Porsche 911 Turbo S 3dr Pre-Model Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £125,975
Tax Band: M
Insurance Group: N/A
MPG: 24.8
CO2: 268
0-62 Mph: 3.3 secs
BHP: 530 BHP
Range: 366 miles
CarSite Verdict:  4/5
The Turbo S is one of the fastest versions of the 911, and pushes this version close to being placed in the supercar bracket, and this is reflected in the price. For the majority of people, the cheaper versions of the 911 will prove to be more practical and economical, but the Turbo S is certainly one of the most desirable versions of the car, offering a balance of sheer performance and reliable handling.

PROS:  The engine delivers over 500bhp yet this never seems on the edge of losing control, with the car retaining plenty of grip and handling well even at high speeds.

CONS:  The running costs of this version of the 911 are particularly expensive to match the large price tag, and the looks are not too dissimilar to the 911’s with smaller engines.

Behind the Wheel

All versions of the 911 have benefited from years of development and advances in terms of the stability and grip of the car, and the Turbo S still has plenty to handle the power coming from the 3.8 litre engine. The adaptive sports suspension to be found on this version means you have the choice of comfort suspension or sports for those journeys where you can let the 911 off the leash. The driving position is very good, and the seats are fully adjustable so that every driver should be able to find a comfortable position that offers excellent visibility.

Even the most basic versions of the 911 have some very good performance figures, but the Turbo S really steps up the game. The acceleration from 0-62mph is a thrill ride experienced over 3.3 seconds, and the top speed of 196mph means that this car is begging to be taken on a race track so it can really show you what it can do. Refinement in the cabin isn’t up there with the luxury saloons, but most Porsche drivers will want to hear the engine note as they drive.

Looks & Equipment

The Porsche 911 is truly a beautiful car, and the bulges in the sleek lines for the wheel arches and the round headlights are very distinctive features. Although the Turbo S is a sportier version of the basic 911, the styling remains understated and classy, with the twin spoke alloy wheels looking wonderful, and the air intakes behind the doors hinting at the cooling required for such a powerful engine. Inside the 911 is comfortable and classy, with the white dials on the dashboard simple and straightforward, with the small buttons on the centre console the only quibble.

With such a hefty price tag you would expect plenty of equipment, and there is plenty of gadgetry to keep the technology fan busy. Satellite navigation and a hands free phone kit are helpful for those wanting to keep in touch on the move, while the integrated CD stereo and DVD player are also welcome additions. Power seats and climate control help to ensure that people will be comfortable within this luxurious cabin.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The Porsche 911 is a very safe car, and there are many driving aids that have been developed so that the power is channelled safely to the road, and it is very stable. There are also airbags to look after occupants in the front and the rear of the car if the car becomes involved in a collision. Porsche does have a good reputation for reliability, and the Turbo S should continue this.

The 911 isn’t the most practical of cars, with the storage space in the front able to hold a few bags, but won’t transport larger items. The back seats have limited space, but this really is a driver’s car.

Value for Money

Recommending the Turbo S over cheaper versions of the 911 is quite difficult, because of the list price of £125,865. This is an awful lot of money to pay, but those who do get the car to the track will find the payoff to be excellent.

Running costs are also significant, with the car delivering an average 24.8mpg. Insurance premiums are also very high, but one high point is that these cars do hold their values very well when it comes to selling the car. The 911 is delivered with a three year unlimited mileage warranty and roadside breakdown assistance.

Porsche 911 Turbo S 3dr Pre-Model Car Review - by 
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