Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Volkswagen takes 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/volkswagen-takes-49-9-percent-stake-in-porsche-ag/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/volkswagen-takes-49-9-percent-stake-in-porsche-ag/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/volkswagen-takes-49-9-percent-stake-in-porsche-ag/#commentsFiled under: ,

Cue Ennio Morricone and the symphonic accompaniment to the endgame: VW has officially taken a 49.9% stake in Porsche. VW paid €3.9 billion ($5.75B U.S.) for its cut, "based on the enterprise value for Porsche AG calculated under a careful due diligence and valuation procedure." That's a few shades more than the €3.3 billion amount VW was saying it would pay a few months ago.

In acquiring Porsche, VW not only gains a premium brand that is still among the most profitable in the business, but VW expects its operating profit to jump by €700 million ($1.03B U.S.) over time due to cost-saving synergies. The purchase won't be finalized until 2011, though, when VW will incorporate Porsche Holding Salzburg, Europe's largest car dealer which also happens to be owned by Porsche.

You can read VW's press release - which has an air of something from Napoleon's PR department after the Battle of Austerlitz - after the jump.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen takes 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG

Volkswagen takes 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>porscheporsche volkswagenporsche vwporsche vw mergerPorscheVolkswagenPorscheVwPorscheVwMergervolkswagenvwVW porscheVwPorscheTue, 08 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche Design gears up for the sunshine with new driving and sportswear collection]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/porsche-design-gears-up-for-the-sunshine-with-new-driving-and-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/porsche-design-gears-up-for-the-sunshine-with-new-driving-and-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/porsche-design-gears-up-for-the-sunshine-with-new-driving-and-sp/#commentsFiled under: ,


Porsche Design Sport Spring/Summer 2010 Collection - Click above for high-res image gallery

It may be getting colder across the country, but in Porscheland, things are heating up. The German automaker just took the wraps off its ultimate tribute to sun and fun, the new Boxster Spyder, in Los Angeles, and its merchandising counterpart is gearing up for sunshine with its new collection of gear for the spring and summer.

The latest sport collection has items for the driver, runner, golfer, swimmer, sailor and tennis player, all made in collaboration with sportswear giant Adidas. Highlights include weatherproof jackets, shock-absorbing sneakers, and even the odd Bermuda or two. You can check it all out in the press release after the jump and in the high-res image gallery below. The collection is available from Porsche Design stores worldwide, and the best part is you don't have to own a Porsche to buy them (you little poseur, you!).


Gallery: Porsche Design Sport Spring/Summer 2010


[Source: Porsche Design]

Continue reading Porsche Design gears up for the sunshine with new driving and sportswear collection

Porsche Design gears up for the sunshine with new driving and sportswear collection originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adidas porscheAdidasPorscheporscheporsche accessoriesporsche adidasporsche clothingporsche designporsche design sportPorscheAccessoriesPorscheAdidasPorscheClothingPorscheDesignPorscheDesignSportFri, 04 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Porsche debuts lightweight 2011 Boxster Spyder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-porsche-boxster-spyder-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-porsche-boxster-spyder-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-porsche-boxster-spyder-at-2009-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche rolled out the 2010 Boxster Spyder, the third model in the Boxster lineup, for its world debut at the LA Auto Show, with an entirely new look and - we are led to believe - a driving personality nearly on par with the 911 GT3 RS.

Hidden deep and low in the belly of the Spyder is a tuned version of Porsche's 3.4-liter flat-six, rated at 320 hp (ten more than the Boxster S). While the added horses are welcome, it's the 176 pounds of mass lost that really raises our interest. To achieve these savings, Porsche has fitted the Spyder with a lightweight carbon fiber-ribbed soft top, unique rear decklid, low side windows, aluminum door skins and interior door panels with straps swapped from the 911 GT3 RS. Air conditioning, cupholders and an audio system have been left back on the factory floor (don't worry, Porsche will let you add them back for a price). With a curb weight of just 2,811 pounds, it is the lightest model in Porsche's lineup. With a power-to-weight ratio rivaling the Carrera S, the Boxster Spyder with a dual-clutch PDK transmission will now rip to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.

However, that's only part of the enthusiast-oriented story. Porsche replaced the dampers with an all-new sport suspension, riding 20 mm lower than the other models, to drop the center of gravity and improve handling over the standard Porsche Boxster and Boxster S. Fitted with a standard limited-slip differential and lightweight wheels, the package looks just fine to us. As expected, the pure driving enjoyment of the Porsche Boxster Spyder won't come cheap - base pricing starts at $61,200 when it arrives in February 2010.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading LA 2009: Porsche debuts lightweight 2011 Boxster Spyder

LA 2009: Porsche debuts lightweight 2011 Boxster Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoshow2009bosterboxsterboxster spyderBoxsterSpyderdebutla 2009la auto showla showla2009laautoshowLaShowlashow2009los angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowporscheporsche boxsterporsche boxster spyderporsche spyderPorscheBoxsterPorscheBoxsterSpyderPorscheSpyderspyderWed, 02 Dec 2009 18:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Better Than Before: 2010 NAIAS welcomes return of Nissan and Porsche, 54 carmakers total]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/#commentsFiled under: , ,



For many auto enthusiasts, the 2009 North American International Auto Show was the official beginning of the US economic downturn. Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi and Porsche didn't even bother to show up for the once-prestigious event and Honda chose not to unveil any new product. A couple months back, the NAIAS organizers gave us some hope for the 2010 extravaganza when they said that the show would be better attended this time around. Well it appears that the show will at least be marginally better.

NAIAS co-chair Doug Fox has reportedly told the Detroit Free Press that at least 54 automakers will take part in the show this year, up four from 2009. Fox also estimates that a couple more automakers may decide to join in on the fun, but nothing is official at this time. Also exciting is news that both Porsche and Nissan will participate in this year's show, though the extent of their presence isn't very clear. We do know that Nissan will, at the very least, participate in the Detroit show's 37,000-square-foot Electric Avenue exhibit, which features electric vehicles from 26 automakers. So far Porsche will only participate in a special event called "The Gallery," which will be held for holders of the American Express Centurion card. The invitation-only event will be held at the MGM Grand on January 10.

While it's nice to see that Porsche and Nissan are going to be active at NAIAS 2010, we're a bit disappointed at the level of participation. At least the show will top the down year that was NAIAS 2009, but it looks like we may still be a ways away from the grandeur of shows gone by.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Better Than Before: 2010 NAIAS welcomes return of Nissan and Porsche, 54 carmakers total originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroit 2009detroit 2010Detroit2009Detroit2010naiasnissannorth american international auto showNorthAmericanInternationalAutoShowporscheTue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche cancels Boxster/Cayman production contract, Magna wants cash]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/porsche-cancels-boxster-cayman-production-contract-magna-wants/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/porsche-cancels-boxster-cayman-production-contract-magna-wants/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/porsche-cancels-boxster-cayman-production-contract-magna-wants/#commentsFiled under: ,

2009 Porsche Boxster S - Click above for high res image gallery

Shortly after the Boxster debuted in 1996, Porsche contracted with Valmet Automotive of Finland as a second production source for the sports car, and a few years later, employed the facili along with the Cayman coupe. In 2008 Porsche decided that it would shift that production contract from Valmet to Magna International and its assembly plant in Graz Austria. Today, with Porsche being subsumed into the Volkswagen Group, the sports car maker has decided to cancel the Magna deal. With Volkswagen now buying up the remains of Karmann, the Boxster and Cayman are now expected be built at the coachbuilder's factory in Osnabrueck, Germany.

Magna claims it has already invested a significant amount of money on development to prepare for production. As a result Magna is seeking €400 million in compensation from Porsche. There's no word from Stuttgart on its plans to repay Magna, but with VW's legal arm exercised and ready to go, the battle is sure to be drawn out over the coming months and years.


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Porsche Boxster S PDK


[Source: Reuters]

Porsche cancels Boxster/Cayman production contract, Magna wants cash originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxster productionBoxsterProductionmagna internationalMagna International Incmagna international inc.MagnaInternationalMagnaInternationalIncMagnaInternationalInc.Porscheporsche boxsterPorscheBoxsterFri, 27 Nov 2009 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Essen Preview: speedArt to debut PS9-650 Panamera]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/essen-preview-speedart-to-debut-ps9-650-panamera/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/essen-preview-speedart-to-debut-ps9-650-panamera/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/essen-preview-speedart-to-debut-ps9-650-panamera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


speedArt PS9-650 Panamera - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Essen Motor Show is just days away, and all of Europe's tuners are set to unveil their latest and greatest aftermarket parts at Germany's version of SEMA. One of those companies will be speedArt, which will be introducing its new performance and appearance packages for the 2010 Porsche Panamera.

Using the Panamera Turbo as a base, speedArt have transformed Porsche's four-door into a 650-horsepower monster thanks to larger turbochargers, an upgraded exhaust system and a revised ECU. The German tuner claims impressive performance figures: a top speed of over 200 mph and 0-100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds.

The body kit fitted to the PS9-650 is fairly subtle, and dare we say tasteful. The aerodynamic package consists of a front chin spoiler that improves air flow to the brakes, rear diffuser, roof spoiler, side skirts and a rear bumper. Several other items are available as well including 22-inch forged wheels; an upholstered steering wheel; various trim pieces in aluminum, wood, or carbon fiber; and color-matched stitching. Hit the jump for speedArt's official press release, and be sure to browse through the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: speedArt PS9-650 Panamera


[Source: speedArt]

Continue reading Essen Preview: speedArt to debut PS9-650 Panamera

Essen Preview: speedArt to debut PS9-650 Panamera originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Porsche Panamera2010PorschePanameraPanameraPorschePorsche PanameraPorschePanameraspeedArtspeedart PanameraspeedArt PS9 650SpeedartPanameraSpeedartPs9650Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: 9ff Speed9 takes Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio to the next level]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/pics-aplenty-9ff-speed9-takes-the-porsche-911-turbo-cabrio-to-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/pics-aplenty-9ff-speed9-takes-the-porsche-911-turbo-cabrio-to-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/pics-aplenty-9ff-speed9-takes-the-porsche-911-turbo-cabrio-to-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


9ff Speed9 - Click above for high-res image gallery

As we discovered earlier this month, the 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo is one heck of a fast car. The quickest Porsche has ever produced, in fact. So it would take considerable moxie to try and improve on it. Fortunately, 9ff has such moxie, as demonstrated with the company's new Speed9.

We brought you initial info on the Speedster-inspired tuner car a few days ago, but 9ff has been kind enough to grace us with a few more details on its latest endeavor. Set to be unveiled this coming weekend at the Essen Motor Show - Germany's equivalent of SEMA - the 9ff Speed9 starts with the new 911 Turbo cabrio and updates with a series of performance and body mods to take it to the next level.

Improving on the 997.5's 3.8-liter direct injection twin-turbo boxer six, the 9ff pumps output up from 500 horsepower up to 650 ponies with a simple upgrade to the ECU and new air filter, exhaust and catalytic converter. The result? Try 0-100 km/h (62mph) in 3.3 seconds en route to a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph) - limited only by the speedster's slick open body-style. But those sleek looks and extra oomph will cost you: 239,000 euros - the equivalent of $360,000 in American greenbacks. That's two-and-a-half times the price of a stock 911 turbo cab, but if cost is no object, the Speed9 could be just your ticket.

Follow the jump for the press release and check out the fresh gallery of full high-resolution images below.


Gallery: 9ff Speed9


[Source: 9ff]

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: 9ff Speed9 takes Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio to the next level

Pics Aplenty: 9ff Speed9 takes Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio to the next level originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 19:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 porsche 911 turbo cabrio2010 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet2010Porsche911TurboCabrio2010Porsche911TurboCabriolet911911 turbo911Turbo9ff9ff porsche9ff speed 99ffPorsche9ffSpeed9essenessen motor showEssenMotorShowporscheporsche 911porsche 911 turboporsche 911 turbo cabrioporsche 911 turbo cabrioletporsche 9ffporsche turboPorsche911Porsche911TurboPorsche911TurboCabrioPorsche911TurboCabrioletPorsche9ffPorscheTurbospeed 9Speed9Thu, 26 Nov 2009 19:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Prototype 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught naked?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/spy-shots-prototype-2011-volkswagen-touareg-caught-naked/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/spy-shots-prototype-2011-volkswagen-touareg-caught-naked/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/spy-shots-prototype-2011-volkswagen-touareg-caught-naked/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hey there, odd looking, what you got cooking? Yes, we're pretty positive you're looking (or about to be looking) at the 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught without its robe on. Visually speaking, not much has changed. The front clip and hood look more in line with the sixth generation Golf/GTI. From behind, you can see an awful lot of Porsche Cayenne - which is not surprising as the two SUVs are very closely related - especially these days.

We're always liked the Touareg. It's one of those special Volkswagens built almost entirely out of Ferdinand Piech's adrenal glands, akin to the Phaeton and Bugatti Veyron. All three are cars built (largely) without compromise. Don't believe us? Allow us to suggest a weekend with the twin-turbo V10 TDI model - it really will bring you around to our way of thinking. 553 lb-ft of blown diesel torque at 1,800 rpm tends to have that effect on people.

The question now is, will this new 2011 Volkswagen Touareg be anywhere near as phantasmagorical as the last one? We can't say (yet), but we're thinking VW's going to probably dial the "hell yeah!" back a bit. That's just the way of things. Of course, they may not. Either way, we just hope they figure out how to make the next one more reliable. A tip of our off roadin' flap hats to Paul!

[Source: Secret New Cars]

Spy Shots: Prototype 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught naked? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Touareg2011 Volkswagen Touareg2011Touareg2011VolkswagenTouaregFerdinand PiechFerdinandPiechPorscheTouaregVolkswagen TouaregVolkswagenTouaregThu, 26 Nov 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[9ff speeds into Essen with Speedster-inspired Speed9]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/9ff-speeding-into-essen-with-speedster-inspired-speed9/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/9ff-speeding-into-essen-with-speedster-inspired-speed9/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/9ff-speeding-into-essen-with-speedster-inspired-speed9/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


9ff Speed9 - Click above for image gallery

If you love the spirit of SEMA but tend to lean towards more European tastes, Essen is the show for you. The annual aftermarket show in Germany always brings out an enticing crop of European tuner cars, and 9ff isn't about to let it go by without making its mark.

The Porsche tuner is hitting Essen with the Speed9, a slick speedster inspired by the legendary 356 (circa 1955) and based on the latest 997 Turbo cabrio. Naturally, 9ff started in the rear, boosting the 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat six from 473hp stock up to a whopping 650, all by tweaking the ECU and swapping out the air filter, exhaust and catalytic converter. The tuners have also fitted adjustable stabilizers front and rear with double springs at each corner, coupled with upgraded brakes.

There's no word yet on what effect the mods will have on performance, but you can't miss the body kit 9ff has developed. They've done away with the rear seats to give the cabrio a speedster-like profile, while fitting a new front air dam, side skirts and rear apron. No word on price either, but you can expect it to be commensurately expensive, with much of the range customizable to order.


Gallery: 9ff Speed9 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio


[Source: 9ff via WCF]

9ff speeds into Essen with Speedster-inspired Speed9 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911 turbo911Turbo9ff9ff 997 turbo9ff porsche9ff speed99ff997Turbo9ffPorsche9ffSpeed9essenessen motor showEssenMotorShowporscheporsche 911porsche 911 turboporsche 997Porsche911Porsche911TurboPorsche997speed 9Speed9Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche family auctioning off watch collection]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/porsche-family-auctioning-off-watch-collection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/porsche-family-auctioning-off-watch-collection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/porsche-family-auctioning-off-watch-collection/#commentsFiled under: ,

Porsche family watch collection - Click above for image gallery

Times are tough for the Porsche family. Amidst the merger with Volkswagen, their company just suffered a $6.6 billion loss. But we didn't think things were this bad for the descendants of Ferdinand Porsche until Bonhams announced they would be liquidating that family's watch collection to the highest bidder.

Okay, we're exaggerating just a bit. The Porsche family stands to make a lot of money out of the Volkswagen merger, and the collection is being auctioned off for charity. And while we have no idea what charity that is, we have to assume it's not the Porsche family themselves.

As it turns out, the family's interests extend beyond the automobile. Not only does their Porsche Design Group have its own range of watches, but some fourteen years ago they bought Eterna, one of the largest independent watchmakers in Switzerland. Eterna fabricates Porsche Design watches as well as their own brand, and several of the rarest examples will be included along with others among the 49 watches crossing the auction block on December 2 in London.

Among those pieces Bonhams is highlight are included a rare 18kt gold Porsche Design prototype and an Eterna presented to family scion Ferdinand Oliver Porsche on his 40th birthday, along with rare timepieces from Rolex and Omega as well as Panerai (which makes watches for arch-rival Ferrari), Jaeger LeCoultre (which partners with Aston Martin) and Breitling (in league with Bentley). Follow the jump for further details, and check out the images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Porsche Family Watch Collection


[Source: Bonhams]

Continue reading Porsche family auctioning off watch collection

Porsche family auctioning off watch collection originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonhamseternaporscheporsche designporsche eternaporsche familyporsche family watch collectionPorscheDesignPorscheEternaPorscheFamilyPorscheFamilyWatchCollectionFri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Porsche Boxster Spyder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/pics-aplenty-porsche-boxster-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/pics-aplenty-porsche-boxster-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/pics-aplenty-porsche-boxster-spyder/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche drivers don't like waiting. That's why they buy a Porsche, after all. So while a few weeks might not seem like a long time for most people, to a Porsche driver used to rocketing to 60 miles per hour in four-point-right-now seconds, the span of weeks must seem like an eternity.

Although we're still weeks away from the LA Auto Show, where Porsche is set to unveil the new Boxster Spyder, Zuffenhausen has kept its enthusiasts placated with a fresh batch of photos showing its newest, lightest vehicle in all its glory. We'll be on hand for the unveiling next month, but before then check out the updated high-res image gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder


[Source: Porsche]

Pics Aplenty: Porsche Boxster Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009 los angeles auto show2009LaAutoShow2009LosAngelesAutoShow2011 porsche boxster spyder2011PorscheBoxsterSpyderboxsterboxster spyderBoxsterSpyderla auto showLaAutoShowlos angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowporscheporsche boxsterPorsche Boxster SpyderPorscheBoxsterPorscheBoxsterSpyderspyderThu, 19 Nov 2009 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Another day, another racing 911: Introducing the Porsche GT3 R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-the-porsche-gt3-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-the-porsche-gt3-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-the-porsche-gt3-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R - click above for high-res image gallery

Over its nearly half-century of its existence, the Porsche 911 seems to have spawned nearly as many racing variants as production models. The newest one announced is the 911 GT3 R, which, as the name implies, is targeted at GT3 class racing worldwide. The GT3 R is the followup to the GT3 Cup S model and just as with its road cars, Porsche has aimed to make the new racer both faster and easier to drive.

The GT3 R is derived from the most recent Cup car that was launched in September. It uses a larger normally aspirated 4.0-liter version of the classic flat-six that cranks out 480 horsepower. Like other road racing 911s, this one is rear-wheel drive only and uses a six-speed gearbox. The GT3 will be shown publicly in January at the Birmingham Motor Show in the UK before deliveries to teams start next spring. Since we can't afford one, we're hoping to see a few of these in the ALMS' new GT Challenge class next season. High-res gallery below, official press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Another day, another racing 911: Introducing the Porsche GT3 R

Another day, another racing 911: Introducing the Porsche GT3 R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911 GT3 RS frankfurt911Gt3RsFrankfurt997ALMSbirmingham motor showBirminghamMotorShowGT ChallengeGT3GT3 RGt3RGtChallengePorscheporsche 911porsche 911 gt3Porsche 911 GT3 RPorsche 997Porsche Motorsportporsche motorsportsPorsche911Porsche911Gt3Porsche911Gt3RPorsche997PorscheMotorsportPorscheMotorsportsThu, 19 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Cayman Sand: Nor'Ida claims its latest victim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/cayman-sand-norida-claims-its-latest-victim/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/cayman-sand-norida-claims-its-latest-victim/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/cayman-sand-norida-claims-its-latest-victim/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's bad enough when natural disasters lay waste to homes and coastline, but we're not sure we can bear the sight of this sort of car-carnage. Like this image, for example, of a Porsche Cayman buried in the sand. But we guess this was bound to happen to a car that shares its name with a Caribbean archipelago (it was actually named after a small species of crocodile).

The shot was taken by Asylum blogger Elizabeth Brady on Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, where the effects of "Nor'Ida" - a particularly strong Nor'Easter conspiring with the remnants of Tropical System Ida - were apparently felt particularly hard.

Natural disaster or no natural disaster, we're sure someone will find a way of blaming this on a low-flying pelican - or perhaps Ferrari boss Luca di Montezemolo.


Gallery: 2009 Porsche Cayman S


[Source: Asylum | Image: Elizabeth Brady]

Cayman Sand: Nor'Ida claims its latest victim originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asylumnatural disasterNaturalDisasternoreasternoridaporscheporsche caymanPorscheCaymansandstormtropical stormtropical systemTropicalStormTropicalSystemWed, 18 Nov 2009 17:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Dutch Porsche dealership covers new 997 Carrera S in milk chocolate for the holidays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/dutch-porsche-dealership-covers-new-997-carrera-s-in-milk-chocol/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/dutch-porsche-dealership-covers-new-997-carrera-s-in-milk-chocol/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/dutch-porsche-dealership-covers-new-997-carrera-s-in-milk-chocol/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Porsche Centrum Gelderland's chocolate 911 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back when we were but wee little Autobloggers, Easter was one of our favorite holidays. Not that we were religious, mind, we just really dug finding baskets filled with sugary treats nestled in plastic grass first thing in the morning. As far as we were concerned, you could keep your colored eggs, your jellybeans, your Cadbury creme eggs - heck, we weren't even that excited about those supernaturally yellow marshmallow Peep things - we wanted the Big Daddy - the solid chocolate bunny.

You can imagine our horror, then, when at some point in our childhood, our long-eared cacao friend went on a diet, although we didn't know it right off. Oh, he looked about the same - and he even sported the same jaunty tinfoil jacket. But he weighed much less - he was - *shudder* - hollow. Empty inside like our little crestfallen Easter morning spirits.

Thankfully, these many years later, Porsche Centrum Gelderland appears to be going some way towards healing our childhood wounds and restoring our faith in humanity. Well, if not humanity, at least in the validity of hollow chocolate treats. You see, the Dutch Porsche dealership has apparently taken a brand-new 911 Carrera S and as a sort of marketing stunt, they've gone and covered it in chocolate. According to AB tipster Patrick, in the absence of a giant dipping mechanism, they've used 175 kilos of molten goodness (that's about 385 pounds) to conceal Stuttgart's finest, reserving another couple kilos of white chocolate for detailing like the headlamps.

Why on earth did they decide to do this? It's apparently for a Dutch holiday centered around "Sinterklaas" - Saint Nicholas - who was the Danish inspiration for Santa Claus. As the story goes, the holiday is held in The Netherlands on the evening of December 5, and one of the holiday's most storied traditions is that people buy or make chocolate letters in celebration - hence the milky goodness that is Centrum Gelderland's Choco997.

The dipped Porsche will remain on display until Christmas, at which time we fully expect to see it wheeled into a walk-in freezer until it can to be thawed in time to make an appearance in our Easter basket next Spring. Thanks for the tip, Patrick!


Gallery: Porsche Centrum Gelderland's Chocolate 911


[Sources: Automobiel Management; Autotelegraaf.nl]

Dutch Porsche dealership covers new 997 Carrera S in milk chocolate for the holidays originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CacaoChocoChocolateChocolatierEasterPorschePorsche 911Porsche 997Porsche CentrumPorsche Centrum GelderlandPorsche911Porsche997PorscheCentrumPorscheCentrumGelderlandSinterklaasStuttgartTue, 17 Nov 2009 19:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche suffers $6.6B loss thanks to VW share writedowns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/porsche-suffers-6-6b-loss-thanks-to-vw-share-writedowns/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/porsche-suffers-6-6b-loss-thanks-to-vw-share-writedowns/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/porsche-suffers-6-6b-loss-thanks-to-vw-share-writedowns/#commentsFiled under: , ,



In 2008, Porsche ended its year with a ginormous 8.5 billion euro profit. Pretty amazing for a company that only makes 100,000 vehicles per year. Or not. As it turns out, Porsche's profits had everything to do with the German automaker's plan to buy out the much larger Volkswagen Group, and Porsche's considerable amount of VW stock options shot up in value to over 1,000 euros per share, making Porsche look like the financial genius of the 21st century.

Here we are in 2009 and Porsche's fortunes couldn't have shifted more. The freezing of the credit markets plus Porsche's enormous 10 billion euro debt-load led to VW performing a reverse takeover of its fellow German automaker. All those VW shares and stock options? VW shares are at its lowest price in over two years, leading to a year-end write down loss for Porsche of 4.4 billion euros ($6.6 billion US) for the year. The loss is far greater than Porsche expected earlier in the year, as the German automaker in June estimated its yearly profit of nearly $1 billion.

As part of its huge loss, Porsche drastically cut its dividend to .05 euros per preferred share. The move is considered to be "symbolic", or as we like to call it, "not what shell-shocked investors were hoping for." VW will reportedly purchase 49 percent of Porsche by year-end for 3.9 billion euros ($5.8 billion US), with hopes of obtaining the outstanding Porsche shares by 2011.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image Source: Nigel Treblin/Getty]

Porsche suffers $6.6B loss thanks to VW share writedowns originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.4 billion euro loss4.4BillionEuroLossporscheporsche lossPorscheLossporshe 6.6 billion lossPorshe6.6BillionLossvw takeoverVwTakeoverTue, 17 Nov 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche challenges you to guess which 911 you are listening to]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/porsche-challenges-you-to-guess-which-911-you-are-listening-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/porsche-challenges-you-to-guess-which-911-you-are-listening-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/porsche-challenges-you-to-guess-which-911-you-are-listening-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A Trio of Porsche 911s - click above for high-res image gallery

And if you get 'em all right, you get a chance to win your way into a Porsche 911 Evolution driving course. Which, we have to say, is pretty dang cool. Here's how it works. Porsche has the challenge broken up into five categories. You hit play and guess which engine you're listening to. We went ahead and gave it the old college try and, uh, it's incredibly difficult. Like, we bet that Porsche mechanics would have a difficult time getting all five correct.

But never mind that, because it's fun! The first category (Carrera) wants you to guess between a 964, a 996 and a 997. Second is "Classic" where you must distinguish between a RS 2.7, RS 3.0 and RS 3.8. Good luck with that one. Next up is "Race Derived" and the choices are 964 RS 3.8, 996 GT3 and 997 GT3. Hard, right? Because air-cooled boxer motors pretty much sound alike, even when they get water cooled. Well, actually...

The test now turns difficult, as the next category is "Turbo." This is especially hard as most Turbos do little more than shuffle about town from mall to mall -- meaning it's rare to hear one at full clip. And you've got to distinguish between the 930, 996 and 997. Lastly, you have "Motorsport," and whether or not the car is the 935, 911 GT1 or 936 it don't matter, as the sound is just glorious. See -- we mean hear -- for yourself.


Gallery: Porsche 911 Evolution Competition


[Source: Porsche]

Porsche challenges you to guess which 911 you are listening to originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PorschePorsche 911Porsche 911 EvolutionPorsche 911 evolution competitionPorsche CarreraPorsche Carrera 911Porsche RSPorsche TurboPorsche911Porsche911EvolutionPorsche911EvolutionCompetitionPorscheCarreraPorscheCarrera911PorscheRsPorscheTurboMon, 16 Nov 2009 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Oh, No! Porsche Design revives Yoko's iconic sunglasses]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/14/oh-no-porsche-design-revives-yokos-iconic-sunglasses/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/14/oh-no-porsche-design-revives-yokos-iconic-sunglasses/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/14/oh-no-porsche-design-revives-yokos-iconic-sunglasses/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Porsche Design P'8479 Yoko Ono sunglasses - Click above for high-res image gallery

While the Porsche 911 stands as one of the most ubiquitous and storied sports cars of all time, another Porsche design was made popular by one particular individual.

Throughout the Eighties, Yoko Ono wore the original Porsche Design shades so often they became known as the Yoko Ono sunglasses. She wore them at press conferences, for photo shoots (including the cover of Rolling Stone magazine) and on the covers of her albums. Now the German carmaker's Austrian product design studio has brought the design back back as the P'8479.

The shield-style visor is supported by a Beta-Titanium frame secured by visible screws for an iconic retro look that may not be our cup of tea exactly, but we just hope their presence doesn't break up the VW merger like Yoko broke up The Beatles.


Gallery: Porsche Design P'8479 Yoko Ono sunglasses


[Source: Porsche Design]

Continue reading Oh, No! Porsche Design revives Yoko's iconic sunglasses

Oh, No! Porsche Design revives Yoko's iconic sunglasses originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>p8479porscheporsche designporsche design p8479porsche design yoko ono sunglassesPorscheDesignPorscheDesignP8479PorscheDesignYokoOnoSunglassessunglassesyokoyoko onoyoko ono sunglassesYokoOnoYokoOnoSunglassesSat, 14 Nov 2009 15:47:00 EST<![CDATA[TechArt squeezes more power out of Porsche 911 Carrera 4S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/techart-squeezes-more-power-out-of-porsche-911-carrera-4s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/techart-squeezes-more-power-out-of-porsche-911-carrera-4s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/techart-squeezes-more-power-out-of-porsche-911-carrera-4s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera 4S - Click above for high-res image gallery

In certain circles, the 911 4S is considered the Porsche to get. You got your high-output S motor, the security of all the wheels being driven, a curvaceous (if not swollen) rear end, all the luxuries of home (especially if you tick off "leather air vents" on the options list) but without the crippling price of the Turbo or punishing ride/packaging of the GT3. Obviously, lots of folks feel differently, but if you're going to go down the 4S road, you might want to stop off and pay a visit to TechArt.

The "why" is that using some absolutely gorgeous piping, TechArt has found a way to squeeze 35 more horseponies out of the Carrera 4S's 3.8-liter flat-six, raising the total from 385 to 420. Which is as much power as the original 996 Turbo made. Which, we need not remind you, passed for a supercar just a few short years ago. And the 997 iteration of the 4S weighs about one hundred pounds less than the old Turbo.

But you can't just give the people more power and call it a day. With that maxim in mind, TechArt has gone ahead and crafted up a nice body kit for its 4S. There's a little lip spoiler, some twisted sills and a tastefully done spoiler. Actually, that spoiler does more than just look good - it's got a Gurney flap! That means it's adjustable. TechArt also fussed around with the suspension, crafted some forged light-alloy wheels and even gave the interior a once over, adding better leather and aluminum pedals. You can find all of the details in the press release after the jump. But before than doing that, may we suggest you just trip out on this for a while?


Gallery: TechArt Porsche Carrera 4S


[Source: TechArt]

Continue reading TechArt squeezes more power out of Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

TechArt squeezes more power out of Porsche 911 Carrera 4S originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4S911PorschePorsche 4SPorsche 911Porsche 911 4SPorsche Carrera 4Sporsche tunerPorsche4sPorsche911Porsche9114sPorscheCarrera4sPorscheTunertech artTechArtTechArt Porsche 911 4STechartPorsche9114stunerWed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Car and Driver</i> runs Porsche Panamera Turbo in The 24 Hours of Dayton]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/i-car-and-driver-i-runs-porsche-panamera-turbo-in-the-24-hour/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/i-car-and-driver-i-runs-porsche-panamera-turbo-in-the-24-hour/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/i-car-and-driver-i-runs-porsche-panamera-turbo-in-the-24-hour/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Porsche Panamera Turbo - Click above for high-res image gallery

That's Dayton, as in Ohio. Never heard of that race? We have, but only because we had Car and Driver's head cheese Eddie Alterman on our esteemable podcast the other week and he mentioned it. What is the 24 Hours of Dayton? Let's let C/D explain:
"A Brumos Porsche won the 2009 24 Hours of Daytona. We couldn't even summon the entry fees for that race, so we invented an event, the 24 Hours of Dayton, in which we were the first entry, the last entry, the only entry."
Get it? If you don't, C/D rounded up three editors and decided to run a series of 356-mile laps around Dayton, thereby inventing (and dominating) the first ever 24 hour race. You can also be fairly certain this particular race is also the last ever.

As far as the Panamera Turbo is concerned, all the racers (fine, drivers) were quite impressed, repeatedly waxing poetic about how the big four-door Porsche kicks the BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class in the you know where. Hard, too. One editor hit 190 mph - with someone in the backseat! Another noted how 100 mph came up all too frequently when entering a freeway, eliciting at least one middle finger. All three were taken aback by the Panamera's luxurious interior. The numbers they collected - stuff like 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds - are startling, leading C/D to speculate that the turbo'd Panamera might be a wee bit underrated in the power department. Also: assicles. But you're going to have to read the article to figure that one out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera


All Photos Copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Car & Driver]

Car and Driver runs Porsche Panamera Turbo in The 24 Hours of Dayton originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo2010PorschePanameraTurbo24 Hours of Dayton24HoursOfDaytonCar DriverCarDriverEddie AltermanEddieAltermanPanameraPanamera TurboPanameraTurboPorschePorsche Panamera TurboPorschePanameraTurboWed, 11 Nov 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Total Croc: Porsche suing popular shoe company over naming rights?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/total-croc-porsche-suing-popular-shoe-company-over-naming-right/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/total-croc-porsche-suing-popular-shoe-company-over-naming-right/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/total-croc-porsche-suing-popular-shoe-company-over-naming-right/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche AG is known for vigorously defending its intellectual property. It's understandable, as the company has spent more than half a century building its performance-oriented automotive brand around design patents, logos, and the company's familiar vehicle nomenclature. Crocs, Inc., on the other hand, is a shoe manufacturer credited with introducing the world to low-cost injection-molded foam footwear. Crocs does not build cars... um, thankfully.

What Crocs did do was name its popular sandal the "Cayman" (pictured at right). Of course, this set off all the alarms at Porsche as that name is already trademark registered by the automaker for its two-seat sports coupe. What followed next was expected... in mid-May, Crocs received a letter from Porsche notifying them of the alleged trademark infringement. At the end of July, Porsche filed a notice of injunction in German courts against the European use of the Cayman name by Crocs.

While we realize that few of our readers would ever confuse a pair of Crocs' Cayman with the Porsche Cayman, one has to wonder if Porsche is taking this a bit too far. Rumor has it that the Cayman Islands in the western Caribbean are monitoring the situation and already working on their own legal defense... Hat tip to Freddy for the lead!


Gallery: 2010 Porsche Cayman


[Source: Deadline Watch]

Total Croc: Porsche suing popular shoe company over naming rights? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caymancopyrightcopyright infringementcopyright lawcopyright-infringementCopyrightInfringementCopyrightLawCrocs CaymanCrocsCaymanInjunctionLawsuitLaysuitporschePorsche CaymanPorscheCaymanTrademarktrademark disputetrademark infringementtrademark-infringementTrademarkDisputeTrademarkInfringementtrademarksTue, 10 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EST