With the 996 Turbo Porsche was continuing the successful history of turbocharged 911 models.
Using the proven and solid M64 engine as a basis, a watercooled 3.6 liter twin-turbo engine providing 420bhp @ 600rpm and an impressive 560Nm available from 2700-4600rpm was specifically developed for this car.
Same as for all its predecessors, the Carrera bodywork was specifically modified to fit the requirements of the next generation of the high performance machine: A new front bumper, sideskirts and a biplane rear spoiler with an electrically extending upper wing were designed. The Turbo also received new headlights and rear lights later also implemented into the standard and S models.
The chassis of the 996 Turbo featured standard all-wheel drive and the successors of the infamous 993 Big Reds. Also the Turbo I design wheels of the 993 Turbo were redesigned to resulting in the Turbo II design also featuring hollow spoke design and very low weight (8 / 11 X 18, 9.65 kg & 11.9 kg per wheel).
The 996 turbo achieved very impressive performance figures: 0-100km/h in 4.2s and a top speed of 305km/h. Since 2002 Porsche also featured a factory performance upgrade called “X50” increasing engine power to 450bhp @ 5700rpm and 620 Nm between 3500 and 4500rpm and improving the cars performance to a mindblowing 3.9s (0-100km/h) and a top speed of 307km/h.
In 2004, the 996 Turbo S was introduced featuring the X50 engine upgrades and the formerly optional PCCB ceramic brakes as standard equipment.
