Differences 987-1 and 987-2

[stef]

I was going to ask what some of the differences were, but decided to go find them myself.

http://www.porsche.com/usa/ has a couple interactive Flash pages that are a blast (Black and White, and Inner Fire). I hadn't been by the porsche website for a while, but they discuss the new tech, and talk about the changes. After watching that, I have to go for a drive. :D

[stef]

I had to go testdrive the PDK. I wanted to try a cayman S, but there were none in stock. Instead, I drove a carrera.

The PDK really is worth the hype it's getting ... it shifts REALLY fast, especially when accelerating. The shifts are nearly seamless and instant, in automatic or "manual" mode. In automatic mode and accelerating onto the freeway, I felt two distinct shifts from 1st. I looked down and it was in 7th.

To be honest, I like a real manual shift. But this is not only the best automatic I've driven, it even outperforms manual.

[Brenden]

...Nice to read about your experience with the PDK.

Some of the differences--in case you have not been following the press carefully:

The 987-2 has a newish motor more similar to the 911. It is slightly larger with slightly more horsepower but I don't know more than that. I have read the exhaust has been retuned slightly. The center console is the same as the 911 and includes a display--there is a larger touch display with the new optional PCM-3 nav system (also iPod control, bluetooth and voice-control options). The center console is the only interior change.

The S has direct injection while the basic still has the old port injection system. Also like the 911, the PDK transmission is available for both models including newly designed paddles on the wheel. There is a notable increase in gas milage. The wheels are .5 in wider.

The rear has 911-like droopy taillights while the front now has a center vent for both the S and basic models. However the two side vents on the front end has slats in body-color for the basic and black for the S. It has LED running lights like the 911 and other new German cars; this is probably the most recognizable feature.

There is a ventilated seat option. I believe a new red top is available as well as some new optional colors.

This is the model originally thought to be the 2010. I expect the press/blogs thought it would be the 2010 because there is a 2009 RS60 which is actually a 2008 and there has been a 6-month delay for the new models. The official designation is 2009 and 987. I appreciate this site's 987-2 designation which separates it from the RS60. Porsche should have made this clearer. I am guessing that there will be new body panels for a '988' and a new down-marked 4-cyl in a year or two.

I ordered a basic model with PDK and it should arrive in a few weeks! I am a little obsessed right now.

[Jay H]

I ordered a basic model with PDK and it should arrive in a few weeks! I am a little obsessed right now.

Have you taken delivery of your '09 yet?

If so, how long was the wait from dealer order to arrival?

[Brenden]

I am sorry to take so long to reply.

I have taken delivery. I ordered the car on 12 Dec 08 and it arrived in San Diego as expected on 13 Mar 09. I ordered it just as the dealer sent in their quarterly allocation so this was probably the shortest time possible. I am guessing it was on the first shipment to the USA. The dealer kept me posted on progress so I knew the day it was assembled, the day it shipped, etc.

However there was about a one-month delay at the port while they inspected it. They stone-walled the dealer and never gave me a clear explanation. I 'shook it loose from the port by emailing people at Porsche headquaters in Atlanta. However, they did pay the extra tax incurred by going past 1 April 09 and gave me a $1000 voucher to be used at a dealership as compensation for the delay. I really did not mind the delay too much but I am still very distressed about the unknown cause for the delay.

My PDK with the basic, 2.9L motor is often very balky and jerky in 1st & reverse. When I talked to service they asked me if I were driving with my right foot on the brake and then started to explain to me that it was a manual with automatic clutch(es)--like I was very stupid. I am very distressed about this and don't know what to do. I have over 2000 mi on it now and still can't get the transmission to start smoothly. When I start up at a light, for example, I don't know if the transmission will 'catch' right away or not. Also it has used a quart of oil since I bought it.

I suggest you check forums on the PDK before you order.

I ordered a basic model with PDK and it should arrive in a few weeks! I am a little obsessed right now.

Have you taken delivery of your '09 yet?

If so, how long was the wait from dealer order to arrival?

[stef]

You should have the service dept folks test drive it with you in the car to explain what the problem is.