PORSCHE 997 TURBO VS 997 TURBO S

PORSCHE 997 TURBO VS 997 TURBO S

35 years after the first Porsche Turbo, Porsche presented the 997 Turbo. Later, with phase 2, appeared the S version. Real evolution or simple pleasure?

35 years after the first Porsche Turbo, Porsche presented the 997 Turbo. Later, with phase 2, appeared the S version. Real evolution or simple pleasure?
Presented for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2006, the 997 Turbo phase 1 was expected at the turn. Indeed, although equipped with many qualities, its predecessor the 996 Turbo struggled to find a place in the hearts of Porschists.
Porsche understood it well, you had to hit hard with the 997 Turbo. When Phase 2 came out, Porsche declined the Turbo S soon after. Real interest? We will answer you.
 
997 turbo s flat 6

PORSCHE 997 TURBO VS 997 TURBO S, WHAT ARE THE AESTHETIC DIFFERENCES?

First key point that raises doubt in this comparison, the look of the two models. Did you see a noticeable difference? There are, however, some subtle differences. A clearly visible sign is the monogram. The 997 Turbo S also features RS Spyder rims as standard. However, a “normal” 997 Turbo owner can get one if they wish. The Turbo S has adaptive directional headlights which are not on the 997 Turbo.

On the interior side, the Turbo S offers adaptive sports seats, and a two-tone leather interior, paddle steering wheel, cruise control, CD changer (rare commodity today!), and degraded tinted windscreen.

Finally, if we favor aesthetics, there is not much point in acquiring a 997 Turbo S rather than a 997 Turbo. 

997 turbo

MECHANICALLY, WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?

The Porsche 997 Turbo makes 500 hp while the 997 Turbo S puts out 530 hp. Until then, Porsche only used large turbos on the GT2s. Finally, after a test, it turns out that the result is final: 7”6 on the same 100/200. 8 tenths better which makes the 997 Turbo S a faster car than the 997 GT2! As a reminder, the GT2 is in manual gearbox and the 997 Turbo S in Sport Plus mode PDK gearbox. The 997 Turbo is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox but has the PDK gearbox as an option.

In a way, the Turbo S is considered the Turbo “plus” where its value for money is more interesting than the 997 Turbo (you still had to count €24,000 more to afford it).

The 997 Turbo S comes out on top in terms of performance and keeps all its promises under its “S” name. Something to delight those who love when “it sends”.

997 turbo s flat 6 mag
997 turbo s flat 6 magazine 1

CONCLUSION, WHICH PORSCHE 997 TURBO TO CHOOSE?

Aesthetically, the two models are similar, so it's under the hood that it's played. Clearly, the 997 Turbo S dominates the 997 Turbo and offers more interesting sensations. If you want to buy a Turbo without too many options, it is better to stay on the “normal” 997 Turbo. If you are looking for more performance and more equipment, we recommend the 997 Turbo S without hesitation. Whatever your choice, the name Turbo is evocative and makes you dream, so treat yourself!

To find the full comparison, dive back into No. 234 via the digital subscription.

Personal anecdote, the 997 Turbo is the model that made me love Porsche when I was little. Years later, it is a pleasure to be able to write again about child dreams.

Porsche 911 Turbo S (997.2) Technical Specifications

Engine Type Flat 6
Induction Twin-turbocharged
Cooling Water-cooled
Valvetrain Double overhead camshafts
Injection Direct Fuel Injection
Bore X Stroke 4.02 in/102 mm x 3.05 in/77.5 mm
Displacement 231.80 cu-in/3,800 cc
Horsepower 523 bhp @ 6250 rpm
Torque 516 ft lbs @ 2100 rpm
Max Rpm 7000
Compression Ratio 9.8:1
Transmission Options 7-speed PDK
Chassis Type Rear-engined, all-wheel drive
Curb Weight 3,494 lbs
Height 51.18 in/1,300 mm
Ground Clearance 3.78 in/96 mm
Length 176.26 in/4,477 mm
Wheelbase 92.52 in/2,350 mm
Width 72.91 in/1,852 mm
Track Front 58.66 in/1,490 mm
Track Rear 60.94 in/1,548 mm
Drag Coefficient 0.31
Wheel Size Front 19 x 8.5
Wheel Size Rear 19 x 11
Tire Size Front 235/35ZR-19
Tire Size Rear 305/30ZR-19
Brake Caliper Front Fixed 4-piston
Brake Caliper Rear Fixed 4-piston
Disc Type Front Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake discs (PCCB)
Disc Type Rear Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake discs (PCCB)
Disc Size Front 14.96 in/380 mm x 1.34 in/34 mm
Disc Size Rear 13.78 in/350 mm x 1.10 in/28 mm
0 To 62 Mph 3.1 seconds
Top Speed 195 mph
Mpg City 17
Mpg Highway 25
Mpg Combined 19
Fuel Tank Capacity 17.7 U.S. gallons
Required Octane Premium unleaded (91+)

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