Porsche 991 v Porsche 997: Turbo S duel in issue 123
Blasting along the asphalt, there’s a sharp hairpin coming up in a matter of seconds. Buoyed with confidence, my right foot eases off the accelerator pedal but stays hovering over it as my left foot pushes the brake pedal, actioning the PCCB brakes, which clamp onto the two pairs of 380mm and 350mm ventilated discs and scrub speed sufficiently for me to make the turn.
Gripping the Sport Design wheel at ‘quarter-to-three’, my arms cross over as I point the car around the corner to the right, easing my pace a little more to stop the onslaught of understeer on the tight curve.
Exiting the corner, I squeeze my right foot down to an almighty ‘whoosh’ as the 997 Turbo S is launched for the next corner at haste. In a matter of seconds the cycle will be repeated for a left turn.
I’m currently traversing up Zig Zag Hill, a delightfully twisty (if a little unsightly) rural Dorset B-road with a steep incline that promises a panoramic view of Cranbourne Chase at the top.
However, there’s a more pressing sight to deal with right now, and it’s taking up most of the space in my rear-view mirror: Josh is sitting just off my active rear wing in the identically hued 991 Turbo S, and he’s looking more comfortable than I am.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: surely there can’t be that much difference between the latest generations of Turbo S, can there? It’s time to pull over, let Ali set up his lighting for photography stills, and assess the history behind these seemingly immortal Porsche steers.
Of course, customers who purchase a new Turbo are well-known for being ‘tick happy’ when it comes to choosing options for their 911, which is a prime reason for the very existence of the Turbo S moniker.
Those who want a comprehensive 911 Turbo package, laden with well-appointed options, a modicum of extra power – more for bragging rights down the pub than anything else – and a hint of superiority should look no further than the 911 Turbo S.
To read more of Lee’s Turbo S head-to-head, grab your copy of Total 911 issue 123 in store now. Alternatively, order it online for home delivery or download it straight to your digital device.
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