Porsche 911 GTS 3dr Car Review - February 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £78,370
Tax Band: L
Insurance Group: N/A
MPG: 27.4
CO2: 242
0-62 Mph: 4.6 secs
BHP: 402 BHP
Range: 404 miles
CarSite Verdict:  4.25/5
Porsche's 911 remains a superb sports car; one of the few that can be used daily, and without doubt one of the best driving experiences ever. All the Porsche elements are present in this model, with improved power and emissions, and its razor like handling making it one of the best in its class.

PROS:  The 911’s jaw-dropping performance, superb steering, massive grip and flat-six engine coupled with the sound of the exhaust will have you under its spell in no time.

CONS:  You need reasonably deep pockets to run it, road noise at high speeds.

Behind the Wheel

Inside the cabin you’ll find the seats offer superb support. There’s plenty of adjustment available both on the driver’s seat and the steering column so you can find the perfect driving position with ease. In the front there’s ample space for driver and passenger, but the same can’t be said of the rear which is cramped for most adults – but then the Porsche 911 was never designed as a four-seater car.

The GTS comes with Porsche’s 3.8-litre flat-six powering it. Producing 309lb-ft of torque with a top speed of 190mph and capable of doing 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds, it offers explosive speed and performance. However, if you feel that it’s not quite quick off the mark enough for you – then there’s also a 429bhp GT3, a 4WD 493bhp Turbo version or maybe the 530bhp GT2 all of which will get you wherever you want to go – just that little bit quicker.

The handling is superb with razor like precision and amazingly quick, response steering. Massive grip and lack of body-roll along with adaptive sports suspension, which is switchable between sport and comfort modes simply by touching a button, make it a sizzling ride.

The engine loves working hard and an incredible howling rasp from the exhaust is produced every time you push the throttle. As you’d expect the suspension can seem a little firm over rougher surfaces - and at high speeds there is some road noise. However, you’ll be so blown away by the 911’s performance and the symphony of the exhaust that you’ll probably never even notice it.

Looks & Equipment

The 911 hasn’t changed its look much over the years. It’s more of a gradual evolution than the standard ‘revamp’ applied to mass produced cars. It’s still sleek and classy, head-turning and understated for its capabilities.

This 911 GTS comes with PSM stability control, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric windows, leather seats, alarm, immobiliser and CD. If you want more goodies you could always load it up with cruise control, rear parking sensors, MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth, and a satellite navigation system.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The Porsche 911 is one of the few ‘supercars that is actually really practical and can be used on a daily basis. Space for driver and passenger upfront is excellent and there’s the usual array of cubbyholes and glove-box storage options. Boot space of 105-litres, which is at the front, due to the Porsche’s rear-mounted engine, is enough for a couple of small suitcases or overnight bags, but not much else.

Every 911 comes equipped with dual front, side and curtain airbags and PSM stability control to keep occupants safe. Thatcham, the security research centre, gave the 911 its maximum five-star rating for its resistance to drive-away-theft and a four-star rating for its ability to withstand forced entry.

High quality materials are used throughout the 911 and build quality is excellent, as you’d expect from Porsche. The engine and mechanics are well tried and tested and able to withstand the stop-start grind of daily city traffic or a punishing workout on the country roads without any problems.

Value for Money

All models have excellent build quality and hold their value well. With a price tag of £78,370 you get a lot of car for your money. Compared to the other ‘supercars’ in its class the running costs are relatively low. CO2 emissions are 242 g/km (VED band L for Road Tax) and average fuel economy is 27.4mpg – far from economical, but then you don’t buy a Porsche to save money.

The Porsche 911 comes with three-year unlimited mileage warranty and service intervals of 20,000 miles, which means that you won’t be spending too much time at the dealer with it – and more time behind the wheel with a smile on your face.

Porsche 911 GTS 3dr Car Review - by 
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