WELCOMETDTHEMay edition of Porsche Post. I'm not ashamed to admit that, as an owner of the type of Porsche featured, I am a little biased when it comes to this month's cover story. Perhaps there's also an element of cheering on the underdog to my support. The 996 has certainly had its fair share of detractors over the years although, intriguingly, it has rarely faced criticism in professional reviews or from those who have driven one.
So yes, I do think it's so important to celebrate the humble 996 Carrera. And, of course, there are those 996s which are already viewed as blue-blooded classics: the sublime GT3s, for example, and the wicked GT2. The fabulous 996 Turbo is also highly regarded in the 'Porsche scene', albeit perhaps not quite as much as other forced induction 91 ls.
With the sharp rise in air-cooled 911 values, some while back the 996 Carrera took on a mantle that has often weighed heavily around the neck of any Porsche to which it has been attached. It's become the 'starter 911'; the cheapest way to own the rear-engined icon. For years, it was the SC that laboured under this label and then there was the 964, often available for just four figures. Very few took those cars seriously at all and mumblings about endless oil leaks were rife. But we all know what happened to them and into their place slipped the 996 Carrera, cowering under its own barrage of criticism about funny-shaped headlights and engines made in Bournville.
To me, it feels like we've arrived at a very interesting point in time. The oldest 996 Carrera isn't far off its 30th birthday, an age that more
PorscheClub
ADAMTOWLER EDITOR
than justifies classic status, let alone the 'modern classic' label. It is no longer just an old Porsche; it offers a driving experience completely different to that of a 992.2 and, for some tastes, is all the better for it -one might say it's ideally suited to driving enjoyment on UK roads. It may be the cheapest 911, but it's far from an inferior 911.
Elsewhere in this issue, we get behind the wheel of the new 992.2 Carrera GTS T-Hybrid for the first time in the UK and feel the full force of its prodigious performance. The antithesis of a 996 Carrera, ironically, it's a technological marvel and a very exciting car.
We also talk to Mark Finburgh, a Club member who's owned a genuine Gulf 917K since it was a year old. I'll let that sink in for a moment. It's a fascinating tale, born in a different time, and a heartening one at that. I've enjoyed seeing Mark's car at events for 30 years, so it was wonderful to hear the story behind how he and his brother acquired it.
Finally, I'm delighted to welcome Dr Aysar Ghassan, who leads the world-famous MA Automotive and Transport Design course at Coventry University, to these pages. He casts his expert eye over the original Cayenne; is it time to re-evaluate the once-controversial design of this trend-setting vehicle?
As ever, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and your Porsche, and I'll see you next time.
@ ¾ @adamtowler
NEWS
What’s going on within Porsche Club Great Britain and the wider world of Porsche
75 YEARS AT ZUFFENHAUSEN
Porsche has celebrated 75 years at its world-famous home of Zuffenhausen.
To Porsche enthusiasts, the word ‘Zuffenhausen’ conjures romantic images of brilliant engineers creating some of the world’s most exciting sportscars. While it’s not where the Porsche story began, it’s where it flourished. Today, the area is devoted to the marque’s headquarters and a lead manufacturing plant, producing the 911, 718 and Taycan as well as engines and electric drives for other models.
The company’s founder, Professor Ferdinand Porsche, opened his engineering
office in Kronenstrasse 24 in the heart of Stuttgart in 1931. After early success demanded more space, he moved the business a few kilometres north to the city’s Zuffenhausen suburb in 1938. Apart from a temporary move in 1944 to the Austrian town of Gmünd due to World War II, it’s been in Zuffenhausen ever since. Manufacture of Porsche-branded cars began in June 1948 with the 356, but the first 52 units were built by hand in Gmünd and are exceedingly rare and collectible today. The first complete 356, initially built in partnership with local supplier
Karosserie Reutter, rolled off the Zuffenhausen line on 6 April 1950. By 1955, the new car manufacturer was operating two ‘Werks’, with Werk 3 being added in 1960. The final part of the site was purchased from Karosserie Reutter in 1963, giving Porsche a substantial design, development and manufacturing facility just in time for the launch of the 901, soon to be renamed the 911.
It isn’t just the air-cooled cars that have the Zuffenhausen connection. In the 1970s and ’80s, the 928, 944 and 968 were also manufactured at the site. More recently, it
has become the manufacturing home for the all-electric Taycan, for which Porsche built a bespoke bodyshop and paintshop. All boxer engines for the sportscars as well as the V8 engines for the four-door combustion models are assembled on site, as are the electric motors for the Taycan and Macan Electric.
There are also three specialist manufacturing facilities within the Zuffenhausen complex: Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur (around 120 cars daily) for increasingly popular high-value customisation; the Sonderwunsch department where unique cars are
created; and CFRP Manufaktur, where the exterior body panels for lightweight sports models such as the 911 S/T and the GT3 RS are manually assembled.
“Zuffenhausen is and remains the home of our sports cars. It embodies pioneering spirit, state-of-the-art production technology and manufacturing quality,” says Albrecht Reimold, Member of the Executive Board for Production and Logistics at Porsche AG sports cars. “This is where we produce cars that fascinate the world – with a production that has been combining craftsmanship and engineering skills for 75 years.”
STARSFORCAR
FOURCARSOWNED by Club members are the stars of this month's CAR Magazine cover. Designed to represent "the world's best sportscars, from £7,000 to £1 million", the May edition cover is the first in the history of CAR to feature used vehicles from a single marque.
"The biggest challenge for us was finding the cars, as it's a world we don't often operate in," CAR deputy editor Piers Ward explained. "With anything out of production, we can't just ring up the press
office and ask for them to be delivered, so we are immensely grateful to PCGB and to the owners for providing their cars and their time."
And the greatest compliment? Having driven all the cars -and many other Porsches through his career -Ward was driven to find a lovely low-mileage 997.2 for his own weekend car.
Read Porsche Post's behind-thescenes look at how the feature was planned, researched and shot from P53 of the January 2025 edition.
At Porsche, we are constantly evolving and innovating how we communicate to reach new audiences and, ultimately, attract new customers to the brand while never losing sight of the loyal following of current owners and fans we have already amassed over the years. Mindful of this, we have taken the time to look at how we can step up our work with the Club to offer further opportunities to bring the membership in closer and also join us behind the scenes.
Part of this fresh approach can be seen with our exclusive offer to PCGB members, providing a chance to join us at the test day prior to every Carrera Cup race weekend. Our colleagues in the Porsche Motorsport GB team are looking forward to welcoming Club members to the Clubhaus in the Porsche Paddock.
As part of the day, which is available to book via the Porsche Club Shop, Club members will be able to enjoy unlimited access to the Clubhaus, meals and refreshments throughout the day, guided paddock tours, experiences of the race teams preparing their 911 GT3 Cup and Cayman Sprint Challenge GB race cars and the spectacle of the drivers testing on the circuits. This promises to be a great series of day trips over the season, with a more relaxed atmosphere than the highly pressured race days and a lot of time to explore the paddock and circuit.
Looking further ahead to Goodwood, this year's Festival of Speed will once again be a highlight of our year. We are working on another exciting programme of Club engagement, dialogue and community celebration in support of the wider activities on the famous Hill. For us, Goodwood is well-established as the ideal setting to reflect on our core values and to look forwards while also honouring the achievements in our past. You can expect similar themes this July, but also look out for a new twist in how we tell these tales. More on that to come!
Related to this, I was proud to see the Club adopt our motto from last year's Festival -'United by the Drive' -on the front cover of last month's issue of Porsche Post. The inspiration for that line originated in the tradition of togetherness among the global Porsche family and for you to rally around it is very fitting, bearing in mind the solid community base underpinning the Club here in the UK. I look forward to sharing more details of our plans for Goodwood, along with news of further exciting developments, very soon.
BOOSTFDRTAVCANANDPANAMERA
PORSCHEISADDINGmore value to the Taycan and Panamera with a range of upgrades to their specifications.
Taycan and Taycan 4S will now be fitted as standard with the 105kWh Performance Battery Plus that was previously a costly option. Combined with Porche's highefficiency 800-volt electric drive system, this gives the Taycan a range of up to 421 miles on the WLTP cycle, up from 371 miles with the previous 89kWh battery.
The entry Taycan now rides on 19" Taycan Aero S wheels, while both models are now also available with a leather-free interior in Pepita or Race Tex. All Taycans will come with Adaptive Cruise Control and
Lane Change Assist, as well as the upgraded Porsche Communications Management (PCM) system detailed on P12. Additional features for the new model year are understood to add £8,000 of equipment to the Taycan and Taycan 4S. Higher up the range, rear-axle steering and Power Steering Plus are now standard on Taycan GTS and Taycan Turbo models, while the Cross Turismo includes the Offroad Design Package. These upgrades are also understood to add an average of £3,600 of extra equipment. The new model year Taycan is on sale now for delivery from June, with prices starting at £88,200.
An equivalent range of additional
equipment is now standard on the Panamera, lifting the four-door saloon further upmarket. In addition to Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Change Assist, all new Panameras will come with rear seat side airbags, soft close doors, Surround View, a heated steering wheel and Bose audio (with Burmester as an option), which includes Dolby Atmos spacial audio (also detailed in the accompanying PCM item) for the first time. Adding to the refinement of Turbo models, noise insulation glass is now standard. Porsche says the increase in customer value for the Panamera is up to £6,000, depending on model. The range starts at £89,400.
SYSTEM(PCM) is being upgraded for 911, Taycan, Panamera and Cayenne.
As well as providing direct access to the Porsche App Centre first seen on the new Macan, it introduces new features such as Dolby Atmos spacial audio technology, the Amazon Alexa digital assistant and an expanded Porsche Connect package, which will be subscribed as standard for 10 years.
TOPAZINCREASES PCGBDISCOUNT
THECLUB ISare pleased to announce that Topaz has enhanced its exclusive offer for Club members by increasing the discount to 25 per cent.
This revised offer applies to detailing services and all Topaz Shop car care products, allowing members to benefit from Topaz's industry-leading expertise at a greater value.
Over the years, Topaz has had the privilege of working on every Porsche imaginable, ensuring that your prized vehicle is always in expert hands. Their state-of-the-art facilities and highly skilled team of detailers are dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and care. Every service is underpinned by a commitment to preserving the beauty and value of your car.
To enjoy this discount, use code 'PCGB25' at checkout. Please be aware = their signature in-house developed PPF = is not eligible for this discount, but their
Apps can now be run directly in the PCM and include music streaming, video and podcasts, as well as news, games and (in some markets) a karaoke option. The ability to download apps allows each vehicle user to keep their selection up to date with the latest offerings throughout the vehicle's life.
The audio system sees the introduction of Dolby Atmos, which will be standard
team would be happy to discuss PPF as an additional service to suit your needs.
For any enquires about detailing work for your Porsche, please remember to include your membership number when getting in touch via topazdetailing.com/ pages/contact -studios
on cars equipped with high-end audio systems from brand partners Bose and Burmester. When playing tracks recorded for Dolby Atmos reproduction, the system creates an optimised spatial sound stage for each occupant, enhancing the perception of immersion in the audio experience.
The upgraded PCM will be available on cars for the new model year, which can be ordered now.
Zunsport is a leading manufacturer of high-quality stainless steel woven wire mesh grilles for a wide range of vehicles. With many years of experience, Zunsport grilles are known for their exceptional quality, durability and stylish designs and are a popular choice for car enthusiasts looking to upgrade their vehicle's appearance and protection.
KEVFEATURES:
• Enhancedprotection: Zunsport grilles provide superior protection from road debris, bugs and other potential hazards to your vehicle's radiator and intercooler.
• Stylishdesign: Zunsport grilles are designed to complement the aesthetics of your vehicle, giving it a sporty and refined look.
• Premiummaterials: Made from high-quality 316L stainless steel, Zunsport grilles are built to last and withstand the elements.
• Easyinstallation: Zunsport grilles are designed for easy installation, with all kits including all necessary hardware and instructions.
• Widerangeofapplications: Zunsport offers grilles for a variety of makes and models, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle.
OREAVAILABLEONLIN
WHYCHOOSEZUNSPORTGRILLES?
• Qualitycraftsmanship: Zunsport grilles are meticulously crafted to ensure superior quality and durability.
• Perfectfit: Each grille is designed to fit specific vehicle models, ensuring seamless integration with the car's design.
• Enhancedappearance: Zunsport grilles instantly upgrade the look of your vehicle, giving it a more aggressive and stylish appearance.
• Long-lastinginvestment: Zunsport grilles are a worthwhile investment that will protect your vehicle and enhance its appearance for years to come.
If you're looking for a high-quality grille that combines style, protection and durability, Zunsport grilles are an excellent choice. Club members receive a 20 per cent discount, so use discount code PC092015 at the online checkout at zunsport.com or quote 'Porsche Club member' when ordering by phone at 0300 303 2605.
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.
CATDRIVERTRAINING
Porsche Club Great Britain has been recommending CAT Driver Training to the full membership for more than six years. Delivering evidence-based training, authentic engineers and accredited coaches, CAT are unrivalled driver development experts across the road, track and competitive driving environments.
• Road drivers enjoy developing progressive, safe and dynamic driving for any road, driving holiday, driving tour, Autobahn or Sunday drive-out. Exploring skid control, braking techniques for all weather and road conditions, high-speed vehicle management and advanced cornering techniques, knowledge is layered through proven structured building blocks.
• Track enthusiasts explore dynamic driving exercises, develop circuit braking techniques and optimise speed, efficiency and tyre grip in corners while discovering how emotional state influences dynamic stability.
• Race competitors reduce lap/stage times, optimise speed and efficiency and develop consistency while finding those extra few per cent to advance knowledge, confidence and their competitive edge.
Understand your vehicle's driving dynamic DNA with the only independent qualified dynamic experts. By understanding the dynamic happenings, you are now united with your car, as one, with true comprehension and management of how a car behaves at grip limit.
Enjoy a full day of one-to-one driver training with CAT -the global experts in professional driver education and development -at their UTAC home, formerly known as Millbrook Proving Ground, in Bedfordshire.
Discount: £150 reduction for Road Level 3, Track Level 1 and Race Level 1 full-day one-to-one courses.
Claim: Phone 01234 757633 or email info@catdrivertraining.co.uk and quote your valid PCGB membership number.
STARTYOURSUMMERWITHABANG
There's no better way to welcome the official start of summer than being surrounded by hundreds of Porsches and fellow Club members at our brand-new evening event: Summer Solstice @ Boxengasse.
Make the most of the longest day of the year on Saturday 21 June as we take over the stunning grounds of Boxengasse in Oxfordshire for an unforgettable evening of Porsche passion, gourmet street food and summer vibes.
With the sun hanging low in the sky, relax with friends old and new as a live OJ set provides the perfect soundtrack. Whether you're admiring the incredible lineup of cars,
indulging in top-tier food and drink or simply soaking up the electric atmosphere, this is set to be an event like no other.
Excitement is already building, with tickets in high demand and expected to sell out fast, so don't miss your chance to be part of this exclusive celebration of all things Porsche. Secure your spot now and join us for an evening to remember!
Tickets
Tickets are priced at £20 per person for Club members, with free entry for children aged 16 and under. If you haven't already, book yours now at porscheclubgb.com/ summersolstice or by scanning the QR code.
PORSCHECLUBATHAREWOODHILL-18MAY
After the incredible success of the inaugural event in 2024, we're excited to be back at Harewood Hill for another fantastic day. Club members and Porsche fans of all ages are invited to join us on Sunday 18 May for an event that showcases the beauty and performance of Stuttgart's finest sports cars.
Just five minutes from Harewood House in Yorkshire, the historic hillclimb venue is the longest in the UK and offers stunning views of the Wharfedale Valley.Take a wander through the paddocks or walk down the side of the track to experience the sights and sounds of Porsches roaring up the hill.
PORSCHECLUBATBROOKLANDS-29 JUNE
We are thrilled to announce professional racing driver Caitlin Wood as the first guest speaker at our highly anticipated event at Brooklands on Sunday 29 June.
Caitlin's career spans GT and single-seater championships worldwide, including the Porsche Sprint Challenge GB. Away from the racetrack, Caitlin is a passionate advocate for women in sports and STEM, working to inspire the next generation of engineers, drivers and industry leaders.
We'll be announcing more guest speakers in the coming weeks, so keep an eye out for more details. Steeped in both automotive and aviation history, Brooklands Museum is the perfect venue for a celebration of Porsche excellence that the whole family can enjoy, with discounted entry for Club members.
Join us on Sunday 8 June for an exclusive new event at Yorkshire's stunning Bowcliffe Hall for a Porsche-style garden party celebrating the timeless allure of classic Porsches. Currently open to owners of pre-'97 Porsches, you can look forward to displays of 356s and air-cooled 911 s as well as a special anniversary celebration for transaxle models.
We'll also be co-ordinating a series of scenic drives to and from the venue and a three-night road trip with special guest Tony Hatter. Follow the link or QR code below to find out more and book your place. Tickets are priced at £35 per person which includes entry, a high-quality "traditional Yorkshire buffet", soft drinks and entertainment.
PORSCHEEAST-17AUGUST
Porsche owners from across the UK are invited to join R12 [Norfolk and Suffolk) for the largest Porsche event in the East of England! Now in its third year, Porsche East has grown from strength to strength and 500 Porsches are expected at Rickinghall in Mid-Suffolk on Sunday 1 7 August.
Porsche Centre Norwich are proudly supporting the event and will be placed front and centre of the show, alongside tradestands from local Porsche specialists. There will be a wide choice of food and drinks vendors, with more coffee stands to keep the queues low and your energy levels high. Tickets are priced at just £7.50 per Porsche for Club members and are selling fast!
Accelerating hard through an amber traffic light, it was, by some margin, one of the most amazing drives of my life. That it was in a Jaguar and traversing busy Los Angeles is irrelevant. What is relevant and incredible is that there was no driver -the seat was empty.
Over 10 subsequent rides, I became convinced of my autonomous vehicle (AV) future, certainly as a city dweller. The robot's vision, anticipation, pace and precision seemed far beyond most drivers. Better than me, for sure.
This iteration of an AV was branded Waymo -a Google affiliate. It relies on
centimetre-accurate HD maps incorporating kerb height, bumps, slope, road texture and even potholes. The car's myriad cameras, sensors, radar, LIDAR and ultrasonics provide "real-time perception" to drive accurately and safely.
How and when will AVs affect driving enthusiasts like us? And how might they affect society and, indeed, manufacturers such as Porsche? I don't know the answers,
but a lot of very smart people have been thinking about it.
It seems sure to change patterns of mobility as those who haven't had access to a car suddenly do, and it will shift the economics of car ownership as ride-hailing fleets use their cars 24 hours a day but those who need a car for commuting no longer do. Everyone seems less sure about what it will do to overall traffic volumes. Perhaps it will be good for those who use their cars for leisure ... or it make us more of a target for tax and other disincentives. Somewhere, there will be a new
equilibrium. It will be an interesting ride and we will cover the topic in a future Porsche Post.
Coming back from the future, many thanks to those who came to or logged into our AGM last month. We have a new Board for the next 12 months, but it's changed very little so we have continuity of purpose. Our goal remains primarily to ensure the Club's health and sustainability and to ensure that members' funds are spent carefully to maintain us as the best club for Porsche enthusiasts.
This time last year, we laid out a number of objectives for coming year. As a quick score card, we've done okay. We have:
1. Managed the Club's finances prudently and made a small pre-tax profit for the year. I wrote to members last month on finances, so I won't reiterate everything here.
2. Redesigned our magazine, and changed editorial team and publishers.
3. Beefed up our social media and ensured that we appear less 911-centric.
4. Managed the unexpected and rather unwelcome transition of Clubhouse management.
5. Put on some great national events. As an example, last year's Classics at the Castle drew more than 1,800 enthusiasts.
6. Deepened our relationship with key commercial partners.
7. Opened the Clubhouse as a welcoming hub for members.
8. Made some progress in providing a more consistent experience across Regions and Registers.
Much of the above will continue to iterate and there's always more to do. For example, we haven't made as much progress as we hoped on:
1. Making changes to our constitution, primarily to modernise our election process and provide more secure management succession.
2. Attracting new commercial partners.
3. Building a consistent high-quality Club merchandise retail proposition.
4. Attracting a younger, more female, more diverse membership that is more reflective of patterns of Porsche enthusiasm across the UK.
The problem with trying to convince investors and analysts that you are a luxury brand and not actually a car company is that you are still subject to the challenges of the automotive industry. When your major market tumbles, supply chains hit roadblocks and the transition to electric vehicles lags behind predictions, the numbers no longer support your argument. That's a shame because, if Porsche was a car manufacturer, delivering strong results in the face of immense challenges would be a thing to be proud of. Instead, this year's Annual Press Conference was almost apologetic.
Two years ago, the opening video emphasised provenance and heritage, taking us on a spectacular fly-through of the Porsche Museum's collections. For the 2024 event, heritage was so last year. The fly-through followed the automated assembly of a new Taycan, bringing the vast investments Porsche had made for the dawning electric future to life.
This year, as the camera circled three generations of 911, it was clear that heritage had been rehabilitated to some extent but electric had been (literally) reversed into the shadows. What is the bedrock of Porsche in 2025?
Into the void stepped the Porsche AG CEO, Dr Oliver Blume, who set an upbeat tone. Sales records were achieved in every market region except China, the J.D. Power Survey ranked Porsche number one for customer satisfaction in the USA and 2024 was the company's most successful year in motorsport ever.
Over to CFO Dr Jochen Breckner for the financial results. In an industry where a margin of 10 per cent is considered impressive, a Group operating return on sales of 14 .1 per cent in a very difficult year should add another gold star ... but there are two reasons why the presentation was less confident. The first is that, since the IPO, repositioning Porsche as a luxury brand has infused analysts and investors with expectations of luxury sector margins. Ferrari, the prototype car company operating as a luxury goods business, achieved a 2024 operating margin of 28.3 per cent. The second was that
while Group revenue was down just 1.1 per cent at €40.8 billion, operating return was down 23 per cent.
Total vehicle sales were 310,718, down just three per cent. The Cayenne remained the driver of both volume and margin, with 102,889 sales. The Macan was runner-up at 82,795 (without a breakdown between the combustion model and the EV), 50,941 91 ls were sold, the 49 per cent dip in Taycan sales didn't make it onto the slides and neither did the increasing popularity of the combustion 718.
This year, promised Dr Blume, the board will continue its drive to increase average sale prices, with more personalisation and more Sonderwunsch (special request) cars. The objective is noble, but is that the right foundation for a volume luxury manufacturer in 2025? It's interesting to compare this to the fashion market, where the most tightly managed luxury brands have remained successful while many of the volume luxury brands, especially those trying to move upmarket by increasing prices, have been feeling the pain.
On the struggling transition to EV, Dr Blume says the product strategy has been successfully adapted in all segments, offering a portfolio of ICE, hybrid and BEV powertrains: "Cayenne and Panamera will be developed as both ICE and hybrid, far into the 2030s."
He then teased with news of a possible new SUV with ICE and hybrid powertrain options, to be launched later this decade. Some in the press have labelled this 'the ICE Macan', but Blume was careful to
emphasise that it will be differentiated from the Macan, "which will be purely electric into the future". Perhaps something smaller to fill the gap left by increasing Macan prices? That would make more sense than a new super SUV to rival the Bentley Bentayga. The five years required to bring it to market suggest it's an idea that is only just hatching.
The long-awaited electric replacement for the 718 appears to be facing further delays and its introduction is now described as in the "medium term".
Turning to anticipated business performance, the long-term margin target remains at 20 per cent but the mid-term target is now 15-17 per cent, with 10-12 per cent predicted for 2025. Dr Breckner confirmed that the cost structure will be optimised to allow target profitability at just 250,000 vehicles per year. That is fortunate, because these figures were announced before President Trump's tariffs threw the global economy into reverse.
Will Volkswagen sell more of its 75 per cent holding to raise the capital needed to modernise and reverse out of its over commitment to pure electric?
My personal view is that it is unlikely, given the potential for medium-term recovery in the share price. A majority sell-off would also compromise the shared platform strategy that adds immeasurable savings and flexibility to Porsche model development. Avoiding this by releasing just a proportion of their holding would proportionally reduce the substantial dividend flow from Porsche AG. While maintaining dividends at the 2023 level is a sticking plaster for retail and institutional investors, it is also an incentive for Volkswagen to maintain the status quo. PP
THE COMEBACK KID
From media darling and sales phenomenon to oft-derided, much-maligned ‘cheap’ 911, the 996 Carrera is now a classic in its own right
Words: Steve Bennett Photography: Rich Pearce
“You’d have to be perverse to declare the old car was better…” Not our words, clearly, but those of evo in its January 1999 Car of the Year issue. The “old car”? That will be the 993 and so, by implication, there must be a new car. There was, the 996 Carrera 2, which wiped the board with the competition… and that included the Ferrari F355.
And it wasn’t just our colleagues at evo who awarded the 996 a gong and the full five stars. In the days when car mags and journos were the qualified influencers, there were few who didn’t side with that opinion. Sure, there was a lament for the demise of the air-cooled generation and that lost air-cooled character, but you really would have to be perverse to declare the old car was better.
THE SONG REMAINS THE SAME (…ISH)
It was, if you like, Porsche’s difficult second album. From the 911’s inception in 1964 right through to 1995, Stuttgart had effectively re-mixed the master tapes in a series of evolutions, culminating with the 993. In 1998, the 996 was the revolution that had to happen and the purists didn’t like it. They didn’t like the fact that it was water-cooled, they didn’t like the fact that it shared its modular construction and numerous parts/panels with the Boxster and, over time, they really didn’t like the fact that the ‘new’ 911 (like the Boxster) appealed to a far broader customer base. With familiarity grows contempt. I was one of those 911 virgins. With no air-cooled 911 prejudice/experience (although I soon made up for that, and I grew to love the old ‘uns too), the 996 was the first 911 I ever drove in 2000. I was blown away. Dynamically, it was like nothing I had ever experienced before and I made the absolute most of my week behind the wheel, including a there-and-back-in24hrs Nürburgring trip. This was a car that I absolutely knew I would have to own in the future. Indeed, it would be fair to say that it had quite a profound effect on me. It was a long time coming, but – thanks to a small windfall – I finally bought a basic C2 in 2015 and ran it for five happy years. I’m not the only motoring scribbler to have made such a 996 purchase; it ticks all our
“The 996 was the revolution that had to happen and the purists didn’t like it”
Author Bennett chases the early 996.1 from behind the wheel of the 996.2. The additional torque of the later car is very noticeable on the road
Above: as ever with 911s, the M96 flat six is no looker.
Below: our three cars: silver early 996.1 C2; Seal Grey 996.2; and late model 996.1 C4 (blue car)
purist boxes. I made a modest profit when I came to sell it too.
Back in 2000, if you had told me that the 996 was going to fall so drastically, from Car of the Year-winning grace to the point today where £30,000+ can separate a 996 Carrera 2 and 993 Carrera 2, I would have considered you one cylinder short of the full flat-six. Oh, and here’s another thing. Back in 2002, when I wanted but couldn’t afford a 996 Carrera 2, I bought a 911 Carrera 3.2 as my first Porsche instead. Try writing that sentence today, in a world where the air-cooled boat has sailed for many of us. But, having had experience of both, I know which I would rather have and that’s not just making virtue out of fiscal necessity.
The 996 was the first mass-produced 911… or should that be the first 911 that was designed to be mass-produced, thanks to the arrival of Porsche saviour Wendelin Wiedeking. That wider customer base saw a car that no longer had the associated baggage of quirkiness, old-school machismo and a required deep understanding of the laws of rear engine physics. They saw a sports car that came in all sorts of guises,
that was actually really very driveable and practical every day. Tiptronics, Cabrios, Targas, Carrera 4s, some really quite strange colour combos and ubiquity all conspired against the 996.
And then there were the ‘issues’. A handful of exploding engines did for the 996’s reputation and in came a whole micro industry of fixes and snake oil. It’s a subject for another story, but all the engines that were ever going to blow up have now probably done so and the ‘fixes’ that are worthwhile are easily retrofitted during routine maintenance. Also, in all my years of writing about Porsches, I’ve been privy to numerous IMS bearing swaps and I’ve never seen an original outgoing bearing that was anything less than perfect. I know of one specialist who has a ‘special’ draw in his tool chest for all the perfect standard bearings that he’s removed and replaced that he never tires of displaying.
THE STATE OF THE ART
All of this has kept the 996 in the doldrums, but that is starting to change. It’s a 911, after all, and it will have its day.
That’s why we’re gathered here in sunny Norfolk with a trio of 996s to big up what is now the de facto ‘your first 911’. In many respects, this seems quite mad, but rejoice in the fact that this first rung on the 911 ladder is also one of the very best. Really? Yes, really…
In order to track the 996’s trajectory, we’re being selective in choosing a base 1998 Carrera 2 and 2001 Carrera 4 in 3.4-litre Gen 1 guises, plus making the transition to a 2003 Gen 2 3.6-litre Carrera 2. Sure, the 996 Carrera 4S is, in market and value terms, more desirable, but there is a ‘less is more’ mantra that is crucial here too. Indeed, think of the Carrera 2 as a junior GT3.
Again, really? Here’s a killer 996 C2 fact: at 1,320kg versus 1,350kg, it’s actually lighter than the 996 GT3. That wasn’t lost on Autocar back in the day, as the test team pondered why they couldn’t get a 996 GT3 to 60mph quicker than a 996 C2 and the C2 was still ahead even when going further to 100mph. The stats? They’re 0-60mph in 4.6s versus 4.8s and 0-100mph in 10.5s versus 10.9s. That’s the difference that 30kg
“You can drive a 996 up to its limit and then just hold it there in the palm of your hand, revelling in the feedback from the steering and animated chassis”
makes despite a power deficit of 60bhp from the C2’s 300bhp M96 flat-six compared to the GT3’s mighty 360bhp Mezger unit. To put all this into perspective, the 996 Carrera 2 is the lightest watercooled 911, full stop. Oh, and it’s lighter than a 993 Carrera 2, with more power and a more advanced chassis, longer wheelbase and wider track. It’s no wonder that, on the same stretch of road and with drivers of equal talent, the 996 soon pulls ahead.
Let’s fully consider the 996’s spec. With a blank canvas and the benefit of modern monocoque construction and computer modelling, Porsche was able to build a
level of torsional rigidity into the new bodyshell than eclipsed the 993 by 30 per cent. In a sign of the times in construction, 21 per cent of that was achieved by being able to bond the front and rear windows. That rigidity allows the suspension and steering to really work its magic. MacPherson struts might sound ordinary but, as a form of integrating the damper and spring, they are hard to beat. However, the real genius of the 996’s suspension lies within the 993-influenced LFA multi-link rear set-up, which keeps the rear wheels perfectly upright at all times for maximum traction – something
that the 911 has in abundance, of course. Upfront is rather more conventional, with the MacPherson struts sandwiched between the lower aluminium suspension ‘coffin’ arms and the suspension topmounts, an anti-roll bar and, for the first time in a 911, a steering rack that’s ahead of the front wheel centreline.
A completely new Getrag-designed, six-speed transaxle features an engineered, mechanical short-shift action too.
To be absolutely accurate, the all-new M96 3.4-litre in launch spec produces 296bhp and a willing 258lbs/ft of torque at 4,600rpm. What it gave away in terms
“It just works, blending, flowing and dancing with the undulations and ragged topography”
of noise and character, compared to the outgoing and effectively outlawed air-cooled 3.6 of the 993, it makes up for in power and sophistication. Taken at absolute face value, and leaving aside those ‘issues’, it is an absolute masterpiece of power and elasticity that’s only bettered by the Gen 2 3.6 – which we will come to in a moment.
FOUR ON THE FLOOR
While we’re not going to major on the 996 Carrera 4, we do have one to play with and it does play an important part in the modern 911 era. It’s also pertinent to the development of the 996 GT3, donating its stiffer/heavier bodyshell to cope with the extra stresses generated by the front diff transferring power – up to 40 per cent – to the front wheels and it’s structurally different to the Carrera 2 bodyshell from the windscreen forward.
The Carrera 4 introduced something new to the all-wheel-drive party in the form of Porsche Stability Management (PSM). Made possible by the adoption of an electronic drive-by-wire throttle (E-Gas), this Bosch-designed system combines onboard longitudinal controls – the anti-lock brakes and Automatic Brake Differential (ABD) –with a lateral control that cuts in only briefly, but equally decisively, to support the hard-pedalling driver in keeping the car stable in a corner. Wheel speed sensors detect the difference in speed from left to right, while a steering angle sensor, lateral acceleration sensor and yaw sensor detect drift angles. The aim is to provide lateral stability, controlling a slide by applying brake force to individual wheels. Oversteer is countered by the application of brake force to the outside front wheel, while understeer is quashed by braking the inside rear.
Sophisticated stuff, which would soon be a standard feature on all 996s moving forward. Its genius, though, was its non-intrusive nature and super-subtle intervention acting to enhance the driving experience rather than actively blunt it. Even Walter Röhrl was a big fan, claiming that he would take C2 over C4… but then he did help to develop it. Nevertheless, the 996 Carrera 4 is an absolute weapon over treacherous ground, but we’re not expecting any decisive advantage in today’s dry conditions.
IN THE PINK
And the Gen 2 Carrera 3.6? Again, we’ll come to that. But before we go for a drive, we should step back and just take a good look at the 996’s Pinky Lai-styled aesthetics, which must have been one tough gig, bringing the 911’s timeless silhouette into
“All the engines that were ever going to blow up have now probably done so”
A TASTE WORTH ACQUIRING
Our trio of 996s belong to air-cooled Porsche specialist Paul Stephens, who has generously donated his time and even rustled up some bacon sandwiches for today’s adventure.
That may not compute, given Paul’s classic Porsche credentials, but when you know that his personal collection of cars extends beyond Porsche (he also has a 996 GT3 and a lovely 911 SC) and encompasses such dynamic delights as a Lotus Elise and an Alpine A110, then it starts to make sense. Maybe it’s something to do with living so close to Lotus Cars and its development roads. The point is that Paul places driving and chassis dynamics above all else when it comes to what he looks for in a car. The fact that the humble 996 fits this criteria should be a wake-up call to any doubters.
“I’ve had the Gen 2 996 Carrera 2 for five years,” says Paul. “It’s just such a good platform. I was intrigued about the earlier Gen 1 3.4 C2 and C4. It’s become a little bit of an obsession, I guess.
The Gen 1 Carrera 2 is the lightest water-cooled 911 you can buy and you can really feel that. The 996 Carrera 4 has amazing grip in tricky conditions. And they’re just such good value.” And the market? “Every dog has its day! I remember the market for SWB 911s and 964s. Look where they are now. It’s a 911 and you can’t get away from that. Like everything, it’s a bit supressed at the moment – it will come – but it’s a Porsche 911, with Porsche 911 running costs. But then, compared to earlier air-cooled 911s, they don’t really rot, which is a massive bonus. Bits wear out, the suspension in particular, but it’s all bolt on/off stuff.
“We have been creating driver-focused, lightweight versions of the air-cooled 911 for 20 years, and I’m curious to see what can be achieved with the 996 platform. No one is going to be buying a 991 or a 992 in the future to strip out or turn into a trackday machine. The 996 and 997, however…”
Paul Stephens has been creating bespoke, lightweight air-cooled 911s for more than 20 years, but sees the potential in the 996
a very different world. A success? Well, perception of the 996’s styling and looks has ebbed and flowed over the years, but now there is a certain purity about the early Gen 1 cars, with their shark-like front ends, and the nonsense about ‘fried egg’ headlight/indicators has abated too. They look great. Compared to the modern, bloated and fussily styled 992, the 996 is the model of restraint. But it’s not all good. There is no denying that the 996’s interior doesn’t feature that same restraint, with its over-stylised architecture and approximate build quality. Ergonomically, though, in terms of placement of your all-important driving tools, the 996 is a definitive 911 gamechanger. Likewise in terms of their precision and linearity.
It’s not a recognised thing, largely because I’ve only just invented it, but there is a power-to-size-to-road equation (some smart Alec could probably devise a formula) which the 911 busted through with the 991 and has truly demolished with the 992. That is to say, the current 911 is too big and too powerful for our roads, particularly our Britpop B roads. If your 911 doesn’t work here, then it’s not fit for purpose.
The 996 has the perfect balance of what we’ll call PSR. It just works, blending, flowing and dancing with the undulations and ragged topography. It’s a ride/handling balance that has seemingly been lost to 20”+ wheels and iron-fist damping. You can drive a 996 up to its limit and then just hold it there in the palm of your hand, revelling in the feedback from the steering and animated chassis. Back in the 996’s day, the only contemporary that could keep up with a well-driven 996 C2/C4 was a Subaru Impreza. A 993 C2 wouldn’t have seen which way it went, then or now. Wringing out the endlessly, elastically flexible, 3.4-litre, flat-six is an absolute joy.
The Carrera 4 isn’t far behind in terms of driving enjoyment either. On this dry day, it offers no real advantage but, if you had never driven a Carrera 2, then its slightly less chatty steering and default towards understeer would hardly register. Its advantage as a junior everyday supercar is less of an advantage these days, when few 996s are used in such a way.
“the engine is constantly poised for any given situation and it’s ready to work the brilliance of the chassis”
BUYING AND RUNNING
As Paul accurately surmises, like the broader Porsche market, the 996 Carrera 2/4 market is currently suppressed and still picking itself up to an extent. That is to say, sub-£10,000 996s still exist but, unless you’re very handy, don’t go there because you will easily spend that again putting it right. In the middle, a £15,000-to£20,000 996 is great value.
At the top end, £25,000 will put you in the very best.
IMS bearings, RMS seals and bore score? The oldest 996 on the block is nearly 30, while the youngest pretender is 21. At this stage of their lives, if it was going to happen – whatever that may be – it would have happened. But, by all means, replace the IMS bearing if it’s keeping you awake at night.
Reliability? The 996 doesn’t break down, but bits do wear out – notably the suspension components. You’ll know from the creaking coffin arms and top mounts to the less-thandamped dampers. Cheap 996s will have all this and more and a suspension re-fit is expensive. The front-mounted radiators are susceptible to
the elements and can rot out from the bottom corners. But a 996 in long-term ownership, with parts replaced as and when required, is not prohibitively expensive to run. Anything else? As Paul points out, rust isn’t generally an issue but exhaust fixings and other undercarriage fittings can really suffer
from the UK’s climate, particularly where steel bolt meets aluminium component, which is to say suspension arms and the like. Remember, all this stuff afflicts Boxsters too. Component prices? They can be expensive, but shop around and you might be surprised. Your local Euro
Car Parts will have both O/E and quality pattern parts on the shelf. The 996 is surprisingly DIY-friendly too. Front and rear aprons come off easily, allowing access to most of the important mechanical stuff. Otherwise, your local Porsche specialist is your friend.
What are you waiting for?
For maximum entertainment and driving involvement, the Carrera 2 has it beaten.
SUNNYSIDEUP
Saving the best to last, though, here comes 2002's Gen 2 996 Carrera 2 3.6. Fundamentally, it's the same car with some styling tweaks, most notably the headlights, plus a better-quality interior, which is welcome. But never has an extra 200cc and 15bhp made itself felt so energetically. The full fat figure is 315bhp but, as ever in real road situations, it's the torque that talks: a loaded 273lbslft at
4,250rpm versus the 3.4's 251lbs/ft at 4,600rpm. Put simply, there is power absolutely everywhere, the engine is constantly poised for any given situation and it's ready to work the brilliance of the chassis. It's a little heavier at 1,345kg, but the extra power and torque makes light work of such a small gain, even if you do feel a slight effect in its responses. It's still lighter than a 996 GT3, though! So, the Gen 2 996 Carrera 2 wins, then? The best? If only it were that simple. Yes, objectively, it is the better car and that engine is something else, but there
is also something quite beguiling about that lightweight Gen 1 and the way the 3.4-litre unit is just that bit more hungry for revs and makes you work a little bit harder. Maybe it's because you never forget your first time, it's 25 years since mine -a silver anniversary, in factand today's silver 996 Carrera 2 is a time-travelling dead ringer for that Niirburgring day-tripping machine. Back in 2000, it was peak 911. In today's landscape, it occupies the bottom rung of the 911 ladder. Go figure, but celebrate too. Truly, we've never had it so good. PP
What makes the 996 great? cars produced, there is a well spent. In fact, go and talk As the car was the first The classic looks that good source of used parts at to a Porsche specialist before of the new generation of retain the clean, simple a (generally) reasonable cost. you start looking because you water-cooled 911, they were lines of the iconic 911 and But the biggest factor is will find a lot of useful once frowned upon as they are even almost understated they are great cars to drive information. You may even find ushered out the legendary compared to the curves and and put a smile on your face a car before it is advertised. air-cooled engines. However, big wings of the wide-arched every time!
In talking with a garage, time and development has air-cooled models.
The 996 being produced in you will discover many of the proved Porsche correct in Then there's its compact large numbers means there good independents have loyal moving engines in this size, especially compared to are still quite a lot of cars customers who have taken direction and the waterinflated newer models. around. However, not all these their beloved cars to them cooled approach really was Moreover, the range of cars have been loved or over its life, so the garage the way forward. They are models is comprehensive. maintained to the standard can often give you a good now getting recognition that There is something for every that a performance car overview of how a car has they were the start of a new driver and all perform well. should be to keep it in its been maintained. Mechanical era for Porsche, and they are Even the base 3.4-litre model optimum condition. Some defects that occurred with indeed very good cars. that came out in late 1997 have started to be affected by some engines are well- Early models which are in with a top speed of 175mph corrosion, which is a clear documented and, again, good condition are becoming and a 0-60mph time of 5.2 indication that a car hasn't talking with a knowledgeable more desirable, as are other seconds was no slouch! been inspected or maintained garage should arm you with models such as the wideI also think they are very regularly. Don't rely on the fact good information in your bodied 4S with its sweeping useable and affordable, both it has a long MOT certificate. search for a car. curves and the 40th from a purchase point of view If I was looking to buy a car, Is the reputation of the 996 Anniversary model with its and from a running costs I would start by looking at evolving? In my opinion, the lower stance, extra power point of view. Pop a set of the Club website; fellow answer is yes. More people and high specification. These winter tyres on a Carrera 4 members will often advertise are waking up to the fact the are, of course, accompanied and I would have it as an their cherished car there. 996s are great cars and they by the ever-popular and all-year-round daily driver. Porsche Classic dealers are underrated. It's not they extremely capable Turbo and For the spirited driver, a occasionally have models have ever been bad cars; it is GT3 models, which both Carrera 2 with the factory for sale too, but the majority just that the development of already have a legendary M030 lowered suspension are through independent the 911 has kept evolving and presence in the car world. and a limited slip differential garages. Finally,you have the it is now larger, more powerful There is also scope for would be a rewarding drive many private sales available and has more technology. customisation, whether you and a whole load of fun. through online sites. There are still some want something that can be Much of maintenance and The advice I would always low-mileage, well-maintained used for road and trackdays repair work is straightforward give -however much you vehicles about at reasonable or a classic look with the to carry out, whether it is are intending to spend -prices. These are cars that addition of a duck-tail spoiler done by an independent is to get a pre-purchase can be used and enjoyed and replica Fuch-style wheels.
garage or you do it yourself. inspection carried out by a without worrying about With this car, there really
Parts availability is excellent good independent Porsche driving about in a massive is something for everyone
and, due to the quantity of specialist. This will be money investment. to enjoy.
Top and above: 917 013/034’s race history is second to none
Mark looks at that mighty 12-cylinder engine; no more rebuilds, please!
THE GREATEST RACING CAR EVER BUILT
Acquiring a 917 was the jewel in the crown of these brothers’ car collection
Words: Adam Towler
I“think it all started when my brother and I were at school, around 1950, when the Jaguar XK120 had arrived and a school pal said: ‘My dad’s got one of those’. We got rides in it and we both said: ‘When I grow up, I’m going to have one of those’. We did; we’ve had four of them, and still have two left. One’s in storage and the other needs a little attention after my brother headed off into the countryside at the Nürburgring…”
When Club member Mark Finburgh says “the rest is history”, he is somewhat underplaying an extraordinary legacy of car ownership over 70 years and counting that now stretches across his extended family. There was the C-Type Jaguar his brother found in a field in Holland, or the AC Ace Bristol Mark found which became his favourite and is a car much-raced by him. There’s the Ferrari 250 Europa discovered in a French farmyard, which the brothers have competed in and which retains its original engine, body and interior. Mark contested the Mille Miglia in it just a couple of years ago, by then in his early eighties. Or the genuine original Ford GT40 bought from a simple ad in a Sunday paper, or the BMW M1, or the 911 Carrera RS2.7, or the original Fiat 500…
But as spectacular as some of these purchases are now, especially viewed through a modern lens, they’re not the main reason you’re reading this story. No. It’s what the brothers bought next that really boggles the mind and which they have become inextricably linked with over the subsequent 50 years. As Mark says, “We said after the GT40, ‘What do you get after that if you’re going to keep going upwards?’”.
I’m talking, of course, about nothing less than a Porsche 917 – the car sometimes referred to as ‘the greatest racing car ever built’. It’s the car that really put Porsche on the map as a manufacturer of premium sports cars after it finally delivered that elusive first outright win in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This lethal, beautiful, 240mph projectile shattered records and attracted the world’s best drivers.
TWO OF A KIND
When Mark talks about cars, it’s always with the word ‘we’ because, from that very early age, it’s always been a family thing in conjunction with his brother Aubrey, who’s known for the classic car restoration and race preparation business in London called Classic Autos Finburgh that’s now run by his son Nick. “The first sports-type car we acquired was an Alvis 12/60 from 1937 and we’ve still got it,” Mark recounts, with obvious glee. “It hasn’t been running for years, though. We got the XK120s in about 1966-1968. By the time we got our hands on them, we were in our late twenties.” Perhaps unusually, neither Mark nor his brother were interested in contemporary road cars, even back then. When he says
he’s never wanted something ‘exotic’ as a daily driver, he’s not joking. His current transport is “some sort of Ford people carrier thing” and his wife drives a Ford Focus. That disinterest applies to Porsche’s current range, although it’s the best of a bad lot to his mind. Still, even the latest 911 has “middle age spread” in his opinion. “Some even have four doors,” he notes sanguinely, although I sense it’s perhaps with tongue firmly in cheek…
When it came to finding a GT40, Mark passed over the opportunity to buy a Ferrari 250 LM for the same money (which was, if nothing else, a missed investment) and eventually rang no less than John Wyer at JW Automotive. Wyer’s team had run the Gulf-sponsored
Finburgh (with stick) next to David Piper, with Le Mans winner Richard Attwood (far right) and Steve McQueen’s grandson Chase (at the back)
Fords – indeed, Wyer himself had been involved since the earliest days of the GT40 project – that won Le Mans outright in 1968 and 1969 at the direct expense of Porsche before he switched to the Stuttgart marque in 1970 and ran the 917s in the famous Gulf colours.
“It’s a pity you didn’t ring up yesterday,” Wyer said, “because I had the GT40 that came third in 1969, but I’ve just sold it...”
Having seen a two-line advert for it in the Sunday Express, Mark bought a GT40 from outside the owner’s flat in Holland Park. The brothers have raced it over the years but, like all their cars, it remains exceedingly original and the car is no longer competitive against the new-build, powerful ‘hot rods’ that
now dominate historic racing. Mark refuses to countenance turning their car into something similar.
START AT THE TOP
All of which brings us to Porsche. The 917 was the brothers’ first Porsche, in fact.
“I suppose you’ve got to start somewhere,” Mark says. “What sold it to me to a large extent was seeing the Steve McQueen film [Le Mans] and I thought ‘I’ve got to have one of those’.
My brother said ‘You must be mad’, so I looked around and found two in America with Vasek Polak, but they weren’t what they said they were.”
Then someone suggested ringing the factory, which is where the story gets
The brothers’ GT40, unlike many current examples racing today, retains its original specification
Above: AC Ace Bristol on a wet Stelvio Pass
Right: Ferrari 250 Europa on the Mille Miglia in recent years
Finburgh has demonstrated the 917 often over the years
“We walked around scraping the snow off things. Eventually, I saw a bit of orange and blue, and I said ‘We’ll have this one’”
slightly surreal. In 1972/3, just a year after the 917s had been forcibly retired from international competition, Mark found himself on the phone with Porsche stalwart, ace driver and sometime manager/salesman Jürgen Barth on the other end of the line. “Have you got a 917?” Mark asked. “Yes”, came the reply. “Is it for sale?” “Yes, of course it is”.
Mark and his brother headed for Germany. Having passed through the original small factory museum in Stuttgart and through the factory itself, the brothers followed Barth into a snow-covered yard out the back. “It’s probably under one of those piles of snow somewhere,” Barth said, nonchalantly.
“So we walked around scraping the snow off things. Eventually, I saw a bit of orange and blue, and I said ‘We’ll have this one’. I didn’t know what it was [which chassis number], but it was a 917 in Gulf colours. I would have had any 917, I think.”
Barth refused to let Mark take the car back to the UK for recommissioning, insisting that it was done at the factory first before being released. “I said ‘I’m not paying for that as well’,” Mark recalls, to which Barth replied: “Just give us a bit more and we’ll do it”.
TRIPPING OVER TREASURE
Mark collected the car in early 1973. It’s clear from talking to him that Porsche’s attitude towards the 917 at this point was of ‘just another racing car’, now past its useful service life. There seems to have been almost no romanticism around the car, with it being treated with the same care one might extend to a broken lawnmower.
“When I carted it home, we didn’t really know much about this one and I didn’t care. It was only when I went down to see John Horsman at JW Automotive [that we learnt more]”.
At the time, JWA were still fighting the good fight in the World Championship, now with their own Mirage chassis powered by Cosworth DFVs. Although success eluded them, they did win Le Mans outright in 1975, incidentally giving Jacky Ickx and Derek Bell their first win as a partnership. Horsman immediately told Mark he knew what the car was and gave him all the race sheets.
Finburgh racing his XK120 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 50th anniversary support race in 1973
It was not just any old 917; it was chassis number 013/034.
Used as a spare car in practice for the season-opening 24 Hours of Daytona in 1970, it then came fourth at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1970 with Gulf’s lead driver Pedro Rodríguez and Leo Kinnunen at the wheel, whereupon its race career came to a premature end that season and it was taken on by Solar Productions for use by McQueen and his cabal of leading racing drivers for movie production. It’s this car that crashed with David Piper at the wheel, the Englishman losing a leg as a result of the crash. Rebuilt with the second chassis number, it returned to the care of Rodríguez in 1971, winning at Daytona, Monza, Spa (although Mark isn’t completely convinced about the Belgian triumph) and Austria, with the latter sometimes cited as the Mexican driver’s finest victory, before his tragic death at the wheel of a Ferrari in a non-championship race that year. It really was ‘Pedro’s car’.
LIGHT ON ITS FEET
Recently, Mark found out from Porsche that this chassis is one of three ‘lightweight’ cars built by Porsche, although no 917 was ever ‘heavy’. “I’ve noticed that their bodywork is a lot thicker and heavier; ours is much thinner. I keep on saying, if you’re pushing the thing, do not push it on the body!”
Far from putting it away in a dehumidified collection, Mark actually raced the car in Club events a couple of times, but fell afoul of a particular 917 Achilles heel: over-revving the engine, with expensive results. As it happens, Porsche’s lead works driver Jo Siffert did this at Le Mans in 1970, blowing the engine of his 917K right in front of the pitlane and costing Wyer’s Gulf team the race.
“It goes to 8,200rpm but, at 8,300rpm, the valves touch the pistons and that’s not good,” Mark says. The engine was rebuilt back at Porsche, although that wasn’t without its difficulties. “Dealing with the factory wasn’t the well-oiled machine you might expect. It was more like an Italian company than a German one; a slightly more eccentric operation.” Mark believes things are different now but, back then, knowledge of them wasn’t widespread.
That was the end of the car’s racing career. It has been a regular at the Goodwood
Festival of Speed, including with 1970 Le Mans winner Richard Attwood, no less, taking it up sideways in the rain to fastest time.
LIVING HISTORY
What really resonates is that while Mark clearly loves the car and is proud of it, he’s not precious about it. “It’s just like all the others,” he says, before telling me about his old 911 2.7 Carrera RS. “I’m still very upset we sold the 2.7 RS [in around 1978]. We sold it to pay for fixing the Ford GT40,
“he knew what the car was and gave him all the race sheets. It was not just any old 917; it was chassis number 013/034”
but I didn’t need to. It was Gulf blue [without the graphics] and matched the 917. But we do have another one in the family.” It’s one of five Porsches overall.
As for maintaining the 917, over the years he’s renewed some of the oil pipes and some of the wiring because it was getting a bit tired. It needs a new set of spark plugs every now and again, although Mark runs softer plugs that are less prone to fouling. But one upgrade is the fitment of electronic ignition, which means the big 12-cylinder air-cooled engine fires up every time and runs on 12 without fail. “Apart from changing the oil, the plugs, some new brake discs [they eventually found some that would fit and had them machined], a new clutch, a new starter motor and keeping it warm and dry, we haven’t had to do a lot to it since the engine rebuild.”
Many years later, Mark bumped into Jürgen Barth and casually asked him
Mark Finburgh and his wife Derashi in front of their 917K, photographed at the 2024 Salon Privé event
what would have become of the 917 if the brothers hadn’t bought it. “Oh, we would have scrapped it,” was the incredible reply. “That attitude doesn’t exist any more,” Mark admits. “It’s a moment in time that’s passed and we got lucky, didn’t we, because we got in during the mid-’60s when [the classic car scene] was just taking off and these goodies could be found.”
But 013/034 wasn’t the only Porsche Barth offered, then or later. The brothers could have bought a 908/03 (the tiny, flat-eight-powered Targa Florio winner), a 917/30 Can Am turbo monster and Moby Dick, the ultimate 935.
Mark has never had any inclination to sell the cars and particularly the 917, even if today it could be worth £20m, £25m, £30m… who knows? There’s only really one problem: “I must admit it is getting rather more difficult to get into it and much more difficult to get out of it”. PP
Chase McQueen, Steve McQueen’s grandson, getting comfortable in one of the stars of the film Le Mans
THE PINNACLE OF PERFORMANCE
Pirelli’s exclusive P ZERO™ Experience returns to the UK this summer
Pirelli is proud to continue our partnership with Porsche Club Great Britain in 2025, bringing together a shared passion for performance and the ultimate driving experience in what we all hope will be an exciting year.
On 18 June, Pirelli is set to host its renowned P ZERO™ Experience at the iconic Silverstone Grand Prix Circuit. This exclusive event offers a unique opportunity to unleash your vehicle’s full potential on one of the world’s most celebrated tracks. Participants can expect a day filled with high-octane driving and luxury hospitality.
TRACK SESSIONS
Participants will enjoy multiple sessions thanks to the open pit lane out onto Silverstone’s Grand Prix Circuit, experiencing the same tarmac that has challenged Formula 1 legends.
Whether you’re looking to test your car’s limits or refine your driving skills, the track offers the perfect environment.
PIRELLI PERFORMANCE
Gain insights into Pirelli’s latest tyre technologies and how they enhance supercar performance. A team will be on hand if you have any questions about how to equip your vehicle for optimal handling and safety.
HOSPITALITY
You’re welcome to relax in the Pirelli Lounge, but you’re never too far away from the track as we kit out the Wing’s garages. It’s the ideal setting to soak in that Silverstone atmosphere.
JOIN THE P ZERO™ EXPERIENCE
Driver passes are available for £995 and companion passes for £195.
As the UK’s only P ZERO™ Experience event for 2025, you don’t want to miss this unparalleled opportunity to drive your Porsche on the legendary Silverstone Circuit. Whether you’re a seasoned track enthusiast or new to high-performance driving, the P ZERO™ Experience promises a day of excitement, learning and luxury.
Spaces for the P ZERO™ Experience are limited to maintain an exclusive atmosphere. Club members can register now by scanning the QR code or heading to pzeroexperience. pirelli.com, and remember to reference ‘Porsche Club GB’ when booking!
PIRELLI PRE-PAID MASTERCARD OFFER DETAILS
Club members can benefit from an exclusive offer of a Pirelli Pre-paid Mastercard to spend online. Available only when purchasing Pirelli tyres from a Pirelli Performance Centre or official Porsche dealer, the card’s value depends on the size and quantity of tyres purchased:
16” and below
Two tyres = £10 | Four tyres = £30
17”
Two tyres = £30 | Four tyres = £70
18” and 19”
Two tyres = £50 | Four tyres = £100
20” and above
Two tyres = £60 | Four tyres = £120
As official partners of the Club, Pirelli offers all members the chance to claim cashback on purchases up to a maximum of eight Pirelli tyres per calendar year. This means you can receive up to £120 via a pre-paid Mastercard for every four tyres you purchase from an official Pirelli Performance Centre or Porsche dealer. There are more than 150 participating dealers, so click ‘Find a Pirelli Performance Centre’ on the website below to learn more and find your nearest centre. You can redeem this anywhere that accepts Mastercard as a payment method, so treat the card as a gift voucher. The bonus? You can also use this for your family and friends, not just on your supercar!
WHERE CAN YOU GET YOUR TYRES
FITTED?
Visit pirelli.co.uk/porscheclubgb for nearest participating dealers. Terms and conditions apply.
LION ON A LEASH
It takes more than just a first drive to make up your mind about the 992.2 Carrera GTS
Words: Adam Towler photos: PORSCHE AG
Carrera GTS
Perhaps it’s because the technological backstory is so rich or maybe it’s just the headline power figure of 541hp, but I am more excited to drive the new 992.2 Carrera GTS with its T-Hybrid powertrain than I have been about a new Porsche for quite a while.
That is to say, ‘very’. You know how it goes; the finger-twitching agitation as you finally get your hands on the keys you’ve yearned to use, breaking out into outright nervous anticipation when you hear what a new engine sounds like for the first time. Then the sheer torture of letting fluids warm up, waiting for the moment when the stars align – or, rather, the oil temperature says ‘Yes please’ and a gap in the traffic appears – when you can really pin the throttle. Finally, exhaustively, there is that opportunity. Will it enthral or underwhelm in the moment of truth?
“the GTS is simply working so far within its envelope of abilities that it’s barely ‘awake’”
THE BEST JUST GOT BETTER
If you read our overseas launch first drive piece on the Carrera GTS, very ably penned by Andrew Frankel back in Porsche Post August 2024, you’ll know that this car is both a technological marvel and an experience that requires some adjustment of personal perception and understanding. I’ll only summarise the specification here to avoid repetition but, as you may
know, the new GTS is a hybrid but not in the ‘eco’ sense of the term. Sure, there’s a small reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, but the real purpose of a T-Hybrid (as Porsche call it) is to improve performance without compromising driveability or fitting an engine that might tread on the toes of any forthcoming Turbo model. In short, Porsche has ditched the pair of turbochargers, sensibly sized so as to avoid any unnecessary throttle lag, replaced them with one large turbo that’s power-hungry and to blazes with its low-rev response.
The T-Hybrid consists of an electric motor positioned between the turbine and compressor wheels of the turbocharger and another between the engine and the gearbox. The 992 was engineered for this from the start, if you recall, but the 992.1 made no use of the space provided. Although the turbocharger can be spun up by exhaust gases in the usual manner,
992.2 Carrera GTS
the electric motor takes over at low engine speeds, in theory eliminating any turbo lag. Meanwhile, the electric motor provides an additional 56hp down at the gearbox, although there’s no provision for all-electric running because to do so would require a large and very heavy battery. Instead, Porsche is able to fit a small one, under the front scuttle, of 1.9kWh. The new engine itself displaces 3.6 litres, the expansion achieved by increases in both bore and stroke over the existing 3-litre units. It can be fitted as low in the chassis as possible thanks to ancillaries such as the air-conditioning setup being electrically powered.
Elsewhere, it’s the typically incremental Porsche style of improvement across just about every area, whether it’s the nips and tucks to the styling – most obvious in the clean front bumper, where the daytime running lights are now incorporated into the main headlight – or the chassis, with a thorough re-work of settings that also now includes rear-wheel steering as standard and sports PASM (on the GTS). Just try and remember the performance (0-62mph in 3.0 seconds and a top speed of 194mph) when I tell you the price, which is £132,600 list but £145,543 on this Ice Grey example with a smattering of options, the stand-out being the bucket seats.
…OR DID IT?
So, this is the new 992. The 992 with the all-digital dashboard, which is nothing like as annoying as I thought it would be and, on initial inspection, works well. I don’t miss the old semi-analogue setup; who’d have thought it?
Over those initial miles, the first impressions are of a certain heft to the way the car responds. It doesn’t feel heavy per se, blunt or like there’s lots of inertia but, from the iron-fisted body control of the suspension through to the steely precision of the steering, it’s a car that clearly means business. The ride is always taut, just stepping back from unforgiving over really poor surfaces, but then, given the performance, this was always going to be a car with a deep sense of purpose. And then there’s the power. Or, more to the point, the instant, massive torque of the car. Holding it manually in third gear to force it to use the breadth of its torque curve and not involve the optimal ratios, I floor the throttle at little more than jogging pace. Without any delay or commotion, the
“it’s a car you need to spend more time with and have a really proper drive on good roads”
GTS just surges forward with incredible conviction – surreal conviction, really.
I don’t hold a stopwatch but, in my head, it feels like little more than a couple of seconds before we are at the national speed limit. Therein lies the first problem; it’s almost without peer in terms of pace, but where can you safely and legally enjoy it?
So the GTS is spectacularly powerful and I would say it’s a technological marvel too. But initially – that first day of driving, in fact – it’s not a car that I really love. I wonder why that might be, but the best I come up with is the fact that it’s so fast and so capable that, on the traffic-congested roads of Oxfordshire with draconian speed limits, the GTS is simply working so far within its envelope of abilities that it’s barely ‘awake’ and therefore the fun element is somehow missing.
It’s not as if it doesn’t feel good in the hands, or cover ground immensely quickly, or do everything that you could want a new 911 to do. It’s blisteringly fast, sticks to the road with so much determination it’s impossible not to feel your confidence soaring and it would be a magnificent beast to use either as a daily commuter hack or as a long-legged GT to blast all around Europe in.
And yet, somehow, something is missing. For me, at least. Maybe it’s just too fast, everywhere. It’s so responsive and so flexible that you never have to work for the performance and therefore never feel fully satiated when it does everything perfectly, all of the time. Or perhaps that extra 50kg really does make a difference? It’s more like 85kg heavier than a base Carrera, and there’s no doubt it doesn’t feel quite so light on its feet.
I also can’t get on with the noise it makes. It’s just too loud when you’re really pressing on, particularly with the exhaust open, so I tend to keep that in the quiet mode. I love how it sounds at low revs or part throttle. It’s a gruff, gnawing kind of growl, which to my ears owes much to cars like a 993 or a 3.2 Carrera with a free-flowing exhaust. But the hard-edged roar when it’s pulling hard to the redline feels a bit one-dimensional to me and obviously synthesised. Then again, acoustics – like so much to do with cars – are a subjective thing.
on second thoughts
Yet, having written all of the above, something happens after I’ve spent a couple of days with the GTS, whereupon I find my
viewpoints turn completely on their head. I’ve tried my best to put my finger on why, but I take some comfort from the fact that I know I’m not alone when it comes to this predicament. I’ve spoken at length to a Club member with one of the first customer GTS coupés in the UK and he found almost exactly the same thing. As he says, it’s a car you need to spend more time with and have a really proper drive on good roads in to really get under its skin and see its true talents come to life. I don’t really know what’s changed, because it wasn’t the greatest B road I’ve ever driven on, but it was clearly enough for
An all-digital dash is just one of the second-generation 992 updates
“The one thing that really changes the driving experience with the GTS above all else is its low-down punch”
the GTS to show its talents. The one thing that really changes the driving experience with the GTS above all else is its low-down punch. Picture a typical 90° B road corner; the kind you might take in second gear in an older manual or maybe third gear in a PDK-equipped car. In a Carrera, you might
brake hard for the corner, feed the nose in, get on the power as early as possible if you were driving in a spirited manner and feel that inimitable 911 traction catapult the car down the next straight. Sure, if it’s wet, then the experience may be a little less surefooted, but we’ll assume this in is the dry.
If you wanted to push the car a little more, to feel it nearer the edge of grip (although this is not recommended on the public road, naturally), you might choose to work the brakes harder into the corner, be more aggressive with the steering and then the throttle, and try to break the tail free. You might succeed, particularly with a 991.2 onwards turbocharged car which benefits from more torque than the earlier naturally aspirated engined cars. A GT3 is a different animal, often on stickier rubber, and a turbo (a modern one, at least) is four-wheel-drive. It might break traction
at the rear, but you'll have to be ready to react quickly with the steering because the front axle will try to pull the car straight as you head for the exit.
THESUBTLESLEDGEHAMMER
What makes the GTS different from all of these? In this car, you have the choice to be leisurely on the way into the corner and then, if the mood takes you, overwhelm the rear tyres on the way out, simply with the throttle alone. Despite their gargantuan width, that awesome engine can overpower them and, once you know it, a whole new world of driving opens up. It's just so damn exciting having that much shove being put through only the rear wheels of a 911. It makes the car feel edgy; a little bit unforgiving, perhaps. It gives a slightly unhinged, dangerous character that has a magnetic pull, where you want
to be in its company even though it's clear that, if handled in the wrong way, things could turn sour quickly.
It also strikes me that, even without staring at the rev counter, drives in the GTS rarely use the final quarter of the rev counter's arc. The car is so powerful everywhere that revving it out is almost a forbidden fruit. Using the paddles, you can short-shift at 5,500rpm and still make the most obscene progress. However, when the opportunity does arise, preferably in the middle of nowhere and without an audience, really uncorking that new 3.6-litre motor is a special experience. I have to believe it's that single, large turbo. It's not blessed with the best low-down response (and nor does it need it, of course) but, when it needs to pass large volumes of air, it seems to relish it and there's a ferocity to the final reach of the engine which the
3-litre units, with their more sensibly sized turbochargers, have never been able to replicate -even in ultimate 992.1 GTS form.
So there you have it. Perhaps the joy of the new GTS is not so much what it can do, but knowing that it can do it and the warm, fuzzy, superior feeling you get inside from holding that back, dipping into it to demolish other traffic and very occasionally letting fly with a moment of abject fury. It's a subtly but profoundly different driving experience from any other Carrera model and one that's separate from the Turbo too. But I can say this without any hesitation: the more I lived with it and drove it, the more I came to understand it and love it. As a long-term ownership experience, it holds massive appeal. As for quite what this all means for the next Turbo model, the mind boggles ... PP
"IT'SJUSTSODAMNEXCITINGHAVINGTHATMUCHSHOVE
Expandyourhorizons.
UNLOCKNEWADVENTURESWITHPORSCHEBIKERACKS.
Releaseyour spirit of adventureand enjoythe freedom of two wheels on bike rides with friends and family. The easyto fit PorscheBike Racksallow you to securelytransport up to three bikes on the roof or two on the rear of your Porsche(modeldependant). Toensureyou are ready to escape onto the cycle tracks this summer, contact your PorscheCentre, or visit the PorscheAccessories Finderto found out more.
BIGGER AND BETTER
Megaphonics 2025 promises to be a highlight of
your summer!
Megaphonics, the annual Porsche reunion at Boxengasse, returns on Sunday 3 August this year with Porsche Club Great Britain as an official sponsor for the first time.
Billed as the largest Porsche event in Europe and biggest gathering of significant road and race Porsches viewable outside of the Porsche Museum and a more cost-effective way to see them the event attracted around 75 vehicles with an overall worth of £200m last year, creating a truly jaw-dropping lineup. This year, Porsche Post can exclusively
Words: Adam Towler
reveal that historic Group C Porsche collector Henry Pearman will be bringing three very special examples of the ‘works’ 962C: the pole position cars from the 24 Hours of Le Mans from 1986, 1987 (Rothmans) and 1988 (Shell/Dunlop).
“the full extent of the cars in the display area should be spectacular”
Given that previous years have seen everything from an original 911 R to 917s and most of Porsche’s crown jewels besides, the full extent of cars in the display area should be spectacular. However, Megaphonics is about much more than just those high-value exhibits. With reserved parking areas for both air- and water-cooled Porsches as well as a dedicated Club display area, there should be Porsches almost as far as the eye can see and of almost every type. And it’s not just about the display cars either, because 27 brands will be represented in the curated trade paddock as well as a new-for-2025 dealer village, featuring a mouth-watering selection of
Megaphonics offers a curated collection of Porsches to view that’s almost unmatched around the world
stock from independent dealers across Europe and even a restomod premiere.
Visitors can also enjoy a varied selection of gourmet street food and relax to the sounds of experimental beach club chilled deep house around the lake and laid-back ’90s rap – think Mos Def, Naughty by Nature, Eric B, Rakim and so on – around the special displays. Whatever your interest in Porsche, this is a wonderful day out to mix with the Porsche fraternity.
Moreover, in line with the Club’s new ‘United by the Drive’ mantra, a number of Regions will be organising group drives to the event, so why drive down alone? Speak to your Regional Organiser to find out more. PP
Megaphonics
The E1Cayennehas divided opinion ever since it was unveiled,but this iconoclasticleviathan's looks have a great deal of thought behindthem
WORDS:DRAYSARGHASSAN
By the turn of the millennium, Mercedes-Benz and BMW had launched sizeable SUVs, creating a healthy appetite among consumers for high-riding, well-appointed marauders that could make mincemeat of the school run. A little late to the party, Porsche gave the world the S and Turbo variants of the Mk1 Cayenne (codenamed E1) in the autumn of 2002, becoming the first sports car manufacturer to feature a 4x4 in its line-up since Lamborghini and its ridiculous – and long-since canned – LM002.
At nearly 4.8 metres long, just shy of 1.7 metres high and a smidgen under two metres wide, the E1 was so much more car than anyone could have imagined emerging from Porsche’s Weissach design studio. More than that, it was an extremely controversial car. Some people (me included) were drawn to its statuesque self-assurance, while many others saw it as an affront to their conception of automotive typology. For legions of critics, the E1, more than any other behemoth of the era, came to symbolise cultural notions of conspicuous consumption and wanton excess. The age of the coveted and maligned ‘Chelsea tractor’ had truly arrived.
THE UGLY DUCKLING
When a car company with formidable heritage and distinctive styling cues like Porsche brings out a new model, fans will always question whether it’s worthy of wearing the badge. At the time, and perhaps even to this day, the 911 was the archetypal Porsche. Like its predecessors, the 911 of the period (the 996) had a relatively short wheelbase and long front and rear overhangs. This unusual combination contributed greatly to its unmistakable stance and the 986 Boxster, which was developed alongside it, also adhered to this formula.
The inaugural Cayenne, however, did not. Its wheelbase is quite long and its overhangs are relatively short so, right from the get-go, its character was destined to rattle Porsche-lovers. To upset die-hard enthusiasts further, the E1 sat on the same platform as VW’s Mk1 Touareg and shared its doors and front windscreen too. This meant there wasn’t all that much room left for Porsche to create something that would stand out from its pedestrian stablemate. While the Touareg relied on dark, matte-finished sills and bumpers to slim down its presence, the E1’s body was completely clothed in metallic paint in a move which amplified its considerable volume. Haters had a field day. If the E1 was supposed to be a Porsche, where was the angled, diving roof? What about the tumblehome (see glossary overleaf) that made other Porsche models look so sporty? Granted, the E1 did feel very tall, especially when viewed from the rear, and then of course there was the colossal front end,
“there wasn’t all that much room left for Porsche to create something that would stand out”
DESIGNER TALK
Grilles Air intakes.
DLO
Daylight opening.
The glazing on the side of the car.
Tumblehome
The level at which the top edge of the DLO is angled towards the centre of the car. Vans have very little tumblehome, while supercars have a great deal of it.
Cant rail
The (often metallic) pillar dividing the DLO from the front windscreen, roof and rear windscreen.
C-Pillar
The part of the cant rail dividing the DLO from the rear windscreen.
the most pronounced since the Super’s, an actual Porsche tractor from the 1950s and ’60s. Trolls said it left nothing to the imagination, that it was ugly. They cursed the E1 for singlehandedly undermining everything that the marque stood for.
It’s all too easy to reduce the firstgeneration Cayenne to a juiced-up goliath, but somehow it also felt quite slippery and especially so in a Crystal Silver. The rear windscreen is reasonably raked and the spoiler above it claws back a sense of sportiness, but far more impressive are the tricks used to make its exterior design chime with those of Porsche models of the time.
TRICK OF THE LIGHT
Launched in 1997, the 986 Boxster ushered in a period when Porsche embraced lithe, svelte forms. The 996 shed the theatrically brutal rear wheel arches which had so emboldened the 993; instead, the successor’s shoulders flowed gracefully over the rear wheels, resulting in a far
lighter expression of speed. The achingly beautiful Carrera GT was blessed with an even more elegant presence.
All three cars had rounded fronts and rears and featured seamless transitions between surfaces: bonnet and fenders, bumpers and front and rear ends, roofs and cant rails. This worked wonders in reducing their visual mass and, though very much present, all seemed in some angles and in certain lighting conditions to bleed into their surroundings, particularly when finished in a light colour.
The same design tricks are found all over the E1. Even the corners of the DLO are rounded, leading the eye into the C-Pillar and making the angle of its slant feel speedier than it actually is. The resulting body somehow occupies two distinctly opposing worlds simultaneously. It is both enormous and imbued with a certain ephemeral quality and this, for me at least, fuels an ongoing fascination.
When Porsche designers penned the E1’s front end, they broke the mold and that
proved to be an issue. It didn’t have chunky bumpers like the BMW X5 or the Mercedes M-Class and there was no sign of bull bars, the quintessential SUV design trope of the time. The public were just getting used to what the front of an SUV ‘should’ look like and the Cayenne’s face didn’t fit.
What was worse for many was the feeling that the E1 didn’t seem to care.
The front of the inaugural Cayenne (type 955) is dominated by huge grilles and this decision, more than any other, has always been the most controversial part of the design. Road car grilles were far smaller back then, but the 955’s took up a considerable amount of real estate, transforming the front end into a dark void.
In contrast to the carefully tailored body, there’s something deliberately unrefined about the 955’s face that is intoxicating on a visceral level. With my eyes half-shut, I see a works racer – one monolithic vent plonked in place to feed an insatiable radiator. The facial features caused many people to recoil but, for me, the rawness
“Make the Cayenne opinion-splitting again, Porsche! Give us a six-wheeler!”
e1
cayenne
Marker pens were still the preferred medium when the E1 was in gestation, but the digital world was increasingly prevelant
Original sketches above show the dynamism Porsche was looking for in its new SUV
“Trolls said it left nothing to the imagination, that it was downright ugly. They cursed the E1 for singlehandedly undermining everything that the marque stood for”
underlines the Cayenne’s credentials as a performance SUV.
But Porsche didn’t ask my opinion and, in 2007, quite wisely chose to inject a little rationality in the form of a facelift. The revised bumper came with strong horizontal slats which served to segment the outermost grilles, reducing their impact on the senses and making the redesigned version (the 957) feel even wider and the front end less tall. Inserting lights into these grilles also helped to reduce their visual mass.
It’s impossible to talk about the E1 without discussing the headlamps. Memorably, the 996 Carrera was launched with what were unkindly christened ‘fried egg’ headlights. The 955’s lights weren’t quite as free-form as the Carrera’s, but
their less-than-regimented shape did little to win critics over. Redesigned headlamps accompanied the re-imagined bumper, giving the 957 a more squinty appearance and making it feel more focussed. It was as though the facelifted Cayenne had identified its detractors and was intent on bearing down on them. At the time, facelifts on this scale were unheard of and the design of the 957 stands as testimony to the levels of abuse aimed at Porsche.
THE HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION
Despite (or, perhaps, because of) the controversy, Porsche sold well over a quarter of a million units, giving it ample reason to make the Cayenne a permanent feature of its line-up.
Below: Aysar Ghassan’s notes on what made the E1 Cayenne so unique
The facelifted 957 model appears wider and a little less shocking when viewed from the front
“The E1, more than any other behemoth of the era, came to symbolise cultural notions of conspicuous consumption and wanton excess”
While the original Cayenne seemed irrefutably gargantuan at the time of its launch, it doesn’t feel especially large now. The latest Cayenne is close to five metres in length and BMW and Mercedes-Benz have gone on to seriously up the ante, building far larger SUVs in the form of the X7 and GLS respectively – statements in scale and proportion that seemed unfathomable in Europe not that long ago. But the E1’s Popeye-like muscles haven’t deflated one bit, giving it revered status within the resto-mod community. Skunkworks-style sump guards and Dakaresque tyres perfectly complement its overblown personality.
When car companies find a vein that pays dividends, they tend to stick with it. For this reason, we often see the design of a successful product mature over successive generations; the car is tweaked and refined, the temptation to gamble with radical shifts in styling is put to one side. Porsche has certainly followed this strategy with the ever-popular Cayenne and, though impressive, the current model’s design is really quite reserved. With its slippery silhouette, diving front end and heroic rear wheel arches, the Macan 4 Electric is so much more exciting to look at. In many ways, it has captured the unrestrained spirit of the 955. A new Cayenne is due next year and we’re expecting to see an EV version too. I hope that some of the Macan 4 Electric’s attitude rubs off on the new model. Make the Cayenne opinion-splitting again, Porsche! Give us a six-wheeler!
The groundwork laid by the E1 has smoothed the path for other performance brands to enter the SUV game. Lamborghini’s Urus and the Ferrari Purosangue owe their existence to its success and no one bats an eyelid when a sports car brand decides to launch an SUV nowadays. For many people, this spells the death knell for car design but, for fans of monstrous volumes, hyper-inflated wheel arches and bedevilled facial expressions, this is a wonderful thing. Count me in. PP
Dr Aysar Ghassan began his career as an automotive designer at Alfa Romeo and Mitsubishi. Today, he leads the MA in Automotive and Transport Design course at Coventry University.
cayenne
ONTHERIGHTTRACK
How to get the best out of a trackday
WORDS:STEVESUTCLIFFE
Whether it's your first trackday or your 100th, how do you get the most out of the experience? And, even if you are a seasoned pro, is there anything new you can learn before your next one?
You never stop learning in life so, yes, I believe there are always new techniques you can learn about.
If you're a slightly nervous first-timer, fear not; driving on a track can be as good as it gets on four wheels so long as you stick to a few golden rules. Make sure your car is properly prepped well before you set off, so drop the tyre pressures to their minimum recommended numbers all round, make sure there's plenty of life in your brake pads and check your lights. Remember to turn up with a full tank of fuel; you'll burn through unleaded faster than you'll believe possible on a track (or electricity, if you drive an EV). Make sure there's nothing in the boot or cabin that isn't needed when you're out there on the circuit. The last thing you want during your first-ever lap of Brands Hatch is to hear the toolbox you forgot to leave in the garage smashing itself -and your boot -to pieces.
But, whichever way you approach it and however much experience you might have, driving on a track can be either terrifying or fantastic ... and occasionally
a fair bit of both. Hitting the right balance between these two states is the holy grail.
STARTINFIRSTGEAR
Until you gain a bit of confidence and become more familiar with the circuit and the way your car is behaving on it that day -cars can feel different on track from one day to the next -it's best to take it easy to begin with. Don't rush anything and try to keep your mind calm.
The key things to remember when you get to the track are: stick rigidly to the rules of the day, especially the ones about overtaking; don't try to break the lap record on either your first or last lap, or any of the other laps in between; start slowly and get quicker throughout the day; take your time to work out what the nuances of the track are, having ideally watched YouTube onboard footage of the circuit beforehand; remember to relax and enjoy yourself as much as possible without getting carried away; and, most of all, focus right in on what you're trying to do in the car and gradually build a good lap together corner by corner. Oh, and don't worry too much about what other people are up to on the track, although don't switch off from them completely because you'll need to be well aware of Captain GT-R if he's on a qualifier.
Pick early braking points into each corner to begin with, then trim a couple of metres off those points each lap as your confidence grows to the point where you've still got several metres spare into each corner. Remember that your brakes will likely fade after even just a few flying laps, although they'll come back if you let them cool properly between stints. The same applies with your tyres; they'll overheat and go off, but they'll come back once allowed to cool. Don't do 15-lap stints; instead, do five-or six-lap stints, then come in and have a good think about where you can improve between those stints.
POWERTDTHEPEOPLE
When you're back out there, get on the power as early as you can towards the exit of each corner, but not so early that you have to back off because you're running out of room at the exit. Use the brakes smoothly but aggressively, and the same applies with the throttle and steering. Smoothness is the key to all good driving, but especially on a track. Turn into corners with precision, yes, but also be calm and gentle with your inputs. Try to pick visual markers to hit on each lap for your braking point, turn-in point, apex and exit point, by which time you should already be on full throttle. Stitch all these together for just one lap and you'll feel elated. Do it for four or five laps on the trot and you'll almost certainly be hooked. Even so, always keep an eye on the mirror for Captain GT-R.
There's always one and you don't want to be anywhere near them when (not if) they push it too far. Finally, keep an eye on your fuel level throughout the day. The number of trackday warriors who run out of petrol on their way home after a day of whiteknuckling it ... well, let's just say we all do it once. Oh yes, and never, ever forget to enjoy yourself. Ultimately, that's what trackdays are all about. PP
SUSPENSION,ANDTHEtuning of it, is all about compromise and it is one of the most difficult things to get right for a manufacturer like Porsche, when even its SUVs can be classified as sports cars. But, recognising that many modern customers were looking for both comfort and cutting-edge handling from the same car, it introduced Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) on the 911 Carrera S in 2006.
In the absence of some other solution, a traditional passive suspension system consisting of steel springs and dampers to prevent them from becoming ::i too excited by heavy wheels and tyres thumping over bumps cannot be all things to all men. Backintheday,carsfocused
on comfort gave away an advantage in corners and the reverse was true in sports cars. Tyres make a huge difference too; lower profiles and stiff sidewalls may improve grip and steering precision, but they also make the lives of ride and handling engineers that much more difficult.
SMARTSOLUTIONS
Porsche's PASM tries to overcome this conflict of
interest, so what exactly is it and how does it work?
First of all, the word 'Active' in the title doesn't mean it's a fully active suspension system where computers and lightningfast hydraulic control take over the job of conventional steel springs or air springs. Porsches with PASM still have steel springs or, on some models, air springs to do the job of keeping the car off the ground and responding to bumps.
"BACKINTHEDAY,CARSFOCUSED ON COMFORTGAVEAWAYANADVANTAGE
On a coil-sprung Porsche, the spring rate (the force they exert for an inch or centimetre of movement) isn't something that can be adjusted on the fly, but the amount of damping can be. Dampers are generally tuned to match the spring rates and the unsprung weight of the suspension and wheel. The key thing is to keep the tyre contact patch on the ground for the maximum amount of time, so allowing it to do its job of gripping the surface. This compromise brings to mind the story of Goldilocks sampling the porridge of the three bears -one was too hot, another too cold, but the last was just right -and it's a similar thing with damping. Too little and the handling will feel mushy or, at the extreme,
the wheel will bounce over bumps and potentially cause loss of control. Too hard and the wheel will also bounce over bumps and the ride will be wheelbarrow-like. Somewhere in between the two extremes lies the target.
THEUPSANDDOWNS
That's fine in theory but, just like the bears turning up unannounced, there's a spoiler in the damping story too. The car that was developed and set up on smooth, flat roads suddenly encounters a rough and undulating road and the damping is not up to scratch. That's one reason why ride and handling engineers have specific road routes they use to get repeatable results and test in different countries.
Adjustable dampers have been around for years and are used on racing cars and by enthusiasts to fine-tune the setup and handling of a car, but they can't make changes to the damping when the car is being driven. That's essentially what PASM does; it adapts the dampers on the car on the fly by adjusting the damping force in milliseconds. Dampers work much like a bicycle pump with the open end welded up, with the piston drilled to create channels through it and then filled with a viscous fluid such as oil. Pushing down on the pump will force oil through the holes but, because they're quite small, it takes effort. That's how the simplest form of damper works and the smaller the channels in the piston, the
harder the damping force sensors on the front and rear
Normal, Sport and Range. more basic examples are only becomes. If you make them wheels to provide even better With the new Cayenne and adjustable in bump. larger so the fluid can pass control. The driver could Macan, PASM gained an The two-valve system allows through more easily, the choose settings as before additional damper valve in maximum damping force in damping force reduces. for Normal and Sport at the each damper so bump and both directions which, from touch of a button and, these rebound damper settings are the driver's point of view, gives THEICINGONTHECAKE days, settings can also be adjusted separately. This better handling in pitch and PASM dampers emulate that. accessed via the Porsche matters because the damper roll along with better overall An electromechanical valve Communication Manager. setting for bump (as the wheel body control. Some models controls the oil flow by opening On later 911s, there are rises over a bump or when the fitted with PASM in conjunction an additional channel to allow now five driver settings: car rolls) and rebound (when with air suspension also have fluid through the piston more Normal, Sport, Sport +, Wet the suspension strut extends) adjustable ride height in easily and moves progressively and Individual. PASM Sport in a conventional non-adaptive different modes and the Macan between fully open and fully was introduced in 2025 and damper are different. It also body, for example, can be set closed, much faster than the includes a fixed 10mm-lower echoes manually adjustable up to 30mm lower than the blink of an eye. The valves in ride height compared to the dampers where the best have standard ground clearance the four struts take their standard one. In the Taycan, individually adjustable bump of 185mm. instructions from a controller there are three driving modes: and rebound settings, while With so many variations which is in turn fed by signals and improvements, PASM has from sensors measuring vertical
certainly evolved, but has it movement, lateral acceleration resolved the compromise of of the car, speed, steering
"PASMHASCERTAINLYEVOLVED,
traditional passive damping? angle, brake pressure and It would seem so. Almost 20
engine torque.
years on from its introduction,
When the 991 was introduced it's a great example of how you I in 2012, PASM was improved
really can have your cake and
with four additional vertical eat it.
OFFTOAGREATSTART
JohnC's 2025 is looking fantastic so far
l'MENJOYINGTHEthe Carrera GT as much as :z: possible in early 2025. Now the weather is improving, quite a few meets to head to at the weekends are popping up. I enjoyed an
early morning gathering in Hyde Park with a great cross-section of cars, a couple of meets in the Cotswolds and a super Saturday at Duke of London.
I also had the chance to fit the newly refurbished PCCBs ahead of some planned trackdays at Goodwood and Anglesey. It's great to be able to pop the roof off in the sunshine with the heater cranked up and decent warm clothes. It adds another dimension to the experience. I'm looking forward to visiting Hexagon Art and Cars in Highgate shortly, then I'll visit Bicester after a spell overseas.
AFTERLASTMONTH'Sintroduction, it's time to go into more detail about the current state of my car.
As mentioned last time, it all began when I realised, not long after purchasing my 996.2 Carrera, that a number of the suspension components were tired. Nothing unusual about that with an ageing 996! I also wanted to make the car more of an 'event' -a weekend car, less of an all-rounder -to suit how I was going to use it at the time.
What I ended up with was a setup formed around KW Variant 3 coilovers, with Eibach adjustable anti-roll bars, Eibach adjustable coffin arms and a good dose of polybushes throughout the chassis. No great surprises there; they are all common upgrades. In fact, the polybushes were more of a way to save money and, it should be said, ended up being used in more places on the car than I had originally desired after a communication breakdown.
When I collected the car, it looked sensational. The 996 shape, so simple and unadorned by vents, wings or anything, looked amazing dropped to the floor,
cafe-racer style. However -and it's a very big 'however' -the result was a car that was far too firm-riding and much too uncompromising to work on British roads. You know the ones -the potholed, falling apart, heavily cambered, coarsely surfaced roads that provide chassis engineers with a unique challenge. I concede that the KW setup may have worked well on those smooth German country roads but, in the UK, the car was neither fun nor fast in its new state, the latter because it either wanted to jump off the road over the bumps or would thump into a pothole so badly it made you wince.
Moreover, the wheels' inability to stay in contact with the ground over bumps due to a lack of travel in the setup and the firmness meant that the ABS would be triggered early on a B road -a few heart-in-mouth stops ensued. I also noticed a dastardly clunking noise which only appeared once the car had warmed up and which a multitude of Porsche specialists failed to diagnose over a good few years. Over time, it drove me mad. I took the Eibach bars and arms off, and had the ride height raised and the geometry improved. It still didn't feel any good to me. Finally, I took the car to Center Gravity and, in some despair, explained the cul de sac I had arrived at. We formed a plan, especially after I drove their 996 C4S with the CGT 'fast road' suspension kit on it. The path ahead was clear; I was going to have to bite the bullet, rip the existing suspension off and start again. From there, we'd work on a 'C2' version of the fast road kit, developing it with my car and hopefully making it available to others in time. Sounds simple, doesn't it? We'll get into the 'how' next time.
"THEPATHHEADWASCLEAR;
BEST LAID PLANS
Matt Staines had good intentions, but things kept going awry…
Last month, I mentioned that a trip to California in 2022 started my real interest in 968s. Then, in June 2022, after failing to buy a couple of cars over there to bring back, the search for my first 968 began.
Within a couple of weeks, what seemed like a very odd deal landed in my lap: a 1995 Guards Red 968 Sport in pieces –literally. The car appeared to have no engine or interior and was being broken up for spares, but had only covered 64k miles since 1995. After a few messages and phone calls, the owner agreed to show me the car the next morning near Nottingham where, by sheer luck, I was heading for work.
Upon arrival, I saw what I thought was a shell… then an engine on a pallet that had been freshly rebuilt a week earlier by John Holland at Unit 11, then an interior in his workshop and then, in fact, pretty much every spare to rebuild the car except tyres.
The story to the car was that the owner picked it up from a friend after a piston blew about 17 years earlier and it had
been off the road ever since. The owner had bought the car as a project but, due to illness, sadly realised he was never going to finish it. The deal was done and I was the proud owner of a 968 Sport jigsaw puzzle!
Then I was lucky to get a slot in John Holland’s busy workshop within a few weeks where he agreed to put the engine back in the car and get it running. This, unsurprisingly, turned into a saga with lots of missing parts, bolts, washers and a clutch full of sand! But we got there in the end and the car returned to me, running but not complete, in autumn 2022.
So things had started so well, but then I got distracted and bought a few other cars. The time in California had left me wanting a V8 and, after looking at lots of options, I bought a Ferrari 360 Modena. Then a cheap 987 Boxster S found me with plans to make it my track car. Finally, at the end of 2022, we were very lucky to acquire a Macan GTS in rare Graphite – a colour I still love and a car we still own.
The love for the 968 was still strong, so surely I could get it back on the road in 2023. Or could I?
“This, unsurprisingly, turned into a saga with lots of missing parts, bolts, washers and a clutch full of sand!”
CHANGE OF HEART
It took a few goes, but Richard Gotch has finally found his ‘keeper’
The story begins back in 2019 when I was becoming frustrated by my 981 Boxster. It was the basic 2.7; not especially fast but, with the smaller, lighter front brakes, it felt light and nimble. It sounded terrific too. But, at 54,000 miles, the number of visits to the Porsche Centre was becoming tiresome.
Because this was a weekend car, the answer was clearly to part-exchange it for a low-miles 981 Spyder, so my wife Laura and I called in at Ashgoods where a white example was seeking a new keeper. Mistake number one was that we didn’t drive it. Instead, we compared the Spyder Classic Interior to the exquisite full leather and carbon interior of the 991.2 Carrera 2 Cabriolet parked alongside and concluded that it just didn’t cut the mustard.
I went off to do some research with the objective of proving that what I really needed was a newish 911. The road tests were universally on my side.
They started by questioning the sanity of replacing the naturally aspirated 3.8 in the 991.1 with the 3.0-litre twin turbo in the revised car and concluded that the new car was a triumph. So, a couple of weeks later, Laura and I were behind the 991.2’s heated wheel on our way to Wales for a wonderful weekend with R31.
It was certainly fast and capable and, in Graphite Blue, it was undeniably a thing of beauty. But I like a car that sings to me in a deep natural baritone, not one that resonates from plastic boxes behind your head. By the end of the trip, I’d decided that the 991.2 wasn’t my idea of a weekend toy. It was just too sophisticated.
Then Porsche landed a powerful left hook. They announced the 25th Anniversary, a 4.0 GTS limited edition of 1,250 units to celebrate the launch of the original Boxster in 1996. The enticing marketing video described how design elements had been crafted in tribute to the style of the 1993 concept car. With a Bordeaux Red full leather interior, unique wheels in rather flashy Neodyme (a dull gold) and lots of Boxster 25 lettering, it was calling to me.
So a 25th Anniversary was ordered and the 991.2 was traded in. This would be ‘the one’. We would sit on the drive together
“Laura says that driving the 981 Spyder makes me laugh out loud like an evil villain”
growing old and crumbling into the gravel. Less than a year later, the excellent used car buyer from Porsche Centre Tewkesbury was dropping me at the railway station, the keys to the 25th Anniversary on his desk. It was a deeply impressive car… but, for me, it was just too soulless.
So, lesson learned, I headed to RPM Technik for a long and carefully considered drive in a GT Silver 981 Spyder. It had a wonderfully vintage feel. It was raw, vocal
what type of racing and where?
and, when pressed hard, it had rough edges. Gosh, it was wonderful.
Finding my ‘keeper’ has been a painful but fascinating journey that taught me a lot about how not to choose a weekend car, but the end result has made it all worthwhile. Laura says that driving the 981 Spyder makes me laugh out loud like an evil villain from a horror film, but I don’t care. Three years later, I’m still grinning every time I pick up the key.
DREAMSCAN COMETRUE
TyroneThomasis 'at one' with his new GT4 RS
IFTHEREWASever a car designed for me, I think this is it.
The GT4 RS is the culmination of a particular thread of my Porsche journey. The specification includes everything you need, and nothing you don't, for the intended purpose. It's Al Black over Silver wheels with Black callipers and there's no Weissach pack because I have always preferred the cleaner look. In my opinion, it's a case study for 'less is more'.
My brief history includes a 997 Carrera GTS, 981 Cayman GTS, 981 GT4 (including some tasty bits) and then a 718 GT4 Manthey. The GTS cars were road cars that were often used as part of my commuting journey when I was working on the continent, but with a switch in work activities came the opportunity to move to to something more fun. Enter the 981 GT4 and the world of trackdays. From my very = first event with the Club at Silverstone in tt::2018,I'vebeenhooked.Thebughasbitten = 8::, hard and it's has led me to this point.
With both my 981 and 718 GT4, I had :z: made a series of changes to optimise the cars for the track. With the 981, this included a power kit to bring it up to
around 430hp, brake upgrades from PFC and a chassis upgrade by way of Manthey 3-Way Adjustable Coilovers. For the 718 GT4, I went straight to the full Manthey Performance Kit (aero, chassis and brakes lines) and Surface Transform carbon ceramic rotors for track use, albeit with no power upgrades due to wanting to retain the full Porsche-approved warranty.
Both 981 and 718 GT4 are fantastically balanced platforms, but I think we all wanted Porsche to go just that step further and deliver the full-fat motorsport power unit into the mid-engine model. Now they have, I had to have one, and now I do. I took delivery of the GT4 RSin September 2024 and completed a couple of trackdays at Goodwood and Castle Combe to help complete the running-in process and build some familiarisation with the car.
Impressions? The short version is that it's sensational. The GT4 RS engine and gearbox are clearly the stars of the show.
The car is as quick as you can imagine it to be in a straight line and the short ratio PDK is perfectly matched to keep it always on, or near, the boil.
The sound is there when you want it. It's a very mechanical-sounding car on the drivetrain side; the smallest movement of throttle delivers a change in note and tone, but it's completely manageable by throttle when you want things to be calmer.
That said, the car really wants to be driven with purpose. Here's some advice for any GT4 RS or Spyder RS owners: get a chassis alignment done on the car that's suitable for your usage. The cars come from the factory with a baseline setting which is intended to be safe at normal road speeds, but display interesting characteristics as speeds rise and if the surface is less than smooth.
The chassis on the GT 4 RS is the 'relatively' weak link now that the drivetrain is so potent and aggressive, and this is not about stiffness per se. The uprated suspension kits provide so much more confidence with tighter body control and the ability to eat bumps, so we will see how things develop in that area as I learn the car -watch this space.
I'm looking forward to giving a bit of a running commentary for the 2025 season as I start to learn this car and learn more about myself, so I hope you can follow along here or online on Instagram (@pl_tdt) or YouTube (youtube.com/@pl_tdt).
NEWSFROMYOUR
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.
On 22 February, Porsche Centre Edinburgh generously offered R1 a free vehicle health check and put on a delightful buffet breakfast for us to enjoy. Ten members secured places for their much-loved Porsches to be put on the ramps and checked over by one of the Centre's experienced technicians. Owners got a chance to get under their vehicles to inspect them while talking through any questions they had with their appointed technician. All members took something away from it and were very grateful. While the inspections were being carried out, the rest of those attending enjoyed a chat and the array of buffet breakfast food and drinks on offer. A huge thank you again to Lucy, Derek and the full-service team for taking time out of a weekend to host this for us.
TOPGOLF,GLASGOW
Eighteen members tried something 'non-Porsche-related' on 23 February by trading in their wheels for golf clubs at Topgolf in Glasgow, which is suitable for playing in any weather due to its heated and cooled bays. Our pros and amateurs really got into the spirit of playing while having a laugh with fellow members. The great BBQ buffet went down a treat too. It was a different and enjoyable way to spend a Sunday afternoon!
MONTHLYBREAKFASTMEET-THEPARKBISTRO, LINLITHGOW
Our 2 March breakfast meet was extremely well attended again and there was a variety of Porsches. With increasing numbers month on month, we were moved into the main part of the restaurant, which was such a great success, and we will be in this part of it going forward. This venue keeps gaining in popularity with our usual members and, indeed, with the newer members who are coming along too. Greeted and served by the venue's fantastic team, we all had a great catch-up.
BREAKFASTRUNTOTROON
Meeting at Stewartfield Park in East
Kilbride on 1 5 March, we were blessed with a beautiful sunny morning for a drive on some great Ayrshire roads with coastal views down to Highgrove House Hotel. The hotel delivered a superb breakfast menu while members enjoyed each other's company. It was wonderful to see more new members on their first Club run too. A big thank you to organiser Scott Laurie.
R2•SCOTLANDNORTH
JointRegionalOrganisers
Paul Fowler (07803 170352) Martin Thomas (07836 361937) r2@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegionalOrganisers
The Pit Crew
We have had two exciting outings in March, both of which were well attended, and they offered a great way to get our cars out of their winter slumber.
PRIVATECARCOLLECTION VISIT
First off, we were invited to visit a private car collection close to Dundee. We started with a convoy run from Stonehaven for breakfast at the Meadowbank Inn at Arbroath, where we met up with members
R1 's March breakfast meet was extremely well attended again
Porsche Centre Edinburgh generously offered R1a free vehicle health check
from the Dundee area. Assistant RO Gill Gardner then took us on a crosscountry route, up hill and down dale to Camperdown Country Park on the outskirts of Dundee. Unfortunately, by this time, the weather had turned ugly, our plans for a group car photo in the park had to be abandoned and we proceeded to our destination: an industrial warehouse with no indication as to what was within.
Inside was a fantastic collection of classic cars, mainly Ferraris with some other interesting cars, and mostly in concours condition. The owner employs a mechanic to ensure that all of the cars are running with current MOTs and can be used for runs or shows. A great visit for car enthusiasts and thanks to Gill for organising it.
CLASSICRESTORATIONS
Our second outing was into the wilds of Perthshire to visit Classic Restorations at Alyth, a small town 22 miles north of Perth. This is a former jute mill in which the late Charles Palmer founded the largest restorer and repairer of classic and vintage cars in Scotland. Originally concentrating on Rolls-Royces and Bentleys, the business now deals with a much more eclectic range of vehicles, from Jaguars and Mercedes to an Austin A40 and a Mk1 Transit van! Many of these projects are for sentimental reasons, such as someone's first car or a car that was out of reach for the buyer when new but which is now one they can afford and have restored. Classic Restorations carries out all of the work in-house, including electrical, mechanical, paintwork, body shop, coachwork, coach trimming, restoration and servicing.
Managing Director Graeme Johnstone guided us through the whole business, showing us cars from New Zealand, Argentina and Germany in for complete restoration. As an example of the quality of work carried out, he has had cars featured at the Pebble Beach Concours = d'Elegance in California.
6 We finished off with a lunch at nearby S3 Peel Farm and had a great drive home in
o:: roof-down weather.
R2's fortnightly newsletter keeps all members in touch. Make sure you read it for future events!
R3•NORTHEAST
RegionalOrganiser
Dave Carnaffin
r3@porscheclubgb.com
R4•LINCOLNSHIRE & HUMBERSIDE
RegionalOrganiser
John Lacey -07850 870993
r4@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Position vacant
SPRINGHASSPRUNG
Several enthusiasts of rally driving watched various mean machines gather in Beverley Market Place to see the Yorkshire stages of the rallying calendar. A whole variety of vehicles had gathered, with a lone Porsche doing its best to hold off its rivals.
A night full of Eastern promise at the Agra restaurant in Sleaford did not disappoint. The restaurant offered terrific choices for various tastes in a wonderful atmosphere.
A drive to the southern areas of the Region to explore the daffodil fields of Spalding and the Fen landscape was
enjoyed by a few keen members. It was disappointing that more did not join, but maybe the lack of hills put them off! The day was also the anniversary of the Club losing dear Jacques Rousseau to Motor Neurone Disease. A meeting with his wife and family after the drive was much appreciated by them.
A drive-out and lunch at the Cross Keys in Stow saw several vehicles being bought out and dusted off since their winter storage. Good fare and good fun were had by all.
With a full programme ahead and the offer of help to organise from various members, we will see a busy time in the spring/summer ahead.
R5•NORTHWEST
RegionalOrganiser
Matt Staines 07798 662199
r5@porscheclubgb.com
CARSANDCOFFEEATRAINY'S
Envision the scene: the sun is shining brightly, the sky is completely clear and the birds are singing a vibrant springtime melody. A magnificent PCGB R5 flag flutters gently in the warm breeze, synchronised with the soft ticking of two flat-six engines cooling in the background, reminiscent of a metronome.
While it may seem somewhat extravagant, that is precisely how it felt.
Classic Restorations is the largest restorer of classic/vintage cars in Scotland
The R4 group enjoying the Fenland views
Theretrulywassomethingforeveryone!
After what appeared to be an endless stretch of dark, damp and frigid months, we have finally emerged into the lightit's 18°C! It is also our inaugural cars and coffee gathering at the splendid Rainy's, located on the outskirts of Deakins Park, near Bolton.
What a remarkable day it turned out to be! With more than 90 of Stuttgart's finest vehicles present, ranging from 924 Le Mans editions, 991.2 Turbos and Cayenne Ss to 993 Turbos, Cayman GTSs and 996.1 aero cars, there truly was something for everyone. And let's not forget about the coffee and cake -especially the cake. It seems that Porsche enthusiasts were so enamoured with the cake at Rainy's that they sold out by 1 pm.
Ultimately, the primary reason I cherish attending these events is the camaraderie. There's a comforting sense of belonging to what must be the finest car community in the world! Sharing laughter and stories with friends about all things Porsche can't be beaten.
Matt Blakeley
COMMITTEETEAM
We are looking for a couple of new team members. If you would like to join the R5 Committee Team in 2025, please drop us an email with a few basic details about yourself and your contact details.
8JUNEAnalogueAlchemy,BowcliffeHall Pre-'97 and transaxles.
18JUNEPop-upClubnight
28JUNESupercarPageantCultonPark
2JULYClubnight-ThreeGreyhounds
16JULYPop-upClubnight
25-27JULYGoldCup-CultonPark
RB•NORTHWALES
RegionalOrganiser Sue Taylor -07784 491473 r6@porscheclubgb.com
DRYICECLEANING
We had a great turnout at Ice Gleam in Mostyn on a sunny Sunday morning. Thanks to Steve and Josh for the idea and to Ian and Derek who very kindly hosted our visit and provided excellent refreshments.
Ian explained and demonstrated the process. It is totally non-abrasive and uses solid carbon dioxide [CO2 ) pellets
to efficiently remove dirt, grime and contaminants. It's especially good for engine bays, transmissions, chassis, wheel arches and the whole under-carriage of the vehicle. The only byproduct is the dirt and grime that falls from the car onto the floor as the CO2 turns from a solid state into a gas.
Some of our members have already had their cars cleaned like this. I'm sure they'd be happy to chat through the experience with anyone who is thinking about getting their own car cleaned this way.
WEDGWOODFACTORYTOUR
Our 365 Tuesday group set off for a visit to the Wedgwood factory just outside Stoke-on-Trent. Thanks to Gill and Malcolm for the idea.
Avoiding the MB but meeting a few tractors, we had a lovely run on some very quiet scenic roads. Following a quick coffee on arrival, we met our guide for our private tour. The factory produces stunning ceramic ware and jasper ware, which is the blue and white stuff we all recognise as Wedgwood.
Wedgwood once employed 5,600 people, but times have changed and the workforce now stands at just 82. We met most of them on our tour. Production is very labour-intensive and it's easy to see why Wedgwood commands such a high premium. Even so, nobody was tempted by the £4,250 teapot we
saw being hand-finished with gold paint. Following a lovely, relaxed lunch, we all headed off home. It's a nice way to spend Tuesdays.
R7•YORKSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
The Yorkshire CoG r7@porscheclubgb.com
SOUTHANDWESTCLUBNIGHT
Great news! We are delighted to announce that we will have a new Club night for south-and west-based members at The Old Post Office, Huddersfield Road, Haigh [M1 J3B] on Tuesday 13 May.
The Old Post Office is ideally located for members from the south and west of our Region, but all are welcome. It has a large car park with EV charging points.
We will meet in the Garden Room from 6pm for meals and the Club night will begin at around 7.30pm. We recommend trying the delicious food available which can be served in the Garden Room, where there is also a bar which has 'driver-friendly' drinks (including Guinness 0.0, which will please some of us).
We hope to find interesting speakers or relevant presentations for some nights. Suggestions from members will be very welcome.
There will be a short period during which forthcoming events and other Club matters will be discussed in an informal manner. The Club night leaders will be CoG members Adam and Karen Carey, Roger Goode and Simon Perryman.
We look forward to welcoming you to The Old Post Office.
THE2025CALENDAR
This is filling up nicely now and is available on the R7 Forum page.
MONTHLYMEETINGS
First Wednesday [East): The Ferguson Fawsitt, Walkington, HU17 BRX.
Second Tuesday (Central/South]: The Old Post Office, Huddersfield Road, Haigh [M1 J3B), S75 4DE.
Third Wednesday (North]: The Blue Bell,
Arkendale, Knaresborough, HG5 OQT.
Chris and Delia Smith
DIARYOATES
18MAYPCGBatHarewoodSpeed Hillclimb
24MAYYorkdrive-outandGreekmeal Organised by Peter and Val Rolt. 28MAYPorscheCentreLeedsEvening 8JUNEPorschesintheProm 10AUGUSTTheYorkshirePorsche Festival-LothertonHall
RB•EASTMIDLANDS
JointRegionalOrganisers
Liam and Sarah Kelly rB@porscheclubgb.com
MARCHCLUBNIGHT
The Club night was an opportunity for us to discuss this year's RB and Club events in more detail. We were joined by first-timers Ash, Sue, Steve and Mike, with Bruce and April joining us for a second time. Thanks for coming to see us and we're looking forward to seeing you again soon.
EVENTS
For May and June, we have Prescott Speed Hill Climb, the Linden Hall Summer Gathering and Classic Porsche at the National Motorcycle Museum, as well as impromptu get-togethers and breakfast runs. Use the RB events online calendar, where dates and contact details can be found -we're aiming for this to be the most up-to-date method for event details. Please let us know if you are having any problems with it.
14SEPTEMBERKARTING
Karting at Whilton Mill, again kindly organised by Lucy. For more details, please contact her at lucyowens21@ protonmail.com
AUCTIONNIGHT
Following on from last October's successful auction night in aid of the air ambulance, we'll be holding another at October Club
night. If you could donate, please let us
know and thank you.
CLUBNIGHTS
First Monday of the month at the Coopers Arms, Weston-on-Trent, Derby, DE72 2BJ.
BREAKFASTRUNS
1 B May, 31 May, 21 June, 26 July. Please contact Axel at aak200B@hotmail.co.uk
FIRSTAIDER
Lucy Owens attended a CPR and trauma course in her village and the organisers have kindly offered to run a course for the Region. They would like around 20 people and it lasts a couple of hours. If you are interested, please contact Lucy at lucyowens21@protonmail.com
We look forward to seeing you at a Club night, an event or simply on the road.
Liam and Sarah IARYDATES
11MAYPrescottSpeedHillClimb
Contact Nigel at nigel.town@uwclub.net 16-18MAYRBearlysummergathering - LindenHall
Contact Liam at l14mpk@hotmail.com JUNE-JULYStuttgartvisit
Itinerary finalised. Contact Axel at aak200B@hotmail.co.uk
8JUNEEastwoodandDistrict ScenicTour
Contact Ade at adrian.pawprint@gmail.com 18JUNEClassicPorscheatthe NationalMotorcycleMuseum
10AUGUSTTOTEM
Contact Adrian at adrian.pawprint@ gmail.com
7SEPTEMBERPorschePageantElvastonCastle
Contact rB@porscheclubgb.com
14SEPTEMBERKartingatWhiltonMill
See above.
Helen Grundy's happy crew on her organised Staffordshire run earlier this year
Long-timePorschefan and all-round nice guy NickLloydsadlypassed away in March
R9• WESTMIDLANDS
RegionalOrganisers
Tom and Carol Downes
07972 303286
r9@porscheclubgb.com
It's so much better now that the weather is getting warmer and the days are a bit longer [well, it is now -I'm typing this in March). There are plenty of events, both Regional and national, coming up for members to enjoy. RB has just held a go karting event and there will be a write-up with pictures in next month's PP.There's Supercar Fest: The Runway, our Porsche Centre Wolverhampton visit and our Cheddar Gorge One Nighter all happening in May, along with our regular meets at The Bear and The Mill. Looking a bit further ahead, we have a classic car evening at the National Motorcycle Museum and, following the success of Chaz's Sunday drives, an RB Longest Day which will see a dawn raid on the Peak District and an evening at PCGB's Summer Solstice at Boxengasse.
The weather must be improving because there are more photos appearing of diligent owners cleaning their pride and joy. Talking of which, we will be holding a Show and Shine this year -we just need to find a suitable venue. Watch [or should that be wash?) this space.
A bit of sad news. Last year, we had a write-up about long-time Porsche fan and all-round nice guy Nick Lloyd, who sadly passed away in March. To quote Nick:
"Porsche,
to me, exhibits a special DNA. Nothing in my mind compares".
RIO·MILTONKEYNES & NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
Sue Rollings -07495 296650 r1 O@porscheclubgb.com
Firstly, I would like to welcome all the new members to R10 and to thank existing members for being such a friendly and welcoming group.
March has been a mixed bag, weatherwise, but we have made the most of getting together.
DOVEHOUSEMOTORCOMPANY
Our monthly Club meet took place at Dove House Motor Company. The sun shone and it certainly encouraged people to join the fun because there were more than 80 cars in attendance.
As usual, the hospitality and welcome members received was first class -many thanks to Julie and Julia for looking after members at front of house. Our thanks also extend to Brendon Hurn for his interior detailing session. Brendon suggested a demonstration on how to clean the roof drain holes on a Boxster, a topic which has come up in our group discussions, and this was well received. It was great to see new faces among our regulars too!
JZMPORSCHE
The following week, we attended JZM Porsche in Kings Langley. Our morning started off in Milton Keynes, where several of us met to drive over together. In total, there were 35 cars parked up at JZM. Our sincere thanks are extended to Russ and Alex Rosenthal and the team at JZM. As always, there were some rather special cars on display and discussions about dream cars. I believe most members played it safe and left their cheque books at home!
WDTY
Our Weekend of the Year 2025 is taking place from Friday 2 May to Monday 5 May. There are only a couple of rooms left so, if you would like further details, please email me.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all members who have booked and attended our events and to mention that, if you have booked an event and can't attend, please let us know by emailing r11@porscheclubgb.com
Most of our events are oversubscribed and we normally have a waiting list of members wanting to attend, so it's only fair that those members on the waiting list can attend if you are unable to. An example of this is our event at Design 911, which was
From left: R1 O's monthly Club meet at Dove House Motor Company; there were some rather special cars on display for R1 D's visit to JZM Porsche
Performance and style go hand in hand -extending beyond your vehicle to your vision. Wearing high-quality prescription glasses or sunglasses while driving isn't just a matter of comfort, it's a critical part of road safety and driving performance.
YoovyEyewear,tailoredfordriverswhoappreciatedesignanddetail. Order on line at
oversubscribed. However, we had 1 5 no-shows on the day and people on the waiting list were unable to attend because it was too late to offer them spaces.
DESIGN911VISIT
More than 80 Club members visited Design 911 in Brentwood in mid-February. Design 911 were excellent hosts and they took small groups around their facilities, showing their vast and still growing parts operations and their project cars including their new Cayman RS kit and a fully electric conversion to an early 911. Also on show was their extensive collection of rare Porsches. Several suppliers had stands there, including Febi, MAHLE, KDNI and Wiesner Design, who had exquisite models of 911 engines as well as their 3D-printed parts. We are planning another visit for later this year, so please keep an eye on the newsletters for more information.
ID-PINBOWLING
Sixteen members attended this year's 1 bowling at Namco Funscape in Braintree on 21 February.
There were two games with a break after the first game for a lovely hot buffet and drinks.
The overall winner for the men was David Skinner with a great score of 252 and Susie Robinson was the overall winner for the ladies with a very good score of 212. Full scores for everyone can be obtained via our website. It was a most enjoyable evening and we look forward to seeing you there next year.
We extend our appreciation to Mark Polley for organising and booking this event
Rl2• NORFOLK&SUFFOLK
RegionalOrganisers
Glenn and Emma Jackson
Mob: 07702 591602
Mob: 07715 417527
r1 2@porscheclubgb.com
NEWS
Our third year as ROs is a busy one, including two overseas road trips (Ireland and the Alps), more than 30 events throughout the year and our flagship Porsche East event that hosted nearly 400 cars last year. Recently,we have begun our reinvention of our cars and coffee events, rebranding them as a '911 Coffee Run' which immediately brings concerns of 'Is it only for 911 s?'. Nope, it's referring to the timing of the event (9am-11 am) and all Porsches are welcome.
We've hosted two of these events so far at time of going to print and both were a big success. Baytree of Hilgay in Downham Market still had a turnout of more than 30 cars on a cold February morning. At our March event at Porsche Centre Colchester, we had 50 cars signed up and this ended up being a bit of a squeeze because the adjacent Ferrari dealership next door was also hosting an event. With the assistance of Porsche Centre Colchester staff, the event ran seamlessly so many thanks to them for all of their efforts on the day.
Also new for 2025, all of our 911 Coffee Runs have a drive-out added to the end of the event and, on both occasions, around a dozen cars joined us for an hour's drive in the post-event sunshine.
Our drive and effort to organise all of these events would be diminished if it
From left: R11 's visit to Design 911 was hugely popular; there was stiff competition at R11 's 10-pin bowling night
Hilgay garden centre
were not for our members. It sounds cringe-worthy but, through the Club and taking on this role, we have met many lovely people, made some new friends and seen friendship groups grow among our membership as the community also grows. We look forward to seeing you all out and about during the year ahead.
FORTHCOMINGEVENTS
As always, keep an eye on the R1 2 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 emails.
Many thanks,
Glenn and Emma Jackson
DIARYDATES
8MAYPIEandChips
11MAYShuttleworthAirshow
18MAY911CoffeeRun - Holt
31MAYEmeraldIsleAdventure
Rl3• HEREFORD, WORCESTERSHIRE &SHROPSHIRE
JointRegionalOrganisers
Steve Cutler -01 384 370038 r1 3@porscheclubgb.com
Simon Hopcroft -07739 817159 simonhopcroft@aol.com
Sunday 2 March saw R13 begin the month with an early morning impromptu drive. Starting off from the Danery, we took a winding, nicely paced route into Ludlow through Clun, Anchor and Abermule and on to Welshpool Airfield and an extremely good breakfast. On the drive, we had the first real sunshine we had seen this year although, on some of the shaded, twisty bits of road, we still had to overcome a few icy corners which had the cars twitching a bit -or a lot, in the case of one 993. We split and went our separate ways from there, but three of us had another good drive on the way back.
Former Regions Director Laura Wardle attended our Tuesday monthly meeting at Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club, where she served up a very entertaining but sometimes difficult and infuriating 50-question quiz across five subjects. Eleven teams of four and one of three participated and congratulations to the latter because The Kings of Leigh Sinton' -Nick Rumney, Ian Peberdy and Vince Russell -were also the winning team. A big thank you to Laura and to the golf club for serving up good food in a very efficient manner.
There was also a great day out for a small number of R13 members after starting at the Cotswold Barn for a lovely breakfast sandwich before a fine scenic drive to Tuthill Porsche. We were given a warm welcome by Dave, our guide, and the tour encompassed their whole facility. We saw spectacular cars ranging from an incredibly valuable and
rare 911 GT1 road car to the fantastic Tuthill 911 Ks made of carbon fibre. They were eye-wateringly beautiful, not to mention eye-wateringly expensive, and we also saw their fabulous race and rally cars including one driven by a certain Ferdinand Porsche.
Thank you to Tuthill Porsche and Steve Turner for organising and to our members who made it a great day.
Rl4• SOUTHWALES
RegionalOrganiser
Peter Thomas r1 4@porscheclubgb.com
NEWRO
Following on from my report in the April edition of PP, my committee and I have stood down and I am pleased to announce that Peter Thomas has taken on the position of Regional Organiser since 1 April. Peter previously served as the RO for the Region more than 1 0 years ago. Carol and I will continue to attend Region events, although it might initially be strange to attend without my RO hat on after all these years.
BREAKFASTDRIVE
The Dare Valley Country Park breakfast meeting and drive on 16 March was well attended, with 24 cars and 36 members having breakfast. Most commented that the breakfast in Caffi Cwtch was excellent. The only stop on our drive was at Penderyn
Porsche Centre Colchester helped host R1 2's March event
R13 members in Tuthill's workshop
R13 Porsches at Tuthill Porsche
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 Mull for the next leg of your adventure!
Kilcamb Lodge
Distillery and many people made use of the distillery shop. Thank you to Brian Jones for organising this event, and I am sorry I could not attend.
WOTYTONORTHERNFRANCE
Our WOTY to northern France is on 28 September-2 October. The cost is £799pp based on two people sharing in one car and one room throughout [£1,598 in total] or £1, 198pp based on a single person in a car and bedroom.
We need 1 0 rooms confirmed to qualify for these prices and, at the time of writing this report, we have eight rooms booked. Further details can be found on the R14 section of the Club website. If you are
interested in attending, please contact me at dhuwjones@icloud.com
Going forward, I am sure Peter Thomas will add other planned events for the year.
COMMUNICATION
Don't forget to keep up with our latest Region news and events on our Facebook page: facebook.com/groups/PCGBR14. We have also created a WhatsApp R14 events QR code [below].
DIARYDATES
13JUNEPorscheintheBay With fish and chips van. Organised by Huw Jones. 28SEPTEMBER-2OCTOBERWOTY
tonorthernFrance
Details above.
Rl5·SOUTHWEST
RegionalOrganiser
Mike Williams r1 5@porscheclubgb.com
SUNDAYLUNCHANO'FITZ'PRESENTATION
With a real feel of spring in the air, all our members turned up on 9 March with their cars looking fabulous. Our guest speaker David 'Fitz' Fitzgerald was also in the finest chariot: his 5.7-litre VB Dax Cobra from 1 978. Fitz has had a long career working in the media for broadcasters like TSW with Gus Honeybun as his sidekick, the BBC and, later, Radio Devon. I thought I gave him a good intro, but quickly sank to my seat at his humorous response. The next 45 minutes were full of laughter, with some hilarious life stories spanning from Prince Philip to Simon Weston. This was followed by an extremely fun, albeit a little disorganised, car photoshoot.
SPRINGDRIVE
Our spring drive on 11 May will take us
Happy motoring and see you around.
HuwJones
around the fabulous roads of south-east Cornwall, with spectacular clifftop driving along Whitsand Bay to Downderry and then Seaton for coffee. We will head onwards to Looe and The Hannafore Point Hotel for a buffet lunch, finishing at The Strawberry Fields Cafe for afternoon tea.
VISITTDWILLIAMSCRAWFORD
We are off to visit Williams Crawford and 'Passion for Porsche' on 31 May to take a look at everything from classic car restoration to their latest stock and the complete service they offer to keep our cars in the condition we like.
WOTV2025
We are off to tour around Brittany and the Loire Valley.The last place is remaining for this great adventure in France.
To join any of our events or to register your interest, drop us an email at r1 5@porscheclubgb.com
Spring has sprung, so let's get those motors running and enjoy our cars.
Mike Williams, Nigel Davies and Geoff Lane
RIB·GLOUCESTERSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
Team R16 r1 6@porscheclubgb.com
DRIVEINTOWALES
Maybe after the not-so-narrow victory (68-14] over the host in the Six Nations Cup was not the best time for a large group of English (assumed) to be crossing the border into Wales but, as always, it was a great decision.
The route was curated and test-driven by Richard Raybould,who was a delightful host for the morning and an example to all members who aspire to get more involved with our events.
We started the day in a very cold but sunny car park at Mato Severn View services, but the variety of Porsche models and car colours certainly brightened the grey tarmac. Walkie-talkies were issued to a few of the group and we were off in a 25-car convoy which, surprisingly, stayed together for some time. The route took us over the Severn Bridge and galloping
(apologies) past Chepstow Racecourse.
R16drivingintoWales
Welsh mountains in the distance
Then the roads got very twisty, which is what you get when driving through this lovely part of the country. My thoughts were that everyone would be loving the drive and we had just got going. Next, we cruised past the national icon that is Tintern Abbey on the banks of the River Wye, which was only spoiled by a certain member's voice on the walkie-talkie saying it will be nice when it's finished (LOL!). Next, we headed north to Monmouth, crossing the River Wye over Bigsweir Bridge, before turning south again down the B4293 and onto the B4235 Usk road to arrive at our destination of Morris' of Usk Garden Centre with its large empty car park. Although the signage said it would be opening at 1 Dam, which panicked the host due to our 9.1 5am arrival, the garden centre team and restaurant were luckily open for business. A longer version is already in planning.
Rl7• SOUTHERN
JointRegionalOrganisers
Jon Fisher 02380 766808/07918 686116
Mark Rye-Weller 07880 695747
r1 7@porscheclubgb.com
On 22 February, R1 7 responded in numbers to an invitation from Porsche Centre Portsmouth to visit their superb new service centre in Waterlooville. We were exceptionally well looked after and many of us took the opportunity for a free health check on our cars. Is the joy of looking under your car unique to Porsche owners? Thanks, as always, to our hosts.
Another very kind invitation, this time from R29, saw a good few cars visiting Blackbushe Airport on 9 March. A good turnout, great coffee and lots of fellow enthusiasts -what's not to like?
Dur March monthly Club night was held for the first time (but certainly not the last] at The Flower Pots Inn and Brewery in Cheriton. Who knew that this is such a splendid venue with a separate barn? It's ideal for group meets like ours. The highlight of the evening was presenting a cheque for £1,000 to the founder of Sophie's Legacy, Charlotte Fairall.
This is a local charity that is fast achieving a national influence in providing support for families with children in hospital. Thanks again to the generosity of R17 members for supporting this very worthwhile cause.
By the time we are in print, the spring events season will be well underway with many opportunities to join us for some Porsche-related fun. Let's see you there!
Mark Rye-Waller
RIB·LANCASHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
David Baker -01772 451970
AssistantRegionalOrganisers
Judy Baker and Geoffrey Stewart r1 8@porscheclubgb.com
As members begin to take their cars off SORN, numbers at the monthly cars and coffee breakfast meetings at Charity Farm and The Mill at St Catherine's Hospice have increased. In fact, a member of St Catherine's staff phoned me to say they were very concerned at the numbers now attending. At the March meeting, all three car parks were full to capacity by 9.30am and the roadways into the hospice also had parking on both sides. This was stopping visitors to the hospice from parking and visiting their loved ones.
A number of us were invited to Porsche Centre Preston, where Preston Symphony Orchestra were performing a candlelit concert. Preston thought they were the first Porsche Centre to host a symphony orchestra.
Clockwise from top: R18 Porsches at the monthly meeting held at Porsche Centre Preston;thevastnew electrical Porsches service centre; Comrie Davis and his beloved 964
VISITTOPORSCHECENTREPRESTON
Our March monthly meeting was at Porsche Centre Preston, who gave us a tour of their new electric vehicle facilities. We had an excellent turnout of more than 75 members, many of whom hadn't been to an R1 8 event before. We hope you all enjoyed meeting other members and will come along to future R18 events.
COMRIEDAVIS
Sadly, we lost one of our longest-serving members, Comrie Davis, during the month. Comrie joined PCGB in 1 998, even before he purchased his 964. He was a regular attender at monthly meetings and events and was immaculately dressed, always
wearing a collar and tie. A number of his old R18 friends attended his funeral.
NEWMEMBERS
Welcome to new members Max Lister, Jason Fowler, Chris Mccardle, Jon and Sue Greenwood, Lance Cunningham, Sean and Catherine Haselden, David and Kirsty Webb, John Jackson, Amanda Lee, Victor Freeman, Andrew Johnson, Raymond Radford, Adam Cooper and Diane and Damien Walmsley. We look forward to meeting you at some of our forthcoming events.
DIARYOATES
We have a variety of events coming up
over the next few months, many of which require pre-booking. Details of these will be in the regular R18 email newsletters.
Rl9• THAMESVALLEY
RegionalOrganiser
Mike Cope -07894 606381
r1 9@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Roger Summers
R19 held our regular meets at The Coppid Beech Hotel on 2 March and Renegade Brewery on 1 6 March. With the warming weather [especially the bright blue sky and
Above: 992 GT3 Touring seen at WLAC breakfast Left: 911 s catching rays at The Coppid Beech Hotel
3HEAVYDUTY SHELVINGBAYS
STEELCONSTRUCTION
Ducks in a row
sunshine at Coppid Beech], we saw great attendance at both with a fine array of cars on display. On 8 March, we held our first breakfast meet of the year at West London Aero Club [WLAC) at White Waltham Airfield near Maidenhead. As you will see, we got some great pictures with this one showing a 992 GT3 Touring in front of a rather fetching Hawker Hurricane fighter. We'll be visiting WLAC again later in the year, both for another breakfast and also for the members' day at the end of August where there should be a fine display of classic aircraft on the ground and in the air.
FORTHCOMINGEVENTS
Looking forward, we have our regular meetings at Coppid Beech on 4 May and Renegade on 18 May. This month, we also have a 'stereo' breakfast at the Crown near Playhatch and Cobbs Farm near Theale, both on 1 0 May. On 23 May, we are visiting Prodrive for a tour of the facilities and the vehicle build and preparation area, which should be fascinating. There is a joint event with R29 on 31 May with a visit to Thruxton for a track and skidpan day.
R20 • LONDON
RegionalOrganisers
Nick and Ed Pike
02089 607111
r20@porscheclubgb.com
@ @porscheclubgblondon 11pcgb.r20
LONDONCALLING!
It seems like forever since we escaped London, but now we are out and about doing what we love best. Yes, that's invading the other Regions with our Porsche friends. Not been out on one of our drives? Then head over to our news and events page to find out where we have been or, if you want to join us, then it's our
events page you're after. Our drives are open to all members and we treat everyone fairly; there is no secret way onto our drives.
RECENTEVENTS
For full write-ups of all our events and galleries, see our Regional website page at porscheclubgb.com/london/ news
FUTUREEVENTS
Details of all our events, including drives and European tours, can be found at porscheclubgb.com/london/ events. Our regular monthly meets are listed below.
See you out on the road,
Nick and Ed
DIARYDATES
18MAYSunday'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.
26MAYAceCafemeet
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.
R21 • CHILTERN
JointRegionalOrganisers
Bill and Donah Dewar
AssistantRegionalOrganisers
Ashley Miller, Terry Perry, Phil Jones r21@porscheclubgb.com
The year kicked off with our first Club meeting on 4 February at the King Charles pub and restaurant. We had an excellent turnout, welcoming both new and returning members.
On 9 February, we organised a Valentine's Day drive followed by a meal in Burford, Oxfordshire. It was a fantastic event, with everyone arriving at the venue without any issues. The meal was enjoyed by all and it was a pleasure to share the experience with such a great group of people.
Our March meeting was also held at the
Black beauty at Ace Cafe
R21atProdrive
RODaveCarnaffinandguestspeaker
Albert Walsh at R3's Club night. R22 were invited and helped with the record turnout
Good turnout for The Beach Deck and a thank you from Air
for amazing fundraising King Charles, followed by a visit to Prodrive in Banbury. The event was oversubscribed, even with an additional date planned for April. A special thank you to Ashley for his outstanding efforts in organising the visit; we look forward to returning in the future. Looking ahead, April will feature a visit to the de Havilland Aircraft Museum near St Albans, which has already generated significant interest.
We encourage members to regularly check for updates on upcoming events because they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We will continue to offer a diverse and engaging events programme and, if anyone is interested in volunteering to assist with any of our events, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Donah and Bill Dewar
R22 • CUMBRIA &SWSCOTLAND
RegionalOrganiser
Michael Trotter -07841 215962
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Ian Graham r22@porscheclubgb.com
R22 supported R3's Club night along with Porsche Centre Newcastle and Lloyd Bodyshop Newcastle, the Porsche-approved bodyshop, who were represented by Paul Robson. The main event was a presentation by = Albert Walsh, ex-Motorsport Chairman 6 and Register Director of PCGB, in which = he talked about his life in the motor trade and the cars he has owned over the years.
With a record turnout at Beamish Hall Hotel, it was a great evening and there was plenty of support for R3, Club partners and the local Porsche Centres.
R23 • SUSSEX
RegionalOrganisers
Chris and Martin Woolger 07720 849982/07802 409272 r23@porscheclubgb.com
We started the year at our 26 January meeting at The Owl in Kingsfold, followed by a 50-mile drive which ended at Old Barn. The drive stayed dry until we arrived at Old Barn and then the heavens opened. This event saw 40 members and 1 8 cars driving out.
At the beginning of March, we returned to one of our favourite venues: The Beach Deck. It was a freezing morning but it was bright and dry, so much so that several members arrived in the car park at 8.15am with the roofs down on the cars! It was another great breakfast and a beautiful 58-mile drive with 50 members and 24 cars traveling through the Sussex countryside ended at Bodiam Castle. Our thanks to the members who volunteered to lead groups two and three for the drives.
In the post this week, we received out annual certificate from Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex and our total raised for them to the end of 2024 is £12,656. We hope to add more to this during 2025 with our coffee and cars, mid-summer BBQ and Christmas events. Thank you everyone for your support over the years.
This certificat e 1sproud/ presented to Y PorscheClubofGB (Sussex) for raising f a antastic total to date of ~lr~il6s..os is as cntica/ as our care ~@o~ @airambu/ancekss aakss.org.uk Clterifyno.1021367
We have been busy behind the scenes and the 2025 calendar is now full. It is available on the Club website, the Forum and the R23 Facebook page.
All events need to be pre-booked and details are emailed out approximately three weeks before an event. No booking is required for our monthly meetings at The Bainey Stage on the first Tuesday of the month from 7pm.
DIARYDATES
3MAYCoffeeandpastries,followed byadrive Porsche Centre Mid-Sussex.
20MAY-1JUNEDrivingTour, PorschesinProvence
11JUNEMid-weekbreakfastanddrive Venue to be confirmed.
16JULYMid-summerBBQ Porsche Centre Mid-Sussex.
20JULYBreakfastanddrive Venue to be confirmed.
23AUGUSTVisittoValoroso
31AUGUSTPorscheontheLawns, BordeHillGardens
16 SEPTEMBER Monthly meeting at The Bainey Stage
Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex
From 7pm. Please note the date change. 21SEPTEMBERBreakfastanddrive
Venue to be confirmed.
R24 • CAMBRIDGESHIRE & BEDFORDSHIRE
RegionalOrganiser
Chris Kingshott
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Wayne Helme
r24@porscheclubgb.com
Things have been quite hectic over the last month, both because of the events that have taken place and the planning for further opportunities this year.
We have been very fortunate in having great speakers at our monthly meetings, not least Rob Brewer taking us through his life as a movie extra in March and Martyn Williams recalling his time as a car journalist with some well-known colleagues [yes, including JC!). Then, lined up for this month, the A428 project team will be walking us through the £1 bn programme of works in our Region.
There have also been some excellent events in April, with the Lotus factory tour and Allon White coach trimming demonstration. The inaugural Shuttleworth flying weekend will be on 11 May. At the time of writing, planning is underway for the Bedford Car weekend on 21-22 May and Kingsway crazy golf and BBQ on the evening of 25 May.
June is looking equally busy, with the National Horse Racing Museum Day on 14 June.
As we go to press, we have confirmed Kimbolton Country Fayre on 1 3 July and Dove House Motor Company are kindly opening their showroom up for us on 16 August.
= If you are interested in attending any 6 of these and have not yet applied, please S3 give either of us a call or an email and o:: we can take it from there.
Safe driving and have a great summer,
Chris and Wayne
R25 • KENT
JointRegionalOrganisers
Sue Dennis -07515 378066
Chris Torre -07887 246835
AssistantRegionalOrganiser
Sue Torre
r25@porscheclubgb.com
@ @porscheclubgbkent 11pcgb.r25
WHAT'SBEENHAPPENING?
On a bitterly cold morning on 22 February,
a fine display of 50 Porsches made it to the Moat at Wrotham for coffee and bacon butties. As expected, there was an eclectic range of models including early 356s, transaxle Porsches such as 944s and 924s and other models right up to the current 992s.
Club night at Brands Hatch on 1 2 March attracted just over 70 members. We hosted Jamie Tyler and Jason Shepherd from Paragon Porsche as our guest speakers for the evening. They gave us an insight into the current Porsche market and customer buying trends, answered members' questions and relayed amusing tales of various test drives with customers.
On Sunday 1 6 March, Deal-based Cayman Sprint GT4RS racing driver
Prize draw for signed Derek Bell 917K Porsche. Some of the prize winners: [L-R] Lionel Kirupairatnam, Charlotte Gowers, Paul Crow, Toby Trice and Sue Dennis
Toby Trice made the prize draw at WonderWorks Margate for the signed Pocher Model of the Derek Bell 917K. It was won by longstanding R25 member Geoff Hermel -congratulations, Geoff! Many thanks to Charlotte Gowers and the team at Pocher for donating the model, which helped raise more than £1,000 for Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex.
E-NEWSANDUPCOMINGEVENTS
The monthly e-news will keep you informed of the latest news and events which are too extensive to list here. For event information and booking details, please see the R25 Events page on the Club website. This is updated frequently, so please do take a look. Once you have booked an event, please check your spam/ junk folders for confirmation emails.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Sue and Chris
R26 • DORSET
RegionalOrganiser
Position vacant r26@porscheclubgb.com
While R26 has had several events during February, we felt this month should be used to say thank you to our former RO Tref Willingham who, after 20 years, has stepped down from the role and will now focus his efforts on his love of transaxle Porsches. We understand Tref was the longest serving RO in PCGB.
Tref's 944 is affectionately known to the Region as 'Bomber' and we understand that the car got its name after an episode in London when it was parked up in a sensitive area with an EPG cylinder in the back. Rumour has it that Tref was hard-pushed to explain this to the armed police that turned up!
During Tref's 20 years of leading Region 26, he was assisted by Joint Regional Organisers Robin Kisbee, Kevin Bush, Geoff Fields and Karl Wells. His endless enthusiasm for creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for old and new members alike has ensured the creation of many long-term friends. Tref had an unerring ability to convince others to
'volunteer' for running and participating in events. Often, he sowed the seeds of an idea and everyone reaped the benefit later. His engineering mind was best deployed in display layouts such as at the Sherborne Classics event, where scale designs were measured out on site. Woe betide anyone parking out of line or in the wrong place. Although he will be a hard act to follow, it can and will be done by the next lucky person to follow in Tref's footsteps. Karl Wells, most recently with Tref, recollects that Tref still holds the land speed record for Zig Zag Hill -a famous hairpin road up a very steep gradient in Dorset -when driving Bomber. Also, Tref and Bomber came to the rescue of an embarrassed owner of a million-pound 962 that was being towed to Goodwood with the owner's Land Rover,which had broken down.
Tref, the Region sends a big thank you for all your efforts over the last 20 years.
R27 • IRELAND
RegionalOrganiser R27 Team r27@porscheclubgb.com
;:z:::,~ ,9 &'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.
BreakfastatGowdy's
@ porscheclubgb_northernireland
11pcgb.r27
The sun shone as we kicked off our 2025 drive season in March. This traditionally occurs around Saint Patrick's Day,with this year being no exception.
Beginning the day with a 'full Irish' breakfast at Gowdy's of Down Royal,we then drove to the Ulster Aviation Society. Much like our Region, the Ulster Aviation Society is an organisation run purely on a voluntary basis and the passion for the collections on display is clear to see. Their hangars made for a suitably impressive backdrop for the strong display of cars we had on the morning. This was a particularly well-supported event, with around 50 members and guests in attendance, and we thank you all most sincerely. The drive season is now officially open!
You will be aware there is now a requirement to pre-book for most of the events throughout the year. This is to facilitate the booking of venues and to aid with the overall organisation. We appreciate that members can occasionally miss a booking deadline and we try to be as accommodating as possible when such a situation arises. However, should you miss a deadline, please ring a member of the team directly to check on availability. We can no longer take late bookings by email.
For drives, Paul McAleer (07855 993911] is your first point of contact. For static events, please contact Ken Mack (07860 850444). For queries about refunds, please contact John Hilditch (07907 437303). We work on the basis that if you have pre-paid for an event and later need to cancel or simply cannot attend, if we are able to get a refund, so will you.
That wraps it up for yet another month and we hope to see you at your next R27 event very soon!
Paul McA/eer and Ken Mack
R28G•CHANNELISLANDS,GUERNSEY
RegionalOrganisingTeam
Steve Manklow, Paul Sheward and Brad Faye r28G@porscheclubgb.com
¼ @PCGB_Guernsey
R28J•CHANNELISLANDS,JERSEY
RegionalOrganiser
Goetz Eggelhoefer 07797 892502
r28j@porscheclubgb.com
Now there's a'RedArrow'
An impressive number of Porsches at R29 meetings
R29 • SURREY
RegionalCommittee
Dorian Logan, Michael Turton and Somesh Mitra r29@porscheclubgb.com
R29 is off to a flying start this year, with some amazing events having already taken place.
The weather was amazing for the resumption of The Owl and the Blackbushe Airport meetups. We had a capacity crowd completely filling the paddocks. We also had an amazing range of cars on displays, with an impressive 'brace' of Spyders [I am not sure what the collective noun of Spyders is).
It was a case of third time lucky when we had an amazing visit to the new Destination Porsche Guildford. Many thanks to them for hosting us and for their continuous support; we have more plans with them during 2025. The event also raised nearly £600 for the Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex. Looking forward, we have two scheduled drive-outs on top of the regular meetups, including Fish 'n' Chip Friday and the Saturday Scramble. The calendar is also filling up with some amazing events, including target shooting, Thruxton Circuit and car shows. More events will be announced and, as always, the latest events and news will be on the R29 section of the PCGB website.
R30 • ISLEOFMAN
JointRegionalOrganisers
Neil Chadwick -07624 472284
AssistantRegionalOrganisers
Jon Whiting and Karl Millar r30@porscheclubgb.com
R30 were delighted to be invited to SkillanNaylor for a feed and a look around their stock. A spirited run from Peel ended at the Braddan garage of Simon and Jonathan, where member Kev was delighted to find that a new owner had been found for his bright blue Turbo!
Club members were also fed and 6 watered by local Porsche dealer Van = Mossel Jacksons this month. A mouth-
watering variety of Porsche models were
on view too. New member Guy brought his GT4 and a bright green 991 Turbo was commented upon by many. ROs Karl and Jon's 997s are now 'classics', so we took the chance to register them.
UPCOMING
April's event is clay pigeon shooting. R1 9 are visiting in May and we'll also have a dining event. We'll start the evening drives in June with a visit to the Ventosus Micro Winery and we are all looking forward to the WOTY in the Lake District.
R31 • COTSWOLDS
RegionalOrganiser
Nick Taylor 07397 388250 r31@porscheclubgb.com
@ Porsche Club GB -Cotswolds
11Porsche Club GB -Cotswolds
¼ @pcgb_cotswolds
DIARYDATES
4MAYBreakfastruntotheWychwood GolfClub
13MAYDrivetolunch - Shropshire
16-20MAYDallianceintheDales
28MAYSunsetSupperRun
31MAY-1JUNEBoxsterLifeWOTYtoDevon
A busy month for us in the Cotswolds. We'll let you know where our breakfast run is starting nearer the time, but it's definitely ending at the Wychwood Golf Club. Meet at the golf club for 9.30am, but please pre-book.
Our second Tuesdaydrive will meet at Cotswolds Barn for coffee at 9.30am. We'll take a circuitous scenic route to the Shropshire hills, stop for lunch and be back well before 5pm. The last Wednesday evening through spring, summer and autumn means an early evening drive to somewhere nice for a drink, a light supper or just a chat. The venue is to be decided.
Our Dales and Devon road trips are hyperpopular and I'm afraid they are full. There will be more later this summer.
Any and all members are welcome at all our events. Please, please, please, if you haven't been before, let me or one of our organising team know you are coming so we can properly meet and greet you. Some of our events get really busy and new faces are sometimes hard to spot.
Keep an eye out for details of these and next month's events on WhatsApp, email newsletters and socials.
DB!VEN RACING
APERFECTDAV
When you want everything to be perfect, you want to use the Driven DT40 SAE5W-40 high-performance engine oil. It's perfect for most Porsche models using SAEOW-40 oils. Designed to reduce oil consumption and improve oil pressure, it will not thin down as much as other synthetic oils on the market. It will also virtually eliminate cylinder bore scoring and typically reduce the temperature of the oil.
Please note that Driven DT40 does not meet any API or ACEA standards. This oil is designed for the engine and not for modern oil standards, as they can somewhat restrict the performance and protection of the engine. The DT40 engine oil has lower levels of detergents but higher levels of anti-wear additives than modern APl-rated oils for maximum protection.
Luxury hotel boat cruises up to 22 passengers
New destinations daily. 3-6 nights long
Traditional English food, special diets welcomed
Includes food, drink, tours & more -no hidden extras
All deposits financially protected
NEWSFROMYOUR
Visit our Registers homepage where
356
RegisterSecretary
Fred Hampton 01992 554935 356@porscheclubgb.com
"Unquestionably the 356 has an ageless fascination. It lies in its shape as well as in the way in which it is built and in which it drives.
'The Porsche contains a large measure of the better history of the automobile, of a time when cars were still not perfect, but carried an unmistakeable personal stamp.
"The construction method plays a part too; what other car is still built in small numbers and with such care? What car company still undertakes improvements truly for the sake of improvement and doesn't combine them with great advertising campaigns?
"What auto plant still puts technical perfection ahead of the balance sheets?
"Admittedly, such an approach will have its cost: that was the case even at Bugatti. But, at Porsche, that money buys you more honest work than elsewhere.
"Soon there will be a more modern Porsche, but in a technical sense or from the standpoint of hand craftsmanship it cannot be better.
"The birth and history of the Porsche 356 cannot be repeated: therefore, at Porsche one can be sure that the last car of this type will find a willing customer and will be cherished for many years."
Reinhard Seiffert writing in Auto Motor und Sport, 1963.
EARLY911(2.0,2.2&2A]
RegisterSecretary
Julian Hobbins
911@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegisterSecretary
Robin Walker
TechnicalAssistant
Mike Champion -07796 372239 mceporsche@gmail.com
I hope to see many of you at the events that the Club has organised through the summer months. I expect to attend a lot more than I previously managed now that I'm fully retired and the car is now fully fettled after finally finishing its six-year nut-and-bolt restoration journey. A big trip through France, Spain and Portugal is planned for this year.
Big thanks go to Konings of Winchester, who recently detailed the car and applied a self-healing protective film and ceramic coating to, hopefully, avoid picking up any more stone chips on the fresh paintwork. They detail a lot of Porsches and their professional approach is reassuring when dealing with your pride and joy.
TECHNICALASSISTANT
Mike Champion has kindly agreed to act as our Technical Assistant for the Early 911 Register. Mike is already very active in helping in the WhatsApp technical group and attends Club events, so you can also meet with him and chat through any technical issues or questions. A big thank you to Alan Drayston, who previously held this role for many years.
Bye for now,
Julian Hobbins
registers or
this QR code.
912
RegisterSecretary
Sam Mubarak
07973 383836
912@porscheclubgb.com
AdminAssistant
Zara
InternationalEventsCoordinator
Zainab
MediaEventsCoordinator
Alisha
911SPORTOMATIC
RegisterSecretary
Peter Cook 01 789 400832 sporto@porscheclubgb.com
SCREENWASHSAGA
The saga of the screen wash system on my continues! Having decided the plastic tubing and non-return valves needed replacing and with the difficulty of getting to the nearside non-return valve immediately under the jet as biology and age have caught up with me, I decided to let someone else struggle.
The first very local non-franchise Porsche specialist "only deals with water-cooled". He passed me on to another non-franchise specialist a little further away: "No problem, I'll organise the parts and give you a ring to arrange installation". Two months on with no contact, I gave up. Third time lucky, hopefully. I'm waiting to hear the parts are in but, as I have received numerous emails on the subject, I'm confident all will be well this time.
Very rare Pre-A 356 with four-cam Carrera engine at a UK Pre-A 356 event at the National Motor Museum
Under the spotlights, the 914 display at the
EVENTS
Club events are well spread this year, so one of them should be in reach for most members. The two closest events to me are the 'Bring a Classic' evening at the National Motorcycle Museum on 1 B June and 'Summer Solstice at Boxengasse' on 21 June.
Tom Loder 07748 635406 thomas.loder@btinternet.com
CLASSICSANDCAKE
In March, a group of four 914s headed to West London to attend the Duke of London 'Classics and Cake' event, held at their location on the top few levels of a multistorey car park in Brentford High Street.
The meeting attracts many classics, sports-and supercars and, on our visit, Legends Drivers Club had arranged a whole level reserved for Porsche parking. We all had a fun time looking around the displays on the different levels inside, as well as out in the open on the roof level, and eating a slice of cake with a hot drink. As space became available, we formed a 914 display at one end on Porsche's level six. While there, I came across a 924 owned by Steve Nelson that I had heard about. In Ravenna Green, it's the same colour as my '7 4 2.0. We took the opportunity to get the two cars together for a photo. The event ended up being their biggest-ever turnout for 'Classics and Cake' and raised £2,865 for the Cocoon -Care After Care charity through ticket sales alone.
Until next time, happy Fourteening, Kevin
914 Concours display. To book, contact concours@lwvwoc.co.uk
27JULYBromleyPageantofMotoring 914 Register display booked for the show at the new venue of South of England Showground, Ardingly, West Sussex. To book, contact Bruce Manning: mail@brucemanning.co.uk
3AUGUSTTattonParkVWShow 914 display at this very popular show.
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
NEWTYRES
My Carrera 3.0 doesn't do too many miles each year, so the tread on my tyres was still only half-worn despite them having been on
the car for quite a while. Some references say that, in such a case as this, tyres should be changed after six or seven years anyway and the major tyre manufacturers say 1 D years. The date codes on mine indicated that they were produced in early 2013, so they definitely needed replacing. Porsche Classic produce a list of recommended tyres that they have tested on classic models and to which they have given an 'N' approval. A list relevant to our models can be found in our Register's section on the Club website under 'Resources'.
My initial idea was to fit Pirelli P7 N4 tyres from the list, which are updated versions of the original tyres fitted in the 1970s. They have the same profile and block pattern, but use a modern construction and compounds. It seems, however, that the price of these has increased markedly since I last looked and they would cost £1,500 by the time I had paid for fitting.
Looking at alternatives on the list, I couldn't find any Continental ContiSportContact N2s showing in stock anywhere and Pirelli P Zero Rosso N5s came in at half the price of the P7s, but I could get a set of Michelin Pilot PE2 fully fitted for only £555. It would have been nice to have the car looking exactly as it came out of the factory with the P7s, but I couldn't justify such a large price and so I have fitted the Michelins.
One problem that I encountered at the fitters was that the torque setting for the wheel nuts was not listed on their computer and they were reluctant to let the car go until they obtained the correct figure. They phoned the local Porsche Centre, who were supposed to get back to them but didn't. However, I managed to find a reference on the internet which they used -it's 1 30nm.
Guy White
924/TURBD/S
RegisterSecretary
Trefor Willingham 01747 838158
924@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantSecretary
Paul Hedges 07940 441452 (6-1
Wow! What a response to the first email sent out to the 924 Register and my request for cars for the Practical Classics show. There are some stunning cars out there! By the time you read this, the event will have been and gone.
If you don't know what I am talking about, it means you didn't get the Register email. To ensure you are on the mailing list, you need to make sure your car is registered on the Club website and that you haven't 'opted out' of the Register emails. You don't have to own a 924 to get news of what is happening, you just need a love of the 924, so go on line to sign up.
Duke of London 'Classics and Cake' event
Guy White's new Michelins fitted to his Carrera 3.0
Next thing to look out for is a regular monthly Zoom meeting at 7.30-9pm on the second Wednesday of the month. Details are on the 924 Register section of the website under 'Events', but you will need to be logged in to see it. I know it won't suit everyone, but hopefully it is a start of something accessible to most members no matter where you are in the country -or beyond!
Other upcoming events worth mentioning in this issue are Simply Porsche and Brooklands, bookending June this year, as the 924 and 96B celebrating their 50th and 30th anniversaries respectively bookend the transaxle years.
I would also encourage you to use the Forum if you have technical enquiries. While other media are frequently more popular, the Forum is searchable and old threads can be resurrected to build on a valuable resource without the repetition that can be tiresome on some other media. Oh, and if you have a 924 tale to share here in PP, contact us at 924@porscheclubgb.com
Franck Marie -07850 479979 911 sc@porscheclubgb.com
PCGB9IISCWHATSAPPGROUP
For those of you on WhatsApp, you may be interested in joining our PCGB 911 SC group which was created last October. Since starting the group, we have had hundreds of interesting and varied posts on many subjects from full restorations to minor repairs, many upgrades, detailed Targa roof restoration, technical advice [including repair tips and parts availability] and arranging 911 SC-specific events.
The WhatsApp group is very active, with respectful and positive responses to all posts, and new members are always made to feel very welcome. It is a useful resource in addition to our other communications channels [PP, the Forum and Facebook] and a great way to keep in touch, get help and quickly exchange information between 911 SC Register members.
Join our 911 SC WhatsApp community by scanning the QR code here. You can also • ceq"'st ta ;,;a by ema;1;ag • me or following the link in
the 26 October 2024
. post on the 911 SC Forum r:, • titled '911 SC WhatsApp l:J group'. Please note that we will need to check membership details before accepting anyone to the group because it is only open it to 911 SC PCGB members at this time.
We look forward to seeing you on the WhatsApp group.
Safe driving, Franck
930(911TURBO]
RegisterSecretary
Position vacant 911 turbo@porscheclubgb.com
92B
RegisterSecretary
Brian Smith
07798 868 926
928@porscheclubgb.com
TechnicalAdvisor
Adrian Clark
adrian.clark928@gmail.com
928Archive
David Hemmings
RMSOTHERBV'SAUCTION
Long-term 928 owner and Club member
Mike Gibbons reported that the February 2025 RM Sotheby's auction held in Paris included some special Porsches from The Curated Collection. This Belgian collection included seven LHD 928s. The 928s were all manual and ranged from an early 1979 4.5-litre up to a 1993 GTS and included the famous 1 987 white Club Sport owned by Derek Bell for 1 8 years.
The Derek Bell car was one of four 928 prototypes given by Porsche to their factory race drivers of the time, namely Bob Wollek, Hans Stuck, Jochen Mass and Derek Bell.
Chris Harris, known for being passionate about 928s and having owned one himself, did a 20-minute video about The Curated Collection, which is viewable on rmsothebys. com. It's worth watching because Chris waxes lyrical about the 928.
All of the cars in The Curated Collection were sold without a reserve. The 928s were auctioned on 4 February and sold to the following bids:
1979 -Lot 125: €20.7k
1 983 S -Lot 1 60: €34.5k
1987 CS -Lot 117: €143.7k
1988 S4 -Lot 139: €26.4k
1989 S4 CS -Lot 148: €161k
1991 GT -Lot 111: €34.5k
1993 GTS -Lot 130: €126.5k
The 1983 928 S was in a rare Rauchquartz Metallic. The 1993 GTS was in the stunning and rare Oak Green Metallic. Visit the RM Sotheby's website for more details.
EVENTS
A quick reminder that there are transaxle events at Haddon Hall in north Derbyshire on 19 July and at a venue which is yet to be confirmed on 27 September. Details are available and tickets can be purchased from the 928 Community on the PCGB website.
944
RegisterSecretary
Mike Pollock 07811 944953
944@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegisterSecretary
David Chapman TechnicalAdvisor
Jon Mitchell 01202 488800 [normal working hours] technical@jmgporsche.co.uk
Hi all. Our early season meet at The Great British Car Journey near Matlock in Derbyshire on 1 6 March went well. Five cars left Leicester and we collected another two at Donington Park services for the hour-long run to the museum, where 1 9 transaxles made for a very nice display. Of particular note was a very low mileage 1986 Turbo in very rare Pastel Beige, with a brown fabric interior that was heavily
117: 1987 928 Club Sport prototype, originally presented by Porsche to factory racing driver Derek Bell
Richard's splendid 911 Carrera 3.2 outside the Isle
optioned (including sports seats and air conditioning). In flawless original condition, only the badge panel has had any paintwork done. Under the bonnet, almost all the passivated coatings are still bright and the underside is as clean as the top.
There was also a beautiful Maritime Blue 1991 S2 that was subject to a major restoration a few years ago for a guy I know who unfortunately had to sell it due to issues around COVID-19. It is now owned within RB, my local Region, so I get to see it.
I took the Cobalt Cabriolet up and had a friend drive my white Coupe. He has an early 944, which is in Greece, and a 1984 924 that currently has some issues. The latter runs, drives and is for sale because room is required for the 944 when it gets here.
Mention must also be made of the Guards Red S2 Cabriolet, again with quite low mileage and in wonderful condition. With a linen leather interior and red pinstriped sports seats, that's the one I wanted to drive home.
Please keep an eye out for other transaxle events and meetings, including group parking at Donington Historic Festival and Oulton Park Supercar Pageant. All events will be posted on the website. Hope to see you out and about and let us know where you've been and what you've done.
Mike and David
911CARRERA3.2ANDCLUBSPORT
RegisterSecretaries
Steve and Sue Edwards
01285 719561
911 carrera32@porscheclubgb.com
TechnicalAdvisor
Charles Marsland 07787 902403 (9am-9pm)
The icy conditions and salted roads restricting use of our 3.2s are over and the 2025 PCGB national calendar is well underway. Donington Historic Festival is behind us now, but we will also be attending Analogue Alchemy at Bowcliffe Hall on S3 8 June, Summer Solstice at Boxengasse o:: on 21 June and the Salon Prive Club
MarkByrnewassurprisedbythis964spotted at a recentshow
Trophy presented by Lockton at Blenheim Palace on 30 August.
Sue and I will be parking up the Club 3.2s attending these events and maybe other G-Models too, but please do come back to chat with us when we have finished and are taking a break. We're looking forward to seeing your cars and meeting friends, both old and new. We can't fit in the Porsche Club at Brooklands event again this year but there will be parking marshals on hand, so enjoy being among the many Porsches attending this popular event. Although it's inside the M25, Brooklands is outside the ULEZ charging area so, approaching Brooklands from the M25, you remain outside the ULEZ.
Regarding ULEZ, if your car has already made it to 40 years and is registered with both the DVLA for a historic vehicle tax class and Tfl for fee exemption, you can now drive through it for free.
If you would like to see your 3.2 in print here, send us a high-resolution photo which shows the car off nicely, along with a paragraph relating to your ownership experience. This month's photo is Richard's splendid 911 Carrera 3.2 outside the Isle of Man Motor Museum reproduced from the March 2025 issue, now shown off in larger scale. Apologies to Richard for the original disappointingly small reproduction. For any 3.2-related questions or technical issues, please get in touch with us, Charles Marsland [Technical Advisor] or post on the Club Forum. The Forum reaches a wide audience who may have experience or skills which can help. You can also use its search function to see
if there is already an answer in its extensive archive.
Steve and Sue 964
RegisterSecretary
Mark Byrne 07932 720610
964@porscheclubgb.com
HELPUSREUNITEA964WITHITSORIGINALOWNER!
We're reaching out with an exciting opportunity to reunite a 964 Carrera with its original owner. The proud owner took delivery of H51 WAM in 1990 and, after all these years, they're hoping to track down the car and its current owner.
If anyone has any information or knows of its the whereabouts, we'd love to hear from you. Any leads that could help connect the original owner with the car would be greatly appreciated.
964MODIFICATIONS
I recently attended a show that has traditionally been a VW event, though its scope has expanded over time, and came across something unexpected.
Typically,964s are kept pretty low key, with Rubystone paint being about as bold as they get these days. The car [pictured) surprised me and even more so when I realised it wasn't a new build but rather a familiar car that had been refreshed with a wrap -something you don't often see on a 964 -along with a new set of wheels.
This car has always been special, though it was once understated in its original black finish. Now, with the bright yellow wrap, a colour as loud as its engine, it's impossible to miss. Speaking of which, the car has ditched the standard air intake in favour of an individual throttle body setup. It sounds like a 997 GT3 flat out. There are videos online, but you'll have to track them down from its previous guise.
What do you think of this style of modification? I know many enthusiasts dislike the idea of Singer cutting these cars back to the chassis, but a build like this, where everything is reversible while still adding a modern touch, feels like a great
approach. Even better, the car is still being driven, which is refreshing when so many owners either keep them original for fear of devaluation, go for an RS look or send them off for a full restomod. Personally, I'm a fan.
964SFORSALE
We still take note of members who wish to sell their 964 or purchase so, if you're looking to sell, get a valuation or buy a specific car, let me know!
Pushing on with its restoration, the Grand Prix White Club Sport went to my usual workshop to hopefully get most jobs completed in time to take it to the Caffeine&Machine 968 Register meet on 26 April. Time will tell if it made it!
Problem number one was a difficult-toremove broken wheel bolt before removing the callipers to send them off for a full refurb. The car will, of course, have a full brake overhaul, new fuel lines and a major service, and it'll no doubt throw up a few surprises like they all do.
I've held over my dry ice cleaning story for a larger article next month. Don't worry, I've not forgotten.
The Schwartz Black Sport had an MOT retest and passed with zero advisories, which is fantastic news after all the work done and a decade off the road! Looking filthy, it headed to my valet for a few days of cleaning and detailing, inside and out. The results were incredible although the car still needs paint on the front end, mainly from lacquer peel.
Then, for the first time ever, I [tentatively) drove the car to the local petrol station for some Super Unleaded and to finally get some miles on it. First impressions were great. I'm now a few days into road testing the car and very happy so far. We also fitted the Blaupunkt Valencia DAB stereo (reported on last month) to provide some modern functionality for music and Bluetooth. I'm now sourcing the last few screws and clips to reinstall the rear spoiler [a twisted tailgate was replaced years ago and the spoiler never refitted), which will be a final touch to complete the look of the car.
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.
IARYDATES
8JUNEAnalogueAlchemyBowcliffeHall Pre-'97 and transaxles.
21JUNESummerSolsticeat Boxengasse,Bicester
28JUNESupercarPageantCultonPark
29JUNEPorscheClubatBrooklands Special transaxle display.
10AUGUSTYorkshirePorscheFestival - LothertonHall
993
RegisterSecretary
Mark Hamilton
07936 999979 -993@porscheclubgb.com
RegisterAssistant
Christian Sanger 07968 503385 -cjsanger@gmail.com
Hello, all 993 enthusiasts. Many thanks to all those members who responded to the recent 993 activities survey on our dedicated 993 WhatsApp community. As a result, the consensus from our fellow 993 owners highlighted considerable interest in the following new/repeat Club activities.
993REGISTERMEET-UPS
A series of simple events around the country for 993 owners involving a meet-up at a local meeting point and a short, organised drive followed by refreshments/ lunch. Full details of when and where will follow through my regular newsletters and via the WhatsApp chat, but expect at least three/four events this year in the north, Midlands and south of the country.
993TECHNICALSEMINARS
Following the previous two successful seminars at Porsche Centre Swindon and Northway Porsche, I will be repeating the same formula again this year. Details of venue and timings etc. to follow.
993REGISTERCHARITY2025
I am pleased to announce that the Register charity for 2025 is Prostate Cancer Research. To assist with this excellent cause, I have been working with fellow member Simon Turtle on a 993 informational photobook which will be available to purchase shortly. The book will use many of the magnificent gallery photos available on our Club webpage and all profits will go to Prostate Cancer Research.
993MEMBERCAROFTHEMONTH
Our Register 993 car of the month is the 993 C2 of Matt S. Thank you Matt for sharing your Speed Yellow beauty with us.
Until next time, enjoy your 993.
Mark Hamilton
993CARRERA RS
RegisterSecretary
Paul Howells 07809 880937
993rs@porscheclubgb.com
TechnicalAdvisor
Paul McLean
SAVETHEDATEOFYOUR993RSANNIVERSARY
The 993 Carrera RS made its world 'premiere' in Speed Yellow at the
Posterforthe993RSjubileecelebrationinBurgundy
Amsterdam International Motor Show on 31 January 1995. In its Club Sport version, it remains the last RS with an air-cooled engine and is still the rarest of the 993s produced, with 977 Touring and 227 Club Sport models. It is also one of the most emblematic 911 sever produced.
On 25-28 June, the Porsche Club RS de France invites 993 RS members to celebrate its jubilee at the magnificent Bresse circuit, with a driving and state competition on the first day, followed by two days of sightseeing rallies around Beaune in Burgundy, France's finest wine-growing region. The finale of the event takes place on the morning of 28 June. Tony Hatter, the car's designer, will be present throughout the event. He will chair the jury for the Concours d'Etat on the Circuit de Bresse, present the prizes to the winners of this competition and give a talk on his achievements at Porsche AG. Gathering 30 993 RSs for this event is a gamble. Thirty years after their launch,
many 993 RS are hardly driven anymore -not because of reliability, but because their owners keep them carefully in their garages. They have entered into the world of collectors and this meeting is an opportunity to show them off and put them to the test. Every owner of these fabulous, timeless cars should be keen to take part in this event.
Burgundy is an extremely attractive tourist region, with its varied landscapes, vineyards, castles and history. It will play a positive role in the success of the event.
BOXSTER
RegisterSecretary
Tracy Wilkins 07986 943307
boxster@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantSecretary
Cliff Wilkins
TechnicalAdvisors
Steve Winter
steve@jazweb.co.uk
Nick Pike 02089 607111 (evenings and weekends)
Spring is finally here and it's great to get out for some roof-down driving. My 1 0-yearold 981 GTS is still a fabulous car for those country and coastal drives.
JUSTCARCARE
We have been invited to attend a workshop morning at Just Car Care in Washington on 1 June from noon-2pm. The company specialises in PPF,detailing, window tinting and body kit fitting. As well as giving us a PPF demonstration, the guys will be on hand to answer any questions. Their retail shop stocks a range of cleaning and detailing products if you wish to treat yourself. You should have received an email with booking instructions. If not, email me.
BOXSTERCUP
Now in its seventh year, the Boxster Cup is as popular as ever. Started in 2018, the
competition was primarily for Porsche dealerships to build a race car from a 986 road car and enter it into the Boxster Cup series. Evolving over the years, today's competition is open to both companies and individuals. At the time of writing, there are more than 20 entries registered for this year's series of seven races. Spectators are welcome at the meetings so, for more information, go to the Motorsport section of the Club website.
STEVE'SO&A
Something from the archives.
Q: I've hardly used my 2003 986S in the last year but, on the two occasions I have, the roof opens fine but then won't close. It goes down, but not up. Also, the passenger window will only go threequarters of the way up. After leaving the car for 1 0 minutes, both then work fine. I'm worried at its reliability.
A: The most common fault is the roof rail micro switch. It can fail or can come adrift slightly, so that may be why yours works intermittently.
BACKINTHEBOXSTERFOLD
We welcome Michael West back to the Register. Michael was the owner of a 987 before selling it in 2021 . He's recently bought a 981 Spyder in pure white. I look forward to seeing the car, Michael.
Happy Boxstering,
Tracy 996
RegisterSecretary
Tony Murphy
996@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantSecretary
Tom Horner
There's a national event on 21 June at the British Motor Museum in Gaydonwhich will be of interest to 996 and 997 owners.
Expandyourhorizons.
UNLOCKNEWADVENTURESWITHPORSCHEBIKERACKS.
Releaseyour spirit of adventureand enjoythe freedom of two wheels on bike rides with friends and family. The easyto fit PorscheBike Racksallow you to securelytransport up to three bikes on the roof or two on the rear of your Porsche(modeldependant). Toensureyou are ready to escape onto the cycle tracks this summer, contact your PorscheCentre, or visit the PorscheAccessories Finderto found out more.
New 996 Assistant Register Secretary Tom Horner's 996 C4
The event features a morning seminar with Hartech Automotive, the leading Porsche engine specialists for M96/M97 rebuilds and engine enhancements. The company has operated since 1984 and they have unrivalled experience and expertise in the development of these engines in both increasing cubic capacity and driving performance for road-and race-proven use.
The Hartech team will talk through how they have developed their engineering techniques to reach their position today and will also outline the services they provide to customers. There will also be an opportunity to visit the excellent British Motor Museum and peruse the wide collection of cars. For details and to book, visit the Club website.
ZIEGENPORSCHESPECIALISTS
This is an opportunity for 996 Register members to visit Ziegen Porsche, who are having a cars and coffee event in Pickering on 11 May. For further details, visit the Club website.
Can I please encourage members to email me photos of your cars so we can add them to the 996 Register gallery? We will also try to feature a couple of shots in this magazine
each month. Please note that photos must be more than 1 Mb in size.
Happy driving,
Tony
GT3
RegisterSecretary
Alex Drobik 01628 620702 -gt3@porscheclubgb.com
Well, the sun has returned and many of us have taken the opportunity to exercise our cars. It was good to get out and about and blow the cobwebs off.
OULTONPARKRSOAV
The weather yet again turned out nice on the day despite the forecast of rain. The early morning damp track was not too 'slippery' and, by late morning, had dried nicely. I had a good time because the track was never very busy and the driving standard was good. I mulled over the performance advantage from my
first-generation 996 GT3 to the latest; a full 68 seconds at the 'Ring, which sort of translates to 14 seconds' advantage per lap at Oulton Park. At least I can say my 996 needs to be driven -apart from ABS, there is no dynamic this/that/whatever stability management. The day was wellattended, with many locals turning up to see the action. Another great day!
CELEBRATINGTHEGT3
I was contacted by fellow 996.1 GT3 Club Sport owner and Club member Mark Ponting. He's had an idea to get the most comprehensive list of UK owners of these rare cars and then find a way to celebrate them -more to follow.
GT30AV
I am working on a GT3 day at a specialist which will be in May/ early June or August -again, watch this space. As noted on the various forums, apart from exhaust enhancements, there is healthy interest in brake pad/ disc alternatives as well as the latest aero add-ons and I will try to cover those aspects in the visit.
Happy GT3ing,
Alexander Drobik
CAYENNE
RegisterSecretaries
Position vacant cayenne@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegisterSecretary
Larry Lawrence
997
RegisterSecretary
Steve Johnson 07555 198866 997@porscheclubgb.com
RegisterAssistant
Roger Aldridge
My 997 is still in the garage at time of writing, but I have started to see others out and about, which is wonderful. Someone else who stores their car over winter is member Roger Grundy, who sent me some lovely pictures of his 997 Targa.
Roger describes it as "a great car and I especially like the polished aluminium trim, which appeals to my aesthetic considerations as an architect, against the black, as on the edge to the wheels. The car has the full carbon pack and full leather Terracotta interior with sports seats -a great combination that has been admired by many."
I also received a fantastic email from Mick Baird, who reports: "I purchased my 997, my first-ever Porsche, last April. It has been a lifelong dream to own a 911 and I chose the 997 .1 for that amazing analogue experience, the raucous indirect fuel injection and hydraulic steering. I actually wanted to experience a Porsche pre-VAG -not that I would not love to have any modern Porsche; I just wanted to get that very raw 997 experience.
"After purchasing the car from Renn Works, I fell in love with it immediately. Renn Works had looked after it for eight years and they have just carried out some work on her ready for some road trips this year. It is an obsession!"
Something I noted on my car is that the central locking has stopped working. It's not a low battery because it is connected to a CTEK battery conditioner, so I'm assuming it's the battery in the key fob. I'll get it replaced and let you know.
If you have a story about your 997, a question or just a great picture, please email me.
My G3 Panamera arrived in January. This is Porsche's latest incarnation of the Panamera formula, combining effortless power and sporting performance. Some may see it as a family car and it can be when you want it to be -that's the point. But the Panamera delivers much more. When you step into any Porsche, you know you are about to embrace something special. We all make choices as enthusiasts and willingly buy into the characteristics of the brand we know and love so well. The Panamera is part of that story, delivering its brief in the luxury space. But, at its heart, it's a Porsche -just as it should be.
At our anniversary event in 2024, we were honoured with an address by Dr Thomas Friemuth, Porsche AG Vice President Product Line Panamera. One thing he said about the new G3 said it all: "Go drive it!".
Of course, what he meant was to forget preconception, prejudice or thinking its brief is to try to emulate a 911 or a Cayenne. Simply be objective and judge what's in front of you. As a local commentator said before a certain football team's recent win over Liverpool: "Howay, don't play the badge, play the man".
Having lived with the G3 for a couple of months, I can say that there is a good car S3 underneath all the gizmos and comms o:: systems. Despite the contemporary froth
of product delineation, Porsche haven't lost sight of what they do well: chassis engineering, drivetrain integration and a focus on the driver. It rides serenely on its active ride, Bentley class, and the latest iteration, its E-Hybrid system, is the result of 1 6-plus years of considered development -and it shows.
So, what is a Panamera? Luxury, performance, versatility? The real answer is that it's whatever you want it to be. It's Porsche's best-kept secret for those who don't need to shout too loud to get noticed.
Randal/Rack
Forthefirsttime,centrelockwheelscanbefitted
CAYMAN
RegisterSecretary
John Dickinson 07990 01 0368 cayman@porscheclubgb.com
ANNIVERSARIES
Hello. Straight to the point this month. The Cayman was first sold in the UK in late 2005 and the GT4 was launched in 2015, so we have a 20th and a 10th anniversary to celebrate. It is a great opportunity to raise the Cayman's profile and we will be having special displays at events throughout the year -at the very least, Donington, Brooklands, Gaydon and Silverstone, plus the NEC in November. I am collecting a group of members who are willing to display their cars so, if you have a Cayman and a story to tell, please get in touch. We have at least two cars from the first batch of cars delivered in the UK, others with an interesting history, some that have racked up the miles and more used in competition. Caymans get around and it is their ability to meet owners' different needs that makes them special.
RETROPOWER
The first event that took place this year was a visit by 40 or so members to Retropower in Hinckley. Retropower began building
'restomods' more than 1 0 years ago, but with a focus on creating unique, driveable, beautifully crafted cars to order. We spent the morning in The Den', examining current projects in their finishing stages and seeing some of the service processes and their trim shop. In the afternoon, a smaller group went around the fabrication workshop where the structural and mechanical work takes place. The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail was exemplary. It is interesting to think what they could do to a Cayman.
The next meeting in the Register diary will be at the Donington Historic Festival on 2-4 May. I hope to see you there.
991
RegisterSecretary
Neil Bravery -07730 050354 991@porscheclubgb.com
The driving season is well underway and, for those of you who store your cars over winter, the cobwebs should be very much blown away. Hopefully you all managed to get your 991 s taxed before the April increase? I wonder what effect this increase will have. The powers that be apparently want to tax away our enjoyment of driving our wonderful cars, but we won't give up that easily.
991USAGE
I received a request from a member asking about mileages and who uses their 911 as a daily driver. Clearly, some of you do. This member has been using his 991.1 as a daily driver for several years and has racked up a dizzying 1 20k miles, which puts me to shame. He's had a few niggles along the way but nothing major and, considering his car is kept outside, that's a testament to just how good they are. It would be nice to hear from other members to understand how their 991 s are holding up. For reference, he's had the following replaced: vacuum pump; PADM engine
valves in the coolant system; and four exhaust systems due to the solenoids seizing up. The engine and gearbox are holding up well so, for a 1 car being used daily, I think we can safely say the 991 s are strong ... or can we?
SERIOUSENGINEFAILURE
I recently heard of a 991 GTS that had serious engine failure due to a misfire which caused bottom end damage and bore scoring. This resulted in needing a new short engine direct from Porsche at a huge cost. A possible cause is that the ignition coils can apparently fail over time, causing a misfire and pre-detonation which, if not attended to, can cause engine
damage. I think a 'belt and braces' approach would be to replace all six coils when changing the spark plugs, which is worth doing for the sake of another £200 or so. Hopefully this was an isolated case, but please email me if you have experienced this. Remember, this model has been around since 2011, so early cars are probably still on the original coils. Overall, I think the 991 is a pretty solid car and is clearly capable as a weekend bit of fun or a daily driver. Keep them serviced and keep on top of any niggles and the car will serve you well.
EVENTS
I'm supporting the Harewood Speed Hillclimb in Yorkshire on 18 May and look forward to meeting members there. I'm also trying to organise a Cars and Coffee event at RPM Knaresborough in North Yorkshire, my local independent Porsche garage. We've not settled on a date yet but, in the meantime, please email me if you are interested in coming along. As soon as I've secured a date, I'll put the event on the Forum.
Enjoy the sunshine and the driving season ahead.
Neil
MACAN
RegisterSecretary
Mike Allen 07976 697070 macan@porscheclubgb.com
An eclectic mix of cars being serviced at Retropower
Mike's first Macan, an S Diesel -December 2014
992RegisterCotswoldRun2024
TIMEFORACHANGE
Eleven years ago this month, I penned the first Macan Register PP column and have religiously provided a monthly contribution ever since. With the help and enthusiasm of a Register which has grown to a membership of 1, 1 35 at the last count, we have together forged a successful element of PCGB. However, I have been indicating for some time now that I wish to stand down and hand the baton to a younger member who is up to speed with modern digital media and tech etc.
I will continue to organise the current advertised events until the end of June but, thereafter, it'll be over to someone else. I've given my all to the task and now need to get my life back and enjoy retirement with my family, unhindered by the role of Macan RS.
So, sadly, this will be my last official column. I've been a privilege to create the Macan Register from scratch and aid its development to its current status, earning the accolade of Register of the Year on three occasions. Last year, I organised the highly successful 10th anniversary celebratory trip to the Leipzig factory, from where I picked up my first Macan in May 2014. The trip was an enormous undertaking, but one I rate as the highlight of my tenure.
I will remain available to help and advise my successor, but just that from now on.
So, over to one or a few of the 1 ,135 members to continue my legacy.
A visit to Blists Hill Victorian Town and CJ:) = RAF Museum Midlands in Cosford before an optional dinner to round off the day.
11JUNEVisittoGreatWestern AirAmbulance
At Almondsbury near Chipping Sadbury. Meet for coffee at Eynsham near Oxford and take a scenic cross-country drive to the base. Email the Register for more details and to book your places.
992
RegisterSecretary
David Wood 992@porscheclubgb.com
AssistantRegisterSecretaries
Tim Rice and Jonathan Brown
During the past few months, we reviewed our previous two years' Register meetings and events and decided that, for 2025, we should aim to hold runs, meets and eats at venues all around the country to provide an opportunity for everyone to join with at least two events in their locality.
Many thanks to everyone who completed the recent survey which gave members the opportunity to indicate their opinions on some of the events, runs and visits we had listed as possibilities for 2025. Following detailed analysis of the results, these events have been selected and are now available for booking.
Full details of each event, booking forms and any costs can be accessed on the 992 Events page using the QR code below and, as many have restricted numbers, we suggest that anyone interested should waste no time in booking to avoid any disappointment. [!].a.-:' I!] Bookings are now available for the events listed in Diary Dates. Further events, which will also try to involve more geographic locations, are to be confirmed but will include the following: Avro Heritage Museum; Porsche Centre High Wycombe visit; PEC Silverstone morning; JCB factory tour; South Wales run; Concorde at the Manchester Runway; and Jodrell Bank. Full details will be announced when confirmed.
For more 992 Register information, see the 992 Forum, the 992 Facebook Group and ensure you have listed your car in 'My Profile'.
Happy driving, David, Tim and Jonathan
IARYDATES
TBCMAYShropshireRun 11JUNEPorscheCentreSolihull 9JULYVisittoMorganMotorCompany With drive to the Malverns and Hereford. 23JULYVisittoProdrive,Banbury TBCJULYGreatNorthRun 2-3AUGUSTBeaulieuSupercar Weekend
Un~ 3, Fairways Ind. Est. Filton, Bristol, BS34 7QS
DB70 765 5911 / 0117 944 1944
sales@advancedcarcare.ca.uk
www.advancedcarcare.co.uk
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
Un~s 6 & 7, Did Airfield Industrial Estate, Cheddington Lane, Long Marston, Hertfordshire, HP23 4QR 01296 663824
info@rpmtechnik.co.uk www.rpmtechnik.co.uk
THRacingPorscheSpecialist
Unit 5, Turnpike Farm Patton Rd, Biggleswade SG18 DEP 07742 813223 www.th-racing.co.uk/ james@th-racing.co.uk
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 15 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 1998 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 911 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.
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
RPMTechnik
Un~s 6 & 7, Did Airfield Industrial Estate, Cheddington Lane, Long Marston, Hertfordshire, HP23 4QR 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.
Tech9MotorsportLtd
Hale Garage, Hale Road, Liverpool, L24 5RB. 0151 4255 911 sales@tech9.ms www.tech-9.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. Our 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 911 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 with 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.
WeissachUKLimited
Unit 3&48 Moss Lane, Byley, Middlewich, Cheshire, CW1 D 9NG 01606 834 460 info@WeissachUKcom www.WeissachUK.com
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 flexibility. 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, bodyvvork.
RogerBrayRestoration
Milestone Business Park, London Road, Whimple, Exeter, Devon EX5 2 QB 01404 822005 parts@rogerbrayrestoration.com www.rogerbrayrestoration.com
Established in 1986 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 1987 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. 911-356-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. Our 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, Brook.speed 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 1 DO 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, HP23 4QR 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.
Porsche
Units 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.
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.
SBB/996/997 and Cayman engine repair/ rebuild specialist addressing failed IMS bearings, scored bores, 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].
Tech9MotorsportLtd
Hale Garage, Hale Road, Liverpool, L24 5RB. 0151 4255 911 sales@tech9.ms www.tech-9.co.uk
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
CavendishPorsche
Units 6 & 7, Gainsborough Close, Long Eaton, Nottingham, NG10 1 PX 0115 972 2001 enquires@cavendishporsche.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-cooled 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.
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.
cmsporache.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 IPB 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 & Mobil1 Oil. Collection & delivery available. Loan car facility when available on booking.
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. CharlesIveySpecialistCars
Five Ashes, East Sussex, TN20 SHY 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.
Zuffanhaus
Unit 1, Sandpits Industrial Estate, Houndsfield Lane, Wythall. B47 5QR
Contact Mike or Paul Chare 01564 823144 / 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, RH13 01403 891911 info@carreraperformance.com www.gcsengineering.com
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, and to explore what Parr can offer you, please visit our website. PhilipRabyPorsche and ClovellyRoad, 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 top-quality 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 with you.
HeritagePartsCentre
Discount: 10'% on Porsche/ WJ/ Land Rover Parts Claim: Log in and use code PCGB10 at checkout to receive discount at HeritagePartsCentre.com
We are 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.
WORCESTERSHIRE
PeterChambersAutomotiveLtd
Unit 5, 4,200 Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury Business Park, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 SPF 01684274168 peter@pcaltd.co.uk www.pcaltd.co.uk
TRADINGPOST
Interiors and more IIESPOKEANDAFTERMARKETHOODS,TDNNU.U COVERS,CARPETsm, FOOTWEU.MATS,HU.DUNINGS, TORNORWORN SEATS,TAILOR-MADESIDE SCREENSANDHOODBAGS,HAND-SlTTCHEDSTEERINGWHEELS,RETROFIT HEATEDSEATS,EMIIROIDERY,BROKENSEATFRAMES,CIGARETTEBURNS, WORNSEATPIPING,TORNORWORNSEA.TS,DOORPANELS
see even more @ n
01908 585 039 I 07825 873 535 dave@davethetrimmer.com davethetrlmmer.com
THEWORLD'SLEADING TOUCHUPPAINT
Chipex '"is a revolutionary paint chip repair system that really works. It's the easy-to-use alternative to touch-up sticks or expensive 'smart' repair systems.
Publicationsteam George Woodward, Paul Grainger and Richard Rees
Archives Peter Cook Letters letters@porscheclubgb.com
Disclaimer
Directors of the board of Porsche Club Great Britain, Club staff, Register Secretaries and Regional Organisers are often requested by Club members to provide information on matters connected with their cars. Such information, advice and assistance provided by such persons is given in good faith, and is based upon the personal experience and knowledge of the individual concerned.
PorscheClub GreatBritain JOINUSONLINE
porscheclubgb
Neither Porsche Club Great Britain nor any of the aforementioned shall be under any liability in respect of such information, advice and assistance given to members. Members are advised to consult qualified specialists for information, advice and assistance on matters connected with their cars at all times.
Importedvehicles
Porsche cars imported outside the official Porsche Centre network, with a non-C16 specification, may have a lower resale value in the United Kingdom, and may also exhibit performance issues.
Performancemodifications
Members are advised that any modification or the fitting of any non-Porsche accessory may invalidate their warranty.
Editorialcontributions
Contributions to Porsche Post are always welcomed but, to avoid possible duplication, it is essential that subject matter is discussed with the editor (editor@porsche clubgb.com] beforehand.
porscheclubgb
Please send a brief outline of your idea to the above email address first. It is also essential that all images are copyright-cleared. Although every care will be taken with members' documents and pictures, we cannot be held responsible for damage to, or loss of, any material. While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of any information within Porsche Post, neither Porsche Club Great Britain nor Think Publishing Ltd can assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Published articles do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, other contributors or the publishers, or Porsche Club Great Britain policy.
Advertisers are reminded that the Porsche script and crest are protected trademarks. Their use in editorial and advertising requires permission from Porsche Cars GB Ltd. If the Club has reason to believe that any items for publication contravene these guidelines, copy will be returned. The advertiser remains liable for space booked.
RegionsandRegisterscopydeadlines:
Issue
Please remember that all contributions must be submitted before the published copy dates shown above.
porscheclubgb
THINK
Porsche Past ispublishedonbehalf ofPorscheClubGreatBritainby Think
65 Riding House Street, London, W1W7EH thinkpublishing.co.uk
Managingeditor Mike Waters Groupcreativedirector Matthew Ball
Commercialpartnershipsexecutive Tom Davison 020 3771 7230
This magazine comes in uncoated paper wrap packaging which can be recycled.
IrTHEMOMENTS THATSHAPED PORSCHE HISTORY
TDBDRNOTTOB?
Just how much did the B Serieschangethe 911?
WOROS:ADAMTOWLER
After four years in production, Porsche presented what it called the 911 'B Series' for the 1969 model year. Although there had been many changes before August 1968 without being grouped under a letter and, of course, there would be so many regular updates in the future that a steady, studious technical evolution would come to be a defining part of Porsche's culture, the B Series remains one of the most significant 911 upgrade points in the type's history.
In true Porsche fashion, the changes didn't appear overly radical when viewed individually or on paper. Viewed as a whole, however, they significantly upgraded the 911 across the board, getting it ready for a new decade. This was Ferdinand Piech's first major involvement with the 911 as head of the Engineering department and his team brought much of what they had learned on the racetrack to the new car, with a view to making it not just faster, but more efficient, comfortable and premium in feel.
The existing lineup of T, L and S models was replaced by a new T, E and S hierarchy and the middle-ranking 'E' was a clue to a new development -
"ITWASMOREEXPENSIVE,MORE
fuel injection (einspritzung) for the E and revised S models. Porsche had used the Bosch plunger-type injection setup on its racing cars since 1966 and incorporated a 'space cam' that made the quantity of fuel injected sensitive not only to throttle opening but also to engine speed from 1968. Naturally, there was some refining of the system to make it suitable for road use, such as the provision of mixture enrichment during cold starting, but there was a promise of better economy too (although early magazine road tests didn't find this to be true).
The engines also featured a new continuous-flow fuel pump, a stronger alternator and Bosch 'HKZ' capacitive discharge ignition that helped prevent spark plug fouling in heavy traffic. Most of all, there was a new magnesium crankcase, developed and pressure cast by MAHLE up the road from the Porsche factory, which saved 10kg alone.
The entry-level 911 T remained at 110bhp, but the new E offered 140bhp and 129lb/ft while the S, now with an added oil cooler to maintain engine temperatures during hard use, produced 170bhp at 6,600rpm and 134lb/ft at 5,500rpm. It could rev to 7,200rpm and offered an impressive 85bhp/per litre, although it needed to be driven in determined fashion to get the best from it.
The other major change was the lengthening of the 911's wheelbase, achieved by moving
the rear wheels rearwards and hence also reducing the engine's overhang to the benefit of weight distribution and handling. The increase was 57mm, giving a new wheelbase of 2,268mm and requiring larger CV joints and an increase in torsion bars from 22-23mm. The wheel arches (moved backwards at the rear) now featured a slight flare to their shape because they needed to cover wider 6" rims, with the high-performance tyre choice being a 185/70 VR15. The S also featured an aluminium engine lid and new alloy front brake calipers, provided by Ate. There was also the introduction of novel selflevelling hydraulic front suspension struts, made by Boge, that effectively combined a conventional spring, damper and anti-roll bar into one component. It was standard fitment on the E but an option on the rest of the range, sometimes as part of a 'Comfort Package'. The traditional torsion bar setup remained the factory's recommendation for keener drivers.
A new ZF steering rack, revised interior design (new steering wheel, ventilation, etc.), twin batteries (one in each front corner to help with weight distribution) and brighter halogen headlamps on European models were just some of the additional developments. It was more expensive, more comfortable, faster and easier to drive. Does that sound familiar? PP
