The 2017 Porsche 911: A Legend Reimagined
The 2017 Porsche 911 stands as a testament to decades of engineering excellence and iconic design. For this model year, Porsche introduced significant updates, particularly to the Carrera and Carrera S models, marking a pivotal moment in the 911's evolution. This generation embraced turbocharging for its core models, while retaining the soul-stirring performance and unmistakable silhouette that has defined the 911 for generations.
Highlights
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Engine and Performance:
- 3.0-liter Twin-Turbocharged Flat-Six Engine: The heart of the refreshed Carrera and Carrera S models now features a potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine. This adoption of turbocharging across the board delivered a significant boost in torque and efficiency, providing stronger low-end grunt and improved responsiveness.
- Horsepower and Torque:
- Carrera: 370 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque.
- Carrera S: 420 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission Options: Buyers had the choice between a standard 7-speed manual transmission, offering the ultimate driver engagement, or the lightning-fast 7-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch automatic transmission, renowned for its seamless shifts and rapid acceleration.
- Performance Figures: The turbocharging allowed for quicker acceleration times, with models like the Carrera S capable of achieving 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds when equipped with the PDK transmission.
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Safety Features:
- Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM): This electronically controlled damping system constantly adjusts the suspension based on road conditions and driving style, optimizing both ride comfort and handling.
- Porsche Stability Management (PSM): An advanced stability control system that intervenes to prevent skids and loss of control, enhancing overall safety.
- Available Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC): For enhanced body roll control and cornering stability, PDCC actively stabilizes the chassis during dynamic driving.
- Standard Airbags: Comprehensive airbag system including front, side, and knee airbags for enhanced occupant protection.
- Optional Driver Assistance Systems: Features like adaptive cruise control, lane change assist, and parking assist were available to further enhance safety and convenience.
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Trims:
- Carrera: The foundational model, offering a potent twin-turbocharged engine and the quintessential 911 driving experience.
- Carrera S: Elevated performance with a more powerful engine tune, larger wheels, and typically enhanced braking and suspension components.
- Carrera 4 / Carrera 4S: All-wheel-drive variants offering enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
- Targa 4 / Targa 4S: Characterized by their distinctive electro-chromatic glass roof and integrated roll bar, offering a unique open-air experience with coupe-like rigidity.
- GTS (Gran Turismo Sport): Positioned above the S models, the GTS variants offered even more power, sportier suspension tuning, and distinctive styling cues, embodying a sharper, more track-focused character.
- Turbo / Turbo S: These flagship models featured even more powerful twin-turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive, and advanced performance technologies, representing the pinnacle of 911 engineering.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Refreshed Interior and Exterior Styling: The 2017 models featured subtle yet significant design revisions, including updated front and rear fascias, new headlights and taillights, and revised interior trim.
- Porsche Communication Management (PCM): An updated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, improved navigation, and smartphone integration capabilities.
- Enhanced Aerodynamics: The exterior design was refined to improve aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to both performance and fuel economy.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Porsche 911 typically signifies a commitment to a thrilling driving experience and a dedication to maintaining a high-performance vehicle.
- Driving Experience: Expect a car that is both exhilarating and incredibly capable. The steering is precise and communicative, the brakes are powerful, and the chassis is remarkably balanced. Whether navigating winding country roads or cruising on the highway, the 911 delivers an engaging and rewarding drive. The addition of turbocharging to the Carrera models softened the initial turbo lag often associated with earlier turbo-equipped Porsches, providing a more linear power delivery.
- Maintenance: Porsche vehicles are known for their meticulous engineering, but this precision comes with a cost. Regular maintenance at authorized Porsche service centers or reputable independent specialists is crucial for preserving the car's performance and longevity. Expect scheduled oil changes, fluid flushes, brake inspections, and tire rotations. Major services, such as spark plug replacements or belt changes, will also be necessary at recommended intervals. While the 2017 models benefited from the reliability advancements of the 991.2 generation, it's still a high-performance machine that demands attentive care.
- Insurance: Due to the 911's performance capabilities, luxury positioning, and the cost of repairs for specialized components, insurance premiums are generally higher than for mainstream vehicles. Factors such as your driving record, location, age, and chosen coverage levels will significantly impact the cost. It's advisable to get insurance quotes early in the buying process.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Porsche 911 is a highly desirable automobile, prospective buyers should be aware of a few potential considerations.
- Turbocharged Nature of Carrera Models: While the turbocharging offers significant performance benefits, it represents a departure from the naturally aspirated engines that defined earlier 911 generations for purists. The sound profile, while still distinctive, has a different character.
- Infotainment System Learning Curve: While improved, the PCM system and its various functions can have a slight learning curve for new users.
- Ride Firmness: Even with PASM, the 911 is tuned for performance, and the ride can be firm, especially on less-than-perfect road surfaces. This is a characteristic that many enthusiasts embrace but might be a consideration for those prioritizing absolute comfort.
- Limited Rear Seat Space: The iconic 2+2 seating configuration means the rear seats are best suited for children or very short trips for adults. They are not practical for regular passenger use.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Porsche 911 is a remarkable machine that successfully blends evolutionary design with significant technological advancements. The introduction of turbocharged engines to the Carrera line brought a new level of accessible performance and efficiency, without sacrificing the core DNA of what makes a 911 so special. It remains an icon of automotive engineering, offering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined, making it a desirable choice for discerning driving enthusiasts.