensors in the wing mirrors [three vertical orange LED squares] were both interesting and useful. And the power? It can certainly shift! The Carrera 2 isn't top of the range by any means but, nevertheless, putting your foot down provided a serious power boost that
Deborah Lea won a brand new 911 Carrera 2 (992.2) in the R5 WOTY raffle ... for a weekend
The prize made this Porsche driver extremely happy
If you're after a road trip route to eclipse all others, then the Glencoe to Mallaig road is the stuff oflegends. After an exhilirating drive through Glencoe, Kilcamb Lodge makes the perfect stopping point, whether you are going solo or part ofagroup. Here you can stay in luxury, enjoying fine dining in our 3 AA Rosette restaurant or you can stretch your legs in our grounds along the shoreline of Loch Sunart. We might even suggest staying another night or two here,
or more, as by doing so you can also fit in a dramatic drive across a vast volcano basin to the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, the most westerly point in mainland Britain. You'll also potentially discover one of the most stunning beaches in Scotland at Sanna Bay, or the atmospheric ruins of Castle Tioram. Kilcamb Lodge is a multi-award winning country house hotel surrounded by 18 acres of natural private meadow, mountains and woodland. With luxurious
en-suite accommodation, it's undoubtedly one of the finest places to stay on the West Coast of Scotland. As target destinations go, this unspoiled location in the Scottish Highlands is a real hidden gem you'll want to return to time after time. Kilcamb Lodge is as special as the area-think exquisite food, a relaxed ambience, great service and a chance to chill out in style with a magical backdrop to look out on then onto Mallaig, Skye or Mullforthe next leg of your adventure!
At Precision Porsche Specialists we service and maintain all Porsche models, using genuine Porsche parts to protect your manufacturer's warranty. Along with our Porsche trained technicians and the latest diagnostic equipment, your Porsche is in safe hands.
left my other half standing on the motorway (oops!) - even without Sport or Sport Plus
I drove it to a R5 Cars and Coffee meet at the Cholmondeley Arms with its phenomenal turnout of 55 people. There was lots of interest in the 992.2, but it was good to see so many beautiful Porsches out in the biting January cold - a great day! Thanks to Matt, Simon and the R5 Committee for a great weekend and making this Porsche driver a very happy bunny.
DIARYDATES,
BMARCHRainy'sCarsandCoffee, Bolton
12MARCHClubnight-Three Greyhounds
2APRILClubnight-ThreeGreyhounds
5APRILSaturdaymorningdrive
16APRILPop-upClubnight Location TBC.
30APRILMid-weekdrive
5MAYClassicCarShowGawsworthHall
7MAYClubnight-ThreeGreyhounds
17MAYSaturdaymorningdrive
21MAYPop-upClubnight Location TBC.
26MAYYoungtimerCarShowGawsworthHall
TBCMAYMid-WeekDrive
RB•NORTHWALES
RegionalOrganiser
Sue Taylor 07784 491473
r6@porscheclubgb.com
This year didn't begin in the best way for us.
R7 received a certificate from Yorkshire Air Ambulance for funds raised at the event
To start, we cancelled our first evening meeting due to the heavy snow and icy weather. It's just not worth the risk of night-time driving in those conditions.
Then, our New Year gettogether didn't happen due to a burst water main, which left 40,000 homes without water for almost a week and closed down schools and businesses. The broken pipe was a long and difficult repair job because it was a few metres beneath the Afan which runs out of Llyn Cowlyd reservoir. The pipe was fixed but it took many hours for the system to refill and this in turn caused more bursts through the network. As the hotel water was running black and a danger to life, we took the tricky decision to cancel our visit.
Onwards and upwards. We hope our future meets are a bit more successful.
R7•YORKSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
John Elliot 07970 935704
r7@porscheclubgb.com
The first Sunday breakfast event of 2025 was held at Blooms Kitchen, Tingley Garden Centre on 12 January. The previous week's heavy snow did not dampen R7's enthusiasm, and we had a very good turnout for an excellent breakfast and a good catch up on events over the festive period.
We've received a certificate from the Yorkshire Air Ambulance for the
£3,794.87
£3,794.87 we raised at the Yorkshire Porsche Festival, Sewerby Park on 29 September. An official presentation has been planned for April and the date will be confirmed when it becomes available.
YORKSHIREPORSCHEFESTIVAL
The Yorkshire Porsche Festival was a great success despite the cooler weather at the end of September and it was a great signoff for a busy year for R7. More than 400 cars attended, including some exotic models on the front and rear lawns. Members and visitors were entertained with live music from Shamrock Experience and Roadhouse, a local band brought to us by R7 member and guitar virtuoso Bob Stephenson. There were displays of GT3 and 911 Turbos.
2025CALENDAR
This is filling up nicely now and is available on the R7 Forum page. There are a number of drive-out events and overnight events.
WEDNESDAYMONTHLYMEETINGS
First (East]: The Ferguson Fawsit, Walkington, HU17 BAX.
Third (North]: The Blue Bell, Arkendale, Knaresborough, HG5 OQT.
The CoG is currently looking at alternative venues for a third meeting to amalgamate the central and southern sections.
'R7 PORSCHECLUB GB-CoG'
0 II SI !,D 11
GasTanks
For 356B T6 and 356C. Proper Grey or Satin Black Finish. Includes all stamped impressions, welds, and brackets. Exactly as original. Grey: NLA-201-001-07 Black: 644-201-001-07
Speedster Seats
SMS-521-061-S Made by Simonsen Reutter version available.
Pre-AFloor Pans
1950-52 and 1952-55 Versions. Made by Simonsen. Early version shown.
FloorMats
Sets for 356 and 911 / 912 Including RHD BT6-C NLA-551-102-06 shown.
Stoddard.com Highland Heights, Ohio 44143 USA 800 3421414 -
HoodHandlewith EnamledCrest
Drop Forged Aluminum with Satin Finish for 356A Triple Chrome Finish for 356B and 356C. NLA-559-020-01 644-559-021-05-SET
Complete kits for 356,911,912,914. 912CA623 shown.
RubberBody Seals
For 356,911, and 912 Made in USA and Europe with Correct Extrusions. NLA-561-931-00 Speedster Top Seal shown.
ChassisDolly
Professional Quality For Proper Restorations Easy Shipping SIC-911-DOL-L Y
NewOutlaw SteelWheels
15x7-inch with Factory Centers 23mm or49mm 911R offset SIC-361-020-10 shown.
StrikerPlates
Concours Correct Pre-A through Late 911
SIC-531-701-23
SIC-531-702-23 911 1968 through 1989 shown.
CHECKOUT
356,911,914 Catalogs. Find what you need the easy way! stoddard.parts
89502 USA 800 438 8119
FUTUREVENTS
On Saturday 8 March, we have a breakfast event at JCT Aston Martin, Ring Road, Lower Wortley, Leeds, LS12 BAA. From April, we will start our usual drive-outs and events. Please see the Forum and event calendar for upcoming events. The Whitby fish and chip runs will be in early April to avoid the Easter holiday break.
The September trip to Hall in Northumberland is still open for bookings.
Chris and Delia Smith
RB • EASTMIDLANDS
JointRegionalOrganisers
Liam and Sarah Kelly rB@porscheclubgb.com
No Club night in January, as The Coopers traditionally close for a couple of weeks. Lightning Laura's quiz was the first event for our February meeting. Axel organised a run out and lunchtime get-together at Cafe Ventoux on 19 January. A great start to the RB New Year!
MOTDRSPORT
Graham is keeping the Region up to date with the motorsport championship, which starts in earnest in March. PCGB are aiming to make these events more of a festival affair with a larger Club presence and are encouraging Regions to visit their local circuits to support the competitors. For more information, contact Graham Rose (grahamrose911@hotmail.co.uk]. First rounds are on 29 March at Cadwell and 19 April at Curborough.
PRESCOTTHILLCLIMB
Nigel Town is organising a group outing to Prescott on 11 May. He's already had quite a few expressions of interest, so please contact him via nigel.town@uwclub.net if you'd like more information.
DONINGTDNHISTORICFESTIVAL
Confirmed for 2-4 May, RB are looking to be present at the Melbourne Loop in support of PCGB (contact rB@porscheclubgb.com).
Book through the Club website. Ade Ancliffe is researching a route for a limited numbers run out on the Saturday morning. Please contact him at adrian. pawprint@gmail.com to be included. You don't need to attend the festival to take part in the run -this is a stand-alone event.
EARLYSUMMERPARTY
We've booked the delightful Linden Hall in Northumberland for a Regional weekend get-together on 16-17 May to get the season going. The cost will be around £250 per couple per night for bed, breakfast and dinner. Please contact us at I14mpk@hotmail.com for more information.
FIRSTAIDER
We are on the look out for a volunteer to be a first aider for the Region. The Club will pay for training and help would be very much appreciated.
ONLINECALENDAR
Please download our RB online calendar, as this is updated regularly.
In planning -contact Axel at aak2008@ hotmail.co.uk
10AUGUSTTouroftheEastMidlands
Contact Adrian at adrian.pawprint@gmail.com
7SEPTEMBERPorschePageantElvastonCastle
Contact rB@porscheclubgb.com
R9• WESTMIDLANDS
RegionalOrganisers
Tom and Carol Downes 07972 303286 r9@porscheclubgb.com
;z:::,~ ? 9.8'7
Combining main dealer-level Porsche servicing with independent pricing using latest PIWIS diagnostics and factory back up. Used Porsche sales prepared to the highest standards. All with a friendly family-run feel. YOURONE-STOPSHOPFORYOURPORSCHE.
The Porsche of long-time PCGBmember and Porsche fan Tony Redell of RS, who sadly passed away recently
Some sad news to start. Long-time PCGB member and Porsche fan Tony Redall passed away recently. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.
It's been quiet as far as Porsche activity goes this month, but things are starting to pick up so there should be more next time.
RIO·MILTONKEYNES & NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
Sue Rollings
07 495 296650
r1 O@porscheclubgb.com
We started 2025 with our first R 1 0 Club meet for the year and, goodness me, was it a cold one. Mike and I left home and it was showing minus figures on the temperature gauge. I sent a message out to members stating non-Porsche cars would be welcome due to a few local roads not being gritted the night before. As I wrote, safety comes first.
I'm pleased to say that the meeting was well attended. Well done to those who
were brave enough to bring their cars out! Breakfast was booked for 8.30am in the restaurant at the Aviator Hotel. I have to admit Mike and I drove over in the Mercedes because neither of us wanted to get grit on our cars or to have to wash them on such a bitterly cold day.
JZMPORSCHE
By now, you will have been notified of our visit to JZM Porsche in Kings Langley, arranged for Saturday 15 March. We last visited them in 2023 when at least one R10 member treated themselves to a Porsche upgrade.
WOTY
At the meeting, I was able to share a little more information regarding this year's WOTY. We will be visiting the Isle of Man from Friday 2 May to Monday 5 May, staying at the Comis Hotel (Douglas). There are 1 5 rooms booked to date and I've been advised that the hotel can accommodate a few more members should you wish to join us. If you are interested, please email me. I look forward to hearing from you.
DOVEHOUSEMOTORCOMPANY
You will also have been informed about our invitation to Dove House Motor Company, where Brendon Hurn will be providing an interior cleaning demonstration. Before and after photos to follow, as I believe my car may be the guinea pig!
Finally,please remember to look out for R1 D email updates and links to book onto planned events and ensure your PCGB membership details are current and correct.
Very best wishes,
Sue
RII• ESSEX
TeamCoordinator
Ray Chapman r11@porscheclubgb.com
RIIANNUALCHARITY
As many of you are aware, each year R11 supports a different charity and some of our events are fundraising opportunities for the chosen charity. The selection is made at our January Club night when various options are proposed to our members and subsequently chosen by members' votes. Last year, we supported Chelmsford Sea Cadets and we are pleased to report that
we raised £3,569. We understand that the funds will be used for much-needed new equipment.
This year, we had two charities proposed at our January Club night. The first was the British Heart Foundation, proposed by their Essex-basedfundraising manager Josh Parsons. The second was the Essex-based Jude Harvey Foundation, which was proposed by R11 member Lee Curtis. Coincidentally, both proposals were connected to heart disease because the Jude Harvey Foundation raises funds for dealing with heart disease in the young. The votes were counted and 64% were for the Jude Harvey Foundation, so we look forward to supporting them during 2025.
IMAGESFORTHEWEBSITE
We are always looking for new photos for our newsletters and social media pages, so don't forget to post any event photos to our Facebook page facebook. com/groups/pcgb.r11/
If you have any photos, you would like us to use for our newsletters, please email them to r11@porscheclubgb.com
Lastly, if you wish to propose an event or need to contact Team R11, please speak to any of the team or email r11@porscheclubgb.com and someone will get back to you.
DIARYDATEB
6APRILCarsandcoffeeatSummerhill
6APRILPrillPorscheClassics
9APRILClubnight
3MAYCarsandcoffeeatTheAnchor
Rl2•NORFOLK&SUFFOLK
RegionalOrganisers
Glenn and Emma Jackson
Mob: 07702 591602
Mob: 07715 417527
r1 2@porscheclubgb.com
NEWS
The year is finally underway after the long dark winter, although it's still pretty cold = out there! Most of the 2025 events are :z: = now available on the website for booking, 8 although please note that some of our o::: larger events have specific dates that
tickets will go on sale. These details are in the listings. In the previous issue, you'll have seen a report on our road trip to the Lake District from last May. We still have a few events up our sleeves for this year, with more details to come soon. We hope to see you all out and about. At time of going to print, we will have held our first 911 Coffee Run of 2025 at Baytree of Hilgay on 23 February. All Porsches are welcome, but the name comes from the fact that all our cars and coffee events for 2025 will run from 9am until 11 am. An easy-to-remember schedule that no Porsche owner has an excuse to forget! These will also include an optional planned drive-out for members to join us if they wish. The next 911 Coffee Run of 2025 will be at Porsche Centre Colchester on 1 5 March, so we hope to see you there.
FUTUREEVENTS
As always, keep an eye on the R12 page of the PCGB website for the latest information on all of our events and make sure you are signed up to receive our regular member emails.
DIARYDATEB
15MARCH911CoffeeRun
Porsche Centre Colchester. 6APRILRabbitRun2025
10APRILClubnight
Porsche Centre Norwich. 26APRIL911CoffeeRun
Folk Cafe, Bury St Edmunds.
Glenn and Emma Jackson
Rl3•HEREFORD, WORCESTERSHIRE &SHROPSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
Steve Cutler 01384 370038 r1 3@porscheclubgb.com
JointRegionalOrganiser
Simon Hopcroft 07739 817159
simonhopcroft@aol.com
Our first meeting of 2025 was held at Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club, where just over 50 members attended a lovely social evening. We sat down for a very nice meal from a varied menu that was all cooked beautifully and served nice and hot - a real credit to the golf club and its staff.
Due to the fact that it was a few weeks since our last meeting, we had lots to talk about, including new cars, trackdays booked and plans for the coming year. The last item was discussed in some depth and especially our bigger events, all of which are well supported with some selling out in a matter of hours. Le Mans Classic is the first event taking us abroad, with extra days both before and after the event allowing us a few days in the historic town of St Malo.
Julie Hopcro~ receives a cake from husband Simon (R) and Steve Cutler (L)
Another event, and one we are sharing with Area 5 of AMOC, is a tour of Spain and Portugal. Again, it's well supported and put together by Scenic Car Tours. We then move on to our week-long Isle of Man tour followed immediately by our WOTY. Ian Crosskell has very kindly arranged this year's WOTY and our base for the weekend will be Alnwick in Northumberland.
We have lots of other exciting events this year, including our Curborough day, a visit to the Man Cave and the Clubhouse, Go Karting in Hereford, Holly House charity day, Mellington Hall, a Welsh drive with afternoon tea, and plenty more.
The highlight of the night was presenting Julie Hopcroft with a large birthday cake. Although her actual birthday falls between two meetings, it was very appropriate on this day. Julie is an excellent, hard-working Club member, is married to Simon, and is the one who normally organises the cakes for our special occasions.
Rl4•SOUTHWALES
RegionalOrganiser HuwJones r14@porscheclubgb.com
DRIVEANDLUNCH
Carl and Jo Petersen arranged the R14 end of year drive on 29 December. There was a good turnout on this excellent driving route. The route took us on various good roads via BuiIth Wells and over the Military Range to Sennybridge, finishing with lunch
BREAKFASTANDRUNTOHONEYCAFE
The first event of the year on 1 9 January was well supported, with more than 37 members attending. The venue provided a separate room for our group, but the numbers meant that some members had to use an alternative room.
After breakfast, a group of 12 cars had a good run over the mountains to Brecon where we ended the run and enjoyed a good cup of coffee.
WOTV
We have been progressing our tour for this year and are now finalising details. The tour will either run on 8-1 2 September or 15-19 September, with the dates being dependent on hotel availability. The return ferry will be from Portsmouth to Caen. We have already had 20 people (10 rooms] express interest in our WOTY, and they will be given priority. However, at the time of this report going to press, there are still 1 0 rooms available.
COMMUNICATION
Don't forget to keep up with our latest Region news and events on our Facebook page at facebook.com/groups/PCGBR14
We have also created a WhatsApp for R14's events. The QR code for it is:
Members' Porsches at Honey Cafe in Brecon
A welkleserved rest stop on R14's end of year drive
at the Ty Newydd Country Hotel, Hirwaun.
HuwJanes
911GT3(992)
Jet Green Metallic• Black 918 Bucket Seats• POKGearbox• 20/21" Centre Lock Wheels • Carbon Roof/Upper Mirror Sections• Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes • Front Axle Lift S,542 miles• 2022 (22)
Guards Red • Graphite Blue Leather Sports Seats • POKGearbox • 19/20"
Carrera S Wheels • Switchable Sports Exhaust• Adaptive Cruise Control• Front & Rear Parking Sensors• 10,521 miles• 2021 (71)
£89,995
911GT3(996.2)
Cobalt Blue • Black Leather Bucket Seats• 18" GT3Wheels• Tequipment Rear Roll Cage• Air Conditioning Guards Red Seat Belts • Bi-Xenon Headlights • Electric Windows & Mirrors • 48,063 miles • 2003 (53)
£84,995
911Carrera4GTS(997.2)
Meteor Grey• Black Half-Leather Sports Seats• POKGearbox • 19'' GTS
Centre Lock Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation • Sport Chrono Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon • 41,420 miles • 2012 (12)
£67,995
911Carrera2(997.2)
Carrara White • Black Leather Seats POK Gearbox • 19" Sport Design Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation • Switchable Sports Exhaust • Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon• 35,782 miles• 201O(59)
911Carrera2GTS(997.2)
Carrara White • Black Leather Sports Seats • POK Gearbox • 19" GTS
Centre Lock Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation• Sport Chrono Switchable Sports Exhaust 47,379 miles • 201 O(60)
£54,995
91140thAnniversary(996)
GT Silver• Natural Black Leather Sports Seats• 18" Carrera Wheels
Satellite Navigation• No. 0990 of 1,963 Cars Produced• Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon 51,117 miles• 2004 (54)
CaymanS(718)
GT Silver • Black Leather Sports Seats Manual Gearbox• 20" Carrera Classic Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation • Switchable Sports Exhaust• Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon• 6,904 miles• 2019 (19)
£49,995
Boxster(981)
Rhodium Silver• Black Leather
Seats• POK Gearbox• 20" Carrera S Wheels • Front & Rear
Sensors • Bose Sound System • Sports Tail Pipes 28,611 miles • 2013 (63)
BoxsterSpyder(987)
Carrara White• Black Half-Leather Bucket Seats • POK Gearbox 19" Spyder Wheels • Touchscreen Satellite Navigation• Switchable Sports Exhaust • Sport Chrono 11,992 miles • 2011 (11)
£49,995
Boxster(981)
Rhodium Silver• Black Leather Sports Seats • POKGearbox 19" Boxster S Ill Wheels• Front & Rear Parking Sensors• Heated Seats • Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon • 18,895 miles • 2014 (63)
Followed by a run. Organiser: Brian Jones. 30MARCHVisittothePendineMuseum ofSpeed Organiser: Peter Winstone. 6APRILPrescottHillClimb Organiser: Brian Jones. 4MAYClassiccareventfor StDavid'sHospice Chepstow Racecourse. Organiser: Paul Bowyer.
1JUNESimplyPorscheatBeaulieu MotorMuseum Organiser: Huw Jones. 13JUNEPorscheintheBay With fish and chips van. Organiser: HuwJones.
Rl5·SOUTHWEST
RegionalOrganiser Mike Williams r1 5@porscheclubgb.com
LUNCHWITHGUESTSPEAKERJASONWEBB
Our first event of 2025 followed some seriously cold weather and snow during the week. Sunday 12 January, however, was a perfect sunny day with around 50 of our members attending the Bovey Golf Centre to hear all about the training and physical tests required to become a Royal Marine. The awe-inspiring talk given by R15 member Jason Webb was followed by a lovely Sunday lunch.
WOTY25
We have just two places left for our adventure to the Orvault and Loire Regions of France. If you fancy joining the 19 cars already booked, please be quick in registering your interest. It would be great to get an attending member's report of an event, so please just email me and let us get it published.
2§ THERE'LLBEBLUESKIES ...
8 In lieu of warmer spring weather, R1 5
o::: had a photography competition to show
members' Porsches under blue skiesthis month's winners are captioned above.
Mike Williams, Nigel Davies and Geoff Lane
DIARYDATE
9MARCHSundaylunchatTheBovey GolfCentre
Includes a presentation by David 'Fitz' Fitzgerald describing his life as a TV and radio presenter and the celebrities he's met along the way.
22MARCHSCSPorscheanda winerytour
A visit to specialist SCS Porsche to see a presentation of what they offer including servicing, diagnostics, parts and repairs.
This will be followed by a visit to a local vineyard for a buffet lunch and tour. The vineyard features a house that was
showcased in a Grand Designs episode!
Numbers are limited for this event, so please book early to secure your place.
13APRILSundaylunchatTheBovey GolfCentre
With a presentation from our chosen charity, Children's Hospice South West, Little Bridge House.
27APRILSouthWestClassicCarShow Trago Mills, Newton Abbot. 11MAYSpringDrive
RIB·GLOUCESTERSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser Team R16 r1 6@porscheclubgb.com
You pray for dry roads and then, after two days of settled weather, the fog rolls in and brings with it at least 120 per cent humidity to the already filthy roads. But, on a positive note, it wasn't raining! Our route was going to take in the sweeping 'Chain Hill' out of Wantage and through Lockinge which, even on the damp dirty roads, was no challenge to the group.
The collection of cars driving the event was also varied, from the latest Porsche GB offerings to a lovely red 1977 Porsche 924 owned by new member Jonathon.
The drive-out, the first of the year, was to the increasingly popular Podium Place in Newbury, home of the coffee bean and rotating supercars.
As the website declares, "Chill out while you watch the specialty 'Podium Coffee Roasters' in action. Breathe in the gorgeous aroma. Savour the exquisite taste and enjoy exceptional hospitality in our Podium Cafe. Then take in the sights of the stunning display of modern classic sports cars for sale, from rare Ferraris to limited edition Aston Martin".
I think they missed the bit about having a hearty breakfast roll or calorie-filled piece of cake [which, of course, we did).
It's also worth mentioning the extremely pleasant and helpful staff, who even suggested that we reorganise the seating to allow our group to be together. I'm not sure they realised how long the table was going to be, but it allowed a constant flow of chatter up and down it, which was especially valuable with new members attending. This is a venue we will be revisiting when the roads offer the
Oak Green Spyder under blue skies photographed by owner Michael Branagan+larris
Could I get away with leaving my mark on that Ferrari?!
Jonathan and Adela Edgoosewith their Rosebowl Trophy
prospect of a more spirited drive (obviously within the limits of the highway).
Join the R16 community and check out the upcoming events schedule through the regular emails or on the PCGB website.
Rl7• SOUTHERN
JointRegionalOrganisers
Jon Fisher 02380 766808/07918 686116
Mark Rye-Weller
07880 695747
r1 7@porscheclubgb.com
DINNERDANCE
We returned to the Batley Park Hotel on 11 January for the first time in many years. It proved to be a popular choice, with good food, a large dancefloor and an adjacent bar where 80 R17 members enjoyed a great evening.
We presented the Rosebowl Trophy to Members of the Year Jonathan and Adela Edgoose for their continuing support, and the David Hibbs Trophy to John and Tamar Hudson for their brilliant organisation of the R17 Malvern WDTY in September 2024.
The evening was topped off with a very successful raffle which raised a fantastic £1,000. We'll be presenting £1,000 to Sophie's Legacy which, along with £750 already in the pot from 2024, will give us a strong start towards our 2025 charity: Priory Park Pre-school in Hedge End. This support was decided upon in memory of our dear friend Julia Coates
who was instrumental in establishing the pre-school as a charity more than 30 years ago. Our grateful thanks to all the members who contributed prizes and in particular to Mike Laskowski, owner of Konings Detailing, who donated £850-worth of paint preparations.
CLUBNIGHTATSIRWALTERTYRRELL
We were delighted to see more than 30 stalwart members who showed up for an enjoyable social evening at one of our favourite New Forest haunts on 14 December. Being the middle of winter, we had the pub to ourselves which enabled us to chat and catch up with each other's news and welcome two new members: Paul, attending with his son Jamie, who has recently acquired a 997; and Nigel Jordan, returning to the Porsche fold with a 996.
Look out for our regular email newsletters on these and other events, booking links are also on the PCGB website, email us to join our WhatsApp group and we're on Facebook and lnstagram too.
Jon Fisher and Mark Rye-Weller
DIARYDATEB
9MARCHBreakfastmeetwithR29
SurreyatPathfinderCafe Blackbushe Airport near Camberley (GU17 9LQ) from 9-12.
Our January meeting was well-attended, with several new members coming along to hear Geoffrey Stewart's presentation about the potential 2025 WOTY to Scotland. He talked about suitable hotels in different areas and the various drive-outs from these. He also talked about the 'Porsche Drive' initiative where you can hire a car from several Porsche Centres in Europe.
At this meeting, we were also delighted to present the photographic competition winner Craig Haworth with his trophy. His winning entry was the cover shot for our 2025 calendar.
We have several events planned for 2025 which I hope you will support. There will be the usual cars and coffee breakfast meetings at Charity Farm and The Mill at St Catherine's Hospice, where we have recruited new members, and there may well be a drive after these. There will also be drives and lunches in different areas. There should be meetings at local Porsche Centres as well as independents. Check your newsletter for more information.
We have booked a Club parking area, alongside Porsche Centre South Lakes, at the Wheels Up North event on 20 July at Westmorland Showground near Kendal. Pre-booking is essential and you have had details in the regular newsletters. If you need information about this event, please email me ASAP.
If you have any suggestions for other events or would even be willing to help organise something, please let me know.
Welcome to new member Mark Leyland. We look forward to seeing you at some of our events.
DIARYDATEB
20APRILEasterSundaySportsand ClassicCarShow
Shackelton's Garden Centre. Booking via David is essential because places are limited.
DATETBCVisittolocalfirestation
DATETBCShowandshineconcours Porsche Centre Preston.
Rl9• THAMESVALLEY
RegionalOrganiser
Mike Cope -07894 606381 r1 9@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegionalOrganiser Roger Summers
BREAKFASTATGEORGEONTHEGREEN
We visited this popular watering hole for our first breakfast of 2025 on 11 January -the coldest day in 15 years, apparently. Understandably, there was less discussion in the car park as people were attracted inside by the warmth. Almost 30 cars led to a Rubik's Cube-style car parking
John and Tamar Hudson with their Hibbs Trophy
R1 B's Craig Haworth (second from right) receives his trophy
arrangement which was interesting to untangle. There was lively discussion in this atmospheric location with its ancient beams and low ceilings accompanied, of course, by a delicious full English breakfast.
REGULAREVENTS
R19 enjoyed good attendance at our two regular events in January. The first was at the Coppid Beech on 5 January, while the second saw more than 30 cars at the Renegade Brewery on 19 January. There was much discussion about plans for 2025, as warmer weather and longer days seem closer now that we've passed Christmas.
Rl9MEMBERSURVEY
Thanks to everyone who completed the R19 member survey at the end of 2024. Some of the key takeaways are:
-Visits to Porsche specialists, technical suppliers and motoring-related events are popular and we will continue these in 2025. -Drive-outs followed by lunch generated significant interest and we'll add these to the 2025 calendar.
-Motoring-related museums were more popular than expected and we'll look to increase these in 2025.
As expected, most people preferred weekend events but there was a surprising level of interest in weekday events -for instance, where these cannot be scheduled for the weekend. It was also good to see interest in joint events with Club Registers and other Regions, and this is something we're giving more focus to in 2025.
Members are willing to travel about 20 miles to regular events and 50 miles, or even further, to half-or full-day weekend events. We'll look at spacing out the regular locations to make it easier for
more members to attend at least one. Any ideas will be gratefully received via r1 9@porscheclubgb.com.
There was interest in motorsport-related events and we'll look into this, perhaps including Carrera Cup and Boxster Cup type events.
Finally,many of you offered to help with events, which is most welcome and we'll be in touch as the 2025 calendar is firmed up.
A shoutout to the 'Firm' and our 'Home Guard' for minding the stall while we were away for our January Sunday 'inn' the city meet.
For those looking for our 2025 events, including our drives and longer tours, these are now online; see the link below.
For those new to our Region, a big welcome. If you are wondering how to get involved, then come to one of our monthly meets and say hi. We will update you on how easy it is to join in.
RECENTEVENTS
For full write-ups of all our events and
R19's Mike Cope braved the intense cold in his cabriolet!
Cotswolds invasion -Unicorn out front
galleries, see our regional website page at porscheclubgb.com/london/ news
Details of all our events including drives and European tours can be found at porscheclubgb.com/london/ events
See you out on the road, Nick and Ed
DIARYDATEB
16MARCHSUNDAY'INN'THECITY
Join us at our city location of Lincoln's Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3TN from 8.30am. Plenty of free parking with a historic London backdrop. Third Sunday of the month.
31MARCHACECAFEMEET
Europe's largest and longest running free monthly Porsche-only meet at Ace Cafe on the North Circular Road, Stonebridge, London, NW10 7UD, from 6pm. Last Monday of the month. Our first Ace Cafe meet of 2025 with some daylight.
R21 • CHILTERN
JointRegionalOrganisers
Bill and Donah Dewar
AssistantRegionalOrganisers
Ashley Miller, Terry Perry, Jason Melhuish, Phil Jones r21 @porscheclubgb.com
R22 • CUMBRIA &SWSCOTLAND
RegionalOrganiser
Michael Trotter -07841 215962
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Ian Graham r22@porscheclubgb.com
CHRISTMASLUNCH
R22's Christmas lunch was held at the Willowbeck Lodge. We had a fantastic turnout, with members attending from all over the large region. Members were greeted with hot mulled wine on arrival and we relaxed and chatted among ourselves in the lounge area. The venue was booked exclusively for the private lunch of a fabulous three-course meal with tea, coffee and mince pies to finish off. A huge thank you from the R22 team to all the members for your support.
R23 • SUSSEX
RegionalOrganisers
Chris and Martin Woolger 07720 849982 07802 409272 r23@porscheclubgb.com
We hope all our members had a good Christmas and a good start to 2025, although the weather could have been kinder and enabled more of us to get out and drive our cars [if you did not 'wrap them up' in the garage for winter].
We had a lovely first monthly meeting at The Bainey Stage on 7 January and it was great to catch up with people for a good chat.
Our first outing of 2025 will be completed by the time you read this report.
Sunday 'inn' the city -Three little pigs
On 26 January, we were all meeting at The Owl for breakfast before setting off on a 51-mile drive -weather permitting. At this time of year, we plan all our drives on main roads due to the winter weather conditions. A full update and photos of this meeting will be in next month's report.
I know we have quite a few new members in the Region so, for those new members, we communicate the information of all our events via email with a link to book, except for our monthly meeting at The Bainey Stage (RH17 5RL) which is a 'just turn up' meeting.
We are still in the process of planning this year's calendar, so please check your emails or our Facebook page PCGB R23 (closed group) for any updates and information.
DIARYDATES,
Our monthly meeting is held every first Tuesday of the month at The Bainey Stage. 4MARCHMonthlymeeting
The Bainey Stage from 7pm
20MAY-1JUNEDrivingTourPorsches inProvence
21MAY-5JUNE2026Drivingtour
Great drives and sights of central Spain.
R24 • CAMBRIDGESHIRE & BEDFORDSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
Chris Kingshott
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Wayne Helme r24@porscheclubgb.com
As we look forward to new events, meetings and trips, I think a brief look back at 2024 would be in order. We have built a strong core of more than 1 50 'regulars' who we must thank for their great support, along with the many businesses and individuals who have opened their doors for us over the year.
Among those are Porsche Centre Cambridge, Lotus, Shuttleworth, RPM Technik, Bartletts, Kingsway Golf, The Fat Lamb, Allon White, Hot Numbers, Box End and Kimbolton Fayre as well as our drive-n-dine trips and traditional January lunch and raffle.
Many thanks to them all, and apologies if I missed anyone.
Looking forward, we have the Old Ferryboat back in circulation for our monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of each month and these will be running at 7.30-9pm.
We have confirmed the Lotus Factory and Heritage tour for those lucky few who will have booked by now and we also have the following diary dates. Details will be sent out on Regional emails.
In the meantime, thank you for your continued enthusiastic support and let's all look forward to a successful 2025.
Chris and Wayne
DIARYDATE
11MAYShuttleworthFlyingDay
25JUNEKingswayCrazyGolfand BBQEvening
13JULYKimboltonCountryFayre
R25 • KENT
JointRegionalOrganisers
Sue Dennis -07515 378066
Chris Torre -07887 246835
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Sue Torre r25@porscheclubgb.com
@@porscheclubgbkent pcgb.r25
WHAT'SBEENHAPPENING
The year started off with 1 0 PCGB members who decided to brave the cold and join us on 11 January to visit Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance [KSSAA) base at Redhill Aerodrome to present Fran Vale, Kent Community Fundraiser, with a cheque for monies raised by R25 members during 2024. The cheque presented was for £2,584.26. This brings the total raised since we have been involved with KSSAA from the beginning of 2023 to just over £6,000. We held our first Club night of the year on 18 January at The Bull in Wrotham, which was our post-Christmas dinner. This venue was where the very first R25 Club night was held on 5 July 1983, more than 41 years ago!
It was great to see some of the original organisers and members who were present on that very first Club night and who are still R25 members today join us. To commemorate the event, there were photo albums available to view thanks to Paul Dennis and Phil and Pearl Sharland. Chris read out the original typed letter provided by Anne Marsland which was sent to prospective members informing them of the first Kent Region Club night.
UPCOMINGEVENTS
Please see the R25 events page for information about all forthcoming events
R25 and Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance
R26 being given a tour of Porsche Centre Bournemouth's workshop
which are scheduled. These are updated frequently, so please check. Once you have booked an event, please check your spam/ junk folders for confirmation emails.
Sue and Chris
DIARYDATEB
24APRILLotusFactoryandHeritage tourvisit
26APRILAllonWhite(Cranfield)visit
11MAYShuttleworthFlyingDay
25JUNEKingswayCrazyGolfandBBQ evening
13JULYKimboltonCountryFayre
R26 • DORSET
RegionalOrganiser
Position vacant r26@porscheclubgb.com
Our 2024 event season finished with the annual Christmas BBQ, which was hosted by Porsche Centre Bournemouth.
This event is actually a 'pot luck' food event and nearly 50 members, family and friends attended, bringing a variety of scrumptious delights which were
AdrianDavidson(RJ,winnerof the R26Memberof theYearAward,presentedbyTrefWillingham[LI
consumed very quickly. A special mention goes to those who prepared, baked or artistically displayed their treats.
Staff at Porsche Centre Bournemouth were also present. Throughout the evening, we were shown all the new models they have in the showroom, along with some stunning pre-owned machinery. They also gave tours around the workshops where Porsches including a 992 GT3 RS were having four-wheel alignment done and a 1982 Targa SC having major engine upgrades were on show.
This event also gave R26 the chance to present our Member of the Year Award. This year, it has gone to Adrian Davidson. Adrian has been a stalwart of our Region for many years, and he is always on hand to assist in the setting up of events or repairing Club equipment that has been damaged or worn out. He has been close to being Member of the Year so many
times, so congratulations Adrian on this year's award.
R27•IRELAND
RegionalOrganiser
R27Team r27@porscheclubgb.com
@ porscheclubgb_northernireland fl pcgb.r27
With the beginning of our 2025 drive season almost upon us, we extend a very warm welcome to our new members and look forward to seeing everyone take to
the road in the coming weeks.
Especially with new members in mind, we would like to remind everyone of a few very basic structures we have in place to help our Region run safely and smoothly.
All our drives and events are sent to everyone via email. Please check that your current email is registered with the Club.
For most drives, we will ask you to book and especially when lunch is included in the programme. As has been the case in the past, we will ask you to make your menu selection and payment ahead of the event. We are very grateful to everyone for observing the deadline which allows us to get the
back office administration completed. If you happen to miss a deadline, please contact one of the R27 Team. Likewise, if you need to cancel, please let us know as soon as possible. Our policy is that if we can get a refund, it will be passed on to you.
When arriving at meeting points, please observe any marshalling directions and, when parking, leave a car's width between cars where possible. On the road, only overtake fellow members when its necessary for safety reasons. Always observe the Highway Code!
Members are always welcome to bring along a guest or guests to any of our events.
All models and age of Porsche are welcome at Region events
LUXURYBESPOKEGARDENBUILDINGS
If you want to enjoy your garden without having to worry about the weather, our luxury bespoke garden buildings are the ideal way to entertain, relax or work from home in comfort. Talk to us today to find out how we can create what you're looking for or visit our show sites
The Rose Gardens, 251 Toton Lane, Stapleford, Nottingham, NG9 7JA
Studley Garden Centre, Henley Road, Warwickshire, B80 7DR
CAPACITY CONVERSIONS
We also encourage members to offer ideas for drives so, if you know a great place for a drive or for lunch, please just let us know!
If you have any questions about an event, please don't hesitate to contact one of the team.
Looking forward to seeing you very soon.
Paul McAleer [Drives], Ken Mack {Events] and John Hi/ditch {Rnance)
R2BG·CHANNELISLANDS,GUERNSEY
RegionalOrganisingTeam
Steve Manklow, Paul Sheward and Brad Faye r28G@porscheclubgb.com
Dorian Logan, Michael Turton and Somesh Mitra r29@porscheclubgb.com
R30 • ISLEOFMAN
JointRegionalOrganisers
Neil Chadwick 07624 472284
AssistantRegionalOrganisers
Jon Whiting and Karl Millar r30@porscheclubgb.com
Unfortunately, the annual dinner planned for January did not go ahead. However, we are looking to have something similar in the summer months when we will hopefully have fewer diary clashes.
Our WOTY to the Lake District is now sold out, which is great news because it is the first time that we have tried an event on this scale off-island. The venue has confirmed that they could potentially arrange additional accommodation if there is sufficient interest.
Mark Cady has stepped down as Joint Regional Organiser, although Neil is now joined by Jon Whiting and Karl Millar as Joint ROs going forward. Thank you to Mark for the time and effort you have put into the Club.
We are hoping to arrange a karting event during the summer at the Jurby racetrack. Please let us know if you are interested in taking part. Should we get sufficient numbers, it could be a team
endurance type event rather than an individual race.
Finally,welcome to new member Guy and we hope to see you at one of our events soon.
DIARYDATES
APRILTBCClayPigeonshooting
MAYTBCVictoryCafebrunch
Specific dates for all events and booking requirements will be circulated via email nearer the time.
R31 • COTSWDLDS
RegionalOrganiser
Nick Taylor 07397 388250 r31 @porscheclubgb.com
@ Porsche Club GB -Cotswolds
IJ Porsche Club GB -Cotswolds ¼ @pcgb_cotswolds
DIARYDATES
26MARCHTalkingPlanesandPorsches withTopGun
2APRILBoxsterLifeBirthdayParty
We had some awful news recently: the unexpected and tragic passing of our
Andrew Occleshaw will be greatly missed
dear friend Andrew Occleshaw. Andrew was a stalwart member of our community for so many years, helping particularly with the printing of maps, badging and other arrangements for our Cotswolds Rallies. He will be deeply missed at our events and on our chat groups. Our sincere condolences to his long-term partner, Carrie. We'll do something appropriate to honour and remember him in summer.
BREAKFASTDRIVE
Our breakfast run in March will, as usual, start in Stow-on-the-Wold but finish at the Ue Coffee Roasters near Witney. They looked after us well in December, but we'll try somewhere different next month.
TALKINGPORSCHEWITH ...
Our last 'Talking Porsche with ...' of the season is a bit different because we're talking aeroplanes. Specifically, fighter jets, aerobatics and other Boy's Own dreams. Fellow member Steve 'Maverick' Noujaim, who holds a world record for solo flying, will talk Phantoms, Spitfires, Boeings and probably GT2s, GT3s and other Porsches too. He's entertaining, so please come along. As always, it will be £27.50 including dinner at the Wychwood Golf Club from 6.30pm.
RegisterSecretary
Fred Hampton 01992 554935
356@porscheclubgb.com
As I write in mid-January, we're in the midst of a long cold snap -even the South East has seen frosty windscreens and salty roads on pretty much a daily basis for the last month. Alas, there has been little in the way of on-road action to report.
Dad and I did drag the cars out for the regular Legends meet at Westerham Brewery in early January and we were joined by Simon Moore in his mildly outlawed A Coupe. The temperature was barely above freezing when we left home early on the Sunday morning and, despite the salt, I took the longer M25 route to give my car a proper run. We only stayed long enough to catch up with friends; taking our leave before frostbite set in. The car had an ominous salty sheen when I got home, so I risked hypothermia by giving it a thorough wash [including underneath] before putting it away. To me, cars are there to be driven, no matter how old or precious. I could have left my 356 tucked away in the garage but, in more than 20 years of ownership, I've never been able to avoid the opportunity to drive it.
Both the UK 356 and Italy 2025 WhatsApp groups have been alive with chatter. Paul Howman, Paul Smith, Marcus Carlton and Steve Winter have kept us up to date with various restorations, while Peter Studer has shared photos and anecdotes of Eric's 356 adventures back in the day.
Eric built the engine in my A Coupe when Tim Dawson owned it. The engine is a 1 DD per cent genuine, original 'bitsa', with 'bitsa' this and 'bitsa' that discovered when Steve and I stripped it a couple of winters back. It reallywas cold!
Visit our Registers homepage where you can click directly to all modelspecific news, galleries and content.
Please visit porscheclubgb.com/ registers or scan this QR code.
Originality wasn't a big deal 30 years ago - simply keeping the cars running was regarded as a triumph. The blessing from my perspective is that we don't have to conform when rebuilding the motor. We picked a number (c110-120bhp, which is plenty for a road car with drum brakes) and the specification will be tailored accordingly. With any luck, the rebuilt engine will be back in the car this summer
If any 356-ers would like to be added to either WhatsApp group, please get in touch (jeffeast@hotmail.com]. I'd also be delighted to hear from anyone who has a story to tell and that would save me from repeatedly commentating on my own car in this column!
KTF,
Jeff East
EARLY911(2.0,2.2&2.41
RegisterSecretary
Julian Hobbins 911@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegisterSecretary
Robin Walker
TechnicalAssistant
Alan Drayson -07 446 931125 alan@canfordclassics.co.uk
January is the time to start planning all the fantastic trips you can enjoy with the Club as you take your Early 911 out of
hibernation and do any fettling required. My car is currently hiding from the cold in its big plastic blow-up winter bag in the garage.
I highly recommend the PCGB factory trips, which are a fantastic way to enjoy your Early 911. The Club does an excellent job of organising great venues and looking after everybody, and the trip provides the opportunity to make new friends with many common interests.
A trip to Center Gravity to get my car aligned correctly is also planned for January. These specialists seem to be very busy and are very well respected when it comes to setting up our cars properly. They will also sort any issues with other brands.
Unfortunately, I also have a few stone chips to sort out on the car after its two road trips last year around Germany and Spain. Once the chips are sorted out, I'll put some protective film on the front and ceramic coat it to try and avoid picking up further stone chips.
Please feel free to organise meetings on the WhatsApp group chat. I'm happy to coordinate for the bigger meetings and will organise a couple of Clubhouse days, as these were popular last year. Big thanks to the Clubhouse team for all the support in organising and hosting these. The Clubhouse is a fantastic asset.
Bye for now,
Julian Hobbins
RichardandJeff'scarsout in thewinter
FOURFORTOPAZ
Four Registers came together in January to learn how to choose and maintain Paint Protection Film [PPF], one of the most popular additions to new and newly acquired cars.
Collaboration between the Panamera, Macan, Cayenne and Taycan Registers created a superb day out for their members, sharing the passion for their family-size Porsches from the earliest E1 generation Cayenne to the very latest Gen 3 Panamera.
The group had been invited to Topaz Detailing in Leeds, part of a national network of centres that offer Club members a 1 0 per cent discount. Topaz says they provide more paint protection for supercars than any other specialist worldwide. They also provide a jolly good breakfast!
Once energy had been restored by coffee and bacon rolls, Topaz specialists walked Club members
Topazhadarrangedaselectionof their customer carsformemberstoadmire, including thisbeautifully specifiedMecanE in OakGreenMetallicNeo."They wereremovingthewindscreentrimsanddoorcards inordertodisconnectthedoorhandles,allowingthe filmtobelaidbehind in therecesses,ratherthana quickcut-and-shut job," commentsMecanRegister SecretaryMikeAllen."Wewereimpressed."
IT'SAWRAPFOR NORBURGRING SPECTURBOS
For Panamera Register Secretary Randall Flack, the days had been ticking past far too slowly as he waited for delivery of his new Panamera Turbo SE-Hybrid -one of the first 781 bhp, Gen 3 cars to land in the UK.
Back in the summer, Porsche test driver Lars Kern had set a new N0rburgring lap record for luxury saloons -admittedly, quite a niche category -in a preproduction example, smashing the previous record to take the chequered flag in just 7:24.
Apart from a roll cage, Kern's car was pretty much off-theconfigurator, with the main option being the Carbon Aerokit to reduce Ii~ at the front. Porsche says that when combined with the standard Gurney flap on the adaptive four-way spoiler at the rear, the car generates carefully balanced downforce across the front and rear axles. Randall specified the same for his beautiful car. "Well," he says, "I just had to."
through the PPF process, starting with 'how to wash your car thoroughly', followed by detailing to ensure perfect surfaces, then application of the PPF,template-cut by their team to ensure a perfect fit. The work is carried out in almost clinical conditions. The price includes a first wash and final check a few weeks after collection, when any minor blemishes will be corrected.
"It was a lovely way to get together and enjoy our shared passion for four-and five-door Porsches," says organiser Randall Flack, Panamera Register Secretary, whose new car was kindly available for the demonstrations. "We will definitely be holding more events together."
Members can receive a 10 per cent discount on all Topaz detailing and paint protection products and services. Visit topazdetailing.com/ pages/ contact-studios to find your local specialist and have your membership number to hand when you call.
Remember to tell your insurance company that your car has PPF or to declare the full vehicle value including PPF if you are purchasing it with the car from an Official Porsche Centre. If you need to claim and you haven't, they will not cover the cost of replacing the film and some insurance companies are rejecting entire claims. For more on this important topic, see the news item in PP February 2025.
912
RegisterSecretary
Sam Mubarak
07973 383836
912@porscheclubgb.com
AdminAssistant
Zara
InternationalEventsCoordinator
Zainab
MediaEventsCoordinator
Alisha
911SPORTOMATIC
RegisterSecretary
Peter Cook
01789 400832
sporto@porscheclubgb.com
In December's report, I mentioned that the non-return valve on the passenger side screen wash jet was inoperative and needed replacing. Having removed the cardboard back plate in the boot to get at the offending item, I found the plastic hose pieces connecting up the screen washer system had gone hard over 50 years of use. The solution was to replace the whole system back to the pump, which incidentally works perfectly well. Many years ago, I found the pump was full of a gooey gunge; the residue left from many fills of water plus screen wash.
I cleaned it out and have not used any screen wash since - just plain water. Anyway, back to the screen washer system. Removal of the non-return valve proved impossible and, as I had made the decision to replace all the tubing, I cut it out. Replacing the tubing was straightforward, apart from connecting said non-return valve to the nozzle because it's positioned immediately above the heater distribution unit. Air from the blower passes into the heater distribution unit where all the flaps that direct air to the screen or the cabin, which are operated by the sliders on the dashboard, are located. More news next month.
I received a phone call from the owner of a 1968 Sparta who was having it restored asking, just in case, where he could obtain certain parts. It was clear from his questions that his restorer was not a Porsche man. As a non-member, I informed him that although I was prepared to discuss his car in general terms, I was not prepared to provide specific information until he was a member. "When the restoration is finished, I may join," he replied. I suggested that the cost of membership was insignificant compared to the cost of restoration and would entitle him to certain information and help, and left him to think that through. To register, please email me.
914
RegisterSecretary
Kevin Clarke 07946 080454
914@porscheclubgb.com
Assistant Kate Maynard 07812 974613
KMaynard@hickmanandrose.co.uk
InternationalEventsCo-ordinator
Tom Loder 077 48 635406 thomas.loder@btinternet.com
CATERHAMCARS
A few 914 Register members joined Region 25 [Kent] on one of their events when they visited Caterham Cars' new factory in Dartford. It was interesting to see how the cars were built and to see how things have changed since my last visit to the old factory 27 years ago. Having all the areas now in the same building instead of the different areas spread over several buildings is an improvement. The assemblers still build a complete car and it's not done via a production line, as with most car manufacturers. We surprised 914 owner Sienna Carlton who works for Caterham Cars. Sienna was busy marking out a body shell for the mounting holes in the early stages of building a Seven.
LEGENDSDRIVERSCLUBMEET
Between Christmas and New Year, a few 914 owners headed to Westerham Brewery for the Legends Drivers Club meeting. It was a chance to catch up with owners over the holiday period.
BROOKLANDS
Due to the weather warning, the Brooklands Museum New Year's Day Classic Car Gathering was postponed by three days. When it finally took place, it was good to meet up with a few 91 4 owners throughout the day. Sadly, no 914s were present, but there were many other classics to admire. We will be back for the Easter Classic Car Gathering on Easter Saturday and the Porsche day at the end of June.
Caterham Cars with 914 owner Sienna Carlton busy building a Seven
The Legends Car Club Porsche meeting at Westerham Brewery
Until next time, happy Fourteening, Kevin
DIARYDATE8'
23MARCHVolksworldShow
South of England Showground, Ardingly, West Sussex. 914 Register display area booked.
19APRILBrooklandMuseumEaster ClassicCarGathering
4MAYStanfordHallVolkswagenShow 914 Concours display. To book, contact concours@lwvwoc.co.uk.
27JULYBromleyPageantofMotoring South of England Showground, Ardingly, West Sussex. 914 Register display area booked. To book, contact Bruce Manning: mail@brucemanning.co.uk
911CARRERA RS
RegisterSecretary
Fred Hampton 01992 554935
carrerars@porscheclubgb.com
Assistant
Mike Chadwick 01454 232232 mvc@fly7 .co.uk
9112.7CARRERA&3.0
RegisterSecretary
Guy White 01493 750278
91127carrera3@porscheclubgb.com
TechnicalAssistant
Tony Ruggles 01992 892333
MORECARSFEATUREDINMAGAZINES
Last month, I wrote about Paul Richard's Carrera 2.7, which featured in Porsche and Pirelli adverts of previous years. This month, I will look at cars which featured in test reports in motoring journals.
The first is a 1976 model year Carrera 3.0 Sportomatic, which was reviewed by Autocar in January 1976 and by Country Life in June of the same year. The car, a coupe in Platinum Metallic with the registration LLU 1 37P, was a demonstrator for AFN.
Both publications regarded the car as expensive but worth the money due to the quality of the engineering, performance and standard of finish. They also thought the Sportomatic transmission would suit an owner driving a lot in urban traffic and, although it still had the performance for cross-country driving, it lacked the ultimate
performance of the manual version. After its life as a demonstrator and press car, the Carrera had several owners throughout the country, including one in Northern Ireland. At some stage, it was converted to a manual gearbox, fitted with spoilers and, by 1989, was competing in the Porsche Club Challenge series with a Register member in Scotland. The current owner, Geraint Evans, acquired the car in 1997. Geraint has made further modifications for racing in sprints and hillclimbs. and had the body restored and re-sprayed in silver in 1999.
The second is another Carrera 3.0, which featured in a 12,000-mile test conducted by Motor magazine. This time, the car was a manual in the very rare colour of Apple Green. Due to numerous faults encountered during the test, Motor reported: 'The dynamic qualities and creature comforts of arguably the best of supercars lived up to expectations, reliability didn't". The car was originally registered as ALA 433A, but has never surfaced on the Register. If you know
Geraint in action in his modified Carrera
Motor magazine's Carrera 3.0
anything of its subsequent history, please get in touch.
Guy White
924/TURBO/S
RegisterSecretary
Trefor Willingham
01747 838158
924@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantSecretary
Paul Hedges 07940 441452 (6-10pm]
So, thank you Paul for the kind introduction last month -I dare say it still leaves many of you wondering who I am and what qualifies me to be the 924 Register Secretary. Some will know me either as a Regional Organiser in Dorset for the past 20 years or for having a stupid high-mileage 944, but I think it is fair to say I have quite a history with the 924 too. The first Porsche I drove was a 924, more years ago than I care to remember. Currently, I am privileged to be the custodian of a low-mileage 924S, purchased more than 10 years ago now from its first owner: Dr Guenther. Found via Paul Hedges, there is quite a story of how this car came into my life. Prior to that, I spent nine years restoring a 924 Turbo Cabriolet that had previously languished in a field for seven years after seizing up -no, Porsche didn't make them originally and there are only two left in the UK as far as we know. This led to contributing to the Veloce Porsche 924 Essential Buyer's Guide and some parts from my stash to Porsche's Transaxle Restoration Challenge. I am a 'hands on' guy, so I am particularly pleased that Paul is staying on to assist me. His knowledge of the history of the 924 is encyclopaedic -such as the launch of the 924, 50 years ago this year! The Club already has some great plans to celebrate and I hope that we can get more of you involved up and down the country. I look forward to meeting many of you... so, if you have a 924 languishing in a garage, this is the year to get it out!
John Ward 07768 2387 42 911 turbo@porscheclubgb.com
928
RegisterSecretary
Brian Smith 07798 868 926
928@porscheclubgb.com
TechnicalAdvisor
Adrian Clark
adrian.clark928@gmail.com
928Archive David Hemmings
This year, the 928 Register is planning to arrange three events, each in a different part of the country and each with the same format. We'll arrange to travel in multiple convoys to each venue, have hot drinks on arrival and then take advantage of the attractions offered. This will be followed by lunch and plenty of opportunities to talk to fellow 928 owners. We will be inviting all transaxle Registers to join us. Newsletters will be emailed to Register members with all the details and a link to buy your ticket[ s ). Save the dates of events listed below.
SHUTTLEWORTHCOLLECTIONANDGARDENS
On Saturday 26 April, convoys will travel from Rugby and Bury St Edmunds or you have the option to meet us at the venue in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. Tickets will be £27.50 per person, which includes full access to the collection and garden plus a ticket to return within 30 days. The visit includes exclusive complementary display parking on hard standing, a complementary hot drink on arrival and a cold buffet lunch.
Additionally, we will also be joining a transaxle event organised by the 944 Register at 11 am on Sunday 16 March at the Great British Car Journey in Ambergate, plus a Club-organised classics event at Bowcliffe Hall, West Yorkshire on 8 June.
19JULY928Registerevent South Yorkshire area. 27SEPTEMBER928Registerevent Oxford area.
944
RegisterSecretary
Mike Pollock
07811 944953
944@porscheclubgb.com
Dr Guenther handing Tref the keys to his 924S. Not all low-mileage, one-owner from new cars are immaculate!
AssistantRegisterSecretary
David Chapman
TechnicalAdvisor
Jon Mitchell
01202 488800 (normal working hours) technical@jmgporsche.co.uk
Hi. I hope that, by the time this reaches you, all the winter jobs have been completed and your 944s are all ready for the coming summer. That's the idea, at least, but I'm hoping one of mine will be in for some work by now!
In the 1 0 years or so pre-COVID, the 944s had an annual meeting at Rutland Water. It was always early in the year and usually February, sometimes in rather inclement weather but with the aim to get the cars out.
So, to entice everyone, including our transaxle colleagues (924, 928 and 968), we have arranged a meeting at the newly [as of mid-January) refreshed Great British Car Journey in Ambergate on Sunday 16 March with a guided tour at 11 am. I've been there several times and really like the place. It's a relaxed atmosphere with lots of the now-rare cars your parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents drove and which you may remember growing up. It's a wonderful trip down memory lane and a great reminder of how far cars have come and how impressive the Porsche transaxle cars were among their contemporaries; something that is very easy to overlook with the performance and luxuries of today's vehicles.
I'll be leaving Tim Hortons coffee shop, Leicester Fosse Park, right by J21 of the M1 at 9.30am.
There are other outings being planned by the Club and its Registers, such as transaxle parking at Donington Historic in May and the 928s inviting us to join them at the Shuttleworth Collection in April. Please read the other transaxle columns as well to keep up with the events.
See you soon!
Mike and David
911CARRERA3.2AND CLUBSPORT
RegisterSecretaries
Steve and Sue Edwards 01285 719561
911 carrera32@porscheclubgb.com
TechnicalAdvisor
Charles Marsland 07787 902403 (9am-9pm)
GETITVALUED
A sad story has reached us of a recently stolen 3.2, which regularly visited Club events and was in good condition but not insured with Agreed Value. This left the owner distraught that the insurance might not meet the actual value. If you have a cherished car but have not reviewed the value recently, please have it valued [it's a free member benefit) and arrange worry-free Agreed Value insurance cover.
A tip from member John Davies: "Many people are not aware that the person insuring a car has the responsibility to check that their insurance company has placed the vehicle on the Motor Insurers' Bureau register [visit mib.org.uk and click 'Navigate'). Failure to do so can give rise to questions from the police if they have reason to check."
ENJOYING3.2OWNERSHIP
Member Richard reports: "I've been lucky enough to have owned a number of Porsches and my current daily drive is a 991.2, which is awesome. But, in my mind, the 3.2 Carrera is the ultimate iconic classic Porsche and a car I have always wanted. I am fortunate enough to own a Targa, which is my pride and joy. We've been to Spa, around Scotland and to the Isle of Man with Scenic Car Tours for the motoring festival. Porsche was the marque of honour at the latter, so we had parts of the TT circuit closed for us. Driving over the mountain section using the whole road in the wet was an experience I will never forget. I would recommend a visit to the Isle of Man. It's a very interesting place with much to see and the Victory Cafe is a must." Incidentally, this year's PCGB Manx Tour is 16-19 May. It costs £419pp for two sharing, including ferry crossings.
We recommend it. Search for 'Manx Tour 2025' on the Forum.
Nick's 3.2 will be featured next month. Keep sending the stories in, plus a good quality photo.
Steve and Sue 964
RegisterSecretary
Mark Byrne 07932 720610 964@porscheclubgb.com
964CARRERA RS
RegisterSecretary
Melvin Spear 07860 595355 964rs@porscheclubgb.com
ISTHEREANYBODYOUTTHERE?
We have 60 vehicles on the database, but this relies on your vehicle's details on your account being correct. If you own a 964 RS, please log in to the website at porscheclubgb.com/ my-account and check your car is listed. Similarly, if you have sold your 964 RS but haven't updated your profile, it may still be included in the Register. It's worth taking a look.
There is a planned transaxle meet at the Great British Car Journey in March
Three of the 944s braving the weather at the annual Rutland Water meet in 2018
OTHERNEWS
Last year was my 14th year of competition in the Porsche Club Speed Championship and the Porsche Club Hillclimb Championship in my trusty 1991 Cup Car, now in my ownership for 25 years. Some other competitive events were included, such as the Manx Classic. The Manx involves three hillclimbs over three days, including two on part of the Manx TT course. All due respect to the riders; at least I have a steel shell and roll cage to protect me in the event of an off!
This year, I am going to have a break and just stick with the odd trackday to blow away the cobwebs. However, having been on the stopwatch does make the average trackday pale! Hopefully, by the time this is in the post, a charity day at Silverstone for Mission Motorsport and the annual RS Day at Oulton Park should have been completed.
To this end, a visit to Center Gravity saw the car return to a more trackrather than hill-focused set-up. Two years ago, via Paul McLean at GT Classics, I sourced a set of period 18" Speedline 966 magnesium wheels, which have been refurbished by Bespoke Alloys in Uxbridge. These wheels are the Porsche equivalent of those used in the Ferrari Challenge, and very nice they look too! The ride is certainly tauter and these wheels enable an extra 1 0mm per side on the rears. Chris at CG said I needed lighter wheels 20 years ago I'm not one to rush things. It'll be good to hear from you and I look forward to meeting up at events this year.
968
RegisterSecretary
Matt Staines 07798 662199 - 968@porscheclubgb.com
So, this month has mostly been black and white. Well, to be more specific, Schwartz Black Sport and Grand Prix White Club Sport. There's not been much 968 driving during early 2025, but I've booked the white Club Sport in for a full underside dry ice clean, which will be documented online and in this magazine once completed. While in for cleaning, I'll get the wheels fully refurbished in Grand Prix White to match the car. Not original, but I think they look great colour-coded, much like the purple Sport last year. Very '90s!
New Michelin PS4 tyres will also be ordered to replace the very dated Falken Azenis that the car came with. Prior to that, it's also booked in for two new genuine front jacking mounts supplied by Porsche Centre Stockport.
The Schwartz Black car has now been in the workshop for a few months on the back burner, but is nearing [mechanical] completion with a huge list of work done. It's heading for its MOT at time of writing. I'll detail the list once completed, but I think we are well past major service, new belts, new battery, new brake and fuel lines, Cl'.)
Matt Staines' Grand Prix White Club Sport is booked in for a full underside dry ice clean
plus lots of other bits and pieces. More of that next month when I will hopefully have the car back and driving!
GETINVOLVED!
If you have a 968 with an interesting story, please email me the details. It would be great to get you featured in the magazine, on the Club website and on 968 Register social media.
DIARYDATEB
16MARCHGreatBritishCarJourney, Derbyshire Transaxle event with the 928 and 944 Registers.
26APRILShuttleworthCollection, Bedfordshire Transaxle event with the 928 Register. TBCAPRIL968RegisterMeetand CotswoldDrive
8JUNETheYorkshireClassic, BowcliffeHall
170 pre-1997 and Transaxle cars (National event].
28JUNESupercarPageant, CultonPark,Cheshire 200 cars [PCGB Super Event].
993CARRERA RS
RegisterSecretary
Paul Howells 07809 880937
993rs@porscheclubgb.com
TechnicalAdvisor
Paul McLean 993
RegisterSecretary
Mark Hamilton
07936 999979 - 993@porscheclubgb.com
RegisterAssistant
Christian Sanger 07968 503385 - cjsanger@gmail.com
Hello all 993 enthusiasts. Here are the latest activities planned in the Register:
FUTUREEVENTB
9-11MAY2025WEEKENDOFTHEVEAR
Our 2025 WOTY at the Yorke Arms near Harrogate is fully booked at time of writing, but there is a reserve list which you can join by emailing me. We do get a few dropouts, so you may be lucky! If you are in the area with your 993 on the Saturday, you would be very welcome to join our planned drives.
18JUNE993DRIVINGDAVATTHEPORSCHE EXPERIENCECENTRE
We have capacity for up to 30 cars on the day, which will consist of two 90-minute driving sessions using the full PEC facilities and includes lunch before or after your sessions, depending on your group. Costs for the day will be in the region of £400 and details can be found in the latest 993 monthly newsletter and events webpage. If you cannot make this day but are interested in taking part, let me know because a second date later in the year is also possible.
ZOOMINGINYOUR993
Our regular Zoom calls will continue through March and April at 7:30pm on the third Thursday of every month. If you are struggling with joining instructions via our regular newsletters, just email me.
on the definitive photo gallery which can be found on the 993 Register section of the Club website. Take a look and see all the magnificent 993s that we have in our Club (see the accompanying photo as an example). If you would like your 993 to be included, please email me a photo and I will share it on the gallery.
Until next time, enjoy your 993.
BOXSTER
RegisterSecretary
Tracy Wilkins 07986 943307
boxster@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantSecretary
Cliff Wilkins
Contact details as above TechnicalAdvisors
Steve Winter steve@jazweb.co.uk
Nick Pike 02089 607111 (evenings and weekends)
At the time of writing, we are still in the grip of sub-zero temperatures, with some local roads not being Boxster-friendly. Spring is just around the corner, so I hope we'll soon be out enjoying our cars again.
POST-NEWYEARRUN
Despite the weather not playing ball over the festive period, it didn't stop Paul and Wendy Gabbitus from arranging a drive-out for those wanting to brave the elements. On 3 January, Gary and Emma Vasey, Steve Robins and Geoff and Hazel Hill joined them for a great morning of dry sunny weather along some fabulous roads. Parts of the route were challenging but, with everyone driving safely, the frosty roads were thoroughly enjoyed.
SHUTTLEWORTHCOLLECTION
Following on from our last event in the north, we will be holding an event for those of you in the south [plus any members nationally who wish to attend, of course). Along with Regions 11, 12
and 24, the Boxster Register has been invited to the Shuttleworth Air Show at Old Warden on Sunday 11 May. We have dedicated display parking within the airfield. As well as watching the vintage aircraft flying displays, you can also enjoy the museum's vintage car collection and even hop on a vintage bus to get you around the site. Having attended last year, I can thoroughly recommend the event. Usual entry is £36 per adult, but members can enjoy a discounted price of £28 [under 15s go free). For more information and to book the event, please go to the events calendar on the PCGB website. The booking deadline is 1 April.
PORSCHESALES
Porsche has given their sales figures for 2024 and, although numbers are down by three per cent worldwide, they still sold a healthy 310,718 cars with an eight per cent increase in Europe (excluding Germany) of 75,899 cars. Although the Boxster was not singled out, Porsche declared that a combined total of 23,670 Boxster and Cayman 718s were delivered. That's up 1 5 per cent on the previous year.
Happy Boxstering,
Tracy
996
RegisterSecretary
Tony Murphy
996@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantSecretary
Tom Horner
As we look forward to the upcoming season of Club events, we are at that time of the year when we bring our cars out of their winter hibernation. The Club events calendar is filling up nicely and we want to encourage 996 owners to come out in force. Please keep an eye on the Club website for upcoming events.
As we start preparations for getting our wonderful 996s back on the road, a little simple, focused preventative maintenance is a great starting point.
From my experience over the years, time spent carrying out visual checks can save a whole world of pain and sometimes expense too. Early identification of problems makes rectification far easier and avoids a breakdown at the roadside and spoiling your drive-out! So, the following are a few points to look at. Before moving the car, check the floor under it for any signs of any leakage. Move rubber hoses and look for
Post-New Year Run
New Register Secretary Tony Murphy's red 996 GT3
Kerry Walpole's silver 996 GT3
cracking as they can deteriorate with age, look at metal pipes to see if they are rubbing [pinhole leaks can occur through chafing] and look at metal hose clamps which can corrode. Check radiators, the cooling system and air conditioning for signs of leakage and make sure that they are clear of debris. I once found a mouse had built a cosy nest over the winter; fortunately, it had not eaten away at any wiring! Have a good visual check around wheels and tyres, set the pressures and, finally, check all fluid levels.
If you don't want to or feel inclined to do this, Porsche Classic Centres or one of the many great independent Porsche garages will carry out this work for you and set you up for a season of drives and meet-ups.
Can I encourage any new or existing members to get in touch with photos of your cars for inclusion here and on the 996 section of the Club website? This month, we have included a silver 996 GT3 kindly sent in by Kerry Walpole.
Happy 996 driving,
Tony
GT3
RegisterSecretary
Alex Drobik 01628 620702 -gt3@porscheclubgb.com
Hopefully, by the time you read this, our cars will have started to come out of storage. Yes, I know, some of you have used your cars over winter -kudos to those who have -but mine have been largely off the road. Salted roads and grime, let alone the new spate of potholes and bits of flooding due to burst water mains, do not encourage me to 'have a drive'.
WARRANTY
I renewed the warranty on one of my cars. It had to be done in person, which required a visit to my local dealer where I had to sign paper documents in triplicate and present the car's registration document. Nearly
registration document followed by a call. The inconsistency is a bit odd, but it is done.
INSURANCE
Trackday insurance cover, or rather the lack of, has reared its ugly head. Classicline, my insurance broker, is changing its cover. Going forward, upon renewal there will be no European cover and likely a pay-as-yougo scheme for many UK trackdays; it's still under discussion with the underwriters, it seems. I can recall when insurers would feature inclusive trackday cover to get the business; now it seems you have to pay and 'beg around' to have such cover. Inclusive trackday cover policies are going one way -off the market. Are the trackday happy days over? I fear they are. Best to get a semi-wrecked fast car and be okay if it gets pranged.
I do understand the dilemma for insurers. Fast cars are costing a lot more to buy and repairing them is more difficult, so many larger accidents become writeoffs. That said; surely there's a way to better balance risk with driving standards, track organisation and using safer circuits?
The Club's GT Forum has announced its first driving tour to Lake Maggiore in June. Although I will be close by, I will not be on the tour itself; we actually did Maggiore and
Stresa last September. I am sure the trip will be great. The Forum-organised coffee mornings are also getting oversubscribed. Great stuff!
I hope to see some of you at the March RS Day at 0ulton Park.
Happy GT3ing,
Alex
CAYENNE
RegisterSecretaries
Greg and Deb Harm cayenne@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegisterSecretary
Larry Lawrence
997
RegisterSecretary
Steve Johnson
07555 198866 -997@porscheclubgb.com
RegisterAssistant
Roger Aldridge
"Expensive ornament, big toy or a car we can use?" That is what my wife asks me about our 997 as it sits in the garage over the winter months. "All three" is my response! At present, 997s have such a price range that it can be an entry into 911 ownership, a cheap 911 runaround or a six-figure investment. However, cars at the lower end of the 911 price range do not mean they are not something special. For me, it was my first 911. It's a keeper and I cherish it, hence it does not come out when there is grit on the road. But yours can.
We have a member with a GT3 RS 4.0 that I see at many events. Where most would keep the miles down, he uses it and enjoys it. My neighbour, who I mentioned last month, has taken his Targa out regularly through the winter; all they need is to be kept clean and well-maintained, just like any other car. That can be taken to a
whole different level, like member Matthew Booker, who has won several concours trophies with his 997. A good wellprepared wash can keep your pride and joy looking great for many years, as we were taught at our Gtechniq event last summer. I have not used my car as much this last year, mainly because I end up driving the Club van to events. I really should use the 997: it's such a great usable car. So, that is my resolution for 2025.
If you have a story about your 997 or just a great picture, please email me and I will respond when I am not cleaning my expensive ornament or, hopefully, driving it!
I was fortunate enough to spend Christmas and New Year in the Far East, visiting friends and family. A few weeks in, I started to miss my usual Porsche fix. With a few clicks on the internet, I had found the contact details of Porsche Club Singapore. After dropping them a note, it did not take long to get an invitation to their Sunday casual breakfast to meet up. The Club had just come off their 1 0-day Drive of the Year to Bangkok, a 4,000-plus-kilometre journey across two countries with their friends from Porsche Clubs Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand. What was striking, but perhaps unsurprising, was our common sense of community and our love of the drive. We are all part of a wider Porsche worldwide community and, to top it all, the Club President owns a Panamera! A big thank you goes to Club Vice President Adrian and honorary member Jonathan for being such welcoming hosts. If you miss your Porsche fix, hook up with the local Porsche Club no matter where you are in the world. You will get a warm welcome.
TOPAZLEEDSVISIT
Our visit to Topaz Leeds started with a fabulous Saturday pre-event, driverfocused drive-out in the Yorkshire Dales, t3 duringwhichweenjoyedafiresidecuppa = at the Tan Hill Inn, lunch at the home of WensleydaleCheese,achilloutatOulton
Hall Hotel and dinner at the Calverley Grill. At Sunday's technical workshop at Topaz Leeds, we bumped into a line of stunning Porsches, Ferraris and other exotica before enjoying a traditional Sunday lunch and some good al' craic. What a great way to liven up a winter weekend in the company of more than 50 of our four-door friends.
CAYMAN
RegisterSecretary
John Dickinson 07990 010368 cayman@porscheclubgb.com
Well, the weather is still 'dreich'! Unless you
are in Scotland, where it is normal. There are some types of weather that the Scots have better words for. My car has stayed in the garage for longer than is desirable, not because I don't like driving it in bad weather, but because I hate washing it when it's cold, grey and drizzling. There are some good English descriptive words too. The lack of use is not without problems, if the WhatsApp group chat is anythingto go by. Battery issues prevail. These have been covered in these pages before, but nothing beats a CTEK trickle charger directly connected to the battery [positive] and a bolt in the adjacent strut top (negative). My experience suggests that it is better to leave the car unlocked if possible so as not to activate the alarm system, although I have no technical
Porsche Club Singapore beck from their Drive of the Year
Members meet et Topez Leeds
Samuel Thacker took his 987 on the Cat end Fiddle Pass
911GT3(992)
Jet Green Metallic• Black 918 Bucket Seats• POKGearbox• 20/21" Centre Lock Wheels • Carbon Roof/Upper Mirror Sections• Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes • Front Axle Lift S,542 miles• 2022 (22)
Guards Red • Graphite Blue Leather Sports Seats • POKGearbox • 19/20"
Carrera S Wheels • Switchable Sports Exhaust• Adaptive Cruise Control• Front & Rear Parking Sensors• 10,521 miles• 2021 (71)
£89,995
911GT3(996.2)
Cobalt Blue • Black Leather Bucket Seats• 18" GT3Wheels• Tequipment Rear Roll Cage• Air Conditioning Guards Red Seat Belts • Bi-Xenon Headlights • Electric Windows & Mirrors • 48,063 miles • 2003 (53)
£84,995
911Carrera4GTS(997.2)
Meteor Grey• Black Half-Leather Sports Seats• POKGearbox • 19'' GTS
Centre Lock Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation • Sport Chrono Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon • 41,420 miles • 2012 (12)
£67,995
911Carrera2(997.2)
Carrara White • Black Leather Seats POK Gearbox • 19" Sport Design Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation • Switchable Sports Exhaust • Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon• 35,782 miles• 201O(59)
911Carrera2GTS(997.2)
Carrara White • Black Leather Sports Seats • POK Gearbox • 19" GTS
Centre Lock Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation• Sport Chrono Switchable Sports Exhaust 47,379 miles • 201 O(60)
£54,995
91140thAnniversary(996)
GT Silver• Natural Black Leather Sports Seats• 18" Carrera Wheels
Satellite Navigation• No. 0990 of 1,963 Cars Produced• Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon 51,117 miles• 2004 (54)
CaymanS(718)
GT Silver • Black Leather Sports Seats Manual Gearbox• 20" Carrera Classic Wheels• Touchscreen Satellite Navigation • Switchable Sports Exhaust• Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon• 6,904 miles• 2019 (19)
£49,995
Boxster(981)
Rhodium Silver• Black Leather
Seats• POK Gearbox• 20" Carrera S Wheels • Front & Rear
Sensors • Bose Sound System • Sports Tail Pipes 28,611 miles • 2013 (63)
BoxsterSpyder(987)
Carrara White• Black Half-Leather Bucket Seats • POK Gearbox 19" Spyder Wheels • Touchscreen Satellite Navigation• Switchable Sports Exhaust • Sport Chrono 11,992 miles • 2011 (11)
£49,995
Boxster(981)
Rhodium Silver• Black Leather Sports Seats • POKGearbox 19" Boxster S Ill Wheels• Front & Rear Parking Sensors• Heated Seats • Previously Sold & Serviced by Paragon • 18,895 miles • 2014 (63)
A hazardous descent of the Falzarego Pass for Arjan Hes. On summer tyres too!
support for this making a difference. Many of our cars experience periods of inactivity and, given the electrical issues that can result, I do wonder how the EV Cayman will stand up to this type of treatment. We may have to wait longer to find out, as Northvolt battery supply issues are the latest spanner in the works. Still, some members are getting out and about. Arjan Hes reports: "An early October jaunt through the Schwarzwald, Austria and the Dolomites turned into something a little more adventurous when the weather turned unexpectedly and too early in the season. The descent from the Falzarego Pass in the Dolomites became a little more tricky than expected, especially on summer tyres." It looks like the cyclist in the photograph got caught out as well. Just a little nearer to home and more recently, Samuel Thacker took his 987 on the Cat and Fiddle Pass in the Peak District. We know he made it to the pub - he could be still there Both are great photos, thank you.
991
RegisterSecretary
Neil Bravery
07730 050354
991@porscheclubgb.com
As I sit writing this on a gloomy January evening, I can just see the last remnants of snow disappearing from my garden. "Hooray!" I hear you all shout. To say it's destroyed any chance of us getting to take our pride and joy out for a blast is an understatement! For me, March is the month to really start enjoying our 991 s, I've un-SORN-edmine and L.J..J ti:i I'm ready to go.
I'm pleased to say one of the first
members to contact me via the 991 email was Ian asking for advice on purchasing a 991.1 GTS and what things to look for. Luckily, as you all know, he was potentially buying the same model I own so I was ready to help. We had a good chat and I offered some valued points to look for; sometimes it's just easier to have a conversation.
Whenever you make the decision to buy a Porsche, it's always best practice to do your homework beforehand. Once you enter the lion's den of the showroom, SCS takes over! "SCS?", I hear you all ask. "What's that?" Shiny car syndrome! This is when your heart takes over and all you want is the keys. It's also when expensive mistakes are made, potential issues get missed and the salesperson ends up gaining the upper hand. Thankfully, Ian had done his homework. He knew what to look for and walked away happy knowing he'd bought his dream car.
I've had a couple of technical queries regarding optional extras that can be retrofitted which I'm still looking into, so please bear with me - I'll share the knowledge with the group once I have some clear answers. Another member enquired about the pricing of their car when new and how much the options would've been a few years ago. A quick search on the Club's website revealed the answers. If you've not had chance to have a look at the Forum articles, I'd encourage you to do so. It's a hive of useful information.
Right, keys at the ready, I'm off to warm up my tyres!
MACAN
RegisterSecretary
Mike Allen 07976 697070
macan@porscheclubgb.com
If you have been wondering why this monthly column is becoming less interesting and shorter, well, it's because all Register Secretaries have been told to reduce their column's word count to, ideally, 300 words with a couple of good-quality photos. This is to give space to larger monthly features which could be, for instance, a Mecan Register article highlighting one of our infamous Weekends of the Year, about a member's vehicle or, indeed, my normal monthly chat could be compressed into a couple of QR codes for you to scan. As you know, I'm 'old school', and therefore I prefer to pick up a magazine of whatever type to flick through - often in bedso I'm not inclined to want to get out my phone late at night to scan for an article. What are your thoughts? There's no length restriction made upon my regular newsletters, which are sent to more than 1,000 Register members, but, judging from the replies, most get ignored anyway.
MONTHLYZOOMSESSIONS
The Zoom sessions continue on Tuesdays 11 March, 1 5 April and 13 May.
Happy Macan-ing,
Mike
Register member Ian's snow-covered 991
DIARYDATEB
26MARCHVisittoRAFWaddington
No2
Get in touch if you are interested. 28-31MARCHWOTYatTheMontagu ArmsHotel,Beaulieu
Hurry up, as the last room is up for grabs! 11JUNEMeet,DriveandEat(MDE)
Incorporating a visit to the Great Western Air Ambulance base at Almondsbury near Chipping Sadbury. Expressions of interest are requested, please.
For further information on any of the above, please email me.
992
RegisterSecretary
David Wood
992@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegisterSecretaries
Tim Rice and Jonathan Brown
With many members now taking delivery of the new 992.2 hybrid models, we are seeing some very good reviews of the performance of the car. If you are one of these lucky owners, please email us a short review and especially if you have previously had any of the 992.1 models. The 992 Register aims to be present at many of the Club's national events and will be assisting with Register parking, so please remember to keep an eye on the Club's online events calendar for more days and see what's happening in your area.
UPDATEDPORSCHE911CARRERAS
The 911 Carrera S has recently been revealed with a new look and healthy power uplift. Sitting between the Carrera T and the new GTS T-Hybrid, the '992.2' Carrera S is said to achieve performance levels formerly reserved for the previous Carrera GTS.
Power has risen to 473bhp from the same turbocharged three-litre flat six thanks to new turbochargers and an 'extensively optimised' cooling system. It can complete the 0-62mph sprint in 3.3 seconds - 0.4 seconds quicker than before - and tops out at 191 mph. The Carrera S has adopted some cues from the Turbo for a more aggressive look. Pricing starts at £119,800 for the coupe and £129,800 for the soft-top convertible.
These latest models almost complete the usual lineup of 911 s, joining the Carrera, Carrera T.Carrera S, Carrera GTS models in both Coupe and Cabriolet form with the Targa [currently GTS only) and not forgetting the GT3, GT3 Touring and GT3 RS Coupe.
992FDRUM
The main source of information for all things PCGB, including the 992 Register.
992FACEBDDKGROUP
Available to 992 PCGB members only at facebook.com/groups/992register
992REGISTERPROFILES
Please ensure that you have added details of your 992 in the 'My profile' section of the PCGB website to receive regular emails and access to 992 Register news.
James Kirk 01252 710479/715185 speedster@porscheclubgb.com
The recently announced Carrera S
TRADINGPOST
MEMBERLINEAGES
VERY RARE OEM 944 roof bars from my then 944S2 way back. I believe these are highly sought after and haven't been available for some time. The rear bar attaches neatly using the bolts under the tailgate [if you've ever wondered what they were for!). Happy to send images and discuss. Offers please to sjmd.white@gmail.com or text to 07969 354852
Private number plate GT03 GHO,just taken off my GT3 and available to purchase for £350. Currently on retention certificate. Contact Gareth.how@hotmail.com
Porsche 718 Outdoor Porsche Cover. Cost £450 and not used. Silver with Porsche emblem on bonnet. Car now sold so available to purchase.
Contact Gareth.how@hotmail.com
Porsche Design Limited Edition Sport Classic Watch. Purchased with 992 Sport Classic at a cost of £12k, limited to 1250 worldwide. Presentation box, four leather wrist bands in matching leather, cognac and black. Not warn. Offers.
Contact Gareth.how@hitmail.com
For Sale: Genuine OEM Brand New 1 full set Brushed Aluminium Interior Trim Mouldings Genuine Porsche Part 99155298123U03
- Still in box and includes the full drinks holder section.
- One of the small trim mouldings has a very small 'pinhead' mark on it.
- New £2,451 will accept £800.
- Call Paul on 07795482711 paul.harding 17@googlemail.com
BMZ 7356 Registration number for sale, suit BMW 735 six or 356, for any age car, only £125 plus transfer fee for quick sale contact calder911@yahoo.co.uk
Porsche original 911 991 Carrera 4S Cup Alloys on 20 inch rims. Front 8.5J rear 11.5J. Unused since refurb in Anthracite. Fit any 991.11 / 19. Part nos 991.362.710.00 and 991.362.760.01
Derek 07831 457631
GT52 BLU cherished registration for .sale. Ideal for any Blue GTS variant. On retention certificate ready for immediate transfer. £750 to include transfer fee. Contact simon.clark@ simonclarkracing.com
OGZ 911
Registration for sale. Timeless plate so it can be used on a car of any age. Only £3,500 + £80 transfer fee. No offers. Andy 07968 145690
To place a free Porsche related member lineage advert of up to 30 words email: tradingpost@porschepost.co.uk
ULTIMATE
XPEL UK Installation Centre is the corporate installation facility for the XPEL brand. We are a dedicated team providing the highest level of installations. using XPEL-quality products for your car. Whether you want to protect your vehicle with paint protection film (PPF) or ceramic coatings, XPEL is here to help.
A progressively high tech, fully equipped Porsche servicing facility based in Bristol. The professional personalised care for you and your car is what makes us so unique. We pride ourselves on our integrity, flexibility and understanding of each client's specific needs. Our friendly and professional staff believe that our best customer is an educated customer. We will take as much time as is necessary to explain what needs to be done to your 'pride and joy' and how we will go about doing this. No matter what your needs or desires, if it's quality main dealer standards you need, we do it here. We don't cut corners and we don't rush jobs. At Advanced Car Care we take the time to do it right, first time! Call us for a free estimate, or pop into our Bristol-based premises. Which trusted trader.
BEDFORDSHIRE
Auto2000 • PorscheSpecialist
24 College Street, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 BLU 01234 210012
Our expertise is deeply rooted in Porsche, a brand we have dedicated ourselves to understanding inside and out. With over 20 years of experience in the motor trade, including 1 5 years focused specifically on Porsche, we are uniquely equipped to offer Porsche owners a seamless and convenient customer experience, providing main dealer-level servicing at a fraction of the cost. My extensive experience includes building some of the world's rarest and most iconic Porsche engines, giving me the knowledge and skills to handle any Porsche with confidence and precision, we also cover Herfordshire and Cambridgeshire
RSJ have been established since 1988 as a Porsche dealer and we are focused on the sales of used Porsche cars and the servicing and repair of used Porsche cars. As a Porsche dealer RSJ aims to be the next best alternative to a main dealer. We prepare our cars for sale to a main Porsche dealer standard. Our used Porsche cars have all cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment carried out to the same level as our staff did when they worked at a main Porsche dealer. Our aim is to make your life-long dream come true to buy that used Porsche 811 and have a good experience while owning it. Please call to come and view more than 25 used Porsches in our indoor 6,000 sq foot showroom.
RPMTachnik
Un~s 6 & 7, Did Airfield Industrial Estate, Cheddington Lane, Long Marston, Hertfordshire, HP234QR 01296 663824 info@rpmtechnik.co.uk www.rpmtechnik.co.uk
Located on the border of Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire RPM has been maintaining both modern and classic Porsches since 2001. In addition to our specialist Porsche servicing, RPM also undertakes warranted car sales, project builds and restorations, engine and transmission rebuilds and track day/ race support.
We are one of Cambridgeshire's largest specialist independents.We offer you the Porsche dealer level experience and brand knowledge for a fraction of the price from our Huntingdon facility. Dur Silver level tech 'Ady' offers you 25 years of experience across all the models, from classic styles to modern day performance. We offer all servicing and diagnostics, as well as all peripheral options for tyres; air conditioning; geometry etc. We are a friendly family run business, with a strong local reputation for trust and quality as our many 5star reviews will confirm.
At Ninemeister we take a considered & conscientious approach to servicing and maintaining your Porsche to the highest standard. Our depth of expertise covers all Porsche models and we enjoy looking after them all. Whether an older Boxster or Cayman, or your everyday Cayenne or Macan, or perhaps a cherished classic 911 that you have owned for decades, they all really matter to us and we believe that you can rely on Ninemeister to care for your car as if it were one of our own.
Tach9MotorsportLtd
Hale Garage, Hale Road, Liverpool, L24 5RB. 0151 4255 911 sales@tech8.ms www.tech-8.co.uk
Proud Members of PPN, the Porsche Partner Approved Network. We can access the latest technical information and diagnostics. Our Service/Repair work can be logged on the Porsche Portal if required to enhance the service history of your vehicle. One of the largest and longest serving Porsche specialists in the North West. Dur highly skilled, enthusiastic team would love to welcome new and existing clients to our facility close to Liverpool Airport. Engine and Gearbox rebuilding from 356, through all of the 811 variants air-cooled and water cooled including GT3. Motorsport experienced, multiple Championship and Series Outright Winners - complete vehicle builds and race/trackday preparation. Highly experienced wth R/RS/RSR and GT models GT2, GT3 etc. UK distributor for German tuning brand TECHART Car Sales, Service and Restoration to Concours standards. Discount available to Porsche Club members on request. Location close to Liverpool Airport.
We're Porsche owners first, business people second and focus on delighting our customers. We are members of the Porsche Partner Network and the Retail Motor Industry Federation as well as being a Mobil Service Centre. Kettle's on, come and talk to us about your needs, as we are Serious About Porsche.
CORNWALL
TheColourworxLtd(Newquayl
No 6 Quintrell Road, Newquay, TR? 3DZ 01637 873218
Club members and owner/ drivers with over 40 years combined experience in car repairs. Accident repair centre -all aspects of body repair undertaken irrespective of vehicle and guaranteed fair pricing We can offer vehicle inspections and free estimates. Modern, fully equipped and insured premises.
PPN Porsche Partner Network allows us direct tee link to Stuttgart and ability to service the very latest Porsche along with the oldest classics and everything in between. We sell, buy, consign, service, restore, bespoke, modify, comp prep and accident repair all Porsche with care and flexibil~. 911-356-Cayenne. Welcome to Williams Crawford Passion for Porsche.
South West specialist dedicated to Porsche owners. MOT testing station. All Porsches welcome. Diagnostics, service/ repair: AC, geometry, restoration, bodywork.
RogerBrayRestoration
Milestone Business Park, London Road, Whimple, Exeter. Devon EX5 2 QB 01404 822005 parts@rogerbrayrestoration.com www.rogerbrayrestoration.com
Established in 1886 Roger Bray Restorations is a small business with a big reputation. Specialising in supplying parts and the restoration of classic Porsche's 356,911,912, & 914. We are dedicated to keeping these unique cars on the road and our customers as our friends.
Independent purely Porsche specialists, factorytrained technicians from 1887 to present. Porsche diagnostic equipment for all your Porsche needs, from fixed-price servicing to full rebuilds, with free loan cars. Collection and delivery service available.
PPN Porsche Partner Network allows us direct tee link to Stuttgart and ability to service the very latest Porsche along with the oldest classics and everything in between. We sell, buy, consign, service, restore, bespoke, modify, comp prep and accident repair all Porsche with care and flexibility. 811-356-Cayenne. Welcome to Williams Crawford Passion for Porsche.
A professional team of enthusiasts to help look after your Porsche, 26 years Main dealer experience, Porsche Open Championship Winner. all aspects of Porsche road and race cars catered for: excellent facilities, used Porsche sales, a real personal service.
At JMG we are dedicated to helping you get the best experience from your Porsche. We service, diagnose, repair and improve Porsche vehicles in our south of England workshops.
We are an experienced, enthusiastic team offering servicing, repairs, restoration, engine rebuilds, Porsche diagnostics and computerised full wheel alignment for all Porsche models from 1950 to 2010.
ADH Porsche has a highly trained and skilled team with many years working experience with Porsche. Our services include general inspections, fixed price services, full engine and gearbox rebuilds, brake and clutch replacements, detailing/ ceramic coatings and any general maintenance required. We also offer the added bonus of detailing services which will ensure your vehicle leaves our workshop showroom ready. Dur highly skilled team are passionate about all things Porsche and our friendly, approachable team are ready to help answer your every need.
With over 40 years combined experience of working on the Porsche brand we offer all aspect of servicing and repairs to all Porsche models. Our list of services include: Fixed price servicing, engine rebuilds [water and air cooled), IMS upgrades, restoration work, wheel alignment and track day set up, diagnostic work along with clutch, brake and suspension work.
Brookspeed is an independent Porsche specialist based near the M3 between Southampton and Winchester. With 20 years' experience of racing and servicing Porsche models, Brookspeed are able to offer a 'one stop shop' for Maintenance, Servicing, Tyres, MOT, Diagnostics and Coach Trimming. Whatever your Porsche problem contact our friendly team at Brookspeed and we will do everything we can to help.
With excellent transport links from London and the M25, JZM is well positioned to service customers throughout London and the Home Counties. We boost over 40 years' experience in Porsche servicing and house a state of the art 80 car showroom and 100 car storage facility. Our factory trained technicians, coupled with the latest Porsche technologies and diagnostic equipment can meet all your Porsche needs in servicing, tuning on or off the track .
RPMTechnik
Units 6 & 7, Old Airfield Industrial Estate, Cheddington Lane, Long Marston, Hertfordshire, HP234QR 01296 663824 info@rpmtechnik.co.uk www.rpmtechnik.co.uk
Located on the border of Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire RPM has been maintaining both modern and classic Porsches
since 2001. In addition to our specialist Porsche servicing, RPM also undertakes warranted car sales, project builds and restorations, engine and transmission rebuilds and track day/ race support.
LANCASHIRE
CavendishPorsche
Un~s 6 & 7. Gainsborough Close Long Eaton. Nottingham. NG10 1 PX 0115 972 2001 enquires@cavendishporsche.co.uk
Founded in 1991 by Chris Sanderson. One of the North West's leading independent Porsche Specialists. With over 35 years experience we specialise in repairs, servicing and parts for all models of Porsche.
Established in January 2018. Former Porsche technicians Nathan & Carl have a wealth of experience and an eye for detail. Offering affordable maintenance and repairs combined with real world honest advice.
London's premier Porsche specialist since 1970. Charles Ivey (Specialist Cars) Limited has been selling and servicing Porsches in London since 1970 and we have been at our present site for the past 35 years. We have a team of dedicated people who are committed to maintaining the very high standards that have, over the years, made us London's leading Porsche specialist. XavierAutoClinic
Xavier Auto Clinic is an independent Porsche specialist based in West London that can offer a full range of service on all Porsche models. Established in 2002, 5-star Good Garage Scheme member. Air-conditioning service and repair. Manufacturer-scheduled service keeping manufacturer warranty intact under block exemption. Customised servicing for three-plus years. Vehicle diagnostics and engine rebuilds.
986/996/997 and Cayman engine repair/ rebuild specialist addressing failed IMS bearings, scored bores, "D" chunk failures, etc. We carry out engine work for many of the UK's leading specialists and worldwide. Porsche servicing,
repairs and maintenance, sales, re-manufactured spares, monthly paid "Lifetime Maintenance Plan" [free labour and services).
MERSEYSIDE
Tech9MotoraportLtd
Hale Garage, Hale Road, Liverpool, L24 5RB. 0151 4255 911 sales@tech9.ms www.tech-9.co.uk
We are a Porsche Specialist based in Long Eaton, Nottingham. Our Technicians have over 21 years of Porsche main dealer experience and 7 years independent experience, so we are more than confident that our standard of work is of the highest standard. From servicing to full engine rebuilds, your beloved Porsche is in very safe hands. We use the very latest PIWIS official Porsche diagnostic systems and can offer you the same workshop facilities that you would find at any official Porsche Centre, but at independent prices. We hope to see you in the near future.
Establish in 1973, Autofarm is one of the longest standing independent Porsche specialists in the UK. Globally known for our meticulous project build and preservation processes, our Oxfordshirebased workshop, also provides a full range of other services to maintain and enhance your air and water~ooled Porsches. The passion for quality runs throughout the business, so whether you're looking for general servicing, engine and gearbox maintenance, bodywork and paint repairs, storage solutions or a bespoke build, Autofarm have the expertise. Come visit, chat to our team and be part of the Autofarm family.
HillcrestSpecialistCars
Whitehouse Garage, High Street,Nettlebed, Henley-on-Thames,Oxon, RG9 508. 01491 642911
Hillcrest Specialist Cars is a leading independent Porsche specialist based in Henley-on-Thames.We offer a highly professional service at competitive prices. We pride ourselves on our high quality and standard of service.
Wrightune was founded by Tony Wright, well known and respected in the Porsche world. 35+ years of continuous experience with Porsche cars results in a wealth of knowledge and expertise.
SHROPSHIRE
cmaporsche.co.uk
Telford, Shropshire 01952 608 911 / 07831 711609
Est. 1997 Independent Porsche specialists for repairs, service, spares, salvage projects and sales.
Established more than a decade ago, PIE Performance is a family owned and run independent Porsche specialist based in the heart of Suffolk. We have the latest Porsche Diagnostic System and cater for all models from Air Cooled to modern front engine Cayenne. We have a separate Engine Division and Restoration Team on hand to undertake all manor of tasks.
ReasonPorsche
Unit 16-17, Stone Street, Crowfield, Ipswich IP6 9SZ 01473 845007 service@reasonporsche.com www.reasonporsche.com
All servicing carried out by Porsche factory trained technicians using the latest PWIS factory diagnostic equipment, using recommended Porsche parts & Mobil 1 Oil. Collection & delivery available. Loan car facility when available on booking.
SURREY
CridfordsPorsche
The Street, Ewhurst, Surrey, GU67QY 01483 273302 porsche@cridfords.co.uk www.cridfords.co.uk
Established for over 30 years, we are one of the country's longest established Porsche specialists. Our service department are equipped with the very latest official Porsche PIWIS Ill diagnostics and Porsche spec Hunter 4 wheel alignment system. We offer a full engine repair and rebuild service, classic restoration, as well as all service work for current through to classics models. Collection and loan cars available.
Five Ashes, East Sussex, TN20 6HY 01825 830424 [open 7 days] info@paragon.gb.com www.paragongb.com
Located in the heart of East Sussex, we offer an outstanding selection of high-quality and expertly prepared used Porsches for sale. Our in-house workshops and parts department are fully equipped and offer a vast depth of knowledge and enthusiasm that enables us to provide complete long-term care for your modern or classic Porsche.
We specialise in Porsche maintenance and bodywork repairs - from regular care through to full restorations. We have new dedicated workshops all on one site including the latest Porsche diagnostic equipment and body shop services. Our premises are light, spacious and customer friendly located in Mid Sussex.
Contact Mike or Paul Chare 01564823144/ 07872 041911 info@zhporsche.co.uk www.zhporsche.co.uk
Located just off the M42/M40 our centrally based Porsche Specialists can take care of all Porsche models. We have a fully equipped workshop with trained staff ready to meet your needs offering a complete service and maintenance program.
WESTSUSSEX
GCSEngineeringLtd
Unit A, Monks Gate Garage, Brighton Road, Monks Gate, Horsham, West Sussex, RH 13 6JD. 01403891911
We offer a complete range of services or all Porsches including engine and gearbox rebuilds and upgrades. Servicing, race and rally prep including four-wheel alignment and corner weighting, suspension upgrades, rolling road service. We also have an in-house machine shop to make those hard-to-get parts.
With over 40 years experience Parr is the leading Porsche specialist in the UK, covering all areas of Porsche maintenance, preparation, tuning [Cargraphic & Techart UK Importer]. motorsport and sales. Whether it is a routine service or part through to a full restoration or engine build, Parr has the skills, experience and facilities to deliver the highest levels of customer care and service. To find out the full range of services, end to explore whet Parr can offer you, please visit our website. PhilipRabyPorsche Porschesalesandservice
Clovelly Road, Southbourne. West Sussex P010 SPF. Contact Philip Raby,Andrew Windsor 01243 780389 mail@philipraby.co.uk www.philipraby.co.uk
Friendly and affordable help on buying, selling and running Porsches. We sell to~uality Porsches at sensible prices with great aftersales service. We also offer full service, repair and restoration services for all Porsches, classic and modern. Visit our website for more details or please ring for an appointment. We'll be happy to chat w~ you.
We ere a Porsche Specialist in Wiltshire, right on the border of the Cotswold's with easy access off the M4 and A419. With 13 years experience in the trade and the majority within the Porsche Network at senior level. We are delighted to put our passion knowledge and experience for Porsche into your pride and joy. We have the latest Porsche main dealer diagnostic systems and carry out all servicing, repair and diagnostics.
PeterChambersAutomotiveLtd
Unit 5, 4,200 Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury Business Park, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL208PF 01684274168 peter@pcaltd.co.uk www.pcaltd.co.uk
Publicationsteam George Woodward, Paul Grainger and Richard Rees
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Archives Peter Cook
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IIIII ITHENUMBEROFTHEBEAST
JesseCrossewas editor of PerformanceCarMagazine when the 964 was launched
ATTHETAIL end of 1988, motoring writers were pondering two Porsche-related conundrums. The first was whether the 911, which had celebrated its 25th anniversary that year, would survive another 25, while the second was what the next-generation 911 Carrera would be like. Some of us were poised to drive it on a press launch in the south of France and the details we had looked controversial.
The 3.2 Carrera had become an icon and remained one of the most desirable sports cars in the world. Its replacement, known internally at Porsche by the code name 964, would retain the basic layout but with major changes that could challenge the 911's purity.
Torsion bar suspension was replaced by coil springs, the rear axle was track-correcting like the Weissach axle of the 928 and the new 911 would have power steering and ABS as standard for the first time. But although the rear-wheel-drive Carrera 2 would follow soon, the big news was that the new 911 would be four-wheel-drive.
POWERANDREFINEMENT
As we jostled off the plane in Nice, the sense of anticipation was palpable. Had Porsche completely lost the plot or
created a masterpiece? As a fan of the 3.2 Carrera, I couldn't wait to try the new beast. Its flat-six engine had been increased in size to 3.6 litres and it was the most powerful naturally aspirated production 911 engine yet. The radical new Carrera 4 boasted a 0-60mph time of less than six seconds and a top speed of 162mph. Handed the keys to a Guards Red Carrera 4 with chequered cloth bucket seats, I was struck by how little the interior had fundamentally changed. When the big six fired up, it sounded much the same as always but the exhaust note was quieter, as was the fan that was 23 per cent more efficient.The engine also sat in a 'capsule', making the whole performance more refined. The bore and stroke had increased to gain the extra capacity and there were twin distributors, ceramic liners in the exhaust ports and a compression ratio of 11.3:1, which all contributed to producing 247bhp at 6,100rpm and 229lb/ft at 4,800rpm.
SMOOTHOPERATOR
The lighter-shifting G50 gearbox had been introduced the previous year on the 3.2 Carrera and, though I'd always liked the curmudgeonly 915 for the technique it demands, the lighter shifts made smooth progress easier while charging through turn after turn into the hills. The engine felt beefy and, even at 2,000rpm, there was more than 1851b/ft of torque.
Although the power steering soaked up any surface imperfections, it definitely took
away some of the sparkle. But Porsche was at the forefront of technology with the Carrera 4 four-wheel-drive system, based as it was on the Gruppe B 959 project from a few years before. With electronically controlled clutches to apportion drive where it's needed, even brutal driving failed to unsettle the 911 on those smooth surfaces. The all-new alloy wheels wore the Bridgestone RE71s, which were especially developed for the new Carreras. This set had obviously seen some action with a previous group and I don't know whether the rounded shoulders contributed to a little more understeer than I expected or that many of the corners in the region are quite tight. Porsche engineers told us that the 39/61 torque split created a gently oversteering car, but that wasn't the impression I was getting. They had tried and rejected both a 36/64 and 33/67 split, both of which may have tended towards an unwelcome generosity of oversteer in high-speed cornering. The difference between the Carrera 4 and a 3.2 Carrera was quite staggering and, years later, I remember how it could leave you breathless, hardly believing any car could be driven so quickly and yet so easily on such challenging roads. Had some of that purity been lost? Yes, but perhaps it had been replaced by something equally intoxicating. Afterwards, with the experience still fresh in my mind, I would write: "Deeply satisfying to drive quickly it makes a thriller more thrilling and certainly much safer." PP
