tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461259109941013312024-03-12T18:05:48.034-07:00CarsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1046125910994101331.post-58728923063324840692007-08-24T01:11:00.000-07:002007-08-25T01:31:19.676-07:00Audi<div align="justify">Audi is a <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">German</a> <a title="Automobile manufacturer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_manufacturer">automobile manufacturer</a> with headquarters in <a title="Ingolstadt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingolstadt">Ingolstadt</a>, <a title="Bavaria" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bavaria">Bavaria</a>. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the <a title="Volkswagen Group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Group">Volkswagen Group</a>.<br />Audi's German <a title="Tagline" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tagline">tagline</a> is "<a title="Vorsprung durch Technik" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vorsprung_durch_Technik">Vorsprung durch Technik</a>"; this is used either untranslated or in its English translation, "progression through Technology". The English tagline is "Never Follow".<br /><a name="History"></a><br /><br />History<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_NSU_range_%281969%29.jpg"></a><br />Press photograph of the then newly merged Audi NSU range, 1969.<br /><a name="The_origins_of_Audi"></a>The origins of Audi<br />The company traces its origins back to <a title="1899" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1899">1899</a> and <a title="August Horch" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/August_Horch">August Horch</a>. The first Horch automobile was produced in <a title="1901" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1901">1901</a> in <a title="Zwickau" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zwickau">Zwickau</a>. In <a title="1910" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1910">1910</a>, Horch was forced out of the company he had founded. He then started a new company in Zwickau and continued using the Horch brand. His former partners sued him for <a title="Trademark" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trademark">trademark</a> infringement and a German court determined that the Horch brand belonged to his former company. August Horch was forced to refrain from using his own <a title="Family name" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_name">family name</a> in his new car business. As the word "horch!" translates to "hark!" in <a title="German language" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_language">German</a>, August Horch settled on the <a title="Latin" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin">Latin</a> equivalent of his name — "audi!". It is also popularly believed that Audi is an <a title="Acronym" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acronym">acronym</a> which stands for "Auto Union <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">Deutschland</a> <a title="Ingolstadt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingolstadt">Ingolstadt</a>". Audi produces over 2 million vehicles annually at its main production site in <a title="Ingolstadt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingolstadt">Ingolstadt</a>. Audi has another production plant in <a title="Neckarsulm" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neckarsulm">Neckarsulm</a>.<br />Audi started with a 2612 <a title="Cubic centimetre" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cubic_centimetre">cc</a> (2.6 Liter) model followed by a <a title="Four cylinder" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_cylinder">four cylinder</a> model with 3564 cc (3.6 L), as well as 4680 cc(4.7 L) and 5720 cc(5.7L) models. These cars were successful even in sporting events. August Horch left the Audi company in <a title="1920" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1920">1920</a>. The first <a title="Straight 6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight_6">six cylinder</a> model ,4655 cc(4.7 L) appeared in 1924. In <a title="1928" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1928">1928</a>, the company was acquired by <a title="J S Rasmussen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=J_S_Rasmussen&action=edit">J S Rasmussen</a>, owner of <a title="DKW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DKW">DKW</a>, who bought the same year the remains of the US <a title="Automobile manufacturer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_manufacturer">automobile manufacturer</a>, <a title="Rickenbacker (car manufacturer)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Rickenbacker_%28car_manufacturer%29&action=edit">Rickenbacker</a> including the manufacturing equipment for eight cylinder engines. These engines were used in Audi Zwickau and Audi Dresden models that were launched in <a title="1929" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1929">1929</a>. At the same time, six cylinder and a small four cylinder (licensed from <a title="Peugeot" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peugeot">Peugeot</a>) models were manufactured. Audi cars of that era were luxurious cars equipped with special bodywork.<br />Pronunciation: Audi is commonly pronounced as "odd-ee", but the correct form rhymes with "howdy".<br /><a name="The_Auto_Union_era"></a>The Auto Union era<br />In <a title="1932" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1932">1932</a> Audi merged with <a title="Horch" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horch">Horch</a>, <a title="DKW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DKW">DKW</a> and <a title="Wanderer (car)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wanderer_%28car%29">Wanderer</a> to form the <a title="Auto Union" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auto_Union">Auto Union</a>. Before <a title="World War II" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II">World War II</a>, Auto Union used the four interlinked rings that make up the Audi badge today, representing these four brands. This badge was used, however, only on Auto Union racing cars in that period while the member companies used their own names and emblems. The technological development became more and more concentrated and some Audi models were propelled by Horch or Wanderer built engines. During <a title="World War II" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II">World War II</a> the Horch/Auto Union produced the <a title="SDKFZ 222" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=SDKFZ_222&action=edit">SDKFZ 222</a> armored car, which was used mostly in the <a title="Blitzkrieg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blitzkrieg#Poland_1939">Polish Blitzkrieg conquest</a> and <a title="North African Campaign" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_African_Campaign">North African Campaign</a>. It was powered by an 81 hp Horch/Auto Union <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a> Engine which had a top speed of 50 miles per hour.<br />Another vehicle which was used in World War II to shuttle German military officials safely was known as the Kraftfahrzeug (KFZ 11) or the Horch Type 80. The military used it as a light transport vehicle which was used in the <a title="Invasion of Poland (1939)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Invasion_of_Poland_%281939%29">German Conquest of Poland</a>.<br /><a name="Pause_and_a_new_start"></a>Pause and a new start<br />Auto Union plants were heavily bombed and partly destroyed during <a title="World War II" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II">World War II</a>. After the war, Zwickau soon became part of the <a title="German Democratic Republic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Democratic_Republic">German Democratic Republic</a> and Auto Union headquarters were relocated to <a title="Ingolstadt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingolstadt">Ingolstadt</a> in 1949. In that period, the four interlinked rings were used together with the DKW badge. The company focused efforts on the DKW brand, but their <a title="Two-stroke" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two-stroke">two-stroke</a> engines became unpopular. In 1958, <a title="Daimler-Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daimler-Benz">Daimler-Benz</a> acquired 88 per cent of Auto Union and the next year became its sole owner. Daimler-Benz developed a 72 hp (54 kW) four-door sedan, with a modern <a title="Four stroke engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_stroke_engine">four stroke engine</a> driving the front wheels. This model (later known as the <a title="Audi 72" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_72&action=edit">Audi 72</a>) appeared in September 1965, "relaunching" the Audi brand. Daimler-Benz sold the company to <a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen">Volkswagen</a> in 1964; subsequently, Volkswagen's purchase of Auto Union has led to the modernization of VW to which it gained expertise in manufacturing water-cooled vehicles. As of December 23, 2005, VW no longer places previously produced aircooled powerplants into production vehicles.<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_60.jpg"></a><br />Audi 60 (1968 — 1972)<br />In 1969, Audi merged with <a title="NSU Motorenwerke AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Motorenwerke_AG">NSU</a>, based in <a title="Neckarsulm" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neckarsulm">Neckarsulm</a> near <a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart">Stuttgart</a>. In the <a title="1950s" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1950s">1950s</a> NSU had been the world's largest manufacturer of <a title="Motorcycle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcycle">motorcycles</a> but had moved on to produce small cars like the <a title="NSU Prinz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Prinz">NSU Prinz</a> (the TT and TTS versions are still popular as vintage race cars). NSU then focused on new rotary engines according to the ideas of <a title="Felix Wankel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felix_Wankel">Felix Wankel</a>. In 1967, the new <a title="NSU Ro 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Ro_80">NSU Ro 80</a> was a space-age car well ahead of its time in technical details such as aerodynamics, light weight, safety, et cetera, but teething problems with the rotary engines put an end to the independence of NSU. Presently several lines of Audi cars are produced in Neckarsulm.<br />The mid-sized car that NSU had been working on, the <a title="VW K70" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_K70">K70</a>, was intended to slot between the rear-engined Prinz models and the futuristic Ro 80. However, Volkswagen took the K70 for its own range, spelling the end of NSU as a separate brand.<br /><a name="The_modern_era_of_Audi"></a>The modern era of Audi<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi.quatro.arp.750pix.jpg"></a><br />Audi Quattro<br /><a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi.tt.arp.750pix.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi.tt.arp.750pix.jpg"></a><br />Audi TT<br />The first Audi of the modern era was the <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 100</a> of 1968. This was soon joined by the <a title="Audi 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80">Audi 80</a>/Fox (which formed the basis for the 1973 <a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat">Volkswagen Passat</a>) in 1972 and the <a title="Audi 50" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_50">Audi 50</a> (later, rebadged as the <a title="Volkswagen Polo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Polo">Volkswagen Polo</a>) in 1974.<br />The Audi image at this time was a conservative one, and so, a proposal from chassis engineer <a title="Jorg Bensinger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jorg_Bensinger&action=edit">Jorg Bensinger</a> was accepted to develop the <a title="Four-wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four-wheel_drive">four-wheel drive</a> technology in <a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen">Volkswagen</a>'s <a title="Iltis" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iltis">Iltis</a> military vehicle for an Audi performance car and <a title="Rallying" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rallying">rally</a> racing car. The performance car was named the "<a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a>," a turbocharged coupé which was also the first large-scale production vehicle to feature full-time all-wheel drive through a center <a title="Differential" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Differential">differential</a> (not counting the earlier <a title="Jensen FF" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jensen_FF">Jensen FF</a>, produced in small numbers). Commonly referred to as the "Ur-Quattro" (the "<a title="Ur-" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ur-">Ur-</a>" prefix is a German <a title="Augmentative" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augmentative">augmentative</a> used, in this case, to mean "original" and is also applied to the first generation of Audi's S4 and S6 sport sedans, as in "UrS4" and "UrS6"), few of these vehicles were produced (all hand-built by a single team) but the model was a great success in rallying. Prominent wins proved the viability of all-wheel drive racecars, and the Audi name became associated with advances in automotive technology,<br />In 1986, as the Passat-based Audi 80 was beginning to develop a kind of "grandfather's car" image, the type 89 was introduced. This completely new development sold extremely well. However, its modern and dynamic exterior belied the low performance of its base engine, and its base package was quite spartan (even the passenger-side mirror was an option.) In 1987, Audi put forward a new and very elegant <a title="Audi 90" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_90">Audi 90</a>, which had a much superior set of standard features. In the early nineties, sales began to slump for the Audi 80 series, and some basic construction problems started to surface.<br />This decline in sales was not helped in the <a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States">USA</a> by a <a title="60 Minutes" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/60_Minutes">60 Minutes</a> report which purported to show that Audi automobiles suffered from "unintended acceleration". The 60 Minutes report was based on customer reports of acceleration when the brake pedal was pushed. Independent investigators concluded that this was most likely due to a close placement of the accelerator and brake pedals (unlike American cars), and the inability, when not paying attention, to distinguish between the two. (In race cars, when manually downshifting under heavy braking, the accelerator has to be used in order to match revs properly, so both pedals have to be close to each other to be operated by the right foot at once, toes on the brake, heels on the gas.). This did not become an issue in Europe, possibly due to more widespread experience among European drivers with manual transmissions.<br />60 Minutes ignored this fact and rigged a car to perform in an uncontrolled manner. The report immediately crushed Audi sales, and Audi renamed the affected model (The 5000 became the 100/200 in 1989, as in Germany and elsewhere). Audi had contemplated withdrawing from the American market until sales began to recover in the mid-1990s. The turning point for Audi was the sale of the new A4 in 1996, and with the release of the A4/6/8 series, which was developed together with VW and other sister brands (so called "platforms").<br />Currently, Audi's sales are growing strongly in Europe, and the company is still renowned for having among the best build quality of any mainstream auto manufacturer. 2004 marked the 11th straight increase in sales, selling 779,441 vehicles worldwide. Record figures were recorded from 21 out of about 50 major sales markets. The largest sales increases came from Eastern Europe (+19.3%), Africa (+17.2%) and the Middle East (+58.5%). In March of 2005, Audi is building its first two dealerships in India following its high increase in sales in that region. Sadly, the brand still doesn't have the global cachet of <a title="Mercedes-Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz">Mercedes-Benz</a> or <a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW">BMW</a>, although Audi's reputation for quality and understated style has once again made it a highly desirable marque.<br />Audi has recently started offering a computerised control system for its cars called MMI (MultiMedia Interface). This comes amid criticism of BMW's fabled iDrive control, essentially a rotating control knob designed to control radio, satnav, tv, heating and car controls with a screen.<br />The MMI system is said to be much better, as it has a mass of buttons around a central knob, taking you to shortcuts, ie. Radio, Nav, TV, Phone, Car, etc. The screen, either colour or monochrome, is mounted on the upright dashboard, and on the A6 and A8, the controls are mounted horizontally. However, MMI is also available on the Audi A3 and A4, in place of the stereo system, with relocated heater controls. If this is ordered, the MMI screen is in the vertical position of the stereo, with the control knob to the right, and a wealth of buttons (Radio, Nav, TV, Phone, Car etc) displayed horizontally below the screen. It is notable that on the A3 and A4, the MMI screen also flips down horizontally so you can access the DVD drive (unfortunately it is NOT possible to watch DVDs on the screen without adding a third party DVD player) to change the sat nav disc, and there are also two MMC/SD card ports so you can look at photos on the screen or play MP3 files off the cards via the stereo system and in car speakers.<br /><a name="Auto_racing"></a>Auto racing<br />Audi has competed in (and sometimes dominated) numerous forms of <a title="Auto racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auto_racing">auto racing</a>. Audi's rich tradition in motorsport began with the <a title="Auto Union" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auto_Union">Auto Union</a> in the 1930s. In the 1990s Audi dominated the Touring and Super Touring categories of motor racing after success in circuit racing Stateside.<br /><a name="Rallying"></a>Rallying<br />In 1980 Audi released the <a title="Audi Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Quattro">Quattro</a>, an <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">all wheel drive</a> turbocharged car that went on to win <a title="Rally racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rally_racing">rallies</a> and races worldwide. It is considered one of the most significant rally cars of all time because it was one of the first to take advantage of the then-recently changed rules which allowed the use of all-wheel-drive in competition racing. Many critics doubted the viability of all-wheel-drive racers, thinking them to be too heavy and complex, yet the Quattro was an instant success, winning its first rally on its first outing. It won competition after competition for the next two years.<br />In 1984 Audi launched the "<a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Sport Quattro</a>" car which dominated races in <a title="Monte Carlo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monte_Carlo">Monte Carlo</a> and <a title="Sweden" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweden">Sweden</a> with Audi taking all podium finishes but succumbed to problems further into <a title="WRC" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WRC">World Rally Championship</a> contention. After another season mired in mediocre finishes, Walter Röhrl finished the season in his Sport Quattro S1 and helped place Audi second in the manufacturer's points. Audi also received rally honors in the <a title="Hong Kong" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong">Hong Kong</a> to <a title="Beijing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beijing">Beijing</a> rally in that same year. <a title="Michèle Mouton" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mich%C3%A8le_Mouton">Michèle Mouton</a>, the first female WRC driver to win a round of the World Rally Championship and a driver for Audi, took the Sport Quattro S1, now simply called the S1 and raced in the <a title="Pikes Peak" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pikes_Peak">Pikes Peak Hill Climb</a>. The climb race pits a driver and car to drive up a 4,302 meter high mountain in <a title="Colorado" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado">Colorado</a> and in 1985, Michèle Mouton set a new record of 11:25.39 and being the first woman to set a Pikes Peak record. In 1986, Audi formally left international rally racing following an accident in Portugal involving driver Joaquim Santos in his Ford RS200. Santos swerved to avoid hitting spectators in the road, and left the track into the crowd of spectators on the side, killing three and injuring 30. <a title="Bobby Unser" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bobby_Unser">Bobby Unser</a> used an Audi in that same year to claim a new record for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb at 11:09.22.<br /><a name="Motorsports_in_the_USA"></a>Motorsports in the USA<br />In 1987, Walter Röhrl claimed the title for Audi setting a new <a title="Pikes Peak" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pikes_Peak">Pikes Peak</a> record of 10:47.85 in his Audi S1 which he retired from the WRC two years earlier. The Audi S1 employed Audi's time-tested 5-cylinder turbo charged engine and generated over 600 hp (447 kW). The engine was mated to a 6-speed gearbox and ran on Audi's famous all-wheel drive system. All of Audi's top drivers drove this beast, Hannu Mikkola, Stig Blomqvist, Walter Röhrl and the female driver, Michèle Mouton. The Audi S1 enjoys a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 2.3 s. This Audi S1 started the S-series of cars for Audi which now represents an increased level of sports options and quality in the Audi line-up.<br />As Audi moved away from rallying and into circuit racing, they chose to move first into America with the <a title="Trans-Am Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trans-Am_Series">Trans-Am</a> in 1988.<br />In 1989, Audi moved to <a title="International Motor Sports Association" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Motor_Sports_Association">IMSA GTO</a> with the <a title="Audi 90" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_90">90</a>, however as they avoided the two major endurance events (Daytona and Sebring) despite winning on a regular basis, they would lose out on the title.<br /><a name="Touring_cars"></a>Touring cars<br />In 1990, having completed their objective to market cars in the United States, Audi returned to Europe turning first to the <a title="Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deutsche_Tourenwagen_Meisterschaft">DTM</a> series with the <a title="Audi V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_V8">Audi V8</a>, then in 1993, being unwilling to build cars for the new formula, they turned their attention to the fast growing <a title="Supertouring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supertouring">Supertouring</a> series, which took place nationally, first in the <a title="French Supertourisme" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=French_Supertourisme&action=edit">French Supertourisme</a> and <a title="Italian Superturismo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italian_Superturismo&action=edit">Italian Superturismo</a>. In the following year, Audi would switched to the German <a title="Super Tourenwagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Super_Tourenwagen&action=edit">Super Tourenwagen</a> (known as STW) and then to <a title="BTCC" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BTCC">BTCC</a> (British Touring Car Championship) the year after that.<br />The <a title="FIA" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIA">FIA</a>, having difficulty regulating the Quattro system and what impact it had on the competitors, would eventually ban all four wheel drive cars from competiting in 1998, by then Audi switched all their works efforts to sports car racing.<br />By 2000, Audi would still compete in the US with their <a title="Audi RS4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS4">RS4</a> for the <a title="SPEED World Challenge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SPEED_World_Challenge">SCCA Speed World GT Challenge</a>, through dealer/team <a title="Champion Racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Champion_Racing&action=edit">Champion Racing</a> competing against Corvettes, Vipers, and smaller BMWs (where it is one of the few series to permit 4WD cars). In 2003, Champion Racing entered an <a title="Audi RS6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS6">RS6</a>. Once again, the Quattro was superior and Champion Audi won the championship. They returned in 2004 to defend their title but a newcomer, Cadillac with the new Omega Chassis CTS-V, gave them a run for their money. After four victories in a row, the Audis were sanctioned with several negative changes that deeply affected the car's performance. Namely, added ballasts and Champion Audi deciding to go with different tires and backing off the turbos boost pressure.<br />In 2004, after years of competiting with the TT-R in the revitalised DTM series, with privateer team <a title="Abt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abt">Abt Racing/Christian Abt</a> taking the 2002 title with <a title="Laurent Aïello" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurent_A%C3%AFello">Laurent Aïello</a>, Audi returned as a full factory effort to touring car racing by entering two factory supported <a title="Joest Racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joest_Racing">Joest Racing</a> <a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">A4s</a>.<br /><a name="Sports_car_racing"></a>Sports car racing<br />Beginning in 1999, Audi built the <a title="Audi R8 Race Car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R8_Race_Car">Audi R8</a> to compete in <a title="Sports car racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car_racing">sports car racing</a>, including the <a title="Le Mans Prototype" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Mans_Prototype">LMP900</a> class at the <a title="24 hours of Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24_hours_of_Le_Mans">24 hours of Le Mans</a>. The factory supported Joest Racing team won at Le Mans three times in a row (2000 — 2002), as well as winning every race in the <a title="American Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Le_Mans">American Le Mans</a> Series in its first year. Audi also sold the car to customer teams such as <a title="Champion Racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Champion_Racing&action=edit">Champion Racing</a>. In 2003, two <a title="Bentley Motors Limited" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Motors_Limited">Bentley</a> <a title="Bentley Speed 8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Speed_8">Speed 8s</a>, with engines designed by Audi and driven by Joest drivers loaned to the fellow VW company, competed in the GTP class and finished the race in the top two positions, while the Champion Racing R8 finished third overall and first in the LMP900 class. Audi returned to the winner's circle at the 2004 race, with the top three finishers all driving R8s: Audi Sport Japan Team Goh finished first, Audi Sport UK Veloqx second, and Champion Racing third.<br />At the 2005 24 Hours of Le Mans, Champion Racing entered two R8s along with an R8 from the Audi PlayStation Team <a title="Oreca" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oreca">Oreca</a>. The R8s (which were built to old LMP900 regulations) received a more narrow air inlet restrictor, cutting power, and an additional 50 kg of weight compared to the newer LMP1 chassis. On average, the R8s were about 2-3 seconds off pace compared to the <a title="Pescarolo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pescarolo">Pescarolo</a>-<a title="Judd" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judd">Judd</a>. But with a team of excellent drivers and experience, both Champion R8s were able to take first and third while the ORECA team took fourth. The Champion team was also the first American team to win Le Mans since the Gulf Ford GT's in 1967. This also ends the long era of the R8;, however, its replacement for 2006, called the <a title="Audi R10" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10">Audi R10</a>, was unveiled on December 13, 2005. the R10 employs many new features, including a twin-turbocharged diesel engine. Its first race was the 2006 12 Hours of Sebring as a race-test for the 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans, which it later went on to win. Audi has been on the forefront of motorsports, claiming a historic win in the first ever diesel sports car at 12 Hours of Sebring. Audi has achieved the title as the most dominant motor sport power since the start of the 21st Century, continuing its long and storied motor sport heritage.<br /><a name="Technology"></a>Technology<br />Audi produces 100% <a title="Galvanize" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galvanize">galvanized</a> vehicles to prevent corrosion. Along with other precautionary measures, the thus achieved full-body <a title="Zinc" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinc">zinc</a> coating has proved to be very effective in preventing rust and <a title="Corrosion perforation" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Corrosion_perforation&action=edit">corrosion perforation</a>. The body's resulting durability even surpassed Audi's own expectations, causing the manufacturer to extend its original 10-year <a title="Warranty" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warranty">warranty</a> against corrosion perforation to currently 12 years. An all-<a title="Aluminium" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminium">aluminium</a> car was brought forward by Audi, and in 1994 the Audi A8 was launched, which introduced aluminium <a title="Space frame" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_frame">space frame</a> technology. Audi introduced a new series of vehicles in the mid-nineties and continues to pursue leading-edge technology and high performance.<br />The all-aluminium concept was extended to the company's new <a title="Sub-compact" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sub-compact">sub-compact</a>, the <a title="Audi A2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A2">Audi A2</a> which was launched in 2001, although this model was withdrawn from production late in 2005 as the costs of producing an all-aluminium small car proved too high for many buyers looking for a small semi-luxurious car. The aluminium body has proved better suited to larger executive models such as the large A8 saloon.<br />In all its post Volkswagen-era models, Audi has firmly refused to adopt the traditional <a title="Rear wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rear_wheel_drive">rear wheel drive</a> layout favoured by its two arch rivals <a title="Mercedes-Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz">Mercedes-Benz</a> and <a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW">BMW</a>, favouring either <a title="Front wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Front_wheel_drive">front wheel drive</a> or <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">all wheel drive</a>. To achieve this, Audi has usually engineered its cars with a longditudinally mounted engine mounted in an "overhung" position over the front wheels - the so-called "U-drive" layout. While this allows for equal length driveshafts (therefore combatting <a title="Torque steer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque_steer">torque steer</a>), and the easy adoption of all-wheel drive, it goes against the ideal 50/50 weight distribution. For this reason, most still believed that BMW still have the edge over Audi in terms of dynamic prowess, until the arrival of the super-fast RS4 saloon late in 2005. The car has received rave reviews and outsold BMW's M-division-badged cars and Mercedes-Benz's AMG models, its two biggest rivals in the performance arena. The car offers a 4.2 litre V8 engine with a scorching 414bhp, enough to propell the car to 62mph in under five seconds, and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. The £49,980 car's best review to date was possibly provided by Top Gear, when Jeremy Clarkson set about racing the car along mountain roads in an attempt to beat a professional rock climber to the top of a large mountain. Despite Clarkson losing the exhillerating battle, he still proclaimmed Audi's RS4 an unforgettable masterpiece, and despite the price tag being a good ten thousand pounds more expensive than that of the rival <a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW">BMW</a> M3, high sales have clearly reflected the high regard in which the public hold this beautiful and most desirable of sports saloons.<br />In the 1970s, some vehicle manufacturers including Audi (and <a title="Subaru" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru">Subaru</a>) designed their own <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">all wheel drive</a> systems in passenger vehicles. In the 1980s, all-wheel drive systems in cars became a fad, and other manufacturers like <a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche">Porsche</a> and <a title="Mercedes-Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz">Mercedes-Benz</a> offered all-wheel drive systems in their cars to compete in the marketplace. Unfortunately, the all-wheel drive system in the Mercedes-Benz vehicles were riddled with problems right from the design sheet. The system also was not popular in Porsche vehicles because owners wanted the traditional performance of the <a title="Rear wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rear_wheel_drive">rear wheel drive</a> they got used to in older Porsches. Although Porsche and Mercedes-Benz offer all-wheel-drive systems in some cars and trucks today, neither manufacturer is as well-known for all-wheel-drive technology as is Audi. Today, after over 25 years of class-leading technology and engineering, the name <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> is an identifiable symbol and trademark that shows would-be competitors the level of quality they have to achieve in order to attempt to compete with Audi. Unfortunately, Audi have recently applied the <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> badge to models such as the A3 and TT which do not actually use the <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> four-wheel drive system, but VW's Synchro modified front wheel drive systems.<br />In the 1980s, Audi was the champion of the inline 5 cylinder, <a title="Engine displacement" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine_displacement">2.1/2.2 L</a> engine as a longer lasting alternative to more traditional 6 cylinder engines. This engine was used not only in production cars but also in their race cars. The 2.1L inline 5 cylinder engine was used as a base for the rally cars in the 1980s, providing well over 400 <a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower">horsepower</a> (298kW) after modification. Before 1990, there were engines produced with a displacement between 2.0L and 2.3L. This range of engine capacity was a good combination of good fuel economy (which was on the mind of every motorist in the 1980s) and, of course, a good amount of power.<br />Through the early 1990s, Audi began to move more towards the position of being a real competitor in its target market against Mercedes-Benz and BMW. This began with the release of the Audi V8 in 1990. It was essentially a new engine fitted to the Audi 100/200, but with noticeable bodywork differences. Most obvious was the new grille that was now incorprated in the bonnet.<br />By 1991, Audi had the 4 cylinder <a title="Audi 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80">Audi 80</a>, the 5 cylinder <a title="Audi 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80">Audi 90</a> and <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 100</a>, the turbocharged <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 200</a> and the <a title="Audi V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_V8">Audi V8</a>. There was also a coupe version of the 80/90 with both 4 and 5 cylinder engines.<br />Although the five cylinder engine was a successful and very robust powerplant, it was still a little too different for the target market. With the introduction of an all-new Audi 100 in 1992, Audi introduced a 2.8L V6 engine. This engine was also fitted to a face-lifted Audi 80 (all 80 and 90 models were now badged 80 except for the USA), giving this model a choice of 4, 5 and 6 cylinder engines, in sedan, coupe and cabriolet body styles.<br />The 5 cylinder was soon dropped as a major engine choice; however, a turbocharged 230hp (169kW) version remained. The engine, initially fitted to the 200 quattro 20V of 1991, was a derivative of the engine fitted to the Sport Quattro. It was fitted to the Audi Coupe and named the S2 and also to the Audi 100 body, and named the <a title="Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4">S4</a>. These two models were the beginning of the mass-produced S series of performance cars.<br />The <a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">Audi A8</a> replaced the <a title="Audi V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_V8">V8</a> in 1994, with a revolutionary Aluminium Space Frame (ASF) to save weight. The weight reduction was offset by the quattro all-wheel drive system. It meant the car had similar performance to its rivals, but far superior handling.<br />The next major model change was in 1995 when the <a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">Audi A4</a> replaced the <a title="Audi 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80">Audi 80</a>. The new nomenclature scheme was applied to the Audi 100 to become the Audi A6 (with a minor facelift). This also meant the S4 became the <a title="Audi S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6">S6</a> and a new S4 was introduced in the A4 body. The S2 was discontinued. The <a title="Audi Cabriolet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Cabriolet">Audi Cabriolet</a> continued on (based on the Audi 80 platform) until 1999, gaining the engine upgrades along the way. A new <a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3">A3</a> <a title="Hatchback" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatchback">hatchback</a> model (sharing the <a title="VW Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Golf">Volkswagen Golf</a> Mk.4's platform) was introduced to the range in 1996, and the radical <a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT">TT</a> coupe and roadster were debuted in 1998 based on the same underpinnings. Another interesting model introduced was the <a title="Mercedes Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes_Benz">Mercedes-Benz</a> A-Class competitor, the <a title="Audi A2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A2">Audi A2</a>. The model sold relatively well in Europe, however, the A2 was discontinued in 2005 and Audi decided not to develop an immediate replacement.<br />The engines available throughout the range were now a 1.4L, 1.6L and 1.8L 4 cylinder, 1.8L 4-cylinder turbo, 2.6L and 2.8L V6, 2.2L turbo-charged 5 cylinder and the 4.2L V8. The V6s were replaced by new 2.4L and 2.8L 30V V6s in 1998, with marked improvement in power, torque and smoothness. Further engines were added along the way, including a 3.7L V8 and 6.0L W12 for the A8.<br />At the turn of the century, Audi introduced the <a title="Direct-shift gearbox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct-shift_gearbox">direct-shift gearbox</a>, a manual transmission driveable like an automatic transmission. The system includes dual electrohydraulically controlled clutches instead of a <a title="Torque converter" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque_converter">torque converter</a>. This is implemented in some <a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf">Volkswagen Golf</a>, <a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3">Audi A3</a> and <a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT">TT</a> models. The engine range was continually upgraded, with a 2.7L twin turbo V6 being offered in the Audi S4, A6 and allroad, while the 2.8L V6 was replaced by a 3.0L unit.<br />In 2001, Audi released a high performance version of the A8, dubbed S8. It featured a 360-horsepower 4.2L V8 with 317 torque.<br />New models of the A3, A4, A6 and A8 have been introduced, with the ageing 1.8 litre engine now having been replaced by new FSI (<a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">Fuel Stratified Injection</a>) engines. Nearly every petrol model in the range now incorporates this fuel-saving technology, including the following:<br />1.6 litre 4 cylinder 115bhp, 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 150bhp (Slowly being fased out in order to make way for TSI engines - see section below), 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 200bhp, 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 220bhp, 3.2 litre V6 250-260bhp, 4.2 litre V8 350bhp, 4.2 litre V8 414bhp, & 5.2 litre V10 450bhp.<br />Other engines on sale and featuring in products of the Audi brand include:<br />1.6 litre 4 cylinder 102bhp, 1.9 litre TDi 105bhp, 2.0 litre TDi 140bhp, 2.0 litre TDi 170bhp, 2.7 litre TDi 180bhp, 3.0 litre TDi 233bhp, & 4.2 litre TDi 326bhp. All TDi models are diesels.<br />As a premium member of the VW Group, technologies are frequently first introduced to the mass market in Audi vehicles before being 'trickled down' to more value oriented brands such as VW, <a title="SEAT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT">SEAT</a> and <a title="Škoda Auto" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%A0koda_Auto">Škoda</a>. Recent examples of this include a number of the FSI engines mentioned above, as well as the quick-shifting DSG automatic gearbox option.<br />TSI technology was introduced to the Volkswagen Golf early in 2006. These engines use, initially at least, a capacity of 1.4 litres combined with both a turbo- and super-charger to produce a high power output, with lower levels of harmful carbon dioxide emissions and improved fuel economy when compared with a non-turbo or super-charged engine of a high capacity, such as 2.0 litres. The 1.4 litre TSI engine currently on sale in VW's Golf produces outputs of 140 and 170bhp. These engines have proved popular amongst the motoring press in Britain and could soon be filtered into the Audi range, with a possibility of featuring in the A3 and A4 models, as well as maybe featuring in <a title="SEAT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT">SEAT</a> and Skoda's model ranges sometime soon.<br /><a name="Models"></a>Models<br /><a name="Consumer_models"></a>Consumer models<br /><a title="Audi 50" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_50">50</a><br /><a title="Audi 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80">80/90/4000</a><br /><a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">100/200/5000</a><br /><a title="Audi A2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A2">A2</a><br /><a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3">A3</a><br /><a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">A4</a><br /><a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">A6</a><br /><a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">A8</a><br /><a title="Audi Q7" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Q7">Q7</a><br /><a title="Audi Allroad Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Allroad_Quattro">Allroad Quattro</a><br /><a title="Audi Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Quattro">Quattro</a><br /><a title="Audi RS2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS2">RS2</a><br /><a title="Audi RS4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS4">RS4</a><br /><a title="Audi RS6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS6">RS6</a><br /><a title="Audi S2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S2">S2</a><br /><a title="Audi S3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S3">S3</a><br /><a title="Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4">S4</a><br /><a title="Audi S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6">S6</a><br /><a title="Audi S8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S8">S8</a><br /><a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT">TT</a><br /><a title="Audi UrS4/S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_UrS4/S6">UrS4/S6</a><br /><a title="Audi V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_V8">V8</a><br />NOTE: models in bold are current models<br /><a name="Racing_models"></a>Racing models<br /><a title="Audi Quattro S1" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Quattro_S1">Quattro S1</a><br /><a title="Audi R8 Race Car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R8_Race_Car">R8</a><br /><a title="Audi R10" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10">R10</a><br /><a title="Audi Sport" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_Sport&action=edit">Sport</a><br />NOTE: models in bold are current models<br /><a name="Prototypes_and_concept_cars"></a>Prototypes and concept cars<br /><a title="Audi A5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A5">A5</a><br /><a title="Audi A7" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A7">A7</a><br /><a title="Audi Allroad Quattro Concept" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Allroad_Quattro_Concept">Allroad Quattro Concept</a><br /><a title="Audi Avantissimo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Avantissimo">Avantissimo</a><br /><a title="Audi Avus Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Avus_Quattro">Avus Quattro</a><br /><a title="Audi Le Mans Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_Le_Mans_Quattro&action=edit">Le Mans Quattro</a><br /><a title="Audi Nuvolari Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Nuvolari_Quattro">Nuvolari Quattro</a><br /><a title="Audi Pikes Peak Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Pikes_Peak_Quattro">Pikes Peak Quattro</a><br /><a title="Audi Q3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_Q3&action=edit">Q3</a><br /><a title="Audi Q5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Q5">Q5</a><br /><a title="Audi R8 Road Car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R8_Road_Car">R8</a><br /><a title="Audi Roadjet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Roadjet">Roadjet</a><br /><a title="Audi RSQ" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RSQ">RSQ</a> (from <a title="I, Robot (movie)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I%2C_Robot_%28movie%29">I, Robot</a>)<br /><a title="Audi Shooting Brake" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Shooting_Brake">Shooting Brake</a><br /><a name="See_also"></a><a title="commons:Audi" href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a><br /><a title="Audi Centre of Excellence" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Centre_of_Excellence">Audi Centre of Excellence</a><br /><a title="Audi Driving Experience" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Driving_Experience">Audi Driving Experience</a><br /><a title="Audi Club of North America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_Club_of_North_America&action=edit">Audi Club of North America</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Audi A3<br /><br />Audi A3<br /><a title="2005 Audi A3 Sportback" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_A3_FR_silber_2005.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a>, a subsidiary of <a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996">1996</a>–present<br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Compact car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_car">Compact car</a> <a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car">near luxury car</a><br />Body style:<br />3/5-door <a title="Hatchback" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatchback">hatchback</a><br /><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform">Platform</a>:<br /><a title="FF layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FF_layout">FF</a>, <a title="Four wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_wheel_drive">AWD</a> <a title="Volkswagen A platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_A_platform">Volkswagen A</a><br />Related:<br /><a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT">Audi TT</a><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf">Volkswagen Golf</a><a title="Skoda Octavia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Octavia">Skoda Octavia</a><a title="SEAT León" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Le%C3%B3n">SEAT León</a><br />Similar:<br /><a title="Alfa Romeo 147" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfa_Romeo_147">Alfa Romeo 147</a><a title="BMW 1-Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_1-Series">BMW 1-Series</a><a title="Saab 9-2X" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saab_9-2X">Saab 9-2X</a><a title="Volvo C30" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_C30">Volvo C30</a><br />The Audi A3 is a <a title="Compact car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_car">compact</a> <a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car">luxury</a> <a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile">automobile</a> built by <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> since 1996. It uses the <a title="Volkswagen A platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_A_platform">Volkswagen A platform</a> shared with the <a title="VW Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Golf">VW Golf</a>, <a title="Škoda Octavia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%A0koda_Octavia">Škoda Octavia</a> and <a title="SEAT León" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Le%C3%B3n">SEAT León</a>.<br /><a name="First_generation_.281996-2003.29"></a>First generation (1996-2003)<br />The original A3 (or Typ 8L) was introduced in the European market in 1996, marking Audi's return to the lower market segments since the demise of the <a title="Audi 50" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_50">Audi 50</a>. Using the VW Golf's platform, it bears a natural close resemblance to its contemporary, the Golf Mk. IV. The car was initially available only with a three-door <a title="Hatchback" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatchback">hatchback</a> body, in order to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both front- and <a title="Four-wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four-wheel_drive">four-wheel drive</a>. All engines had a four-cylinder configuration and were <a title="Transverse engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transverse_engine">transversally mounted</a>. After the A4, the Audi A3 was the second model in the Audi lineup to use five valves per cylinder.<br />In 1999, Audi expanded the range with the introduction of an entry level model (1.6 L), a sporty version (1.8 Turbo with 180 PS (132 kW)) and a more powerful Diesel (1.9 TDI with pumpe-düse technology and <a title="Variable geometry turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_geometry_turbocharger">variable geometry turbocharger</a>). The four-wheel-drive A3 1.8T <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a> used either the 150 hp (110 kW) and 180 PS (132 kW) and the same <a title="Haldex" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haldex">Haldex</a>-based <a title="All-wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All-wheel_drive">all-wheel drive</a> system as the <a title="Audi S3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S3">Audi S3</a> and the original <a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT">Audi TT</a>. 1999 was also the year Audi was forced to bow to market demands and introduced a hastily conceived five-door body, that the company had never intended to produce.<br />In late 2001, the A3 range was revised with new light clusters, an improved interior, and the introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox, on the 180 PS 1.8 Turbo and the brand new 130 PS (96 kW) 1.9 TDI. Audi's ESP (Electronic Stability Program) traction-control and brakeforce distribution computer became standard equipment.<br />Although the Audi A3 was replaced in Europe during 2003, the first generation model continues to be sold in developing countries, most notably Brazil.<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_A3_FL_Schwarz_1Serie.jpg"></a><br />1st generation Audi A3<br /><a name="Engines"></a>Engines<br />1.6 L (1595 cc/97 in³), 75 kW (102 PS)<br />1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³), 92 kW (125 PS)<br />1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) light-pressure <a title="Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo">turbo</a>, 110 kW (150 PS)<br />1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) <a title="Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo">turbo</a>, 132 kW (180 PS)<br />1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) <a title="Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo">turbo</a>, 154-165 kW (210-225 PS) (S3)<br />1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) <a title="Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo">turbo</a> <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">Diesel</a>, 66 kW (90 PS)<br />1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) <a title="Variable geometry turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_geometry_turbocharger">turbo</a> <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">Diesel</a>, 81 kW (110 PS)<br />1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) <a title="Variable geometry turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_geometry_turbocharger">turbo</a> <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">Diesel</a>, 96 kW (130 PS)<br /><a name="Second_generation_.282003-.29"></a>Second generation (2003-)<br />In the 2003 <a title="Geneva Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geneva_Motor_Show">Geneva Motor Show</a>, Audi launched the second-generation of the A3, the Typ 8P, designed by <a title="Walter de'Silva" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_de%27Silva">Walter de'Silva</a>. Originally launched as a 3-door hatchback only with four cylinder engines, it featured a new mechanical platform, a redesigned and more spacious interior, new petrol engines with <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">Fuel Stratified Injection</a> and standard six-speed gearboxes (except on the base 1.6).<br />In mid 2003, the line was updated with two sports models, a 2.0 Turbo FSI version with 200 PS (147 kW) and a 3.2 <a title="VR6 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VR6_engine">VR6 engine</a> (for the first time) with 250 PS (184 kW). <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a> four wheel drive and the <a title="Direct Shift Gearbox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct_Shift_Gearbox">S-Tronic semi-auto gearbox</a> were introduced as optionals (quattro is standard on the V6) on every model 140 PS and over.<br />A new 5-door body, dubbed Sportback, was introduced in June 2004. Unlike the previous generation, the new A3 Sportback is 8 cm (3 in) longer than the base 3-door body, and includes improved rear cabin space and a larger luggage compartment (370 litres). It also received the new front grille originally introduced in the <a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">A8 W12</a>.<br />In 2005, the S-Line trim level, with new sporty decorative elements, became available in certain models, and the 3-door received the same frontend as the Sportback. For the first time, the A3 became available in the American market, exclusively with the Sportback body, with the base 2.0 TFSI introduced in 2005 and the 3.2 V6 quattro following in 2006. In April 2006, the lineup was expanded with the introduction of a more powerful 2.0 TDI with 170 PS (125 kW).<br />In August 2006, Audi announced the arrival of the S3 version, which will become the new range topper. The 2.0 TFSI engine was uprated to 265 PS (195 kW), thanks to a higher turbo pressure of 2.2 bar, and is available with a standard 6-speed manual and Quattro. The second generation S3 is capable of accelerating to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.7 seconds. The springs and dampers were tuned for a harder setting, and ride height lowered in 25 mm (1 inch). 225/40 R18 tyres are standard.<br /><a name="Engines_2"></a>Engines<br />1.6 L (1595 cc), 75 kW (102 PS)<br />1.6 L (1598 cc) <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">FSI</a>, 85 kW (115 PS)<br />2.0 L (1984 cc) <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">FSI</a>, 110 kW (150 PS)<br />2.0 L (1984 cc) <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">FSI</a> <a title="Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo">turbo</a>, 147 kW (200 PS)<br />3.2 L (3189 cc) <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a>, 184 kW (250 PS)<br />2.0 L (1984 cc) <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">FSI</a> <a title="Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo">turbo</a>, 195 kW (265 PS) (S3)<br />1.9 L (1896 cc) <a title="Variable geometry turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_geometry_turbocharger">turbo</a> <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">diesel</a>, 77 kW (105 PS)<br />2.0 L (1968 cc) <a title="Variable geometry turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_geometry_turbocharger">turbo</a> <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">diesel</a>, 103 kW (140 PS)<br />2.0 L (1968 cc) <a title="Variable geometry turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_geometry_turbocharger">turbo</a> <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">diesel</a>, 125 kW (170 PS)<br /><a name="Trivia"></a>Trivia<br />In the Spring of 2005, Audi began a massive <a title="Alternate reality game" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternate_reality_game">alternate reality game</a> to advertise for the A3, known as <a title="The Art of the Heist" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Art_of_the_Heist">The Art of the Heist</a>.<br /><a name="References"></a><a name="External_links"></a>:<br /><br />Audi A4<br />Audi A4<br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1995" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995">1995</a>–present<br />Predecessor:<br /><a title="Audi 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80">Audi 80</a><br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Entry-level luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entry-level_luxury_car">Entry-level luxury car</a> / <a title="Mid-size" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size">Mid-size</a> <a title="Executive car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Executive_car">executive car</a><br />Body style:<br />4-door <a title="Sedan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan">sedan</a>4-door <a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">station wagon</a>2-door <a title="Convertible" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convertible">convertible</a><br /><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform">Platform</a>:<br /><a title="FF layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FF_layout">FF</a>/<a title="Four wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_wheel_drive">AWD</a><br />Similar:<br /><a title="Alfa Romeo 159" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfa_Romeo_159">Alfa Romeo 159</a><a title="BMW 3 Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3_Series">BMW 3 Series</a><a title="Infiniti G35" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infiniti_G35">Infiniti G35</a><a title="Jaguar X-Type" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_X-Type">Jaguar X-Type</a><a title="Lexus IS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_IS">Lexus IS</a><a title="Mercedes-Benz C-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_C-Class">Mercedes-Benz C-Class</a><a title="Volvo S40" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_S40">Volvo S40</a><a title="Saab 9-3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saab_9-3">Saab 9-3</a><a title="Volvo S60" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_S60">Volvo S60</a><br /><br />First generation<br /><a title="The first-generation Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_A4_B5_Avant.jpg"></a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1995" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995">1995</a>–<a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000">2000</a><br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />1.6 L, 1.8 L 20V, 1.8 L 20V Turbo, 2.6 L <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> (1996-1999), 2.4 L <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> 30V (1998-2000), 2.8 L <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> 30V, 1.9 L TDI, 2.5 L V6 TDI<br /><a title="Transmission (mechanics)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_%28mechanics%29">Transmission</a>:<br />5-Speed Automatic Overdrive5-Speed Manual Overdrive<br /><a title="Wheelbase" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelbase">Wheelbase</a>:<br />103.00 in.<br />Length:<br />178.00 in.<br />Width:<br />68.20 in.<br />Height:<br />55.80 in.<br />Fuel capacity:<br />16.4 gal.<br />The Audi A4 is an <a title="Entry-level luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entry-level_luxury_car">entry-level luxury car</a> / <a title="Mid-size" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size">mid-size</a> <a title="Executive car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Executive_car">executive car</a> produced by the <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">German</a> automaker <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> since <a title="1995" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995">1995</a>. It is the replacement of the <a title="Audi 80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80">Audi 80</a> (called the Audi 4000 in <a title="North America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America">North America</a>) and Audi 90.<br /><a name="B5_.281995-2001.29"></a>B5 (1995-2001)<br />Audi debuted the model in 1995 on <a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen">Volkswagen</a>'s <a title="Volkswagen B platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_B_platform">B5</a> platform, which it shared with the fourth generation <a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat">Volkswagen Passat</a>. Like the Passat, it had a <a title="Longitudinal" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longitudinal">longitudinally</a>-mounted engine and standard <a title="Front wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Front_wheel_drive">front wheel drive</a>, although the vast majority of A4s Audi sells in North America come optioned with their <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">all wheel drive</a> system. The Avant <a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">station wagon</a> arrived a year later.<br />A wide range of engines were available to <a title="Europe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe">European</a> customers, between 1.6 and 2.8 L, and a 1.9 L <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">Diesel</a> available with VW's new "pumpe-düse" technology, capable of achieving a then high power value of 110 <a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower#PS">PS</a> (81 kW), although Audi's 2.8 L <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a>, carried over from the old 80/90 was the only engine option in North America until 1997.<br />The Audi A4 was the first model in the <a title="Volkswagen Group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Group">Volkswagen Group</a> to feature the new 1.8 L 20V motor with <a title="Multivalve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multivalve">five valves per cylinder</a>, based on the unit <a title="Audi Sport" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_Sport&action=edit">Audi Sport</a> had developed for their <a title="Supertouring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supertouring">Supertouring</a> race car. A <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbocharged</a> version produced 150 PS (110 kW) and 210 Nm (155 ft.lbf) of torque. This technology was added to the V6 family in 1996, starting with the 2.8 L V6 30V, which now pumped 193 PS (142 kW).<br />Audi also debuted their new <a title="Tiptronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiptronic">Tiptronic</a> transmission on the B5 platform, based on the unit <a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche">Porsche</a> developed for their <a title="Porsche 964" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_964">964</a>-generation <a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911">911</a>. The transmission is a "manumatic", meaning it offers the driver a choice of driving the car as either an automatic or a clutchless manual.<br />The B5 A4 is arguably a watershed model for Audi. Previously regarded as somewhat of a bit-player in the luxury car segment, the massive improvement in quality and engineering with the B5 A4 made buyers realise that there was now a marque other than BMW and Mercedes. Combined with the radical TT concept (later a production car), Audi emerged as a leader in the luxury car market.<br /><a name="B5_facelift_.281998-2001.29"></a>B5 facelift (1998-2001)<br />Audi refreshed the model in the 1997 <a title="Frankfurt Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankfurt_Motor_Show">Frankfurt Motor Show</a>, with sales beginning in Europe in early 1998. Besides the introduction of a 2.4 L 30-valve V6 (replacing the outdated 2.6 V6), the most important additions to the range were the 2.5 L V6 TDI engine with 150 PS (110 kW) and standard quattro and a 6-speed gearbox, as well the new high-performance <a title="Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4">S4</a>, now part of the A4 lineup (the previous S4 had been a <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 100</a>). New taillights, <a title="Headlights" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Headlights">headlights</a>, door handles, and other minor exterior/interior changes rounded out the cosmetic updates.<br />In mid 1998, the 1.8T engine available outside Europe had its power output raised to 170 PS (125 kW), while the 12-valve V6 was replaced by the 30 valve unit that had been available in Europe for two years.<br />In 1999, Audi debuted an even higher performance model, the <a title="Audi RS4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS4">RS4</a>, like its predecessor <a title="Audi RS2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS2">RS2</a> available only in the Avant body.<br /><a name="B6_.282000-2005.29"></a><br />B6 (2000-2005)<br />Second generation<br /><a title="Second-generation Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_A4_B6_Limo.jpg"></a><br />Production:<br /><a title="2001" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2001">2001</a>–<a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a><br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />1.6 L, 2.0 2.0 FSI; L 20V, 1.8 L 20V Turbo, 2.4 L V6 30V, 3.0 L V6 30V, 1.9 L TDI, 2.5 L TDI, 3.0 L TDI<br /><a title="Transmission (mechanics)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_%28mechanics%29">Transmission</a>:<br />5-Speed Automatic Overdrive5-Speed Manual Overdrive6-Speed Manual Overdrive<br /><a title="Wheelbase" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelbase">Wheelbase</a>:<br />104.30 in.<br />Length:<br />179.00 in.<br />Width:<br />69.50 in.<br />Height:<br />56.20 in.<br />Fuel capacity:<br />17.4 gal.<br />An all-new A4 debuted in late 2000, now riding on the <a title="Volkswagen B platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_B_platform#B6">B6</a> platform. The 1.6 L base model remained unchanged, but most other gasoline engines received either displacement increases or power upgrades. The 1.8 20 valve Turbo was now available in two additional versions, with 150 or 180 PS (110 or 132 kW), this one with a standard six-speed gearbox, while the naturally aspirated 1.8 L straight-4 and 2.8 L V6 were replaced by 2.0 L and 3.0 L units, still with five valves per cylinder, the most powerful of which was capable of 220 PS (162 kW) and 300 Nm (221 ft.lbf) of torque. The 1.9 TDI engine was upgraded to 130 PS and was now available with quattro, while the 2.5 V6 TDI high-end model was introduced with 180 PS (132 kW) and standard quattro. The Avant arrived in mid 2001.<br />Two 2 litre engines were on offer, the standard 2.0 20v engine with 128Bhp and the more economical 2.0 FSI 16v engine with 147 Bhp. The former accelerates from 0-62mph (0-100kmh) in 9.6, whilst the latter manages to do the same in 9.3 seconds. When driving, the 20v engine feels (sounds) faster than the FSI because of the sharp bursts of power whereas the FSI tends to deliver the power in a smooth manner, and needs higher revs to get the most out of it.<br />For 2002, Audi upgraded power in the 1.8 Turbo engines to 163 and 190 PS (120 and 140 kW respectively), and in the 2.5 TDI intermediate version to 163 PS. A year later, Audi reintroduced the S4, now powered by a 344 PS (253 kW) 4.2 L V8, as well as an A4 Cabrio convertible variant, finally replacing the 80-based Audi Cabriolet that had been discontinued in 1998.<br />Audi also introduced a <a title="Continuously variable transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuously_variable_transmission">continuously variable transmission</a> developed by <a title="LuK" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=LuK&action=edit">LuK</a>, named <a title="Multitronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multitronic">Multitronic</a>, which replaced the Tiptronic on front wheel drive models. The transmission won considerable praise from the automotive press and is generally regarded as being the best of its type in the world, due to its light weight and promptness in response, but its use was limited to models with a maximum of 310 Nm (229 ft.lbf).<br />Borrowing from the <a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">Audi A6</a>, the boot was redesigned to remove the extension of the top edge with a smoother fold line, and the taillight assembly now forms part of the top line.<br />A new cabriolet version of the A4 was introduced in 2002 to replace the ageing Audi 80-based model. It incorporated some minor styling changes which eventually found their way to the sedan version (such as body-colored lower bumper and sill panels).<br /><a name="B7_.282004-present.29"></a>B7 (2004-present)<br />Third generation<br /><a title="2005 Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_a4_2004_rod_sedan.jpg"></a><br />Production:<br /><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004">2004</a>–present<br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />1.6 L; 2.0 L 20V, 1.8 L 20V Turbo, 2.0 L TSFI, 3.2 L V6 FSI, 1.9 L TDI, 2.0 L TDI, 2.7 L TDI, 3.0 L TDI<br /><a title="Transmission (mechanics)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_%28mechanics%29">Transmission</a>:<br />5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, CVT<br /><a title="Wheelbase" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelbase">Wheelbase</a>:<br />104.30 in.<br />Length:<br />180.60 in.<br />Width:<br />69.80 in.<br />Height:<br />56.20 in.<br />Fuel capacity:<br />18.5 gal.<br />Audi introduced a redesigned A4 in late 2004, now riding on the B7 platform, which is completely unique to Audi and not shared with Volkswagen. Nonetheless, the B7 is really a revision of the outgoing B6, and not a ground-up redesign. This is confirmed by Audi's internal platform nomenclature, which uses PL46 (longitudinal passenger car platform, size 4, generation 6) for both B6 and B7 chassis.<br />The engine lineup received many additions, the most notable of which was the introduction of <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">Fuel Stratified Injection</a> on the new 2.0 TFSI and 3.2 V6 FSI, respectively capable of 200 and 255 PS (147 and 188 kW), although these engines dropped the five-valve design in favor of the more widely known four valves per cylinder configuration, as the design was incompatible with the direct injection system. The new 2.0 TDI engine now combined Pumpe Düse (PD) technology with 16 valves for the first time, while the larger 2.5 TDI was increased to 3.0 L, with 204 PS (150 kW). quattro was available either as an option or standard on most mid- to high-end models, with multitronic and Tiptronic automatic gearboxes available throughout the entire lineup. As per the B6, multitronic is available only on front-wheel drive models and Tiptronic only available on quattro models.<br />In addition to the carry-over S4, which remained unchanged on the technical side, Audi has reintroduced the RS4 to the lineup, for the first time on the <a title="Sedan (car)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan_%28car%29">sedan</a> body and with a normally aspirated 4.2 V8 FSI engine. Another notable inclusion is the 3rd-generation quattro system which uses 40:60 front-rear power distribution. A limited edition variant first introduced in late 2005, named "<a title="Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deutsche_Tourenwagen_Masters">DTM Edition</a>", was reintroduced in 2006 as a regular option, the 2.0T FSI engine now engineered to 220 PS (162 kW) with standard quattro. The front grill assembly has changed to be full height in the same manner as the <a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">Audi A6</a>.<br />The B7 Cabriolet model arrived later than the other two body variants, with sales beginning in February 2006. Brand new on the Cabriolet was an entry-level 2.0 TDI version, but to date this is not being offered with the Multitronic gearbox.<br /><a name="Current_lineup"></a>Current lineup<br />A4 Engine Setup<br />Power<br />Sedan<br />Avant<br />Cabriolet<br />1.6<br />102 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />2.0<br />130 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />1.8 T<br />163 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br />1.8 T quattro<br />163 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />2.0 TFSI<br />200 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br />2.0 TFSI quattro<br />200 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />2.0 DTM Edition<br />220 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />3.2 FSI<br />255 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br />3.2 FSI quattro<br />255 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br />4.2 S4<br />344 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br />4.2 RS4<br />420 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br />1.9 TDI<br />115 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />2.0 TDI<br />140 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br />2.0 TDI quattro<br />140 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />2.0 TDI<br />170 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />2.7 TDI<br />180 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />3.0 TDI quattro<br />233 PS<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Black_check.svg"></a><br /><br />Audi A6<br />Audi A6<br /><a title="C6 Audi A6 avant" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi-A6.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1994" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994">1994</a>–present<br />Predecessor:<br /><a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 100</a><br />Successor:<br />None<br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Mid-size car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size_car">Mid-size</a> <a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car">luxury car</a> / <a title="Executive car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Executive_car">Executive car</a><br />Body style:<br />4-door <a title="Sedan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan">sedan</a>, 5-door <a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">wagon</a><br /><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform">Platform</a>:<br /><a title="FF layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FF_layout">FF</a>, <a title="Four wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_wheel_drive">AWD</a><br />Similar:<br /><a title="Acura TL" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acura_TL">Acura TL</a><a title="Cadillac STS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadillac_STS">Cadillac STS</a><a title="Citroën C6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citro%C3%ABn_C6">Citroën C6</a><a title="Lexus GS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_GS">Lexus GS</a><a title="Renault Vel Satis" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renault_Vel_Satis">Renault Vel Satis</a><a title="Saab 9-5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saab_9-5">Saab 9-5</a><a title="Jaguar S-Type" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_S-Type">Jaguar S-Type</a><a title="Volvo S80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_S80">Volvo S80</a><br />The Audi A6 is a <a title="Mid-size car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size_car">mid-size</a> <a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car">luxury car</a> / <a title="Executive car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Executive_car">executive car</a> produced by the <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">German</a> <a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">automaker</a> <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a>. It is available in <a title="Sedan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan">sedan</a> and <a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">station wagon</a> (Avant) body styles. The second generation A6 was also used as the basis for the <a title="Audi Allroad Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Allroad_Quattro">Allroad</a>. Its primary competitors are the <a title="Mercedes-Benz E-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_E-Class">Mercedes-Benz E-Class</a>, <a title="BMW 5-Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5-Series">BMW 5-Series</a>, <a title="Alfa Romeo 166" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfa_Romeo_166">Alfa Romeo 166</a>, <a title="Jaguar S-Type" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_S-Type">Jaguar S-Type</a>, <a title="Lexus GS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_GS">Lexus GS</a> and <a title="Volvo S80" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_S80">Volvo S80</a>.<br /><a name="C4_.281994-1997.29"></a>C4 (1994-1997)<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_S6_C4.jpg"></a><br />C4 Audi 100 sedan- note this is pre-facelift 100, not an A6<br />In 1994, the latest generation (C4) of the <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 100</a> was facelifted and re-badged as the A6, to fit in with Audi's new naming policy (as the A8 had just been introduced). The exterior was largely left unchanged from the C4 100, the same happening with chassis and engine and transmission choices.<br />Up until 1997, the A6 came with several different engines, two of them Diesel, and most of them available with Audi's <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> <a title="Four wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_wheel_drive">four wheel drive</a> system. The A6 was also available with sedan and Avant bodies.<br />The C4 design was available with the following engines:<br />Engine<br />Cyl.<br />Power (<a title="PS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PS">PS</a>)<br />1.8 20V<br />4<br />125<br />2.0<br />4<br />115<br />2.3<br />5<br />133<br />2.6<br />V6<br />150<br />2.8<br />V6<br />174<br />2.8 30V<br />V6<br />193<br />S6 2.2 T<br />5<br />230<br />S6 4.2<br />V8<br />280<br />S6 4.2 Plus<br />V8<br />326<br />1.9 TDI<br />4<br />90<br />2.5 TDI<br />V6<br />115<br />2.5 TDI<br />V6<br />140<br /><a name="C5_.281997-2004.29"></a>C5 (1997-2004)<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2004_Audi_A6_Quattro.jpg"></a><br />C5 Audi A6 sedan quattro<br />In 1997 the scene changed strikingly for the A6. With the introduction of an ambitious new design (C5) and a new pack of engines, the A6 moved up a notch and was positioned alongside the hegemonious BMW 5-Series and the solid Mercedes E-class. The new A6 presented itself with a wide range of engines and configurations. The crisp <a title="Multivalve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multivalve">30-valve</a> 2.4 and 2.8 V6 engines represented the bulk of the A6's development programme, but the resilient 2.5 V6 <a title="Turbo Direct Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo_Direct_Injection">TDI</a> and the powerful all-new <a title="Audi S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6">Audi S6</a> were the flagships. As an alternative to the manual transmission, a 5-speed <a title="Tiptronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiptronic">Tiptronic</a> <a title="Automatic transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatic_transmission">automatic transmission</a> was also available.<br />The C5 Sedan body arrived in 1997, and the Avant body in 1998 in Europe. In the US, the C4 continued for 1997, with the C5 sedan appearing in 1998, and the C5 Avant appearing in 1999. However, in Canada, there was no Avant (wagon) available at all in 1998 -- Audi dropped the C4 Avant at the end of the 1997 model year, and jumped straight to the C5 Avant in 1999 in conjunction with its release in the US. The North American cars were identical with the exception of the Canadian models receiving daytime running-lights, and child-seat tethers (which were a common dealer-installed option in the US). All of the North American C5 A6 models received the 2.8 litre, 30-valve V6 engine. S6 and All-Roads were an exception to this.<br />In 2000 the A6 received a facelift which saw little change in the design of the car but presented a few notable changes in terms of engines. The 1.8 L engine was removed and replaced by a 2.0 L powerplant with 130 PS (96 kW). The 1.9 L TDI was tweaked into producing a maximum of 130 PS (96 kW) and 310 Nm (228 ft.lbf), receiving a 6-speed gearbox in the process. The 2.4's power was slightly upgraded and the 2.8 V6 was replaced by a 3.0 L engine boosting 220 PS (162 kW). The turbocharged 2.7 L was given a tweak on the turbo resulting in 250 PS (184 kW) and 330 Nm (244 ft.lbf), controlled by standard quattro. The V6 Diesel was also slightly modified resulting in 163 PS (120 kW) (after the second modification) and 350 Nm (258 ft.lbf). A new more powerful V6 diesel was also introduced presenting 180 bhp and 370 nm. In addition, A6's bound for North America were now available with the turbocharged 2.7 L engine and the 4.2 L V8 borrowed from the <a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">Audi A8</a>.<br />Also new was the revolutionary <a title="Multitronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multitronic">Multitronic</a> drive by wire <a title="Continuously variable transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuously_variable_transmission">continuously variable transmission</a>, available in most front wheel drive models in the lineup. All models, except the 2.0 petrol and 1.9 TDI, were available with Audi's four wheel drive system, quattro. A four wheel drive version of the estate with raised ground clearance and slightly altered styling was sold as the <a title="Audi Allroad Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Allroad_Quattro">Audi Allroad Quattro</a>, Audi's first crossover SUV.<br />In the late years of the A6 C5 design, a monstrous <a title="Audi RS6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS6">Audi RS6</a> model was presented. Producing a staggering 450 PS (331 kW) and 560 Nm (413 ft.lbf), it propels the A6 from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 sec and on to 200 km/h in under 18 seconds. This model saw the end of the C5 design which was replaced in 2004 by a new model.<br />The C5 design was available with the following engines:<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2000_Audi_A6_2.8_Avant_Quattro.jpg"></a><br />C5 Audi A6 avant<br />Engine<br />Cyl.<br />Power (PS)<br />1.8 20V<br />4<br />125<br />2.0 20V<br />4<br />130<br />1.8 T<br />4<br />150<br />2.4 30V<br />V6<br />165/170<br />2.8 30V<br />V6<br />193/200<br />3.0 30V<br />V6<br />220<br />2.7 T<br />V6<br />230/250<br />4.2<br />V8<br />300<br />S6 4.2<br />V8<br />340<br />RS6 4.2 T<br />V8<br />450<br />1.9 TDI<br />4<br />110/115/130<br />2.5 TDI<br />V6<br />150/155/163<br />2.5 TDI<br />V6<br />180<br /><a name="C6_.282004-present.29"></a>C6 (2004-present)<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi-A6.JPG"></a><br />USDM Audi A6 C6<br />The new A6 (C6) was released in 2004. Designed by <a title="Walter De Silva" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Walter_De_Silva&action=edit">Walter De Silva</a>, the new model is much longer (492 cm) and features more sophisticated technology. Most notably is the MMI (<a title="Multi Media Interface" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi_Media_Interface">Multi Media Interface</a>) which is a system controlling in-car entertainment, satellite navigation, climate control, car settings such as suspension configuration and optional electronic accessories through a central screen interface. This has the advantage of minimizing the wealth of buttons normally found on a dashboard by replacing them with controls which operate multiple devices using the integrated display. On the engine side the new <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">FSI</a> direct injection technology was introduced for the first time outside the race track. Although the line of engines represents the same progression as the former model, all engines were new. The Multitronic automatic transmission continues as an alternative alongside a new 6-speed Tiptronic gearbox available in the high end models. Quattro four wheel drive is available in most of the lineup, and standard in the most powerful models.<br />Like the previous model, the A6 is available with other body options. The Avant arrived during the course of 2005, while in China, a longer version was introduced in the same year, named A6 L. The Allroad model is slated to make its debut during 2006. The sporting S6 was introduced in the <a title="Frankfurt Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankfurt_Motor_Show">Frankfurt Motor Show</a>, with sales beginning in early 2006. It is powered by a <a title="Lamborghini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini">Lamborghini</a>-derived <a title="V10 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V10_engine">V10</a>.<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_A6_quattro.jpg"></a><br />Technical diagram of the quattro system used in the C6<br />The C6 design was available with the following engines:<br />Engine<br />Cyl.<br />Power (PS)<br />2.0 TFSI<br />4<br />170<br />2.4 30V<br />V6<br />177<br />3.2 FSI<br />V6<br />255<br />4.2/FSI<br />V8<br />335/350<br />S6 5.2<br />V10<br />435<br />2.0 TDI<br />4<br />140<br />2.7 TDI<br />V6<br />180<br />3.0 TDI<br />V6<br />225/233<br /><a name="Awards"></a>Awards<br />The A6 was on <a title="Car and Driver" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_and_Driver">Car and Driver</a> magazine's <a title="Car and Driver Ten Best" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_and_Driver_Ten_Best">Ten Best list</a> for 2000 and 2001. The updated 2005 A6 won the <a title="World Car of the Year" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Car_of_the_Year">World Car of the Year</a> award for <a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Audi A8<br />Audi A8<br /><a title="2005 Audi A8 L 6.0 W12" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2005_A8_W12.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Audi AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_AG">Audi AG</a>, subsidiary of <a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a>, <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">Germany</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1994" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994">1994</a>–present<br />Predecessor:<br /><a title="Audi V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_V8">Audi V8</a><br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Full-size car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size_car">Full-size</a> <a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car">luxury car</a><br />Body style:<br />4-door <a title="Sedan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan">sedan</a><br /><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform">Platform</a>:<br /><a title="FF layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FF_layout">FF</a>, <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">AWD</a><br />Similar:<br /><a title="BMW 7 Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_7_Series">BMW 7 Series</a><a title="Lexus LS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS">Lexus LS</a><a title="Maserati Quattroporte" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maserati_Quattroporte">Maserati Quattroporte</a><a title="Mercedes-Benz S-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_S-Class">Mercedes-Benz S-Class</a><a title="Jaguar XJ" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_XJ">Jaguar XJ</a><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:A8_W12.JPG"></a><br />A rare 2001 Audi A8 L 6.0 W12<br />The Audi A8 is a <a title="Full-size car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size_car">full-size</a> <a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car">luxury car</a> built by the <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">German</a> <a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">automaker</a> <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> to replace the <a title="Audi V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_V8">V8</a> model as its flagship offering. Although the <a title="Volkswagen Phaeton" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Phaeton">Volkswagen Phaeton</a>, long wheelbase <a title="Jaguar XJ8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_XJ8">Jaguar XJ8</a> and <a title="Lexus LS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS">Lexus LS 430</a> compete in the same size and price category as the A8, the <a title="Mercedes-Benz S-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_S-Class">Mercedes-Benz S-Class</a> and <a title="BMW 7 Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_7_Series">BMW 7 Series</a> are often thought to be its primary rivals. On the market since <a title="1994" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994">1994</a>, it has fully established itself as a popular alternative to these long-running competitors. Most versions feature <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a> all-wheel-drive as standard as well as a <a title="Multitronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multitronic">multitronic</a> or <a title="Tiptronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiptronic">tiptronic</a> <a title="Automatic transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatic_transmission">automatic transmission</a>.<br /><a name="First_generation_.281994-2003.29"></a>First generation (1994-2003)<br />The A8 debuted in Europe in 1994, although it wasn't until 1997 that it became available in <a title="North America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America">North America</a>. Unlike the V8 model, which was built on an existing steel platform, the A8 debuted on Audi's then-new D2 platform, an all aluminum <a title="Space frame" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_frame">space frame</a> which helped to significantly reduce weight without being any less rigid.<br />In addition to being the world's first car built on an entirely aluminum platform, updates to the car in 1997 included the addition of six interior airbags, making the A8 the first vehicle to be so equipped.<br />For 2001, Audi introduced their new <a title="W12 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W12_engine">W12 engine</a>, a compact 6.0 L unit developed by mating two 3.0 L <a title="VR6 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VR6_engine">VR6 engines</a> together at the crankshaft, similar to the 3.6 L engine from the V8 model which had been created by mating two inline-four cylinder engines at the crankshaft. The engine quickly became available in the A8, although only to European and Asian customers and only in long-wheelbase versions of the car. From its introduction through its discontinuation in 2003, only 750 of the W12 models were produced.<br /><a name="Second_generation_.282003-current.29"></a>Second generation (2003-current)<br />A second generation went on sale early in 2003 using Audi's <a title="Volkswagen D Platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Volkswagen_D_Platform&action=edit">D3 platform</a>. The model was longer than before, with room for five adult occupants in the cabin, including enough legroom in the rear for six-footers-plus to stretch out in the rear in absolute comfort.<br />Audi restyled the D3 platform A8 range slightly in 2005, endowing all variants with a tall and wide so-called single-frame grille inspired that of the <a title="Audi Nuvolari" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_Nuvolari&action=edit">Nuvolari</a> <a title="Concept car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_car">concept car</a>. The top-of-the-line 12-cylinder W12 version was the first to be equipped with this grille before it was introduced to less potent A8s. Subsequently, all current Audi models down to the <a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3">Audi A3</a> have adopted this controversial styling element. In addition to the styling update, new engines became available to European and Asian market customers. The entry-level 3.0 V6 was replaced by a new 3.2 L unit featuring <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">FSI</a>, which it shares with the new <a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">A4</a>. More significantly was the introduction of a <a title="List of Volkswagen engines" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Volkswagen_engines#326_hp_4.2L_V8_TDI">4.2 L Diesel V8 engine</a> generating 240 kW (326 PS) of power, the most powerful Diesel engine Audi has ever offered in a passenger automobile. The engine uses two <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbochargers</a> and two <a title="Intercooler" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intercooler">intercoolers</a> with each turbocharger functioning exclusively for one set of four cylinders.<br />The A8 is available with the following wide range of engines:<br />3.0 L (2967 cc) <a title="V6 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6_engine">V6</a> TDI, 171 kW (233 PS), 0–100 km/h in 8.0 s<br />3.2 L (3123 cc) V6 <a title="Fuel Stratified Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_Stratified_Injection">FSI</a>, 191 kW (260 PS), 0–100 km/h in 8.0 s<br />4.2 L (4134 cc) V8 TDI, 240 kW (326 PS), 0–100 km/h in 6.0 s<br />4.2 L (4163 cc) V8 FSI, 257 kW (350 PS), 0–100 km/h in 6.1 s<br />6.0 L (5998 cc) <a title="W12 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W12_engine">W12</a> FSI, 331 kW (450 PS), 0–100 km/h in 5.2 s<br />In most markets outside Europe, only the 4.2 V8 and 6.0 W12 petrol powerplants are available.<br /><a name="Audi_S8"></a>Audi S8<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:AudiS8.JPG"></a><br />2003 Audi S8<br />In 2001, Audi introduced an S8 variant in the vein of Mercedes-Benz AMG models. Although it shared the standard model's platform, it featured a re-tuned, 360 PS (265 kW) version of the standard V8 engine, a re-tuned suspension with larger wheels and upgraded tires, enlarged brakes and a re-calibrated version of the 5-speed Tiptronic transmission (European-spec models had a 6-speed manual transmission option); quattro was standard. Production of the first-generation S8 ended in 2003, shortly before the introduction of the D3 platform A8.<br />In the last quarter of 2005, Audi introduced a new S8, now powered by a 450 PS (331 kW) <a title="List of Volkswagen engines" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Volkswagen_engines#450_hp_5.2L_V10">V10 engine</a> derived from the <a title="Lamborghini V10" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini_V10">5.0 L V10</a> used in the <a title="Lamborghini Gallardo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini_Gallardo">Lamborghini Gallardo</a>. Much public confusion surrounded this engine choice after Audi's initial announcement because its power output is identical to that of the W12 motor, prompting people to ask why Audi would bother with the development of the V10.<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:D3_S8.JPG"></a><br />2006 Audi S8<br />However, Audi claims that the V10 revs more quickly than the W12, and that its lighter weight helps give the S8 a lower overall curb weight and better weight distribution (the SWB model being 20 kg lighter). Initial reviews from European automotive magazines seem generally positive.<br />Audi's factory performance claims for the V10 S8 indicate a 0-100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds. This would put it in a competitive range with the <a title="Mercedes-Benz S-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_S-Class">Mercedes-Benz S 55 AMG</a> and the S600 (powered by a twin-turbo V12), the <a title="BMW 7 Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_7_Series">BMW 760Li</a> (powered by a naturally-aspirated 12 cylinder engine) and the company's own A8L W12, although the upcoming version of the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG will be faster, albeit at a much higher price.<br />The previous S8 came to popular prominence after the movie <a title="Ronin (movie)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronin_%28movie%29">Ronin</a>, starring <a title="Robert De Niro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_De_Niro">Robert De Niro</a>, where its dramatic speed combined with its size became a useful plot element, and gained the car much international attention.<br /><a name="A8_Coup.C3.A9"></a>A8 Coupé<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:A8_Coupe.JPG"></a><br />1997 Audi A8 Coupé built by IVM Automotive<br />In 1997, <a title="IVM Automotive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IVM_Automotive">IVM Automotive</a> of Munich, Germany built a 2-door Audi A8 Coupé. The car was unveiled at the 1997 <a title="Salon International de l'Auto" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salon_International_de_l%27Auto">Geneva Motor Show</a>. Audi hired IVM to build the prototype, and was considering production of the vehicle. The coupé had a re-engineered alloy body shorter than the production A8 sedan. Like the <a title="Mercedes-Benz CL-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_CL-Class">Mercedes-Benz CL-Class</a>, there was no central pillar, giving the car a seamless design with a gradually sloping roofline. The car included custom leather seats and could seat four. Ultimately, Audi decided not to put the coupé into production, citing lower-than-expected sales figures for the similar <a title="BMW 8 Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_8_Series">BMW 8 Series</a> and Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupé. Only one A8 Coupé was ever built. The single prototype, painted a color called "Ming Blue Pearl," remains the property of IVM Automotive and resides in Munich. Its last public appearance was in 2002 on a series of test drives. As of <a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006">2006</a>, there are still no plans for an A8 coupé series.<br /><br />Audi Q7<br /><br />Audi Q7<br /><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:AudiQ7USversion.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006">2006</a>–present<br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Full-size car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size_car">Full-size</a> <a title="Luxury SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_SUV">luxury</a> <a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV">SUV</a><br />Body style:<br />4-door <a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV">SUV</a><br /><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform">Platform</a>:<br /><a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">AWD</a><br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />4.2 L <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a><br /><a title="Transmission (mechanics)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_%28mechanics%29">Transmission</a>:<br />6-speed <a title="Automatic transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatic_transmission">automatic</a><br /><a title="Wheelbase" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelbase">Wheelbase</a>:<br />118.2 in (3002 mm)<br />Length:<br />200.2 in (5085 mm)<br />Width:<br />78.1 in (1984 mm)<br />Height:<br />66.8 in (1697 mm)<br /><a title="Curb weight" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curb_weight">Curb weight</a>:<br />4950 lb (2245 kg)<br />Related:<br /><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne">Porsche Cayenne</a><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg">Volkswagen Touareg</a><br />Similar:<br /><a title="Cadillac Escalade" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadillac_Escalade">Cadillac Escalade</a><a title="Land Rover Range Rover" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Rover_Range_Rover">Land Rover Range Rover</a><a title="Lexus LX" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LX">Lexus LX</a><a title="Mercedes-Benz GL-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_GL-Class">Mercedes-Benz GL-Class</a><br />The Audi Q7 is a <a title="Full-size" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size">full-size</a> <a title="Luxury SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_SUV">luxury SUV</a> produced by the <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">German</a> <a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">automaker</a> <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> since <a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006">2006</a>, released at the same time as the competing <a title="Mercedes-Benz GL-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_GL-Class">Mercedes-Benz GL-Class</a>. The Q denotes a new family of vehicles for Audi, designated the 7 in its placement between the <a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">Audi A6</a> and <a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">Audi A8</a>.<br />The Q7 shares rides on the <a title="Volkswagen E platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_E_platform">Volkswagen E platform</a>. Based on the <a title="Audi Pikes Peak Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Pikes_Peak_Quattro">Audi Pikes Peak Quattro</a> <a title="Concept car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_car">concept car</a>, the Q7 is designed more for on-road use even than its <a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen">Volkswagen</a> cousin. It has faired comparatively poorly in road tests involving off-road driving, being described in <a title="The Times" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Times">The Times</a> as "absolutely useless". It lacks the Touareg's locking differentials and low-range transfer case but gains a third-row seating option. The production model was unveiled at the <a title="Los Angeles Auto Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_Auto_Show">Los Angeles Auto Show</a> in <a title="January" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/January">January</a> 2006.<br />Audi's 350 PS (257 <a title="KW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KW">kW</a>), 440 N·m (325 ft·lbf) 4.2 L (4163 cc) <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a> and 280 PS (206 kW) <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> 3.6 <a title="Liter" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liter">L</a> <a title="Gasoline engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gasoline_engine">gasoline engines</a> are offered, with a 233 PS (171 kW) <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> <a title="Diesel engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel_engine">Diesel engine</a> making up the bulk of the sales in Europe.<br /><a name="Lawsuit_on_the_use_of_the_letter_Q"></a>Lawsuit on the use of the letter Q<br />In early <a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a>, <a title="Nissan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan">Nissan</a> sued Audi over the use of the letter "Q" as a model name. Audi is using the "Q" for the designation of their <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">all wheel drive</a> system used in production cars for over twenty-five years (Audi's "<a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a>" trademark is actually an umbrella term for several types of all wheel drive systems developed by <a title="Haldex" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haldex">Haldex</a> AB, <a title="Torsen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torsen">Torsen</a> and <a title="Borg-Warner" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borg-Warner">Borg-Warner</a>, the latter being used in the Q7). Nissan's <a title="Infiniti" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infiniti">Infiniti</a> marque had been using Q as the name for sedans (the <a title="Infiniti Q45" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infiniti_Q45">Q45</a>) and <a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV">SUVs</a> (the <a title="Infiniti QX4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infiniti_QX4">QX4</a> and <a title="Infiniti QX56" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infiniti_QX56">QX56</a>) since <a title="1989" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1989">1989</a>.<br />Trivia<br />The song playing during the Audi Q7 is <a title="Streets of Tomorrow" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Streets_of_Tomorrow&action=edit">Streets of Tomorrow</a>, sung by <a title="Carla Vallet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Carla_Vallet&action=edit">Carla Vallet</a>. <a title="http://www.fourtitude.com/news/publish/Audi_News/printer_1660.shtml" href="http://www.fourtitude.com/news/publish/Audi_News/printer_1660.shtml">[1]</a>.<br /><br /><br />Audi Allroad Quattro<br />Audi allroad Quattro<br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000">2000</a>–<a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a><br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Crossover SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crossover_SUV">Crossover</a><br />Body style:<br />5-door <a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">wagon</a><br />Related:<br /><a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">Audi A6</a><br />Similar:<br /><a title="Subaru Outback" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_Outback">Subaru Outback</a><a title="Holden Adventura" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Holden_Adventura&action=edit">Holden Adventura</a><br />The Audi allroad Quattro was an Wagon crossover <a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile">automobile</a> produced by <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> from 2000 to 2006. The allroad Quattro remains in production in the UK.<br /><a name="Model_Information"></a>Model Information<br />The allroad shares its platform with the second generation "C5" <a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">A6 Avant</a> (<a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">station wagon</a>), although an advanced <a title="Suspension (vehicle)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suspension_%28vehicle%29">air suspension</a>, larger wheels with all-terrain tires and flared and unpainted <a title="Bumper" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumper">bumpers</a> give it a distinct appearance and more overall flexibility over varying terrain; Audi's <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> system is standard equipment.<br />Audi's 2.7 L, <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">twin-turbo</a> <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> was available initially, alongside the 2.5 L TDI <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">Diesel</a> engines with 132 kW (180 PS) and 370 N·m (273 ft·lbf) torque. A variant of the corporate 4.2 <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a>, shared with the A6 sedan, was made available in 2003, first in North America and later in other markets, and a less potent TDI followed in 2004.<br />The allroad was designed with the capability to tackle rough road conditions in mind; its standard adjustable air suspension system can lift the car high enough to provide 21 cm (8.3 in) of ground clearance and a low-range mode, absent from other quattro equipped vehicles, can be selected with the touch of a button. When used in conjunction, the two systems made it possible for the allroad to complete a <a title="Land Rover" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Rover">Land Rover</a> test-course, thus far it is the only car-based SUV that has been proven capable of doing so in testing. Conversely, the air suspension can lower the vehicle down to only 16 cm (5.5 in) above road level and simultaneously stiffen the spring and damper rates to provide a sporty driving experience much like that of the <a title="Audi S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6">Audi S6</a>. Many owners choose to fit their allroad with a sportier, road oriented tire to emphasize it's sporty side, as most owners will never venture onto terrain rough enough to necessitate having a tire specifically designed for off-road conditions.<br /><a name="Sales"></a>Sales<br />Despite this versatility and generally positive word of mouth from owners and magazine reviews, allroad sales failed expectations in the North American market it was originally designed for, and most of its sales came from Europe, especially its native Germany. Its somewhat high price, lack of market identity in its segment and Audi's ambiguous advertising seem to have been the primary contributing factors; buyers who tend to normally seek either the more car-like look and ride of station wagons or the larger, less ambiguous styling of mid-sized, truck based SUVs tended to reject the Allroad as being too little like either.<br />Sales had a slight increase in 2004, due to the availability of the less expensive Diesel engine, but fell again in 2005. Audi stopped production of the allroad in July of that year. Although the model continued to be available for sale throughout 2006 in Europe, there was no 2006 model year for North America.<br />Audi concentrated instead on launching the larger <a title="Audi Q7" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Q7">Audi Q7</a> SUV, which shares its platform with the <a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne">Porsche Cayenne</a> and <a title="VW Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Touareg">VW Touareg</a>, while a smaller and sportier <a title="Audi Q5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Q5">Q5</a> will fill the niche of car-based SUV. Audi announced in the spring of 2005 that a new Allroad Quattro, based on the new A6 Avant would enter production in 2006; to date this model has received critical acclaim thanks to a lower price than the larger Q7, an enjoyable driving experience, some off-road credentials and, of course, a superb quality cabin.<br /><a name="New_Allroad"></a>New Allroad<br />Audi released the all-new Allroad in the summer of 2006. The car features Quattro four-wheel drive and is powered by two <a title="Fuel Stratified Engines" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Fuel_Stratified_Engines&action=edit">FSI</a> engines (3.2 L V6 and 4.2 L V8) and two TDI engines, a 180 PS (132 kW) 2.7 L and a 233 PS (171 kW) 3.0 L. The Tiptronic gearbox is standard on the 4.2 V8 and the 2.7 TDI, but optional on the 3.2 FSI and 3.0 TDI. The car rides slightly higher than the Audi A6 Avant upon which it is based, and features a number of off-road styling cues including larger bumpers and sills. In some European markets, the new Allroad is more expensive, than the larger Q7. Un its native Germany, it costs between 1100€ and 1700€ more<a title="http://www.audi.de" href="http://www.audi.de/">[1]</a>.<br />Audi RS4<br /><br />The Audi RS4 is the highest performance version of the company's <a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">A4</a>, sitting above the <a title="Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4">S4</a> in the lineup.<br /><a name="B5_RS4_.282000.E2.80.932002.29"></a>B5 RS4 (2000–2002)<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:B5_RS4.jpg"></a><br />A red, B5 platform RS4<br /><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> introduced the first generation RS4 in <a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000">2000</a> as the successor to the fabled Porsche developed/<a title="Audi RS2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS2">RS2</a>. The vehicle, like its predecessor, was available only as an Estate/Avant (<a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">station wagon</a>), and was built on an existing platform, in this case the "B5" generation A4/S4. Base price was around 103,584 Deutsche Mark, and was not available for sale in the <a title="United States of America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_of_America">United States of America</a>. The RS4 was available for sale in most of <a title="Europe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe">Europe</a> and in some <a title="Latin America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin_America">Latin American</a> countries, including <a title="Mexico" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico">Mexico</a> and <a title="Brazil" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil">Brazil</a>.<br />Power came from a modified version of the B5 S4's 2.7 L, twin-<a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbocharged</a> <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> <a title="Internal combustion engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internal_combustion_engine">engine</a> tuned by <a title="Cosworth" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosworth">Cosworth Technology</a>, featuring enlarged intake/exhaust ports on the cylinder heads, turbochargers and <a title="Intercooler" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intercooler">intercoolers</a>, new induction and exhaust systems and a re-calibrated engine management system; a six-speed <a title="Manual transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manual_transmission">manual transmission</a> and Audi's <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a> <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">all wheel drive</a> system were part of the package. The modifications were enough to bump the engine's power output from the 265 PS (195 kW/261 hp) and 350 Nm (257 ft·lbf) of the S4 to 380 PS (280 kW/375 hp) and 440 Nm (325 ft·lbf).<br />Even with a curb weight of 1620 kg (3568 lb), the RS4's powerful engine gave it the performance of a sports car. The 100 km/h (62 mph) mark could be reached in only 4.7 seconds and the 160 km/h (100 mph) could be achieved in just 11.6. Brakes were also developed in house by Audi/Cosworth Technologies not by <a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche">Porsche</a> as with the RS2. It now has 360 mm (14.2 inches) rotors at the front and 312 mm (12.2 inches) at the rear gave the RS4 braking to match, needing less than 50 m (155 ft) to come to a full stop from a speed of 110 km/h (69 mph).<br />RS4 production stopped in <a title="2001" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2001">2001</a>, although the last several units sold were registered as <a title="2002" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002">2002</a> models.<br /><a name="B7_RS4_.282005.E2.80.94.29"></a>B7 RS4 (2005—)<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:B7_RS4.jpg"></a><br />A B7 generation RS4 sedan.<br />After a long hiatus, the second generation RS4, now built on Audi's "B7" A4 platform, became available to European customers in the Summer of <a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a>. Price is roughly 66,629€ in Europe. It was introduced at the <a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006">2006</a> <a title="North American International Auto Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_American_International_Auto_Show">North American International Auto Show</a> in January and will arrive in August <a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006">2006</a> in North America with a base price of $66,000.<br />The B7 RS4 is an almost complete departure from previous RS cars, as it will debut as a <a title="Sedan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan">sedan</a>, with an Avant and Convertible version coming later; only the <a title="Audi RS6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS6">RS6</a> has gone this route before, the previous RS4 and RS2 were available exclusively as Avants. In addition, power comes from an <a title="Gasoline direct injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gasoline_direct_injection">FSI</a> equipped, naturally aspirated 4.2 L V8, whereas all previous RS cars have been turbocharged. Nonetheless, this engine is very powerful, producing a total output of 420 PS (309 kW/414 hp), over 100 PS/litre. The engine also produced 317 ft·lbf (430 N·m) of torque.<br />Audi factory numbers indicate that the vehicle will be able to go 0-100 km (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds. Since Audi's factory times tend to be conservative, most experts seem to agree that a time under 4.5 seconds is a likely possibility.<br /><a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW">BMW</a>'s upcoming, V8 powered <a title="BMW M3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_M3">M3</a> will be the RS4's primary competitor based on its pricepoint and it being the only other vehicle in the class with as much emphasis on sporty driving as the RS4. <a title="Mercedes Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes_Benz">Mercedes Benz</a>'s <a title="Aufrecht Melcher Grossaspach" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aufrecht_Melcher_Grossaspach">AMG</a> variant of the <a title="Mercedes-Benz C-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_C-Class">C-Class</a> (currently the C 55 AMG) also provides some secondary competition.<br />Audi RS6<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:RS6.JPG"></a><br />2004 Audi RS6<br />The Audi RS6 was a high-performance version of <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a>'s 2nd generation (1997-2005) <a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">A6</a>, and was available as both a sedan and a wagon (called Avant by Audi). It was second at the top of the A6 lineup, above the A6 2.7T and 4.2 and the lesser <a title="Audi S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6">S6</a>, and was exceeded in power and price only by the <a title="Audi RS6 Plus" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_RS6_Plus&action=edit">RS6 Plus</a>. It effectively replaced both the <a title="Audi S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6">S6 4.2</a> and <a title="Audi S6 Plus" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6_Plus">S6 Plus</a> models of <a title="1995" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995">1995</a>.<br />Model Information<br />The RS6 featured a twin-turbocharged version of the corporate 4.2 <a title="Litre" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Litre">Litre</a> <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8 engine</a> tuned by Cosworth Technologies (Now known as Mahle Powertrain), which had originally been developed for the <a title="1994" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994">1994</a> <a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">A8</a>. With the aid of the turbochargers, output rose to 444 <a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower">hp</a> (331 kW) and 415 ft·lbf (560 Nm) of torque. The combination of the V-8 and the turbochargers helped give the RS6 an exceptionally wide <a title="Power band" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_band">power band</a>, with peak torque available from 1950 to 5600 RPMs.<br />The RS6 was available only with Audi's <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a> <a title="Four wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_wheel_drive">All-Wheel Drive</a> system and a 5-speed "Tiptronic" transmission, the same unit that was being used in the <a title="W12" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W12">W12</a> powered A8, chosen because none of Audi's manual transmissions could cope with the RS6's high torque output. The RS6 also served as the debut model for Audi's <a title="Dynamic Ride Control" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Dynamic_Ride_Control&action=edit">Dynamic Ride Control</a> (DRC) system. The system is mainly mechanical, and uses a pump to keep pressure in the shock abosorbers during cornering to counteract rolling and pitching. The system is "intelligent", it is able to adjust the stiffness at each shock absorber constantly to maintain both a comfortable ride and high grip. However, DRC's main advantage is that it operates without the need for most of the complicated electronics required in similar systems from <a title="Mercedes Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes_Benz">Mercedes Benz</a> and other competitors.<br />According to testing by Car and Driver magazine, the RS6 can accelerate from 0 - 60 mph (0 - 96.6 km/h) in just 4.4 <a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second">seconds</a>, 0 - 100 in 10.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 <a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour">mph</a> (250 km/h), however the vehicle can reportedly hit 170 miles per hour or more in unlimited form. It can stop from 60 mph (96.6 to 0 km/h) in 118 feet (35.97m), thanks to its large 365/335 mm (14.4/13.2 in) front/rear brakes, and an uncommon eight-piston design in the front.<br />There was also an RS6 Plus version of the car producing over 480 bhp and topping 180 mph. The car came only as an avant and was sold only in European markets. It lasted for just one model year but quickly sold out once it was released.<br />New versions of the S6 and RS6 will soon be in development, based on the new A6 platform, which was introduced in <a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a> for the <a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006">2006</a> model year.<br />While about 8000 RS6s were produced worldwide, approximately 1,200 units were sold in North America. A small community of RS6 owners exists in North America and some refer to the vehicle as "The Beast" or "The Lord of the Rings" (in reference to Audi's interlocking ring logo). RS stands for RennSport - Racing in German, fitting as the RS line of cars from Audi are the most performance oriented of all Audis.<br />Awards<br />The 4.2 V8 engine in its base configuration was named as one of the Ward’s Auto World "10 Best Engines for 2005".<br />The RS6's combination of performance, handling (AWD), luxury and available space are unique and it was chosen over its closest competitors, the BMW M5, Jaguar S-Type R, and Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG by <a title="Car and Driver" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_and_Driver">Car and Driver</a> magazine.<br />Audi S3<br /><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_S3_2003_dolphingray.jpg"></a><br />2003 Audi S3, dolphin gray.<br />The Audi S3 is a <a title="Hot hatch" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_hatch">hot hatch</a> version of the <a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3">A3</a> <a title="Small family car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_family_car">small family car</a>, built by the <a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">German</a> <a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">automaker</a> <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a>.<br />//<br />[<a title="Edit section: First generation (8L) 1999-2003" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_S3&action=edit&section=1">edit</a>]<br /><a name="First_generation_.288L.29_1999-2003"></a><br />First generation (8L) 1999-2003<br /><a name="Overview"></a>Overview<br />The first generation S3 is built on the same <a title="Volkswagen A platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_A_platform">A platform</a> of the <a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3">Audi A3</a>, <a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf">Volkswagen Golf</a>, <a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT">Audi TT</a>, <a title="SEAT León" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Le%C3%B3n">SEAT León</a> and <a title="Škoda Octavia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%A0koda_Octavia">Škoda Octavia</a>. The <a title="Straight-4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight-4">straight-4</a> <a title="Multi-valve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-valve">20V</a> 1.8 L <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbocharged</a> <a title="Petrol engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petrol_engine">petrol engine</a> comes in two versions of power output: 210 <a title="Bhp" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhp">bhp</a> and 225 bhp. Early models (1999-2002) had 210 bhp which is said to be de-tuned <a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT">Audi TT</a> engine and was specifically reduced to lessen brand competition with the more powerful TT. Later models (2002-2003) had <a title="Variable valve timing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_valve_timing">variable valve timing</a> and 225 bhp. The engine provides a maximum 280 N•m of <a title="Torque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque">torque</a>, most of which is available from 2200 through to 5500 rpm. This is the first time a small <a title="Four-cylinder" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four-cylinder">four-cylinder</a> engine has been used in an Audi S-series car.<br />Although dubbed <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a>, the S3 uses a different <a title="Four-wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four-wheel_drive">four-wheel drive</a> system. The Haldex coupling adjusts the bias from the front to rear axle as grip changes - most of the time it operates as a front-wheel drive.<br />The S3 was sold in the <a title="United Kingdom" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom">United Kingdom</a>, <a title="Europe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe">Europe</a> and <a title="Australia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia">Australia</a>, but was not officially marketed in the <a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States">United States</a>.<br />The S3 was facelifted in 2001, where it was given one-piece <a title="Headlights" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Headlights">headlights</a>/indicator units, different front wings, rear lights clusters and some minor upgrades to interior trim (e.g. a digital clock and audio packages).<br /><a name="Equipment"></a>Equipment<br />Standard features include <a title="Xenon HID headlamp" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xenon_HID_headlamp">xenon HID headlamps</a> with high pressure washers, front fog lamps, 17 in "Avus" alloy wheels with 225/45R17 tires, electrically adjustable <a title="Recaro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recaro">Recaro</a> leather seats, climate control, alarm and electronic traction control/stability program. Options include a <a title="Bose" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bose">Bose</a> sound system, boot/trunk mounted 6 disc CD changer, <a title="Metallic paint" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metallic_paint">metallic paint</a>, 18 inch 9-spoke RSTT wheels, glass sunroof, centre arm rest, auto dipping rear view mirror, parking assist, luggage net, heated front seats, cruise control, aluminium door mirror casings and part leather/<a title="Alcantara" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcantara">Alcantara</a> (blue/silver/yellow) combination seat coverings.<br /><br /><a name="Second_generation_.288P.29_.282006-.29"></a>Second generation (8P) (2006-)<br />The second generation Audi S3 has 195 kW (265 bhp) and quattro permanent four-wheel drive making 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. The two-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder engine has FSI petrol direct injection.<br />Audi S4<br />Audi S4<br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1991" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1991">1991</a>–<br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Sports sedan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_sedan">Sports sedan</a><br />Body style:<br />4-door <a title="Sedan (car)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan_%28car%29">sedan</a><br />First generation<br /><a title="A 1994 S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_S6_C4.jpg"></a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1991" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1991">1991</a>–<a title="1994" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994">1994</a><br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />2.2 L <a title="Multivalve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multivalve">20-valve</a> <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbo</a> <a title="Straight-5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight-5">I5</a>4.2 L <a title="Multi-valve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-valve">32-valve</a> <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a><br />Related:<br /><a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 100 (C4)</a><br />Second generation<br /><a title="2001 Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_S4_%28Type_B5%29_silver_fl.jpg"></a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1997">1997</a>–<a title="2002" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002">2002</a><br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />2.7 L <a title="Multivalve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multivalve">30-valve</a> <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">biturbo</a> <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a><br />Related:<br /><a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">Audi A4 (B5)</a><br />Third generation<br /><a title="2004 Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2004_Audi_S4.jpg"></a><br />Production:<br /><a title="2003" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003">2003</a>–<a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a><br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />4.2 L <a title="Multi-valve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-valve">40-valve</a> <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a><br />Related:<br /><a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">Audi A4 (B6)</a><br />Fourth generation<br /><a title="'2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2006_Audi_S4_25quattro.jpg"></a><br />Production:<br /><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a>–<br /><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine">Engine</a>:<br />4.2 L <a title="Multi-valve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-valve">40-valve</a> <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a><br />Related:<br /><a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">Audi A4 (B7)</a><br />The current <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> S4 is a high performance sport version of the popular <a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">Audi A4</a>. The S4 name was originally used for the sport version of the <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">Audi 100</a>.<br /><a name="First_generation_.281991-1994.29"></a>First generation (1991-1994)<br />Audi was re-configuring its lineup during the early 1990s, and introduced the S4 in 1991 as the performance version of the re-styled <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">100</a> sedan. Despite sharing its basic structure with the 100, the S4 effectively took the place of the <a title="Audi 200" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_200">200</a> Turbo-Quattro sedan, which had been discontinued the year before.<br />The S4 was sold worldwide with a <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbocharged</a> version of Audi's 2.2 L (2226 cc), <a title="Multivalve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multivalve">20-valve</a> <a title="Straight-5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight-5">inline-5</a> engine developing 230 <a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower#PS">PS</a> (227 <a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower#hp_.28SAE.29">hp</a>/169 <a title="Watt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watt">kW</a>) and 350 <a title="Newton metre" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newton_metre">N·m</a> (258 <a title="Torque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque">ft·lbf</a>) of torque. A 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) 4.2 <a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8">V8</a> became available to <a title="Europe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe">European</a> customers as an option. <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a> all-wheel-drive and a manual transmission (six-speed in Europe, five-speed in <a title="North America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America">North America</a>) were standard equipment.<br />After Audi dropped the 100 nameplate and re-badged the car as <a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">A6</a> in <a title="1994" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994">1994</a>, the S4 became the <a title="Audi S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6">S6</a>, although the only real changes to the model were minor cosmetic updates and the addition of a more powerful S6 Plus model to the lineup. After the first generation A6 was replaced in 1998 by an updated version, the S4 and S6 became distinctly separate from one another.<br />Being the first in the S4 lineup, it is commonly referred to as the <a title="Audi UrS4/S6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_UrS4/S6">UrS4</a>.<br /><a name="Second_generation_.281997-2002.29"></a>Second generation (1997-2002)<br />The second generation S4 debuted in 1997 as part of the <a title="Volkswagen B platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_B_platform">B5 platform</a> A4 line-up. Although the S4 was no longer available with a V8, its 2.7 L, twin-turbocharged <a title="V6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V6">V6</a> engine was more than adequate, producing 265 PS (195 kW/261 hp) in European trim. The engine was slightly detuned to meet US emissions regulations, and power stopped at 250 hp / 258 ft. lbs. torque in North America.<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi-S4-Avant-1.jpg"></a><br />Audi S4 Avant<br />In addition to the sedan, a wagon version, the Audi S4 Avant, was introduced into the lineup from 1999.<br />The S4 could accelerate up to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 5.6 seconds and had an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), making it both the quickest sedan in the Audi model line and among the quickest sedans in the world at that time. As in the previous S4, a six-speed manual transmission was standard equipment, as was the quattro all-wheel-drive. A five-speed <a title="Tiptronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiptronic">Tiptronic</a> transmission became available for the first time as an option. Production ceased on the B5 S4 in 2001.<br />The B5 S4 has a devoted enthusiast community that focuses on attaining supercar-level power and performance. Currently, the B5 S4 is considered the most potentially powerful of the S4 lineup. Being a turbocharged car, it can gain significant power by simply upgrading the engine management software. By replacing the K03 turbos with the larger <a title="Audi RS4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS4">RS4</a>'s K04 turbos, aftermarket and home tuners can easily increase power to the 450 hp (335 kW) range.<br /><a name="Third_generation_.282003-2005.29"></a>Third generation (2003-2005)<br />The third generation, B6 platform S4 debuted in mid-2003. Despite having moved to yet another entirely new platform, the S4's most publicized new feature was its engine. It became available in three bodystyles for the 2004 model year: the S4 sedan, the S4 Avant wagon and a convertible, the Audi S4 Cabriolet.<br />Replacing the 2.7 L bi-turbo V6 engine of the previous generation S4 was a 4.2 L, 40-valve V8 based on the unit from the <a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">A8</a> and producing 344 PS (253 kW/340 hp), making it more potent than either the S6 Plus or <a title="Audi RS2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS2">RS2</a> and nearly as powerful as the B5 platform <a title="Audi RS4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS4">RS4</a>.<br />With such abundant power on tap, the B6 S4 could accelerate quickly enough to meet or beat the times of most sports cars. Road tests conducted by American automotive magazines indicated that it could go from a standstill to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, and make it to 200 km/h (124 mph) in slightly over 20 seconds.<br />Like its predecessors, the model was standard with a six-speed manual and Quattro, the Tiptronic transmission remained an option. The B6 platform S4 was replaced by the B7 platform S4 in late-2005.<br /><a name="Fourth_generation_.282005-_.29"></a>Fourth generation (2005- )<br />The B7 platform S4 is the most recent version of the vehicle, having debuted in late 2005. Although Audi classifies it as a new car, the differences between it and the outgoing B6 S4 are primarily cosmetic.<br />Audi has, however, made a few notable changes, including adding new springs and dampers to the suspension and re-calibrating the quattro system to maintain a 40:60 front-to-rear torque split under normal conditions. The system is continuously adjustable though, and the torque split can change depending on driving conditions. The new "fish mouth" grill, narrow headlamps, "L" tail-lamps and quad exhaust tips help distinquish the B7 from the previous B6 model.<br />Interestingly enough, German tuner <a title="Abt Sportsline" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abt_Sportsline">Abt Sportsline</a> decided to forego the V8 and use a modified version of the 3.2 V6 FSI engine in a special high-performance B7 S4 it created, named Abt AS4-R. This car now has a 480 PS (353 kW/473 hp) engine, and can reach a maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph), surpassing 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Changes to chassis include a stiffer adjustable suspension, with new stabilizers, 19 inch wheels and Dunlop SP Sportmaxx tyres.<br />Audi S6<br /><br />The Audi S6 is a high-performance version of <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a>'s <a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6">A6</a> sedan. It went on sale in 1994, shortly after the A6 designation was introduced, replacing the <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">100</a> nameplate. The original S6 was largely the same car as the outgoing, first generation <a title="Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4">S4</a>, with the only visible differences being new body-cladding and badging.<br /><br /><a name="1st_Generation_.281995-1997.29"></a>1st Generation (1995-1997)<br />Audi was fairly constantly re-structuring their model lineup in early and mid-1990s, and in 1994 began selling the fifth generation <a title="Audi 100" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_100">100</a> model as the A6. Wanting to keep a sports-sedan in their lineup, the company made small revisions to what had been badged as the <a title="Audi S4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4">S4</a>, and began reselling it as the S6 - the S4 would eventually become a completely separate member of the lineup, based on Audi's <a title="Audi A4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4">A4</a>.<br />For 1995, the S6 was powered by a 2.2 L <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbocharged</a> five-cylinder engine producing 230 <a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower#PS">PS</a> (169 kW/227 <a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower#hp_.28SAE.29">hp</a>) at 5900 rpm and 326 Nm (258 ft.lbf) at around 1950 rpm. The powerful engine gave the S6 surprisingly good performance, it had a top speed of 243 km/h (151 mph) and went from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds; 160 km/h (99 mph) was reached in 17.5 seconds. The vehicle came standard with a six speed manual <a title="Gearbox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gearbox">gearbox</a> (5 speed only in the USA), and Audi's <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">Quattro</a> all-wheel-drive system. It was available as both a sedan and an "Avant" (station wagon) to <a title="Europe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe">European</a> customers, but only as a sedan in <a title="North America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America">North America</a> (except as a 1995.5 model,) <a title="Asia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia">Asia</a> and <a title="Australia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia">Australia</a>.<br />Audi had made a high-performance, 4.2 L V8 available as an option in the first generation European S4s, and made the decision to continue to do so with the S6, making a 290 PS (213 kW/286 hp) version of the 4.2 available as an optional upgrade over the 5-cylinder. Unlike the turbocharged version, the V8-powered S6 was shipped with automatic transmission by default, but kept the Quattro four wheel drive. A 6-speed manual gearbox was available as an option.<br />An even more powerful and very limited-production <a title="Audi S6 Plus" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S6_Plus">S6 Plus</a>, powered by another version of the V8 (later to be seen in the <a title="Audi S8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S8">Audi S8</a>), was briefly available to European customers. Developed by Quattro GmbH, it was available for sale only during the 1997 model year. Only 952 cars were produced in total - 855 Avant (Estate) and 97 Limousines. Audi's performance division reworked key parts of the engine and increased the power output to 326 PS (240 kW/322 hp). During this process they also made revisions to the suspension, brakes and transmission. With so much power on tap, the S6 Plus could reach 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in less than six seconds, making it compareable in terms of accleration to vehicles like the <a title="Porsche 944 Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_944_Turbo">Porsche 944 Turbo</a>.<br /><a name="2nd_Generation_.281998-2003.29"></a>2nd Generation (1998-2003)<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_S6_%28C5%29_silber.jpg"></a><br />2nd Gen Audi S6 4.2L V8<br />In 1997, Audi introduced the second <a title="Generation" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Generation">generation</a> A6 models. It was a complete re-design, and a new S6 appeared a year later on the new platform. It was powered by a 4.2 L <a title="Multi-valve" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-valve">40 valve</a> V8 engine with 340 PS (335 hp/250 kW) at 7000 rpm and 420 N·m (310 ft·lbf) at 3400 rpm, a variation of the engine from the <a title="Audi A8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8">A8</a>. The vehicle could now go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and from 0-200 km/h (124 mph) in just 21.7 seconds. The top speed was electronically governed to 250 km/h (155 mph). Quattro was again standard, as was a six speed manual gearboxwith the optional 5-speed Tiptronic. Other features included a 10mm lower body, aluminum hood and front side panels, aluminum subframes and 255/40 ZR tires riding on 17" cast aluminum wheels.<br />The second generation S6 went out of production in 2003.<br />A higher performance <a title="Audi RS6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS6">RS6</a> was also available, using a twin-turbo version of the 4.2 L V8 engine.<br /><a name="3rd_Generation_.282006-.29"></a>3rd Generation (2006-)<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:S6_3rd_Generation.jpg"></a><br />3rd Gen Audi S6 5.2L V10<br />The third-generation S6 was introduced in the 2006 <a title="North American International Auto Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_American_International_Auto_Show">North American International Auto Show</a> in January. It features a 5.2 L <a title="V10 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V10_engine">V10</a> derived from the <a title="Lamborghini Gallardo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini_Gallardo">Lamborghini Gallardo</a>, detuned to produce "only" 420 PS (309 kW/414 hp). A six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is standard.<br /><br />Audi TT<br />Audi TT<br /><a title="Audi TT coupé" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_TT.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker">Manufacturer</a>:<br /><a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG">Volkswagen AG</a><br />Production:<br /><a title="1999" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1999">1999</a>–present<br /><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification">Class</a>:<br /><a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car">Luxury</a> <a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car">sports car</a><br />Body style:<br />2-door <a title="Coupé" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coup%C3%A9">coupé</a>2-door <a title="Roadster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster">roadster</a><br /><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform">Platform</a>:<br /><a title="FF layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FF_layout">FF</a>, <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">AWD</a> <a title="Volkswagen A platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_A_platform">A</a><br />Related:<br /><a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3">Audi A3</a><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf">Volkswagen Golf</a><a title="Skoda Octavia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Octavia">Skoda Octavia</a><a title="SEAT León" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Le%C3%B3n">SEAT León</a><br />Similar:<br /><a title="BMW Z4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z4">BMW Z4</a><a title="Mercedes-Benz SLK" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_SLK">Mercedes-Benz SLK</a><a title="Chrysler Crossfire" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_Crossfire">Chrysler Crossfire</a><br />The Audi TT is a <a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car">sports car</a> produced by <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> since <a title="1998" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998">1998</a> in <a title="Győr" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gy%C5%91r">Győr</a>, <a title="Hungary" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hungary">Hungary</a>.<br /><a name="TT_concept"></a>TT concept<br />The TT was first shown as a <a title="Concept car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_car">concept car</a> at the <a title="1995" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995">1995</a> <a title="Frankfurt Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankfurt_Motor_Show">Frankfurt Motor Show</a>. The design is credited to <a title="J Mays" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J_Mays">J Mays</a> and <a title="Freeman Thomas" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freeman_Thomas">Freeman Thomas</a> of <a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen">Volkswagen</a>'s <a title="California" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California">California</a> design studio. The name is an abbreviation of "Tourist Trophy", an annual road race on the Isle of Man (see: <a title="Isle of Man TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isle_of_Man_TT">Isle of Man TT</a>), not "twin turbo" as is sometimes assumed. Turbocharged models only feature a single <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">turbocharger</a>. It also refers back to the <a title="NSU TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=NSU_TT&action=edit">NSU TT</a>, a small rear-engine model with a formidable racing pedigree that <a title="NSU Motorenwerke AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Motorenwerke_AG">NSU</a> produced in the 1960s and was based on the <a title="NSU Prinz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Prinz">NSU Prinz</a>, although the modern TT shares next to nothing with that model's design concepts.<br /><a name="TT_design"></a>TT design<br />The TT's styling is regarded by many as a watershed moment in <a title="Automobile design" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_design">automobile design</a>. From its introduction as a concept car in 1995, and as a production car in 1998, the design was regarded by many as bold, innovative, and evolutionary. While the car borrowed a few design elements from earlier vehicles, the overall design was considered by many to be truly unique. With its distinctive, rounded bodywork, bold use of bare <a title="Anodize" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anodize">anodized</a> aluminum, and a lack of defined bumpers, the TT represented a departure from much of the styling that dominated the car market at that time.<br />The success and popularity of the TT's iconic design gave many automotive designers (and manufacturers) greater latitude to experiment with bold, distinctive design. The TT's influence can be seen in the design elements of many vehicles released after the TT.<br />The TT is often regarded as the vehicle that made people take a second look at Audi. No longer just a second-tier European maker, Audi emerged as a serious competitor for the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The then-new B5-platform A4 model was a substantial improvement on its Audi 80 predecessor; these two models firmly secured Audi's position as a prestige marque.<br />The <a title="Drag coefficient" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drag_coefficient">drag coefficient</a> of the body is a disappointing 0.35 <a title="http://www.autozine.org/Graveyard/html/Audi/TT_Mk1.html" href="http://www.autozine.org/Graveyard/html/Audi/TT_Mk1.html">[1]</a>.<br />]<br /><a name="First_generation"></a>First generation<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_tt.jpg"></a><br />first generation<br />The production model was launched as a <a title="Coupé" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coup%C3%A9">coupé</a> in September 1998, followed by a <a title="Roadster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster">roadster</a> in August 1999, based on the <a title="Volkswagen A platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_A_platform">Volkswagen A platform</a> used for the <a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf">Volkswagen Golf</a>, <a title="Skoda Octavia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Octavia">Skoda Octavia</a> and others. The TT uses a <a title="Transverse engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transverse_engine">transversely</a> mounted <a title="Internal combustion engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internal_combustion_engine">engine</a> with <a title="Front wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Front_wheel_drive">front</a> or <a title="Quattro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quattro">quattro</a> <a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive">all wheel drive</a>. It was first available with a 1.8 L turbocharged <a title="Straight-4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight-4">inline four cylinder</a> 20-valve engine. For the first two years of production, both front wheel drive and quattro models featured a 180 PS (132 kW) version of this engine. In 2001, a more powerful Quattro model was released which was equipped with a 225 PS (165 kW) engine which shares the same basic design but features a larger turbocharger, an additional <a title="Intercooler" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intercooler">intercooler</a> on the driver's side, forged connecting rods, a dual exhaust, and a few other internals designed to accommodate the increase in turbo boost from roughly 10 psi peak to 15.<br />All TT models were <a title="Product recall" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_recall">recalled</a> in late 1999/early 2000 following concerns over the car's <a title="Car handling" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_handling">handling</a> which was considered unstable under high-speed cornering as the result of throttle <a title="Trailing-throttle oversteer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trailing-throttle_oversteer">lift-off oversteer</a> - a number of modifications were made, which were subsequently incorporated into all future examples: rear-wing <a title="Spoiler (automotive)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spoiler_%28automotive%29">spoilers</a> were fitted (to reduce <a title="Lift (force)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lift_%28force%29">lift</a>) and <a title="Suspension (vehicle)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suspension_%28vehicle%29">suspension</a> settings were altered (to increase <a title="Understeer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Understeer">understeer</a>). The original four cylinder engine range was complemented with a 250 PS (184 kW) 3.2 L <a title="VR6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VR6">VR6</a> in early 2003, which comes with the quattro all-wheel drive system. In October 2004 a new <a title="Direct-Shift Gearbox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct-Shift_Gearbox">DSG</a> (dual-clutch) gearbox, which improves acceleration through drastically reduced <a title="Shift time" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shift_time">shift time</a>, was offered along with a stiffer suspension.<br />Audi has developed the TT with some notable improvements, including a lightened and power-boosted "quattro Sport" model, and 240 PS (176 kW) and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), however the handling and steering are considered by BBC's <a title="Top Gear" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Top_Gear">Top Gear</a> presenter, <a title="Jeremy Clarkson" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremy_Clarkson">Jeremy Clarkson</a>, to be "boring". It compares with the <a title="Nissan 350Z" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_350Z">Nissan 350Z</a> which has more grip. It should be noted, however, that the TT's handling character is deliberate, as Audi vehicles are generally designed to exhibit understeer (a characteristic determined by suspension design, the effect of the quattro all-wheel drive system, and other factors). Understeer is inherently a safer handling characteristic, as it is easier for novice and casual drivers to predict and control the vehicle (and thus the car can appeal to a much broader market). Sports car purists and driving enthusiasts, however, generally favor <a title="Oversteer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oversteer">oversteer</a> (which the Nissan 350Z exhibits) to understeer, as the former makes for a more involving and spirited driving experience.<br />The 2006 TT model was pulled from California and other states that had adopted California emission standards because the 2006 Audi TT did not meet with these states' emissions standards. The statement on Audi of America's site (www.audiusa.com) reads: "The 2006 Audi TT models do not meet California emission standards and cannot be sold in California or in those states that have adopted California emission standards, i.e., New York, Massachusetts, Vermont or Maine. TT models from model year 2005 and earlier may be available in these states through our Certified pre-owned program. Contact your dealer for more information."<br /><a name="Second_generation"></a>Second generation<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Newtt.jpg"></a><br />second generation<br />In August 2004, Audi announced that the next-generation TT will be made of <a title="Aluminum" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum">aluminum</a> and would go into production in 2007. A TT concept (the <a title="Audi Shooting Brake" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Shooting_Brake">Audi Shooting Brake</a>) was shown at the <a title="Tokyo Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokyo_Motor_Show">Tokyo Motor Show</a> in 2005. This concept featured angular styling and a "<a title="Shooting brake" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shooting_brake">shooting brake</a>" 2-door hatchback body style.<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT#_note-0#_note-0">[1]</a><br />Audi revealed the second-generation TT on April 6, 2006. It is constructed of aluminum in the front and steel in the rear to enhance its balance and is available in front- or all-wheel drive. The production car uses of the 3.2 L V6 engine, with 250 PS (184 kW), as well as a 200 PS (147 kW) version of Audi's <a title="Direct injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct_injection">direct injection</a> 2.0 L four. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, with the DSG as an option, and Quattro all wheel drive is standard with the V6. Audi's new active suspension, Audi Magnetic Ride, will be available and is based on Delphi's <a title="MagneRide" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MagneRide">MagneRide</a>. It will again be offered as a 2+2 coupé with a roadster coming for 2008. A <a title="Station wagon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon">wagon</a> version is rumored as well.<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT#_note-1#_note-1">[2]</a><br />Awards<br />The TT was nominated for the <a title="North American Car of the Year" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_American_Car_of_the_Year">North American Car of the Year</a> award for <a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000">2000</a>. It was also on <a title="Car and Driver" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_and_Driver">Car and Driver</a> magazine's <a title="Car and Driver Ten Best" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_and_Driver_Ten_Best">Ten Best list</a> for 2000 and 2001. The Audi TT Roadster also won "Gay Car of the Year" in 2004 <a title="http://www.audifans.net/modules.php?name=" href="http://www.audifans.net/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=285" file="article&sid=">Gay Awards</a><br />Audi R10<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_R10_rightfront_static.jpg"></a><br />Audi R10<br />The <a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi">Audi</a> R10 is a sports-<a title="Auto racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auto_racing">racing car</a> prepared for <a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car">sports car</a> racing in the <a title="Le Mans Prototype" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Mans_Prototype">LMP1</a> class of the <a title="24 Hours of Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24_Hours_of_Le_Mans">24 Hours of Le Mans</a>. The car was unveiled Tuesday, <a title="December 13" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/December_13">December 13</a>, <a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005">2005</a> at 12:00 <a title="CET" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CET">CET</a>, and went on to win both its maiden race at the 2006 <a title="12 Hours of Sebring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12_Hours_of_Sebring">12 Hours of Sebring</a> and the <a title="2006 24 Hours of Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_24_Hours_of_Le_Mans">2006 24 Hours of Le Mans</a>. It was the first <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">diesel</a> to win either of those events. The Audi R10 project costs Audi €70 Million per year.<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10#_note-0#_note-0">[1]</a> This is the most ambitious and the most expensive project ever undertaken by Audi Motorsport.<br /><a name="Chassis"></a>Chassis<br />It supersedes the previous <a title="Audi R8 Race Car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R8_Race_Car">Audi R8</a>, a proven model which won five times at <a title="Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Mans">Le Mans</a> since <a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000">2000</a> while earning a reputation as one of the most successful racing cars of all time. In later years the <a title="Automobile Club de l'Ouest" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_Club_de_l%27Ouest">ACO</a>, who sets the rules for racing in the Le Mans 24 Hours, has reduced the <a title="Restrictor plate" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Restrictor_plate">restrictor</a> size on the engine, and stipulated the R8 carry ballast, to make the races more competitive. In response to the new level of competition the development of a successor was necessary.<br />Though it bears a strong resemblance to the previous model, it is nevertheless a new design. The aerodynamic package is in compliance with the new regulations. A second rollover cage is added and the wheelbase is lengthened to accept the new, longer V12 TDI engine.<br />At the beginning of the 2006 season, homologation rules for <a title="Le Mans Prototypes" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Mans_Prototypes">LMP</a> cars were changed, for the LMP1 class, an increase in minimum weight from 900 kg to 925 kg was mandated. While officially, this is to allow closed top prototypes to run with air-conditioning (as this would have added weight over open tops cars), some have speculated that this done at the behest of Audi to allow the R10 to be competitive.<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10#_note-1#_note-1">[2]</a> The R10 itself, as it ran during the <a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006">2006</a> <a title="12 Hours of Sebring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12_Hours_of_Sebring">12 Hours of Sebring</a> was overweight at 935 kg, meaning that the engineers did not have the ability to play around with the weight ballasts (which would have been used to bring the car up to minimum weight if it were lighter than 925kg) to affect handling and balance.<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10#_note-2#_note-2">[3]</a><br /><a name="Engine"></a>Engine<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_R10_V12_TDI.jpg"></a><br />Audi V12 TDI turbo diesel engine<br />The main novelty of the R10 is its engine: a <a title="Turbo Direct Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo_Direct_Injection">TDI</a> <a title="Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo">Turbo</a> <a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel">Diesel</a> engine, running on <a title="Royal Dutch Shell" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Dutch_Shell">Shell</a> V-Power Diesel. It is a 5.5 L (335.6 ci) all-<a title="Aluminium" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminium">aluminium</a> <a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger">bi-turbo</a> 90° <a title="V12" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V12">V12</a>, with common rail direct injection of more than 1600 bar. Its output should be 650 hp (485 kW) (regulated) and 1100 N·m (811 ft·lbf) of torque, and its usable power band is between 3000 and 5000 rpm. Its benefits are a broad range of usable power, high torque and economy. Two Garrett turbochargers limited by the regulations to 2.94 bar absolute breathe through two 39.9 mm intake <a title="Air restrictors" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_restrictors">air restrictors</a>. It uses the latest Bosch Motronic (MS14) management, provided by Bosch Motorsport, 1600 bar piezo injectors, and makes a low noise for a race car.<br />It will be difficult for Audi to overcome the weight of this engine. The latest Audi TDI 3.0 L (183 ci) V6 weighs 220 kg (485 lb) and the 4.2 L V8 255 kg (256.2 ci, 562 lb) but their blocks are made of CGI iron. The V12 is rumoured to weigh upwards of 200 kg,<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10#_note-3#_note-3">[4]</a> Audi engineers admit that the weight per cylinder is the same as the precededing 3.6-litre FSI V8 of the <a title="Audi R8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R8">Audi R8</a>.<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10#_note-4#_note-4">[5]</a> The wheelbase has been increased over the R8 to 2980 mm to account for this. This is unfavorable against the 130 kg (287 lb) of a concurrent <a title="Judd (engine)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judd_%28engine%29">Judd</a> V10, and even the 180 kg of the <a title="Ricardo Engineering" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ricardo_Engineering&action=edit">Ricardo</a> turbodiesel prototype based on it.<a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10#_note-5#_note-5">[6]</a><br />Audi's decision to use a diesel engine emphasizes the commercial success of <a title="Turbo Direct Injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbo_Direct_Injection">TDI</a> (and its competitors) on Europe's roads. It isn't however, the first diesel to be raced at Le Mans. In 2004 a Lola equipped with a Caterpillar re-badged <a title="List of Volkswagen engines" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Volkswagen_engines#313_hp_5.0L_V10_TDI">VW V10 TDI</a> ran for a few hours before breaking its gearbox. The first diesel-engined car to qualify and race at the 24 h race at Le Mans was a French entry in 1949, the first race held after the war. The car was the Delettrez Diesel entered by brothers Jean and Jacques Delettrez and was of 4395 cc 6-cylinder. It did not finish, running out of fuel about half way into the race. Delettrez entered again in 1950, as did another diesel car, the MAP. Again both cars DNF with engine problems, a cooling system leak in the case of the MAP. The MAP was interesting in that it was the first mid-engined car to race at Le Mans, the engine was located immediately behind the driver, and was a two-cylinder opposed piston <a title="Two-stroke" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two-stroke">two-stroke</a> with rocking levers connected to a single crank, similar to the later Commer TS3 engine. Peugeot will compete with its new diesel effort in 2007 in its <a title="Peugeot 908" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peugeot_908">908</a><br /><a name="Diesels_in_Racing"></a>Diesels in Racing<br />Diesels have made their mark in other forms of racing as well, as their superior <a title="Torque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque">torque</a> and fuel economy can prove advantageous, while in turn, the higher weight and low revs of the engine is a disadvantage, requiring new power drive systems, too. Also, the rules have to accommodate the need for a high capacity engine with a turbocharger and high boost, something which is strictly regulated or no longer allowed for gasoline engines, as these had developed over 1000 hp in several race series of the past.<br />As early as 1931, <a title="Dave Evans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Evans">Dave Evans</a>, piloting the <a title="Cummins" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cummins">Cummins</a> Diesel Special, became the first driver to complete the <a title="Indianapolis 500" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indianapolis_500">Indianapolis 500</a> without making a single <a title="Pit stop" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pit_stop">pit stop</a>. Evans completed the full distance on the lead lap and finished 13th. When Diesel technology made progess in the 1990s and rule makers supported the concept, <a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW">BMW</a> and <a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen">Volkswagen</a> raced diesel <a title="Touring car racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Touring_car_racing">touring cars</a>, with BMW winning the 1998 <a title="24 Hours Nürburgring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24_Hours_N%C3%BCrburgring">24 Hours Nürburgring</a> mainly by being able to drive very long turns. In 2006, a BMW 120d repeated a similar result, scoring 5th in a field of 220 cars, many of them much more powerful, a significantly stronger competition than in 1998. Peugeot will follow Audi and develop a diesel powered endurance car for 2007: the <a title="Peugeot 908" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peugeot_908">Peugeot 908</a>. The 908 will be more powerful and have more torque than the R10.<br />The Volkswagen Group itself uses a specially equipped diesel race <a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg">Volkswagen Touareg</a> at the <a title="Paris Dakar Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris_Dakar_Rally">Paris Dakar Rally</a>, trying to score the first overall victory for a Diesel there.<br /><a name="Results"></a>Results<br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Audi_R10_Le_Mans_2006.jpg"></a><br />#8 winner in front of the #7, 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans<br />On <a title="March 18" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_18">18 March</a> 2006, the #2 Audi R10 won the 54th annual <a title="12 Hours of Sebring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12_Hours_of_Sebring">12 Hours of Sebring</a> after earning pole position by setting a qualifying record. The #1 car did not finish due to an overheating problem.<br />On <a title="June 18" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/June_18">18 June</a> 2006, the #8 Audi R10 placed first at the <a title="2006 24 Hours of Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_24_Hours_of_Le_Mans">2006 24 Hours of Le Mans</a>, completing 380 laps, more than the R8 did, but less than others since 1967, see <a title="List of Le Mans 24h winners" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Le_Mans_24h_winners">List of Le Mans 24h winners</a>. The #7 Audi R10, which set fastest lap times in practice and race, came in third after suffering engine and turbo issues, completing 367 laps. At one point, the Joest team changed the #8 car's gearbox in under ten minutes, <a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R10#_note-6#_note-6">[7]</a> compared to the hour and a half the fifth-place Pescarolo-Judd spent in the garage for similar repairs.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1046125910994101331.post-24593003872194426332007-08-24T01:07:00.000-07:002007-08-25T01:28:01.856-07:00Volkswagen Group<div align="justify"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Group (</span><a title="http://deutsche-boerse.com/dbag/dispatch/en/isg/gdb_navigation/home/Content_Files/20_overview_pages/cp_sp_overview_xetra.htm?action=" href="http://deutsche-boerse.com/dbag/dispatch/en/isg/gdb_navigation/home/Content_Files/20_overview_pages/cp_sp_overview_xetra.htm?action=ISGFormProcessingAction&eventSubmit_doSimplestocksearch=true&amp;wp=%7b%7b%7b1%7d%7d%7d&x=0&y=0" x="0&y=" eventsubmit_dosimplestocksearch="true&amp;wp="><span style="color:#ffffff;">DE0007664005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) (</span><a title="Tokyo Stock Exchange" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokyo_Stock_Exchange"><span style="color:#ffffff;">TYO</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">: </span><a title="http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/quote?ticker=" href="http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/quote?ticker=7659:JP"><span style="color:#ffffff;">7659</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> ) is a </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">German</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">automobile</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> manufacturer and one of the largest Automotive </span><a title="Companies" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Companies"><span style="color:#ffffff;">companies</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> worldwide. Its core </span><a title="Market" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Market"><span style="color:#ffffff;">market</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is the </span><a title="European Union" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Union"><span style="color:#ffffff;">European Union</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and its major </span><a title="Subsidiaries" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subsidiaries"><span style="color:#ffffff;">subsidiaries</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> include well-known brands like </span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Bentley" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bentley</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Skoda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Skoda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Lamborghini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lamborghini</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="SEAT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> or the brand </span><a title="VW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> itself.<br />Volkswagen's second-largest market is </span><a title="China" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China"><span style="color:#ffffff;">China</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> where its subsidiary, </span><a title="Volkswagen Group China" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Group_China"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Group China</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is by far the largest foreign automaker.<br /><br />History<br />VW was founded in </span><a title="1937" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1937"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1937</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> as a public concern by the then </span><a title="Nazism" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazism"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Nazi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> government to sell the </span><a title="Volkswagen Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. After the </span><a title="Second World War" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_World_War"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Second World War</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in </span><a title="1945" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1945"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1945</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the British Army took control of the bomb-shattered factory and restarted Beetle production for the difficult post-war years which Germany had to face. In 1948, the British Government handed the company back over to the German state, where it was managed by ex-</span><a title="Opel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Opel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> chief </span><a title="Heinrich Nordhoff" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinrich_Nordhoff"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Heinrich Nordhoff</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />In </span><a title="1960" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1960</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, upon the floatation of part of the German federal government's stake in the company on the German stock market, its name became Volkswagenwerk Aktiengesellschaft (</span><a title="Aktiengesellschaft" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aktiengesellschaft"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Aktiengesellschaft</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, abbreviated AG, being equivalent to the English Corp[oration] or American Inc[orporated]). The name was changed to VOLKSWAGEN AG on </span><a title="4th July" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4th_July"><span style="color:#ffffff;">4th July</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="1985" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1985"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1985</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, to reflect the company's increasing global diversification from its headquarters and main plant, the Volkswagenwerk in </span><a title="Wolfsburg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfsburg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wolfsburg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Germany</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The corporation now goes by that name or occasionally 'Volkswagen Group' in non-German speaking markets, and is currently the fourth largest car-manufacturer in the world. In 2005 VW sold more than 5.2 million vehicles, which equals a 9.1 share of the world market.<br />In October 2005, </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> acquired an 18.53% stake in the </span><a title="Business" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business"><span style="color:#ffffff;">business</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. And in </span><a title="July" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/July"><span style="color:#ffffff;">July</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> they increased their ownership to little over 25%. This was presumably done to prevent a foreign </span><a title="Takeover" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Takeover"><span style="color:#ffffff;">takeover</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, according to </span><a title="Press" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Press"><span style="color:#ffffff;">press</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> reports. Nonetheless, many commentators argued that this </span><a title="Stake" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stake"><span style="color:#ffffff;">stake</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> fits well to the strategy </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> has.<br /></span><a name="Leadership"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Leadership<br />1945-1948 — </span><a title="Ivan Hirst" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivan_Hirst"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ivan Hirst</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />1948-1967 — </span><a title="Heinrich Nordhoff" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinrich_Nordhoff"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Heinrich Nordhoff</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />1968-1971 — </span><a title="Kurt Lotz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurt_Lotz"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Kurt Lotz</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />1971-1975 — </span><a title="Rudolf Leiding" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudolf_Leiding"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rudolf Leiding</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />1975-1982 — </span><a title="Toni Schmucker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toni_Schmucker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Toni Schmucker</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />1982-1993 — </span><a title="Carl Hahn" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Hahn"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carl Hahn</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />1993-2002 — </span><a title="Ferdinand Piëch" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Pi%C3%ABch"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Piëch</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="April 16" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_16"><span style="color:#ffffff;">April 16</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="2002" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2002</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-present — </span><a title="Bernd Pischetsrieder" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernd_Pischetsrieder"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bernd Pischetsrieder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Brands"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Brands<br />The company owns seven brands, which are organized into two groups or branches.<br />The Audi branch consists of<br /></span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">D</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Lamborghini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lamborghini</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="Italy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy"><span style="color:#ffffff;">I</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="SEAT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="Spain" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ES</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />The Volkswagen branch consists of<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">D</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Bentley Motors Limited" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Motors_Limited"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bentley</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="United Kingdom" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom"><span style="color:#ffffff;">GB</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Skoda Auto" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Auto"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Škoda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="Czech Republic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Czech_Republic"><span style="color:#ffffff;">CZ</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Bugatti" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bugatti"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bugatti</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="France" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France"><span style="color:#ffffff;">F</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Commercial_Vehicles"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">D</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />These brands have been discontinued by VW:<br /></span><a title="Auto Union" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auto_Union"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Auto Union</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="DKW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DKW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">DKW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Horch" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horch"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Horch</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="NSU Motorenwerke AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Motorenwerke_AG"><span style="color:#ffffff;">NSU</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Wanderer (car)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wanderer_%28car%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wanderer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Volkswagen is also the largest shareholder in </span><a title="Scania AB" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scania_AB"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Scania AB</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> with a capital stake of 16.5% and a voting stake of 27.4%<br />See also<br /></span><a title="List of automobile manufacturers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_automobile_manufacturers"><span style="color:#ffffff;">List of automobile manufacturers</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Group China" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Group_China"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Group China</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Volkswagen<br />Volkswagen </span><a title="Aktiengesellschaft" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aktiengesellschaft"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="VW Group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Vw_logo.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Category:Types of companies" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Types_of_companies"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Type</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Marque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marque"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Marque</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of </span><a title="Volkswagen Group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Group"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Group</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Founded:<br /></span><a title="1937" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1937"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1937</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> by German Auto Association<br />Headquarters:<br /></span><a title="Wolfsburg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfsburg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wolfsburg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Germany</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Key people:<br />Bernd Pischetsrieder, Chairman of the Board of Management<br /></span><a title="Industry" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industry"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Industry</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Automotive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Product (business)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_%28business%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Products</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Automobile</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Revenue" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revenue"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Revenue</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Green_Arrow_Up.svg"></a><a title="Euro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euro"><span style="color:#ffffff;">€</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> 50,245 </span><a title="Billion" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billion"><span style="color:#ffffff;">billion</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Net income" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Net_income"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Net income</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Green_Arrow_Up.svg"></a><a title="Euro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euro"><span style="color:#ffffff;">€</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> 741 </span><a title="Million" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Million"><span style="color:#ffffff;">million</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Employment" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Employment"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Employees</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br />N/A<br /></span><a title="Website" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Website"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="http://www.volkswagen.com/vwcms_publish/vwcms/master_public/international_portal/en.html" href="http://www.volkswagen.com/vwcms_publish/vwcms/master_public/international_portal/en.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen International</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Volkswagen </span><a title="Aktiengesellschaft" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aktiengesellschaft"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="German language" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_language"><span style="color:#ffffff;">German</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> "people's car", </span><a title="International Phonetic Alphabet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Phonetic_Alphabet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">pronounced</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> [ˈfɔlksˌvaːgən]) or VW is an </span><a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">automobile</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> manufacturer based in </span><a title="Wolfsburg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfsburg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wolfsburg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Germany</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the state of </span><a title="Lower Saxony" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lower_Saxony"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lower Saxony</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />It forms the core of </span><a title="Volkswagen Group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Group"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Group</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, one of the </span><a title="List of automobile manufacturers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_automobile_manufacturers#World_Motor_Vehicle_Production_by_Manufacturer"><span style="color:#ffffff;">world's four largest car producers</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Its German tagline is "Aus Liebe zum Automobil", which is translated as "For the love of the car" - or, "For Love of the People's Cars," as translated by VW in other languages.<br /></span><a name="Origins_in_1930s_Germany"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Origins in 1930s Germany<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Kdf_Wagen_Hitler_Himmler_Wolfsschanze_Ostpreussen.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Adolf Hitler" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolf_Hitler"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Adolf Hitler</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, with </span><a title="Heinrich Himmler" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinrich_Himmler"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Heinrich Himmler</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> at his side, in a KdF-Wagen (Beetle) in 1944, near the </span><a title="Wolfsschanze" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfsschanze"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wolfsschanze</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="East Prussia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Prussia"><span style="color:#ffffff;">East Prussia</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Though the origins of the company date back to the 1930s, the design for the car that would become known as the </span><a title="VW Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Beetle / "Käfer"</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> date back even further, as a pet project by car designer </span><a title="Ferdinand Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1875–1951). </span><a title="Adolf Hitler" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolf_Hitler"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Adolf Hitler</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">'s desire that almost anybody should be able to afford a car coincided with this design—although much of this design was inspired by the advanced </span><a title="Tatra (car)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tatra_%28car%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tatra</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> cars of </span><a title="Hans Ledwinka" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans_Ledwinka"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Hans Ledwinka</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Hitler, who had a keen interest in cars even if he didn't drive, demanded Porsche make changes to the original design to make it more suited for the working man. According to the historian </span><a title="Richard Evans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Evans"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Richard Evans</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Hitler personally designed the distinctive rounded shape of the car he desired Porsche to build - making the Volkswagen "Beetle" Hitler's most lasting legacy to the world.</span><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen#_note-0#_note-0"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Changes included better fuel efficiency, reliability, ease of use, and economically efficient repairs and parts. The intention was that ordinary Germans would buy the car by means of a savings scheme ("Fünf Mark die Woche musst Du sparen, willst Du im eigenen Wagen fahren" — "Save five Marks a week, if you desire to drive your own car") which around 336,000 people eventually paid into. Volkswagen honored its savings agreements after </span><a title="World War II" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II"><span style="color:#ffffff;">World War II</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">; </span><a title="Ford Motor Company" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Motor_Company"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ford</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which had a similar "coupon" savings system, reportedly did not. Prototypes of the car called the KdF-Wagen (German: </span><a title="Kraft durch Freude" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kraft_durch_Freude"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Kraft durch Freude</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> = "strength through joy"), appeared from </span><a title="1936" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1936"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1936</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> onwards (the first cars had been produced in </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Stuttgart</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">). The car already had its distinctive round shape and air-cooled, flat-four, rear-mounted engine, features similar to the Tatra. The VW car was just one of many KdF programs which included things such as tours and outings.<br /></span><a title="Erwin Komenda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erwin_Komenda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Erwin Komenda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the longstanding Porsche chief designer, developed the car body of the prototype, which was recognizably the Beetle we know today. It was one of the first to be designed with the aid of a </span><a title="Wind tunnel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_tunnel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">wind tunnel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">; unlike the </span><a title="Chrysler Corporation" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_Corporation"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Chrysler</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Chrysler Airflow" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_Airflow"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Airflow</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, it would be a success.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:PICT5052.JPG"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">A Volkwagen "Beetle" in Melbourne, Australia, in 2006<br />The new factory in the new town of KdF-Stadt, now called Wolfsburg, purpose-built for the factory workers, only produced a handful of cars by the time war started in </span><a title="1939" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1939"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1939</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. None were actually delivered to holders of the completed saving stamp books, though one Type 1 Cabriolet was presented to Hitler on his fiftieth birthday, in 1938.<br />War meant production changed to military vehicles, the Type 81 </span><a title="Kübelwagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C3%BCbelwagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Kübelwagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> utility vehicle (VW's most common wartime model) and the </span><a title="Amphibious vehicle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amphibious_vehicle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">amphibious</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Schwimmwagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schwimmwagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Schwimmwagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a name="1945:_British_Army_and_Ivan_Hirst.2C_unc"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1945: British Army and Ivan Hirst, unclear future<br />The company owes its postwar existence largely to one man, </span><a title="British Army" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Army"><span style="color:#ffffff;">British Army</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> officer Major </span><a title="Ivan Hirst" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivan_Hirst"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ivan Hirst</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1916–2000). In </span><a title="April" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April"><span style="color:#ffffff;">April</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="1945" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1945"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1945</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, KdF-Stadt and its heavily bombed factory were captured by the Americans, and subsequently handed over to the British, within whose </span><a title="Allied Occupation Zones in Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allied_Occupation_Zones_in_Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">occupation zone</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> the town and factory fell. The factory was placed under the control of </span><a title="Oldham" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oldham"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Oldham</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-born Hirst. At first, the plan was to use it for military vehicle maintenance. Since it had been used for military production, and had been a "political animal" (Hirst's words) rather than a commercial enterprise, the equipment was in time intended to be salvaged as </span><a title="War reparations" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_reparations"><span style="color:#ffffff;">war reparations</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Wolfsburg_VW-Werk.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The Volkswagen main factory in Wolfsburg with its own power plant in the front.<br />Hirst painted one of the factory's cars green and demonstrated it to British Army headquarters. Short of light transport, in September 1945 the British Army was persuaded to place a vital order for 20,000. The first few hundred cars went to personnel from the occupying forces, and to the German Post Office. By 1946 the factory was producing 1,000 cars a month, a remarkable feat considering the factory was still in disrepair: the damaged roof and windows meant rain stopped production; the steel to make the cars had to be bartered for new vehicles.<br />The car and its town changed their Second World War-era names to Volkswagen and Wolfsburg respectively, and production was increasing. It was still unclear what was to become of the factory. It was offered to representatives from the British, American and French motor industries. Famously, all rejected it. After an inspection of the plant, </span><a title="William Edward Rootes, 1st Baron Rootes" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Edward_Rootes%2C_1st_Baron_Rootes"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sir William Rootes</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, head of the British </span><a title="Rootes" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rootes"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rootes Group</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, told Hirst the project would fail within two years, and that the car "is quite unattractive to the average motorcar buyer, is too ugly and too noisy ... If you think you're going to build cars in this place, you're a bloody fool, young man." (In a bizarre twist of fate, Volkswagen would manufacture a locally built version of Rootes' </span><a title="Hillman Avenger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hillman_Avenger"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Hillman Avenger</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in </span><a title="Argentina" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Argentina</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the </span><a title="1980s" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1980s"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1980s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, long after Rootes went bust at the hands of </span><a title="Chrysler Corporation" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_Corporation"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Chrysler</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in </span><a title="1978" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1978"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1978</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—the Beetle outliving the Avenger by over 30 years)<br />Ford representatives were equally critical: the car was "not worth a damn." </span><a title="Henry Ford II" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Ford_II"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Henry Ford II</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the son of </span><a title="Edsel Ford" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edsel_Ford"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Edsel Ford</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, did reportedly look at the possibility of taking over the VW factory but dismissed the idea as soon as he looked up Wolfsburg on the map. . . and found it to be too close for comfort to the East German border. In </span><a title="France" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France"><span style="color:#ffffff;">France</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Citroën" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citro%C3%ABn"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Citroën</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> started the </span><a title="Citroën 2CV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citro%C3%ABn_2CV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2CV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> on a similar marketing concept. In </span><a title="Italy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Italy</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> it was the </span><a title="Fiat 500" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiat_500"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Fiat 500</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />[</span><a title="Edit section: 1948–1974: Icon For German Regeneration" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Volkswagen&action=edit&section=3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">edit</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">]<br /></span><a name="1948.E2.80.931974:_Icon_For_German_Regen"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1948–1974: Icon For German Regeneration<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Glj01.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">An original 1300 Deluxe, circa 1966.<br />From 1948, Volkswagen became a very important element, symbolically and economically, of </span><a title="West Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">West German</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> regeneration. </span><a title="Heinrich Nordhoff" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinrich_Nordhoff"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Heinrich Nordhoff</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1899–1968), a former senior manager at </span><a title="Opel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Opel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> who had overseen civilian and military vehicle production in the 1930s and 1940s, was recruited to run the factory in 1948. In 1949 Hirst left the company, now re-formed as a trust controlled by the West German government. Apart from the introduction of the </span><a title="VW Type 2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Type_2"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Type 2</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> commercial vehicle (van, pickup and camper) and the </span><a title="Karmann Ghia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karmann_Ghia"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Karmann Ghia</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> sports car, Nordhoff pursued the one-model policy until shortly before his death in 1968.<br />Volkswagens were first exhibited and sold in the </span><a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States"><span style="color:#ffffff;">United States</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in </span><a title="1949" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1949"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1949</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It only sold two units in America that first year. On its entry to the U.S. market, the VW was briefly sold as a "Victory Wagon". </span><a title="Volkswagen of America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_of_America"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen of America</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> was formed in April </span><a title="1955" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1955"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1955</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to standardize sales and service in the U.S. Production of the Type 1 </span><a title="Volkswagen Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (German: "Käfer"; US: "Bug"; Mexican: "Vocho"; "Vochito"; French: "Coccinelle"; Portuguese: "Carocha"; Brazilian: "Fusca"; Colombian and Venezuelan: "Escarabajo"; Danish: "Boble Folkevogn"; Polish: "Garbus"; Serbian/Croatian: "Buba"; Swedish: "Bubbla Folka": Dutch: "Kever"; Finnish: "Kupla"; Indonesian:"Kodok") increased dramatically over the years, the total reaching one million in 1954.<br />Sales soared -- due in part to the famous advertising campaigns by New York advertising agency, Doyle, Dane and Bernbach. Lead by art director Helmut Krone and copywriters Bob Levinson and Julian Koenig, Volkswagen ads became as popular as the car, using crisp layouts and witty copy to lure the younger, sophisticated consumers with whom the car became associated. Despite the fact it was almost universally known as the Beetle, it was never officially labeled as such, instead referred to as the Type 1. The first reference to the name Beetle occurred in U.S. advertising in 1968, but not until 1998 and the </span><a title="Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Golf</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-based </span><a title="New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> would the name be adopted by </span><a title="Wolfsburg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfsburg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wolfsburg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />During the </span><a title="1960s" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960s"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1960s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and early </span><a title="1970s" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1970s"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1970s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, although the car was becoming outdated, American exports, innovative </span><a title="Advertising" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advertising"><span style="color:#ffffff;">advertising</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and a growing reputation for reliability helped production figures to surpass the levels of the previous record holder, the </span><a title="Ford Model T" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Model_T"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ford Model T</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. By 1973 total production was over 16 million.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:212310.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">An original and unmodified 1963 VW Notchback.<br />VW expanded their product line in </span><a title="1967" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1967"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1967</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> with the introduction of several </span><a title="VW Type 3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Type_3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Type 3</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> models, which were essentially body style variations (Fastback, Notchback, Squareback) based on Type 1 mechanical underpinnings, and again in 1969 with the relatively unpopular </span><a title="VW Type 4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Type_4"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Type 4</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (also known as the 411 and 412) models, which differed substantially from previous models with the notable introduction of </span><a title="Unibody" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unibody"><span style="color:#ffffff;">unibody</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> construction, a fully automatic transmission, electronic </span><a title="Fuel injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_injection"><span style="color:#ffffff;">fuel injection</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and a sturdier powerplant. Volkswagen added a "Super Beetle" (the Type 113) to its lineup in 1971. The Type 113 differed from the standard Beetle in its use of McPherson strut front suspension instead of torsion bars. The McPherson suspension added valuable trunk space and widened the front end. Despite the Super Beetle's popularity with Volkswagen customers, purists preferred the standard Beetle with its less pronounced nose and its original torsion bar suspension. In 1973, Volkswagen introduced the military-themed </span><a title="Volkswagen Thing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Thing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Thing</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (Type 181) in America, recalling the wartime Type 81. The military version was produced for the NATO-era German army (Bundeswehr) during the cold war years of 1970 to 1979. The US Thing version only lasted two years, 1973 and 1974, due at least in part to Ralph Nader's automobile safety campaigns.<br /></span><a name="1974:_From_Beetle_to_Rabbit"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1974: From Beetle to Rabbit<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:75vwrabbit.jpeg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">An American advertisement for the 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit, the North American name for the original Golf.<br />Volkswagen was in serious trouble by the end of the 1960s. The Type 3 and Type 4 models had been comparative flops, and the </span><a title="NSU Motorenwerke AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Motorenwerke_AG"><span style="color:#ffffff;">NSU</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-based K70 also failed to woo buyers. The company knew that Beetle production had to end one day, but the conundrum of replacing it had been a never-ending nightmare. The key to the solution was the </span><a title="1964" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1964"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1964</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> acquisition of </span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi/Auto-Union</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The Ingolstadt-based firm had the necessary expertise in </span><a title="Front wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Front_wheel_drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">front wheel drive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Water-cooled" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water-cooled"><span style="color:#ffffff;">water-cooled</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> engines that Volkswagen so desperately needed to produce a credible Beetle successor. Audi influences paved the way for this new generation of Volkswagens, known as the Polo, Golf and Passat.<br />Production of the Beetle at the Wolfsburg factory switched to the </span><a title="VW Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Golf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW Golf</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1974, marketed in the United States and Canada as the </span><a title="Volkswagen Rabbit" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Rabbit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Rabbit</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> until 1985 and as the Golf until 2006, when the Rabbit name was again announced. This was a car unlike its predecessor in most significant ways, both mechanically as well as visually (its angular styling was designed by the Italian </span><a title="Giorgetto Giugiaro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giorgetto_Giugiaro"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Giorgetto Giugiaro</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">). Its design followed trends for small family cars set by the 1959 </span><a title="Mini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mini"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mini</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and 1972 </span><a title="Renault 5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renault_5"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Renault 5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—the Golf had a transversely mounted, water-cooled engine in the front, driving the front wheels, and had a </span><a title="Hatchback" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatchback"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hatchback</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a format that has dominated the market segment ever since. Beetle production continued in smaller numbers at other German factories (Essen) until 1978, but mainstream production shifted to </span><a title="Brazil" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Brazil</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Mexico" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mexico</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a name="From_1970s_to_present"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">From 1970s to present<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Volkswagen_polo_1990.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Polo, 1990.<br />While Volkswagen's range of cars soon became similar to that of other large European car-makers, the Golf has been the mainstay of the Volkswagen lineup since its introduction, and the mechanical basis for several other cars of the company. There have been five generations of the Volkswagen Golf, the first of which was produced from the summer of 1974 until the end of 1983, sold as the Rabbit in the United States and Canada and as the Caribe in Latin America. Its chassis also spawned the </span><a title="Volkswagen Scirocco" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Scirocco"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Scirocco</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> coupe and </span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jetta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> sedan. North American production of the Golf/Rabbit commenced at a factory in Pennsylvania in 1978. The production numbers of the first generation Golf has continued to grow annually in South Africa with only slight modifications to the interior, engine and chassis. It would be produced in the United States as the Rabbit until the spring of 1984. The second-generation Golf hatchback/Jetta sedan ran from late 1983 to late 1991, and a North American version produced in Pennsylvania went on sale at the start of the 1985 model year. (The American factory closed in 1988.) In 1991, Volkswagen launched the third-generation Golf, garnering the European Car of the Year for 1992 (the previous two generations were nominated but lost to the </span><a title="Citroën CX" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citro%C3%ABn_CX"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Citroën CX</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1975 and the </span><a title="Fiat Uno" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiat_Uno"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Fiat Uno</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1984). (The Mark 3 Golf and Jetta debuted in North America just before the start of 1994 model year, first appearing in southern California in the late spring of 1993.) The sedan version of the Golf was badged Vento in Europe (but remained </span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jetta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the USA, where its popularity outstripped the Golf).<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:JettaMkV.JPG"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006 VW Jetta<br />The fourth incarnation of the Golf arrived in Europe in late 1997, (and in North America in 1999), its chassis spawned a host of other cars within the Volkswagen group—the </span><a title="Volkswagen Bora" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Bora"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Bora</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (the sedan, still called Jetta in the USA), </span><a title="VW New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW New Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="SEAT Toledo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Toledo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT Toledo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="SEAT León" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Le%C3%B3n"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT León</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi A3</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Audi TT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi TT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Skoda Octavia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Octavia"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Skoda Octavia</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. However, it was beaten into third place for the 1998 European Car of the Year award by the winning </span><a title="Alfa Romeo 156" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfa_Romeo_156"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Alfa Romeo 156</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and runner-up </span><a title="Audi A6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi A6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The current Volkswagen Golf was launched in late 2004, came runner-up to the </span><a title="Fiat Panda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiat_Panda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Fiat Panda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the 2004 European Car of the Year, and has so far spawned the new generation </span><a title="SEAT Toledo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Toledo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT Toledo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Skoda Octavia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Octavia"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Skoda Octavia</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Audi A3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi A3</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> hatchback ranges as well as a new mini-</span><a title="Multi-purpose vehicle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-purpose_vehicle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">MPV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the Seat Altea. The fifth-generation Golf was introduced in Europe in late </span><a title="2003" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2003</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and the GTI boasts a 2.0 L Turbocharged direct injection engine. The fifth-generation Golf, now with the Rabbit name once again, went on sale in the U.S. and Canada in </span><a title="June" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/June"><span style="color:#ffffff;">June</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. (The GTI version arrived in North America four months earlier.) Volkswagen of America believes that returning to the Rabbit nameplate will help the Golf's sales in these two countries. The fifth-generation Jetta, and the performance version, the GLI, are also available in the United States and Canada.<br />The other main models have been the </span><a title="VW Polo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Polo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Polo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a smaller car than the Golf, and the larger </span><a title="VW Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> for the segment above the Golf. As of 2006, there have been four incarnations of the Polo: Mk 1 (1976), Mk 2 (1981, facelifted 1990), Mk 3 (1994, facelifted 1999) and the current Mk 4 (2002, facelifted 2005). The </span><a title="VW Scirocco" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Scirocco"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Scirocco</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="VW Corrado" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Corrado"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Corrado</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> were both Golf-based coupés.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:VW-Phaeton-silver-side1.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Phaeton<br />In the eighties and early nineties, Volkswagen's sales in the </span><a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States"><span style="color:#ffffff;">United States</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Canada" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Canada</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> fell dramatically, despite the success of models like the Golf elsewhere. VW eventually realized that the Beetle was the heart and soul of the brand in </span><a title="North America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America"><span style="color:#ffffff;">North America</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and the firm quickly set about creating a new Beetle for American and Canadian showrooms.<br />In 1994, Volkswagen unveiled the </span><a title="J Mays" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J_Mays"><span style="color:#ffffff;">J Mays</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-designed </span><a title="Volkswagen New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_New_Beetle#Concept_1"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Concept One</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a "retro"-themed car with a resemblance to the original Beetle but based on the Polo chassis. Its genesis was secret and in opposition to VW management, who felt it was too backward-looking. Management could not deny the positive public response to the concept car and gave the green-light to its development as the </span><a title="VW New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The production car would be based on the Golf rather than the Polo, because the Polo chassis was too small for the car to pass crash test standards in the U.S. It has been quite popular in the North America, less so in Europe.<br />In 2002, Volkswagen announced two models taking it into market segments new to the company: the </span><a title="VW Phaeton" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Phaeton"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Phaeton</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> ("Fay-ton") luxury car, and the </span><a title="VW Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> ("Tour-egg") </span><a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SUV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The Phaeton was critically acclaimed but not well received in the marketplace. In 2005 VW announced its discontinuance in the US market for fall 2006, mainly due to the disappointing sales there and the need for major investments in the car's line of engines (W12 and V8) to meet new emission requirements. Also, Volkswagen has faced harsh criticism that the Phaeton had used up money that was better invested in their smaller cars.<br />After rising significantly between 1998 and 2001, VW's North American sales began to fall sharply leading to a 2005 loss of roughly $1 billion (U.S.) for its operations in the U.S. and Canada. The reliability of the company's cars appears to bear some of the responsibility for this situation. By </span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, its models sat near the bottom of Consumer Reports and J.D. Power reliability rankings.<br />Volkswagen is still in a better position in North American market than it was in the early nineties, when its U.S. sales plummeted to 49,533 units in 1993. The company hopes to remain competitive in the U.S. and Canada with several new models. The fifth-generation GTI has generated interest among the VW faithful with its "Make friends with your fast" and "Unpimp My Ride" advertising campaigns. And although its reliability remains to be determined, the GTI was named by Consumer Reports as the top sporty car under $25,000. Even more encouraging was Volkswagen's performance in the </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> J.D. Power study of satisfaction after ninety days of ownership. VW scored highest among "nonluxury" brands, finishing fourteenth overall with strong performances by its new Jetta and Passat models.<br />Volkswagen is also adding the </span><a title="Volkswagen Eos" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Eos"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Eos</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a sport coupe with a convertible hardtop, to its U.S./Canadian lineup as well. The Rabbit, GTI, and Eos are also being made in Germany for the North American market instead of at VW's Mexican factory, where Golfs and Jettas for the United States and Canada have been made in the past.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Vwgolf.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The fifth-generation Golf, sold in North America as the Rabbit.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2006_VW_Eos.JPG"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The 2006 Eos hardtop convertible. This is the replacement for the VW Cabrio.<br />Volkswagen is counting on better workmanship from its German plants to improve the reliability of its North American lineup, and it is also competitively pricing its Rabbit, with a base model starting below the average cost of a new automobile. Volkswagen's relations with its unions and its relationship with the government of the German state of </span><a title="Lower Saxony" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lower_Saxony"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lower Saxony</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which owns stock in VW, remain impediments to further progress. But the company is taking a greater interest in the North American market rather than treating it as an afterthought.<br />Volkswagen currently offers a number of its vehicles with an advanced, light duty diesel engine known as the TDI (Turbo Direct Injection). Whilst extremely popular in the European market, light duty diesels do not yet enjoy the same wide acceptance in the American marketplace, despite increased fuel economy and performance comparable to gasoline engines due to turbocharging. According to the U.S. </span><a title="Environmental Protection Agency" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_Protection_Agency"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Environmental Protection Agency</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, 4 of the 10 most fuel efficient vehicles available for sale in the U.S. in 2004 were powered by Volkswagen diesel engines. They were a three-way tie for 8th (TDI Beetle, TDI Golf, TDI Jetta) and 9th, the TDI Jetta Wagon. Sales of light duty diesel engine technology are increasing as gasoline prices rise. Products such as the </span><a title="Toyota Prius" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Prius"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Toyota Prius</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> might have highlighted the economy of non-gasoline engines, but in reality, a Volkswagen TDI engine is often found to be more efficient than the Prius on the highway (although not so when driving in the city). In addition, all VAG TDI diesel engines produced since 1996 can be driven on 100% </span><a title="Biodiesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodiesel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">biodiesel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Volkswagen resisted adding an SUV to its lineup, but it finally relented with the introduction of the </span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the early 2000's. The company plans to add a miniature SUV, based on its "Concept A" concept vehicle, soon. On </span><a title="July 20" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/July_20"><span style="color:#ffffff;">July 20</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, VW announced that the new vehicle would be called the </span><a title="Volkswagen Tiguan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Tiguan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tiguan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a name="Current_Volkswagen_Models"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Current Volkswagen Models<br /></span><a name="United_States"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">United States<br />Model<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">MSRP</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (Cost in </span><a title="United States dollar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_dollar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">USD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf#Mk_V_.282003-present.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rabbit</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/rabbit/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/rabbit/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$14,990<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf#Performance_models"><span style="color:#ffffff;">GTI</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/gti/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/gti/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$21,990<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta#A5_.282005.E2.80.94present.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jetta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/jetta/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/jetta/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$17,900<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/newbeetle/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/newbeetle/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) </span><a title="Volkswagen New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle Convertible</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/newbeetlecon/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/newbeetlecon/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$17,180/$22,120<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat#Volkswagen_Passat_Mark_5_.28PQ46_platform.29_.282005-present.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/passat/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/passat/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) </span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat#Volkswagen_Passat_Mark_5_.28PQ46_platform.29_.282005-present.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat Wagon</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/passatwagon/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/passatwagon/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$22,950/$25,225<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Phaeton" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Phaeton"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Phaeton</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/phaeton/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/phaeton/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$66,700<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/touareg/index.html" href="http://www.vw.com/touareg/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$37,410<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Eos" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Eos"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Eos</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="http://www.vw.com/models_overview/eos_popup.html" href="http://www.vw.com/models_overview/eos_popup.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />$28,480/$35,265<br /></span><a name="Europe"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Europe<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Fox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Fox"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Fox</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Polo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Polo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Polo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Golf/Golf Variant/Golf Plus</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jetta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle/New Beetle Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Eos" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Eos"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Eos</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat/Passat Variant</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touran" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touran"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touran</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Sharan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Sharan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sharan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Phaeton" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Phaeton"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Phaeton</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Caddy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Caddy"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Caddy</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Eurovan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Eurovan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Transporter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Multivan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Multivan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Multivan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen LT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_LT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Crafter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Asia-Pacific"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Asia-Pacific<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Gol" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Gol"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Gol</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Polo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Polo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Polo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Golf/Golf Plus/Golf Variant</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jetta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bora</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sagitar</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle/New Beetle Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat Lingyu</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Santana</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Santana 3000</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat/Passat Variant</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touran" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touran"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touran</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Sharan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Sharan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sharan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Phaeton" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Phaeton"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Phaeton</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Caddy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Caddy"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Caddy</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Transporter" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Transporter"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Transporter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Multivan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Multivan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Multivan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen LT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_LT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Crafter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="South_America"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">South America<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Fox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Fox"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Fox/CrossFox/Suran (SpaceFox)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Gol" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Gol"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Gol/Parati/Saveiro (Pointer)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Polo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Polo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Polo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Polo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Polo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Derby</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Golf</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jetta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Vento</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bora</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle/New Beetle Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat/Passat Variant</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touran" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touran"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touran</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Sharan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Sharan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sharan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Phaeton" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Phaeton"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Phaeton</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Caddy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Caddy"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Caddy</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Transporter" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Transporter"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Transporter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="South_Africa"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">South Africa<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Citi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Citi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">CitiGolf</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Polo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Polo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Polo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Golf/Golf Variant/Golf Plus</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Jetta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jetta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_New_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle/New Beetle Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Passat" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Passat/Passat Variant</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touran" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touran"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touran</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Sharan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Sharan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sharan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Caddy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Caddy"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Caddy</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Transporter" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Transporter"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Transporter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Multivan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Multivan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Multivan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Volkswagen LT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_LT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Crafter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Cult_Status_Of_The_Beetle"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cult Status Of The Beetle<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Vws.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Beetles used as taxis in Mexico City<br />Like its competitors, the </span><a title="Mini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mini"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mini</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and the </span><a title="Citroën 2CV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citro%C3%ABn_2CV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Citroën 2CV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the original-shape Beetle long outlasted predictions of its lifespan. It maintains a very strong following worldwide, being regarded as something of a "cult" car owing to its </span><a title="1960s" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960s"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1960s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> association with the </span><a title="Hippie" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippie"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hippie</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> movement. Currently, there is a wide array of clubs that are concerned with the Beetle. The fans are quite diverse. Looks include the resto-look, </span><a title="Cal Look" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Cal_Look&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cal Look</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, German-look, resto-Cal Look, </span><a title="Buggies" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buggies"><span style="color:#ffffff;">buggies</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Baja bug" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baja_bug"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Baja bugs</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Old school" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_school"><span style="color:#ffffff;">old school</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, ratlook, etc. Part of their cult status is attributed to being one of a few cars with an </span><a title="Air-cooled" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air-cooled"><span style="color:#ffffff;">air-cooled</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, horizontally-opposed engine design and the consequent ease of repair and modification as opposed to the more conventional and technically complex watercooled engine design. The original design flat-four boxer design had less than 200 moving parts.<br />In the late 1990s, a group of Volkswagen enthusiasts formed Volkswagenism, a satirical religion based off of owners devoted loyalty to the Beetle, and the company. Under the leadership of founder Jason Gaudet, this "religion" has gained notariety through radio, television and print coverage from around the world...turning ordinary fans of the car into Volkswagenists.<br />By 2002, over 21 million Type 1's had been produced.<br />On </span><a title="July 30" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/July_30"><span style="color:#ffffff;">July 30</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="2003" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2003</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the last Type 1 rolled off the production line in </span><a title="Puebla, Puebla" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puebla%2C_Puebla"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Puebla, Puebla</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Mexico" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mexico</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It was car number 21,529,464, and was immediately shipped off to the company's museum in </span><a title="Wolfsburg, Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfsburg%2C_Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wolfsburg, Germany</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. In true Mexican fashion, a </span><a title="Mariachi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariachi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mariachi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> band serenaded the last car in the 68-year-old history. The last car was nicknamed El Rey, which is Spanish for "The King". The last 3000 type 1's were called the "Ultima Edicion" or the last edition.<br />In the </span><a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States"><span style="color:#ffffff;">United States</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, most notably in </span><a title="California" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California"><span style="color:#ffffff;">California</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Volkswagen enthusiasts frequent large Volkswagen-themed car shows, especially in the summer months. Many of these shows feature camping, a car show called a "show 'n' shine", drag racing, parts swap meet, raffles, and other events. Die-hard and loyal "VW-heads" attend these shows regularly, often travelling 500 miles or more to attend their favorite event.<br />In the </span><a title="Winter" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winter"><span style="color:#ffffff;">winter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a group of drivers of the "split window" bus model (1951-1967 Microbuses, trucks, campers, and panel vans) drive from </span><a title="Guerneville" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guerneville"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Guerneville</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, CA, to </span><a title="Mt. Shasta" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mt._Shasta"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mt. Shasta</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> CA, entirely on unpaved jeep roads. This event is called the "Mt. Shasta Snow Trip Challenge" and is a good example of VW enthusiasts' trust in the durability of their 40-plus-year-old cars.<br /></span><a name="Relationship_With_Porsche"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Relationship With Porsche<br />The company has had a close relationship with </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Zuffenhausen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-based sports car manufacturer founded in </span><a title="1931" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1931"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1931</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> by </span><a title="Ferdinand Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the original Volkswagen designer. The first Porsche cars, the </span><a title="1948" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1948"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1948</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 356</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, used many Volkswagen components including a tuned </span><a title="Engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Gearbox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gearbox"><span style="color:#ffffff;">gearbox</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and suspension. Later collaborations include the 1969/1970 </span><a title="Porsche 914" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_914"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW-Porsche 914</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the 1976 </span><a title="Porsche 924" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_924"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 924</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (which used many </span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> components and was built at an Audi factory), and the 2002 </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (which shares engineering with the </span><a title="VW Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">).<br />In </span><a title="September 2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/September_2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">September 2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Porsche announced it was buying a 20% stake in Volkswagen at a cost of €3 billion, with the intention that the combined stakes of Porsche, Volkswagen and the government of </span><a title="Lower Saxony" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lower_Saxony"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lower Saxony</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> ensure that any hostile takeover by foreign investors would be impossible </span><a title="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4281864.stm" href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4281864.stm"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. In July Porsche increased their ownership to 25.1%.<br /></span><a name="Motorsport"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Motorsport<br />In 1966 Volkswagen left the racing starting grid when Formula Vee — circuit racing with cars built from easily available VW Beetle parts — took off in Europe. It proved very popular as a low-cost route into formula racing.</span><a title="http://www.formulaveesa.org.za/history.html" href="http://www.formulaveesa.org.za/history.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[2]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />In 1971 Volkswagen moved on to the more powerful Formula Super V, which became famous for hothousing new talent. In the 11 years it ran, until 1982, it produced a stable of world-famous </span><a title="Formula One" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formula_One"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Formula One</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> drivers — names like </span><a title="Niki Lauda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niki_Lauda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Niki Lauda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Jochen Mass" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jochen_Mass"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jochen Mass</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Nelson Piquet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelson_Piquet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Nelson Piquet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Jochen Rindt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jochen_Rindt"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jochen Rindt</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Keke Rosberg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keke_Rosberg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Keke Rosberg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Volkswagen also notched up several victories and the championship in Formula 3.<br />In 1976 Volkswagen enter the under 2000cc Trans Am class with the Scirocco and they won their class outright.</span><a title="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/europlus/77sciroccotransam.jpg" href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/europlus/77sciroccotransam.jpg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Scirocco Trans Am Article/Advert</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />In 1981, now based in Hanover and renamed Volkswagen Motorsport, VW took a new direction into rallying with the launch of the first generation Golf, and Sweden's </span><a title="Per Eklund" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Per_Eklund"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Per Eklund</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Frenchman </span><a title="Jean-Luc Therier" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jean-Luc_Therier&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jean-Luc Therier</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and the Finn </span><a title="Pentti Airikkala" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentti_Airikkala"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Pentti Airikkala</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The final chapters in Volkswagen Racing UK's rallying story were the 'one-make' Castrol Polo Challenge, and the Polo GTI 'Super 1600' in 2001.<br />In 2000 Volkswagen started a one make racing cup with the newly released to Europe New Beetle called the ADAC New Beetle Cup this takes over the ADAC Lupo Cup which was racing since 1998.<br />In 2001 the department was renamed Volkswagen Racing and since then has concentrated all its efforts on developing its circuit racing championship, the Volkswagen Racing Cup.<br />In 2003 VW replace the ADAC New Beetle Cup with the newly released Polo to become the ADAC Polo Cup.<br />In 2004 VW Commercial vehicles enter the European Truck racing series with the Titan series truck it became Back to Back champion for the 2004 and 2005 series.<br />The Dakar<br />The first entry from the Wolfsburg based team is a FWD buggy named Tarek. It placed 6th outright but took 1st in the 2WD and Diesel class.<br />In 1980 Volkswagen competed in the </span><a title="Paris-Dakar Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris-Dakar_Rally"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Paris-Dakar Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> with the </span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-developed Iltis, placing 1st, 2nd, 4th and 9th overall.<br />Volkswagen enlists Dakar Champion </span><a title="Jutta Kleinschmidt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jutta_Kleinschmidt"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jutta Kleinschmidt</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the first female to win the Dakar in 2001, to help design and compete a Dakar Racer.<br />In 2003 Volkswagen enters the Dakar once more to help promote the Touareg.<br />In 2004 VW enters the newly developed Race-Touareg T2, finishing 6th overall and 2nd in the </span><a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Diesel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> class.<br />In 2005 a updated Race-Touareg T2 with slightly more power is entered with driver </span><a title="Bruno Saby" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruno_Saby"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bruno Saby</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, finishing in 3rd overall and 1st in the Diesel class.<br />In 2006 Volkswagen releases it most powerful Race-Touareg yet the Race-Touareg 2. Five vehicle enter, with driver </span><a title="Giniel de Villers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Giniel_de_Villers&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Giniel de Villers</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> finishing in 2nd place overall and 1st in the Diesel class.<br />Volkswagen Racing all around the WorldBelow are Official or Dealership sponsored Volkswagen Racing activities outside Germany.<br /></span><a title="China" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China"><span style="color:#ffffff;">China</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />VW's that have or are participated in the Rally scene Shanghai-VW Santana, Shanghai-VW Polo and FAW-VW Jetta.<br />VW's that have or are participated in the Rally scene Shanghai-VW supported the 1st Shanghai F1 Grand Prix with a Polo Cup support series.<br /></span><a title="South Africa" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Africa"><span style="color:#ffffff;">South Africa</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />VW's that have or are participated in the Rally scene: Polo, </span><a title="SEAT Ibiza" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Ibiza"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT Ibiza</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> based Polo Playa, CitiGolf & Golf.<br />VW's that have or are participated in the Circuit scene </span><a title="SEAT Ibiza" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT_Ibiza"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT Ibiza</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> based Polo Derby/Classic, A3 engined series which supports the A1 Racing series & the GTI engined F3 style racing series.<br /></span><a title="France" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France"><span style="color:#ffffff;">France</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />A French Volkswagen team entered the 2000 and 2001 Le Mans series with there 2.0 Turbo racer which produced around 356 kW/485 hp.<br /></span><a title="Brazil" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Brazil</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />VW's that have or are participated in the Rally scene Fox, Gol, Voyage & Heavy Trucks<br />VW's that have or are participated in the Circuit scene Brasilia, Karmann Ghia, Gol, Voyage, and the Hillman Avenger based 1500 series.<br /></span><a title="Japan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Japan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />VW's that have or are participated in the Circuit scene Golf, Lupo and Polo Cup's.<br /></span><a title="Poland" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poland"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Poland</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />VW's that have or are participated in the Circuit scene Golf with TDI Cup.<br /></span><a title="United Kingdom" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom"><span style="color:#ffffff;">United Kingdom</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />VW's that have or are participated in the Circuit scene Lupo,Polo,Golf,Jetta (Vento/Bora),Scirocco,Corrado,Beetle,Type 3 & Caddy.<br />VW's that have or are participated in the Rally scene Beetle,Type 3, Polo & Golf.<br />pecial note VW Racing UK now have there own cup they also have had Rallyed a Polo 1600 class and Golf TDI.<br /></span><a title="Australia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Australia</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />VW has a very close relationship with Motorsport it was the REDeX and Mobil Trials of the 1950's that propelled VW to be a sales success in Australia.<br />In 1999 and 2000 VW won the F2 Australian Rally Championship with the Golf GTI.<br />In 2001 and 2002 VW raced the New Beetle RSI in the GT Performance series, it was close to the top of the board both seasons.<br />In 2003 VW Aust. was the first to race and develop the R32 Golf in the 2004 GT Performance series and came 2nd overall.<br /></span><a name="Corporate_structure"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Corporate structure<br />Main article: </span><a title="Volkswagen Group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Group"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Group</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Volkswagen is part of the </span><a title="Volkswagen group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_group"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen group</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, along with:<br /></span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (the one remaining brand from the former </span><a title="Auto-Union" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auto-Union"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Auto-Union</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> group —bought from </span><a title="Daimler-Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daimler-Benz"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Daimler-Benz</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1964.<br /></span><a title="NSU Motorenwerke AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSU_Motorenwerke_AG"><span style="color:#ffffff;">NSU</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—bought in 1969 by Volkswagen and merged into the Audi division, a brand not used since 1977<br /></span><a title="SEAT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—majority owned since 1987<br /></span><a title="Škoda Auto" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%A0koda_Auto"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Škoda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—bought in 1991<br /></span><a title="Bentley Motors Limited" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Motors_Limited"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bentley</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—bought in 1998 from </span><a title="Vickers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vickers"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Vickers</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> along with </span><a title="Rolls-Royce Motors" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rolls-Royce_Motors"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rolls-Royce</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> -cannot produce cars using the Rolls-Royce marque because the trademarks went to </span><a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Bugatti" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bugatti"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bugatti</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—name bought in 1998<br /></span><a title="Lamborghini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lamborghini</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> —bought in June 12, 1998<br />From July 1998 until December 2002, Volkswagen's Bentley division also sold cars under the Rolls-Royce name under an agreement with BMW, which had bought the rights to that name. From 2003, only BMW may make cars called Rolls-Royce.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Volkswagen New Beetle<br /><br />Volkswagen New Beetle<br /></span><a title="2000 VW New Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Volkswagen.beetle.new.750pix.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Production:<br /></span><a title="1998" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1998</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–present<br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Compact car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Compact</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />2-door </span><a title="Convertible" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convertible"><span style="color:#ffffff;">convertible</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">2-door </span><a title="Hatchback" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatchback"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hatchback</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Similar:<br /></span><a title="BMW MINI" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_MINI"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW MINI</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The Volkswagen New Beetle is a car introduced by </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1998, drawing heavily on the design cues of the original </span><a title="Volkswagen Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Based on a </span><a title="Volkswagen Golf" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Golf</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the "</span><a title="Retro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retro"><span style="color:#ffffff;">retro</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">" design proved to be more successful in some markets than in others. It is assembled at the VW </span><a title="Puebla" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puebla"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Puebla</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> factory in </span><a title="Mexico" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mexico</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The big contrast between the New Beetle and the Classic Beetle is that, like most cars, the New Beetle has the </span><a title="FF layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FF_layout"><span style="color:#ffffff;">engine in the front</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and storage in the back.<br /></span><a name="Concept_1"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Concept 1<br />At the 1994 </span><a title="North American International Auto Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_American_International_Auto_Show"><span style="color:#ffffff;">North American International Auto Show</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Volkswagen unveiled the </span><a title="J Mays" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J_Mays"><span style="color:#ffffff;">J Mays</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-penned "Concept 1", a concept car with futuristic styling deliberately reminiscent of the original Beetle's rounded shape. It is a cabriolet, which retains the flowing lines of the sedan, yet captures the chic looks of the original Beetle cabriolet. It was equipped with "large diameter" 17 inch wheels (with the VW logo, just like the original Beetle hubcap) with low-profile tires. Also, in the concept car, there is a "zero emission" hybrid design made for it originally (it was said to use 248-V) the fuel consumption of the original is 2 L.<br /></span><a name="New_Beetle"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Beetle<br />Strong public reaction convinced the company to move the car into production, and in 1998 Volkswagen launched the New Beetle, designed by </span><a title="J Mays" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J_Mays"><span style="color:#ffffff;">J Mays</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Freeman Thomas" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freeman_Thomas"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Freeman Thomas</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> at the company's </span><a title="California" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California"><span style="color:#ffffff;">California</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> design studio. The New Beetle is related to the original only in name and appearance (including the absence of a car emblem script with the exception of the VW logo): under the hood, it is a modern car in every way, based on the </span><a title="Volkswagen A platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_A_platform"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen A platform</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (Mark 4 Volkswagen Golf).<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:New_Beetle_cabrio.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006 New Beetle cabrio<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:New_Beetle_2006_MY.JPG"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW New Beetle MY2006<br />Still, it carried many of designs reference to the old Beetle: separate wings, vestigial running boards, sloping headlamps, large round tail light, as well as a high rounded roofline that provide enough headroom for tall drivers.<br />In stark contrast to the original, the U.S. Insurance Institute of Highway Safety gave the New Beetle among the best safety ratings in its class at the time of its launch.<br />The car was widely considered a flop in Europe, but it was a success in the </span><a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States"><span style="color:#ffffff;">United States</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. There, marketing campaigns enhanced the continued goodwill towards the original, and helped the new model to inherit it. The Volkswagen New Beetle was </span><a title="Motor Trend" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_Trend"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Motor Trend</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">'s Import Car of the Year </span><a title="http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/import_car_of_the_year_winners/index.html" href="http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/import_car_of_the_year_winners/index.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> for 1999. A convertible version of New Beetle started production two years after launch, after many buyers had aftermarket conversions.<br />For the 2006 model, the exterior is slightly redesigned with bigger bumpers and is fitted with a 2.5L 150hp I5 base engine, as seen on the A5 Jetta.<br /></span><a name="The_New_Beetle_RSi"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">The New Beetle RSi<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Volkswagen_New_Beetle_RSi.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW New Beetle RSi<br />Between 2001 and 2003 </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> produced 250 limited edition New Beetles with the designation RSi in Europe. The RSi was powered by a 225 </span><a title="Hp" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hp"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> 3.2 liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed gear box and </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">'s </span><a title="Four-wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four-wheel_drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">all-wheel drive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> system </span><a title="4motion" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4motion"><span style="color:#ffffff;">4motion</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It had a Remus twin-pipe exhaust. The suspension was tuned by </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, featuring a severely altered rear suspension geometry more geared to the race track and a rear cross member behind the rear seats. Visually, the RSi differed in it's 80mm wider fenders, unique front and rear bumpers, a rear diffuser, large rear wing, and 18x9 OZ Superturismo wheels with 235/45ZR-18 tires. Inside, it was trimmed in </span><a title="Carbon fiber" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_fiber"><span style="color:#ffffff;">carbon fiber</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, billet aluminum, and bright orange leather. The front seats were </span><a title="Recaro" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recaro"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Recaro</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> racing shells. Notable draw backs were loud cabin noise and low rear tire life. Curiously, in Mexico, although being a country very attached to Volkswagen, there are RSi that have not been sold since </span><a title="2001" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2001"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2001</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. This is probably due to its US$58,000 price tag.<br /></span><a name="The_Ragster_Concept"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">The Ragster Concept<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Volkswagen_New_Beetle_Ragster.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The VW New Beetle Ragster<br />At the 2005 North American International Auto Show, the Volkswagen New Beetle Ragster </span><a title="Concept car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">concept car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> was introduced. It was supposed to be a preview of the future design of the New Beetle. The base of the Ragster (a ragster is the cross between a ragtop and a speedster) was a regular New Beetle Convertible. They made some changes, such as chopping the top, penning a new U-shaped roof, and creating a unique paint job with silver double stripes. The interior differs from the original New Beetle, being a 2+2 and having distinctive control dials. Another item of interest is that the Ragster's rear-view mirror is mounted on its dashboard (a retro feature, reminiscent of the first </span><a title="Volkswagen Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Type 1s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">). The Ragster's profile is lower than that of the prior New Beetle.<br />Trivia<br />Despite its length, the car achieved 4 stars in the </span><a title="Euro NCAP" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euro_NCAP"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Euro NCAP</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> tests, with 25 points out of 33a, a very good score for </span><a title="1999" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1999"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1999</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />In 2000, two new colors for the New Beetle (Vapor Blue and Reflex Yellow) were introduced in limited quantities. They were tied to a unique marketing campaign that made the new colors only available by ordering online. Although not all of the cars were ultimately sold online, the campaign was successful in driving people to VW's web site.</span><a title="http://www.leavcom.com/digi_vw.htm" href="http://www.leavcom.com/digi_vw.htm"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[2]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Other_Concepts"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Other Concepts<br />Other designs on the New Beetle include:<br /></span><a title="EDAG Biwak" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EDAG_Biwak"><span style="color:#ffffff;">EDAG Biwak</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> — an estate Beetle<br /></span><a name="Specifications"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Specifications<br />Engine: Transverse-mounted water cooled I4; 1984 cc; fuel injection (available in both petrol and diesel version)<br />Max power: 115 hp (85 kW) at 5,200 rpm<br />Max torque: 122 </span><a title="Foot pound force" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foot_pound_force"><span style="color:#ffffff;">lbf·ft</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (165 </span><a title="Newton metre" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newton_metre"><span style="color:#ffffff;">N·m</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) at 2,600 rpm<br /></span><a title="Transmission (mechanics)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_%28mechanics%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Transmission</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">: 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic<br />Brakes: disc brake on all four wheels<br />Dimension:<br />Length: 4089 mm (161 in)<br />Width: 1724 mm (68 in)<br />Height: 1511 mm (59 in)<br /></span><a title="Wheelbase" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelbase"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wheelbase</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">: 2512 mm (100 in)<br /></span><a title="Curb weight" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curb_weight"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Curb weight</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">: 1230 kg (2711 lb)<br />Max speed: 177 km/h (110 mph)<br />Acceleration (0-96 km/h 0-60 mph): 11 s<br />Fuel consumption: 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 mpg)<br /></span><a name="Pop_culture"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Pop culture<br />The sighting of a VW Beetle is cause for violent fun in the car-sighting game known as </span><a title="Punch Buggy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punch_Buggy"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Punch Buggy</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1046125910994101331.post-47793504795398406682007-08-24T01:02:00.000-07:002007-08-25T01:25:34.505-07:00Porsche<div align="justify"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG (shortened to Porsche or Porsche AG), is a </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">German</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, founded in </span><a title="1931" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1931"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1931</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> by </span><a title="Ferdinand Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the </span><a title="Engineer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineer"><span style="color:#ffffff;">engineer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> who also created the first </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Dr Porsche was financially supported by count Sasha Kolowrat, a Czech aristocrat. The company is located in Zuffenhausen, a city district of </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Stuttgart</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The company slogan is: (Porsche,) There Is No Substitute.<br />In a May 2006 survey, Porsche was awarded first place as the most prestigious luxury </span><a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">automobile</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> brand by Luxury Institute, New York; it questioned more than 500 households with a gross annual income of at least $200,000 and a net worth of at least $750,000 (</span><a id="2006-05-05" title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/pressreleases/pag/?pool=" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/pressreleases/pag/?pool=international-de&id=2006-05-05"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">). The current Porsche lineup includes sports cars from the </span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Boxster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Roadster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">roadster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to their most famous product, the </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The </span><a title="Porsche Cayman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is a hard top car similar to the Boxster. The Cayman features a slightly higher price range. The </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is Porsche's mid-size luxury </span><a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SUV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The </span><a title="Porsche Carrera GT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Carrera_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera GT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Supercar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">supercar</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> recently was phased out in May 2006. Future plans include a high performance luxury </span><a title="Sedan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">saloon/sedan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the </span><a title="Panamera" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panamera"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Panamera</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Also, Porsche is a leader in modern </span><a title="Turbocharging" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharging"><span style="color:#ffffff;">turbocharging</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> technology, being the first to use a </span><a title="Variable geometry turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_geometry_turbocharger"><span style="color:#ffffff;">variable geometry turbocharger</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in a gasoline powered production automobile.<br />Porsche was awarded the </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="J.D. Power" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J.D._Power"><span style="color:#ffffff;">J.D. Power</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> award for highest initial quality of automobile brands.<br />As a company, Porsche is known for weathering changing market conditions with great financial stability, while retaining most production in Germany during an age when most other German car manufacturers have moved at least partly to Eastern Europe or overseas.[</span><a title="Wikipedia:Citing sources" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources"><span style="color:#ffffff;">citation needed</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">] The headquarters and main factory are still at Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, but the Cayenne (and formerly the Carrera GT) is produced at </span><a title="Leipzig" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leipzig"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Leipzig</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, in former </span><a title="East Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">East Germany</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Most Boxster and Cayman production is outsourced to </span><a title="Valmet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valmet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Valmet Automotive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in </span><a title="Finland" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finland"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Finland</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The company has been highly successful in recent times, and indeed claims to be the most profitable car company in the world (in terms of profit margin per unit sold; its absolute profits would be dwarfed by </span><a title="Toyota" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Toyota</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) </span><a title="http://www.forbesautos.com/reviews/2006/porsche/cayman_s/feature2.html" href="http://www.forbesautos.com/reviews/2006/porsche/cayman_s/feature2.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[2]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Porsche has for many years offered consultancy services to various other car manufacturers. </span><a title="Studebaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Studebaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Studebaker</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="SEAT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEAT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SEAT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Daewoo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daewoo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Daewoo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Subaru" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Subaru</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Yugo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yugo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Yugo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> have consulted Porsche on engineering for their cars or engines. Porsche also helped </span><a title="Harley-Davidson" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harley-Davidson"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Harley-Davidson</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> design their new engine in their newer V-Rod motorcycle.<br />Porsche's main rivalry is arguably from Italian specialty automaker </span><a title="Ferrari" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferrari</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, though traditionally their vehicles appeal to quite different personalities, if similar demographics.[</span><a title="Wikipedia:Citing sources" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources"><span style="color:#ffffff;">citation needed</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">] Porsche's rivalry with Ferrari is primarily because of both companies' storied racing heritage and the fact that some of their vehicles are of comparable performance, not because of competition between models. Other rivals include coupes from </span><a title="Lamborghini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lamborghini</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Aston Martin" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aston_Martin"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Aston Martin</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Mercedes-Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Maserati" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maserati"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Maserati</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and </span><a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a title="2005 Porsche 911 (997) Carrera S" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:P997_carrera_s_frontview.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:P997_carrera_s_frontview.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005 </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">(997)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Carrera S<br /></span><a name="History"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">History<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Ferdinand_Porsche.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Porsche, founder of the Porsche firm.<br />The first Porsche, the </span><a title="Porsche 64" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_64"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 64</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> from </span><a title="1938" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1938"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1938</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, used many components from the </span><a title="Volkswagen Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The second Porsche model and first production car, the </span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 356</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of </span><a title="1948" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1948"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1948</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, was initially built in Gmünd, </span><a title="Austria" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austria"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Austria</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, where the company was evacuated to during war times, but after building 49 cars the company relocated back to Zuffenhausen. Many people regard the 356 as the first Porsche simply because it was the first model sold by the fledgling company. </span><a title="Ferdinand Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> worked with his son </span><a title="Ferry Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferry_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferry Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in designing the 356 but died soon after the first prototype was built. Again, the car used components from the Beetle including its </span><a title="Internal combustion engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internal_combustion_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Gearbox" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gearbox"><span style="color:#ffffff;">gearbox</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Suspension (vehicle)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suspension_%28vehicle%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">suspension</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. However, the 356 had several evolutions while in production and many VW parts were replaced by Porsche-made parts. The last 356s were powered by 100% Porsche designed engines. The sleek bodywork was designed by </span><a title="Erwin Komenda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erwin_Komenda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Erwin Komenda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> who had also designed the body of the Beetle.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_Factory_at_Stuttgart.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche factory and headquarters at Zuffenhausen (where 911s are manufactured). Left: Porsche Center Zuffenhausen; Behind left: Body Shell Assembly Plant; Right: Vehicle Assembly Plant.<br />In </span><a title="1963" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1963"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1963</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, after some success in </span><a title="Motor-racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor-racing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">motor-racing</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (namely with the </span><a title="Porsche 550" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_550"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 550 Spyder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">), the company launched the </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, another air-cooled, rear-engined sports car, this time with a 6-cylinder </span><a title="Flat engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">"boxer" engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The team to lay out the bodyshell design was led by Ferry Porsche's eldest son </span><a title="Ferdinand Alexander Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Alexander_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Alexander Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (F.A.). The design phase for the 911 caused internal problems with </span><a title="Erwin Komenda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erwin_Komenda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Erwin Komenda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> who led the body design department until then. F.A. Porsche complained Komenda made changes to the design not being approved by him. Company leader Ferry Porsche took his son's drawings to neighbouring bodyshell manufacturer Reuter bringing the design to the 1963 state. Reuter's workshop was later acquired by Porsche (so-called Werk II). Afterwards Reuter became a seat manufacturer, today known as Keiper-Recaro. The 911 has become Porsche's most well-known model, successful on the race-track, in </span><a title="Rallying" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rallying"><span style="color:#ffffff;">rallies</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and in terms of sales. Far more than any other model, the Porsche brand is defined by the 911. It remains in production; however, after several generations of revision, current-model 911s share only the basic mechanical concept of a rear-engined, six-cylinder coupe, and basic styling cues with the original car. A cost-reduced model with the same body but 356-derived running gear (including its four-cylinder engine) was sold as the 912.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_Factory_at_Stuttgart.2.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Another view of the facility<br />The company has always had a close relationship with </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and as already mentioned, the first Porsche cars used many Volkswagen components. The two companies collaborated in </span><a title="1969" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1969"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1969</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to make the </span><a title="Porsche 914" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_914"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW-Porsche 914 and 914-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, in </span><a title="1976" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1976"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1976</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> with the </span><a title="Porsche 912" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_912"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 912E</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (USA only) and the </span><a title="Porsche 924" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_924"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 924</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which used many </span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> components and was built at an Audi Neckarsulm factory. Most </span><a title="Porsche 944" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_944"><span style="color:#ffffff;">944s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> were also built there even though they used many fewer VW components. The </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, introduced in </span><a title="2002" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2002</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, shares its entire chassis with </span><a title="VW Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which are built at the </span><a title="Skoda Auto" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Auto"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Škoda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> factory in </span><a title="Bratislava" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bratislava"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bratislava</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Both </span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Skoda Auto" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skoda_Auto"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Škoda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> are wholly-owned subsidiaries of </span><a title="VW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. In late </span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Porsche took an 18.65% stake in </span><a title="VW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, further cementing their relationship and preventing a takeover of </span><a title="VW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which was rumored at the time. Speculated suitors included </span><a title="DaimlerChrysler" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DaimlerChrysler"><span style="color:#ffffff;">DaimlerChrysler</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="BMW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Renault" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renault"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Renault</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_912.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The Porsche 912, a Porsche of the 1960s<br />In 1972 the company's legal form was changed from limited partnership to private limited company (german AG), because Ferry Porsche and his sister Louise Piëch felt their succeeding generation did not team up well. This led to the foundation of an executive board whose members came from outside the Porsche family, and a supervisory board consisting mostly of family members. With this change, no family members were in operational charge of the company. F.A. Porsche founded his own design company, </span><a title="Porsche Design Group" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Design_Group"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Design</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which is renowned for exclusive sunglasses, watches, furniture and many other luxury articles. Ferdinand Piëch who was responsible for mechanical development of Porsche's serial and racing cars before founded his own engineering bureau and developed a 5-cylinder-inline Diesel engine for Mercedes-Benz. Short time later he changed to Audi and made his career through the whole company including the Volkswagen Group boards.<br />First CEO of Porsche AG was Dr. Ernst Fuhrmann who had been working at Porsche's engine development before. Fuhrmann (being responsible for the so-called Fuhrmann-engine used in the 356 Carrera models and the 550 Spyder having four ohc-camshafts instead of a central camshaft in the Volkswagen-derived serial engines) planned to cease the 911 during the 70s and replace it with the V8-front engined grand sportswagon 928. As we know today the 911 outlived the 928 by far. Fuhrmann was replaced in the early 80s by Peter W. Schutz, an American manager and self-proclaimed 911 aficionado. He was replaced in 1988 by the former manager of German computer company </span><a title="Nixdorf Computer AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nixdorf_Computer_AG"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Nixdorf Computer AG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Arno Bohn, who made some expensive misdecisions leading to his dismissal soon after along with that of development director Dr. Ulrich Bez, formely responsible for BMW's Z1 model and today CEO of Aston Martin. The interim CEO was longtime Porsche employee Heinz Branitzki before Dr. Wendelin Wiedeking became CEO in 1993. Wiedeking took over the board's chair at a point in time when Porsche appeared vulnerable to a takeover by a bigger company. During his nearly 14-year tenure, Wiedeking has remade Porsche into a very efficient and profitable company.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Wendelin_Wiedeking.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wendelin Wiedeking, Current President and CEO of Porsche.<br />In </span><a title="1990" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1990"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1990</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Porsche had a memorandum of understanding with </span><a title="Toyota" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Toyota</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to learn and benefit from Japanese production methods. Currently Toyota is assisting Porsche with Hybrid technology, rumored to be making its way into a Hybrid Cayenne SUV.<br />Ferdinand Porsche's grandson, </span><a title="Ferdinand Piëch" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Pi%C3%ABch"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Piëch</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, was chairman and CEO of the Volkswagen Group from </span><a title="1993" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1993"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1993</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to </span><a title="2002" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2002</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Today he is chairman of the supervisory board. With 12.8 per cent of the Porsche voting shares, he also remains the second largest individual shareholder of Porsche AG after his cousin F.A. Porsche (13.6 per cent).<br />Porsche's 2002 introduction of the Cayenne also marked the unveiling of a new production facility in </span><a title="Leipzig" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leipzig"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Leipzig</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Saxony" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saxony"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Saxony</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which once accounted for nearly half of Porsche's annual output. The Cayenne Turbo S has the second most powerful production engine in Porsche's history (with the most powerful belonging to the Carrera GT).<br />In </span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, production of the 605 horsepower Carrera GT commenced in Leipzig, and at EUR 450,000 ($440,000 in the United States) it was the most expensive production model Porsche ever built.<br /></span><a title="As of 2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/As_of_2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">As of 2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the extended Porsche and Piech families controlled all of Porsche AG's voting shares. In early October </span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> the company announced acquisition of an 18.53% stake in </span><a title="Volkswagen AG" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_AG"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen AG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and disclosed intentions to acquire additional </span><a title="VW" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> shares in the future. As of June 2006, Porsche AG's stake in Volkswagen had risen to 25.1%, giving Porsche a blocking minority, whereby Porsche can veto large corporate decisions undertaken by VW.<br />In mid-</span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, after years of the Boxster (and later the Cayenne) as the top-selling Porsche in North America, the 911 regained its position as Porsche's backbone. In fact, Cayenne sales have declined and 911 sales are high. The 911 currently takes up just under two fifths of Porsche's sales. Cayenne sales take up just under a third, slightly over a tenth of Porsche's sales consist of the Boxster, and the Cayman take up more than a fifth (the Cayman's high sales can be explained by the recent expansion of the line). Total Porsche sales in the United States and Canada hover around 3,000 a month.<br /></span><a name="Motor-racing"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Motor-racing<br /><br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Le_Mans.gif"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche leads in the number of overall wins at the 24 hours of Le Mans race with 16.<br />Porsche has been successful in many branches of </span><a title="Motor-racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor-racing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">motor-racing</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, scoring a total of more than 28,000 victories. As Porsche offered only small capacity cars in the 1950s and 1960s, they scored many wins in their classes, and occasionally also overall victories against bigger cars. Most notably winning the 1964 Road America 500 in an under 2 litre rs-60 driven by Bill Wuesthoff and Augie Pabst. Particular success has been in </span><a title="Sports car racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car_racing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car racing</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, notably the </span><a title="Carrera Panamericana" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrera_Panamericana"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera Panamericana</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Targa Florio" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Targa_Florio"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Targa Florio</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, races which were later used in the naming of street cars. Also, they did well in the </span><a title="Mille Miglia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mille_Miglia"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mille Miglia</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and especially </span><a title="24 hours of Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24_hours_of_Le_Mans"><span style="color:#ffffff;">24 hours of Le Mans</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> where they have won 16 times overall (more than any other company), plus many class wins. The </span><a title="Porsche 917" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_917"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 917</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is considered one of the most iconic sports racing cars of all time and gave Porsche their first </span><a title="Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Mans"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Le Mans</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> win, while open-top versions of it came to utterly dominate </span><a title="Can-Am" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Can-Am"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Can-Am</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> racing. After dominating Group 4, 5 and 6 racing in the 1970s with the 911-based 934 and 935, and the prototype 936, Porsche moved on to dominate </span><a title="Group C" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_C"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Group C</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="IMSA" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IMSA"><span style="color:#ffffff;">IMSA</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> GTP in the 1980s with the </span><a title="Porsche 956" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_956"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 956/962C</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">: one of the most prolific and successful sports prototype racers ever produced. Many Porsche race cars are run successfully by customer teams, financed and run without any factory support - often they have beaten the factory itself. Recently, </span><a title="Porsche 996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">996-generation 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> GT3s have dominated their class at Le Mans and similar endurance and GT races.<br />The various versions of the 911 also proved to be serious competitor in </span><a title="Rallying" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rallying"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> as long as the regulations allowed them to compete. Porsche official team was only present in seldom occasion in Rally, but the best private 911s were often close to other brand works cars. </span><a title="Jean-Pierre Nicolas" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jean-Pierre_Nicolas&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jean-Pierre Nicolas</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> even managed to win the 1978 </span><a title="Monte Carlo Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monte_Carlo_Rally"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Monte Carlo Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> with a private 911 SC. The </span><a title="Paris Dakar Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris_Dakar_Rally"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Paris Dakar Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> was won twice, too using the 911 derived </span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Group B" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_B"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Group B</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> supercar.<br />Porsche has also participated in single seater racing with mixed results; </span><a title="Formula Two" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formula_Two"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Formula Two</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> cars initially based on the RSK sports racer first appeared in the late 1950s and enjoyed some success; these cars moved up to </span><a title="Formula One" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formula_One"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Formula One</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1961 and in </span><a title="1962 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1962_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1962</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> a flat-eight powered 804 produced Porsche's only win as a </span><a title="List of Formula One constructors" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Formula_One_constructors"><span style="color:#ffffff;">constructor</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in a championship race, claimed by </span><a title="Dan Gurney" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Gurney"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Dan Gurney</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> at the </span><a title="1962 French Grand Prix" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1962_French_Grand_Prix"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1962 French Grand Prix</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. One week later, he repeated the success in front of Porsche's home crowd on </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Stuttgart</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">'s </span><a title="Castle Solitude" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Solitude#Race_Track"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Solitude</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in a non-championship race. At the end of the season, Porsche retired from F1 due to the high costs and lack of success. Privateers continued to enter out-dated Porsche 718 in F1 until 1964.<br />Porsche returned in </span><a title="1983 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1983_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1983</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> after nearly two decades away, supplying engines badged as </span><a title="Techniques d'Avant Garde" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Techniques_d%27Avant_Garde"><span style="color:#ffffff;">TAG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> units for the </span><a title="Team McLaren" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Team_McLaren"><span style="color:#ffffff;">McLaren</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Team. The TAG engine was designed to very tight requirements issued by McLaren's </span><a title="John Barnard" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Barnard"><span style="color:#ffffff;">John Barnard</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - he specified the physical layout of the engine to match the design of his proposed car. The engine was funded by TAG who retained the naming rights to it, although the engines bore "made by Porsche" identification. TAG-Porsche-powered cars took two constructor championships in </span><a title="1984 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1984_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1984</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="1985 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1985_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1985</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and three driver crowns in </span><a title="1984 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1984_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1984</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="1985 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1985_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1985</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="1986 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1986_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1986</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Porsche returned to F1 again in </span><a title="1991 Formula One season" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1991_Formula_One_season"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1991</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> as an engine supplier, however this time with disastrous results: Porsche-powered </span><a title="Arrows" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrows"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Footwork</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> cars failed to score a single point, and failed to even qualify for over half the races that year; Porsche has not participated in Formula One since.<br />Porsche attempted an </span><a title="Indianapolis 500" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indianapolis_500"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Indianapolis 500</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> entry in the late 1970s with a turbocharged 911-based engine in a bespoke car for </span><a title="Danny Ongais" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_Ongais"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Danny Ongais</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and the </span><a title="Interscope" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interscope"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Interscope</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> team; failure to agree turbo boost levels with </span><a title="United States Automobile Club" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Automobile_Club"><span style="color:#ffffff;">USAC</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> meant that this was shelved (though the engine later became the basis of that used in the 956 and 962). They returned to </span><a title="Champcar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Champcar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">CART</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the 1980s with a turbo V8 in their own 2708 chassis, but this did not enjoy any success and a </span><a title="March Engineering" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_Engineering"><span style="color:#ffffff;">March</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> chassis scored their only successes.<br />Porsche has sponsored the Carrera Cup and Supercup racing series by providing cars and support since 1990.<br />Stock and lightly-modified Porsches are raced in many competitions around the world; some of these are primarily amateur classes for enthusiasts, but the </span><a title="Porsche Michelin Supercup" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Michelin_Supercup"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Michelin Supercup</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is a wholly professional category raced as a support category for European </span><a title="Formula One" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formula_One"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Formula One</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> rounds.<br />Porsche dropped its factory motorsports programs during the turn of the century (preferring to support privateers) for financial reasons and has only recently made a comeback with the new </span><a title="Porsche RS Spyder" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_RS_Spyder"><span style="color:#ffffff;">RS Spyder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> prototype. Based on LMP2 homologation regulations, the RS Spyder made its debut at </span><a title="Laguna Seca" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laguna_Seca"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Laguna Seca</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> during the final race of the 2005 </span><a title="ALMS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ALMS"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ALMS</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> season and immediately garnering a class win in the LMP2 class and finishing 5th overall.<br />Major Victories and Championships<br />Porsche cars :<br />14 Makes and Team World Championship (1964, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1994)<br />8 Long Distance World Championship<br />3 IMSA Supercar-Series (1991, 1992, 1993)<br />6 </span><a title="Deutsche Rennsport Meisterschaft" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deutsche_Rennsport_Meisterschaft"><span style="color:#ffffff;">German Racing Championship</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1977, 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985)<br />20 European Hill Climbing Championship<br />20 Daytona 24 Hour (1968, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1995, 2003)<br />15 IMSA Supercar-Race (USA)<br />16 Le Mans 24 Hour (1970, 1971, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998)<br />17 Sebring 12 Hour (1960, 1968, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988)<br />11 Targa Florio (1956, 1959, 1960, 1963, 1964, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1973)<br />4 Rallye Monte Carlo (1968, 1969, 1970, 1978)<br />2 Paris-Dakar Rallye (1984, 1986)<br />1 Formula 1 victories (1962)<br />TAG-Porsche engine in McLaren cars :<br />3 Formula 1 Driver World Championship (1984, 1985, 1986)<br />2 Formula 1 Constructor World Championship (1984, 1985)<br />25 Formula 1 victories (1984, 12 wins; 1985, 6 wins; 1986, 4 wins; 1987, 3 wins)<br /></span><a name="Famous_owners"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Famous owners<br /></span><a title="Joshua Bell" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua_Bell"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Joshua Bell</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - owns a 911 turbo<br /></span><a title="Barron Collier" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barron_Collier"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Miles Collier, Jr.</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - grandson to </span><a title="Barron Collier" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barron_Collier"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Barron Collier</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, purchased the renowned seventy-one car collection of </span><a title="Briggs Cunningham" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Briggs_Cunningham"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Briggs Cunningham</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and combined some of it with his own, that includes about twenty Porsche </span><a title="Race car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Race_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">race cars</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">—including their class winners at Sebring, the </span><a title="Porsche 904" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_904"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 904</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">GT in 1964 and </span><a title="Porsche 917" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_917"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 917</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">K (Kurzheck) in 1970—when he created a museum dedicated to his father Miles, and uncles, Sam and Barron Jr., who founded the 1933 Automobile Racing Club of America that metamorphosed in 1944 into the </span><a title="Sports Car Club of America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_Car_Club_of_America"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sports Car Club of America</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="James Dean" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Dean"><span style="color:#ffffff;">James Dean</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - died on the way to a hospital after a crash in his pearl-grey </span><a title="Porsche 550 Spyder" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_550_Spyder"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 550 Spyder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, caused when he was cut off by another driver, in September 1955 near </span><a title="Cholame, California" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cholame%2C_California"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cholame</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="California" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California"><span style="color:#ffffff;">California</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Bill Gates" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Gates"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bill Gates</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - briefly was jailed in </span><a title="Albuquerque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albuquerque"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Albuquerque</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> for racing his </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the </span><a title="New Mexico" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Mexico"><span style="color:#ffffff;">New Mexico</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> desert; imported a </span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> which was impounded by </span><a title="United States Customs Service" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Customs_Service"><span style="color:#ffffff;">U.S. Customs</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Janis Joplin" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janis_Joplin"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Janis Joplin</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - owned a </span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 356-C Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> that was extravagantly and </span><a title="Psychedelic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychedelic"><span style="color:#ffffff;">psychedelically</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> painted for her by Dave Richards to match her public persona<br /></span><a title="Steve McQueen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_McQueen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Steve McQueen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - raced Porsche </span><a title="Prototype" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prototype"><span style="color:#ffffff;">prototypes</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, owned a </span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 356 Speedster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a </span><a title="Porsche 908" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_908"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 908</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a </span><a title="Porsche 917" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_917"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 917</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and made a movie dedicated to the </span><a title="24 Hours of Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24_Hours_of_Le_Mans"><span style="color:#ffffff;">24 Hours of Le Mans</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Carl Sagan" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Sagan"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carl Sagan</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - </span><a title="Astronomer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomer"><span style="color:#ffffff;">astronomer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Astrobiology" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrobiology"><span style="color:#ffffff;">astrobiologist</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Scientist" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientist"><span style="color:#ffffff;">scientist</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and a highly successful science popularizer—remembered for his articulate explanations of </span><a title="Astronomical" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical"><span style="color:#ffffff;">astronomical</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Physical cosmology" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_cosmology"><span style="color:#ffffff;">cosmological</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> research while commenting upon </span><a title="Space exploration" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_exploration"><span style="color:#ffffff;">space exploration</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to the public—whose Porsche </span><a title="License plate" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/License_plate"><span style="color:#ffffff;">license plate</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> bore the name of a </span><a title="Moon" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moon"><span style="color:#ffffff;">moon</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of another </span><a title="Planet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">planet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in our </span><a title="Solar system" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_system"><span style="color:#ffffff;">solar system</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Jerry Seinfeld" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Seinfeld"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jerry Seinfeld</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - rumoured to own one of the largest collections of Porsche automobiles in the world<br /></span><a title="Lake Underwood" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Underwood"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lake Underwood</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - Porsche's Quiet Giant —so named by </span><a title="Excellence (magazine)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Excellence_%28magazine%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Excellence</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> magazine (the magazine about Porsche)— has several historic Porsches among his collection<br /></span><a name="Pronunciation_of_.22Porsche.22"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Pronunciation of "Porsche"<br />"Porsche" is pronounced correctly as, PORSH-uh (</span><a title="International Phonetic Alphabet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Phonetic_Alphabet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">IPA</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> /ˈpɔɹʃə/) (</span><a title="De Porsche.ogg" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/f9/De_Porsche.ogg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">correct pronunciation</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (</span><a title="Wikipedia:Media help" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Media_help"><span style="color:#ffffff;">help</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">·</span><a title="Image:De Porsche.ogg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:De_Porsche.ogg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">info</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)) which is how members of the Porsche family pronounce their name.<br />Some Americans tend to over-compense the e, which results in their pronouncing it, as Por-SCHA (/pɔɹˈʃʌ/). Outside of this group however, the monosyllabic porsh (/pɔɹʃ/) is a common pronunciation.<br /></span><a title="http://german.about.com/library/weekly/aa020401b.htm" href="http://german.about.com/library/weekly/aa020401b.htm"><span style="color:#ffffff;">The correct pronunciation of 'Porsche'</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Models"></a><a name="Tractors"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tractors<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_Diesel_Super.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Diesel Super<br /></span><a title="Porsche Type 110" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_Type_110&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Type 110</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche AP Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_AP_Series&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche AP Series</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche Junior" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Junior"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Junior</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (14 hp)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Standard" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_Standard&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Standard</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (25 hp)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Super" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Super"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Super</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (38 hp)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Master" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_Master&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Master</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (50 hp)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 312" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_312&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 312</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 108F" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_108F&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 108F</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche R22" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_R22&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche R22</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche AP16" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_AP16&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche AP16</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Consumer_models"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Consumer models<br /></span><a title="The 997, currently (as of June, 2006) the top selling model" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche911997.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche911997.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The 997, currently (as of June, 2006) the top selling model<br /></span><a title="The 987, the current Boxster model" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Box0706_1.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Box0706_1.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The 987, the current Boxster model<br /></span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">356</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1948-1965)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 550" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_550"><span style="color:#ffffff;">550 Spyder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1953-1957)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1964-Present)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1964-1989)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 930" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_930"><span style="color:#ffffff;">930</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1975-1989)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 964" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_964"><span style="color:#ffffff;">964</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1989-1993)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 993" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_993"><span style="color:#ffffff;">993</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1993-1998)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1998-2004)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">997</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2004-Present)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 912" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_912"><span style="color:#ffffff;">912</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1965-1969)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 914" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_914"><span style="color:#ffffff;">914</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1969-1975)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 924" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_924"><span style="color:#ffffff;">924</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1976-1988)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 928" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_928"><span style="color:#ffffff;">928</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1978-1995)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 944" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_944"><span style="color:#ffffff;">944</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1982-1991)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1986-1988)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 968" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_968"><span style="color:#ffffff;">968</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1992-1995)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Boxster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1996-Present)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">986</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1996-2005)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">987</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2005-Present)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2002-Present)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Carrera GT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Carrera_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera GT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2004-2006)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Cayman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2006-Present)<br /></span><a title="Porsche Panamera" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Panamera"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Panamera</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2009-Unknown)<br />NOTE: models in bold are current models<br /></span><a name="North_American_Monthly_Sales_Chart_.28Au"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">North American Monthly Sales Chart (August 2006)<br />Model<br />Sales<br />Percent of Total Sales<br /></span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">(997)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />990<br />39%<br /></span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Boxster (987)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />279<br />11%<br /></span><a title="Porsche Cayman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />548<br />21%<br /></span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />735<br />29%<br />Total<br />2,554<br />100%<br />NOTE: this information is from an </span><a id="2006-09-01" title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/pressreleases/pag/?pool=" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/pressreleases/pag/?pool=international-de&id=2006-09-01"><span style="color:#ffffff;">official Porsche document</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and is a record of Porsches sold in the </span><a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States"><span style="color:#ffffff;">United States</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Canada" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Canada</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> during August 2006.<br /></span><a name="Racing_models"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Racing models<br /></span><a title="Porsche 64" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_64"><span style="color:#ffffff;">64</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 360" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_360"><span style="color:#ffffff;">360 Cisitalia</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 550" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_550"><span style="color:#ffffff;">550 Spyder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 718" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_718"><span style="color:#ffffff;">718</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 804" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_804"><span style="color:#ffffff;">804</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 904" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_904"><span style="color:#ffffff;">904</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 906" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_906"><span style="color:#ffffff;">906</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 907" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_907"><span style="color:#ffffff;">907</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 908" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_908"><span style="color:#ffffff;">908</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 909" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_909"><span style="color:#ffffff;">909 Bergspyder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 910" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_910"><span style="color:#ffffff;">910</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 914" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_914"><span style="color:#ffffff;">914</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 917" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_917"><span style="color:#ffffff;">917</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 934" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_934"><span style="color:#ffffff;">934</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 935" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_935"><span style="color:#ffffff;">935</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 936" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_936"><span style="color:#ffffff;">936</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 924" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_924"><span style="color:#ffffff;">924</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 944" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_944"><span style="color:#ffffff;">944</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 956" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_956"><span style="color:#ffffff;">956</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 961" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_961"><span style="color:#ffffff;">961</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche-March 89 P" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche-March_89_P&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche-March 89 P</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />WSC </span><a title="Joest Racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joest_Racing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Joest</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Spyder<br /></span><a title="Porsche RS Spyder" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_RS_Spyder"><span style="color:#ffffff;">RS Spyder</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />NOTE: models in bold are current models<br /></span><a name="Prototypes_and_concept_cars"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Prototypes and concept cars<br /></span><a title="Porsche 114" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_114"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 114</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 356/1" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356/1"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 356/1</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 695" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_695"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 695</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (911 prototype)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 901" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_901"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 901</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (911 prototype)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 916" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_916"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 916</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (flat-6 914)<br /></span><a title="Porsche 959 Prototype" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959_Prototype"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959 Prototype</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 942" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_942"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 942</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 969" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_969&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 969</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche Panamericana" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Panamericana"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Panamericana</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 989" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_989"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 989</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche Varrera" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_Varrera&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Varrera</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche Boxster Concept" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_Boxster_Concept&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Boxster Concept</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche Carrera GT Concept" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_Carrera_GT_Concept&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera GT Concept</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche E2" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_E2&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche E2</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="External_links"></a><a name="Associates"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Associates<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/porschemuseum/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/porschemuseum/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Museum at Porsche official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/virtualfactorytour/porschezuffenhausen/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/virtualfactorytour/porschezuffenhausen/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Zuffenhausen at Porsche official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www2.porsche-leipzig.com/en/" href="http://www2.porsche-leipzig.com/en/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Leipzig official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a lang="en" title="http://www.porsche-design.com/live/deutsch_en.PorscheDesign?ActiveID=" href="http://www.porsche-design.com/live/deutsch_en.PorscheDesign?ActiveID=40032&lang=en"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Design Group official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.valmet-automotive.com/automotive/cms.nsf" href="http://www.valmet-automotive.com/automotive/cms.nsf"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Valmet Automotive official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.championmotorsport.com" href="http://www.championmotorsport.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Champion Motorsport official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/accessoriesandservices/christophorusmagazine/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/accessoriesandservices/christophorusmagazine/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Christophorus Magazine at Porsche official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.wtachamps.com/home.asp" href="http://www.wtachamps.com/home.asp"><span style="color:#ffffff;">WTA Tour Championships official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Clubs"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Clubs<br /></span><a title="http://www.pca.org/" href="http://www.pca.org/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Club of America</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche-club-norge.no/" href="http://www.porsche-club-norge.no/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Club of Norway</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porscheclub.org.au/" href="http://www.porscheclub.org.au/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Club of NSW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porscheclubgb.com/" href="http://www.porscheclubgb.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Club of Great Britain</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Porsche Boxster<br />Porsche Boxster<br /></span><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Production:<br /></span><a title="1996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–<br />Predecessor:<br /></span><a title="Porsche 968" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_968"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 968</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Roadster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Roadster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />2-door </span><a title="Convertible" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convertible"><span style="color:#ffffff;">convertible</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Porsche 986<br /></span><a title="Porsche 986 Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_Boxster_black_vl.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Production:<br /></span><a title="1996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–</span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br />2.5 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1997-1999)2.7 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2000-2004)3.2 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2000-2004)<br />Similar:<br /></span><a title="Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_SLK-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class</span></a><a title="BMW Z3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW Z3</span></a><a title="Honda S2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_S2000"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Honda S2000</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Porsche 987<br /></span><a title="2005 Porsche Boxster S" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Box0706_1.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Production:<br /></span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–<br /></span><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br />2.7 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2005-)3.2 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2005-2006)3.4 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (2007-)<br />Related:<br /></span><a title="Porsche Cayman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Similar:<br /></span><a title="Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_SLK-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class</span></a><a title="BMW Z4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z4"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW Z4</span></a><a title="Chrysler Crossfire" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_Crossfire"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Chrysler Crossfire</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /><br />The Boxster, internally known as the 986/987 and/or 986 Boxster/987 Boxster is a </span><a title="MR layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MR_layout"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mid-engined</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Roadster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">roadster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> built by </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Introduced in late </span><a title="1996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> as a </span><a title="1997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1997</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> model, it is Porsche's smallest and least expensive vehicle, taking over from the </span><a title="Porsche 968" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_968"><span style="color:#ffffff;">968</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Early models were powered by a 201 horsepower 2.5 litre flat six-cylinder engine, although a 2.7 litre, 225 horsepower engine took over in the base model in </span><a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2000</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and a Boxster S varaint powered by a 3.2 litre, 250 horsepower engine became available in </span><a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2000</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Engine output was increased again in </span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, to 240 and 280 horsepower respectively, and for </span><a title="2007" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2007</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the Boxster will receive new engines, which it will share with the new </span><a title="Porsche Cayman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Production began at the former </span><a title="Porsche 928" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_928"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 928</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> facility at </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Stuttgart</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1996, although a </span><a title="Valmet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valmet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Valmet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> facility in Uusikaupunki, </span><a title="Finland" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finland"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Finland</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> also builds units under contract to Porsche in order to help meet demand. It was Porsche's biggest volume seller from its introduction in model year 1997 until the company introduced the </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SUV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in model year 2003.<br />The Boxster's name is a combination of the word 'boxer', referring to the vehicle's </span><a title="Horizontally-opposed engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horizontally-opposed_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">horizontally-opposed engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which is commonly reffered to as a "</span><a title="Boxer engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxer_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">boxer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> engine" and the word 'roadster' referring to the vehicles convertible top.<br /></span><a name="986"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">986<br />The styling of the Boxster is owed to former "Style Porsche" department head </span><a title="Harm Lagaay" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harm_Lagaay"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Harm Lagaay</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. His Boxster design study and the production Boxster stimulated a commercial turnaround for Porsche after several difficult years of falling sales. The first generation of the Boxster (internally known as the 986) whose visual appearance was heavily inspired by the </span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Spyder and Speedster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The Boxster features two models; the standard model with a 201 bhp (150 kW), 2.5 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat six</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> cylinder engine (enlarged to 2.7 L and 217 bhp (162 kW) in 2000 and 225 bhp (168 kW) in 2003), and the model Boxster S with an enlarged 3.2 L engine producing 250 bhp (186 kW) with its debut in 2000 (enlarged to 258 bhp (192 kW) in 2003).<br /></span><a name="987"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">987<br />The second generation of the Boxster (internally known as the 987) made its debut at the 2004 </span><a title="Paris Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris_Motor_Show"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Paris Motor Show</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> alongside the </span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">new 911 (997)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The car became available for model year 2005.<br />The appearance of the car remains very similar to the previous generation. The most obvious styling change is the headlights which moved towards a more classic round style, much like the current generation 911. There has also been a significant update to the intake vents on the sides of the car, which are now larger. Overall, the styling of the car has been updated to match that of its hard top stable mate, the Cayman. The base engine is a 2.7 L 176 kW (240 hp) </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, with the Boxster S getting a 3.2 L 206 kW (280 hp) engine. The </span><a title="Porsche Cayman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> series is based off the 987.<br />For the 2007 model year the Boxster will receive a 5 hp boost (245 hp; the same as the Cayman) and the Boxster S will receive 15 more hp (295 hp; the same as the Cayman S). This upgrade makes the Boxster series and the Cayman series equivalent in terms of horsepower.<br /></span><a name="Awards"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Awards<br />In 1998, after a year of marketplace acceptance in the United States, the original Boxster was the recipient of many awards, including those listed:<br />Car & Driver / One of the 10 Best Cars of 1997Automobile / Automobile of the YearMotor / 1997 Performance Car of the YearAutocar / Best Roadster in the WorldMotorweek / 1997 Drivers Choice for Best Sports CarPhiladelphia Inquirer / Best Sports Car of the DecadeNewsweek / One of the Best New Products of 1997Business Week / One of the Best New Products of 1997American Marketing Association / Best New Product of 1997Automobile Journalists of Canada / 1997 Car of the YearAutomobile Journalists of Canada / Best Design of 1997<br />The Boxster has been on </span><a title="Car and Driver" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_and_Driver"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Car and Driver</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> magazine's annual </span><a title="Car and Driver Ten Best" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_and_Driver_Ten_Best"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ten Best</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> list seven times, from 1998 through 2003 and in 2006.<br />The Boxster S (986s) was rated as one of the top ten Porsches of all time by Excellence magazine.<br /></span><a name="References"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Cayenne<br />Porsche Cayenne<br /></span><a title="Porsche Cayenne S side" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2004_Porsche_Cayenne_S.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Production:<br /></span><a title="2002" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2002</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–</span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Mid-size" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mid-size</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Luxury SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_SUV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">luxury SUV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />4-door </span><a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SUV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Platform</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AWD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Related:<br /></span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Touareg</span></a><a title="Audi Q7" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Q7"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi Q7</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Similar:<br /></span><a title="BMW X5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_X5"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW X5</span></a><a title="Cadillac SRX" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadillac_SRX"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cadillac SRX</span></a><a title="Infiniti FX" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infiniti_FX"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Infiniti FX</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />:<br /></span><a title="commons:Category:Porsche_Cayenne" href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The Porsche Cayenne is an </span><a title="SUV" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SUV"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SUV</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">automobile</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> made by </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> since </span><a title="2002" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2002</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It is the first </span><a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8"><span style="color:#ffffff;">V8</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-engined vehicle built by Porsche since </span><a title="1995" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1995</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, when the </span><a title="Porsche 928" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_928"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 928</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> was discontinued. Sales of the Cayenne have been strong, with 100,000 sold as of June, </span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, becoming Porsche's best-selling vehicle in </span><a title="North America" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America"><span style="color:#ffffff;">North America</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. 40% of Cayenne sales are in North America. Sales slowed by 2006, however, and Porsche revealed</span><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne#_note-0#_note-0"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> that they would skip the 2007 model year rather than drive down prices with incentives. A redesigned Cayenne model is expected for 2008.<br /><br /></span><a name="Design"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Design<br />The Cayenne was co-developed with </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, who were also looking to add an SUV to their lineup, as a cost-sharing initiative. Volkswagen share this chassis (the </span><a title="Volkswagen E platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_E_platform"><span style="color:#ffffff;">E chassis</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) to underpin their </span><a title="VW Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VW_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> sports utility vehicle, and </span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> use an extended version for their </span><a title="Audi Q7" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Q7"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Q7</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, although there are numerous styling, equipment and technical differences between the three vehicles. The Cayenne shares only its base engine with the Touareg, and Porsche's version is substantially modified. There are currently 4 engines available in the Cayenne:<br />3.2 L 240 PS (247 hp/184 kW) </span><a title="VR6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VR6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VR6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> from </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (Based on the unit offered in the VW but with modifications made to the intake, exhaust, timing systems and head)<br />4.5 L 340 PS (335 hp/250 kW) </span><a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8"><span style="color:#ffffff;">V8</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (S)<br />4.5 L 450 hp (340 kW) 460 ft·lbf (624 N·m) </span><a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger"><span style="color:#ffffff;">twin-turbocharged</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> V8 (Turbo)<br />4.5 L 500 hp (370 kW) 515 ft·lbf (698 N·m) Tequipment twin-turbocharged V8<br />4.5 L 521 hp (389 kW) 531 ft·lbf (720 N·m) twin-turbocharged V8 (Turbo S)<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2004_Porsche_Cayenne_S_rear_34.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Cayenne S rear<br /></span><a name="Performance"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Performance<br />The turbocharged model has extremely high performance for an SUV. It is roughly as quick to 60 miles per hour as the company's </span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Boxster S</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (about 5.2 seconds), and the new Tequipment special version will be faster still. Reviews indicate that the Cayenne handles remarkably well for a heavy SUV — much better than the </span><a title="BMW X5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_X5"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW X5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which is saying something — whilst having a comfortable ride, and, by some sources, better off-road ability than </span><a title="BMW X5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_X5"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW X5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Mercedes-Benz" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and </span><a title="Infiniti" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infiniti"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Infiniti</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Those cars are, unlike native off-road vehicles, not meant to climb rock mountains and pass deep rivers (due to the price and comfort they offer) but are fully capable to drive "where man need". Many users of SUV/SAV cars report that car's ability to reach any skiing or recreational center and being comfortable during general winter drive is all they need. Other reasons for buying such cars are increased safety, street overview, and independence on "planned route" - which is why many US-based SUVs and pickups lack even 4-wheel drive or self-locking differentials.<br />The competence, however, comes at a cost, with the "S" V8 model being more expensive than a comparably-specified BMW X5, and the turbocharged model costing nearly $90,200 </span><a title="United States Dollar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Dollar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">USD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> before adding options, about as much as a fully equipped, V8 powered </span><a title="Mercedes-Benz S-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_S-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz S-Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The Cayenne's closest rivals in terms of cost and prestige are the </span><a title="Land Rover Range Rover" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Rover_Range_Rover"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Land Rover Range Rover</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and the </span><a title="BMW X5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_X5"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW X5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The </span><a title="Mercedes-Benz M-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_M-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz M-Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> regrettably falls short of this distinction. The success of the Cayenne has prompted </span><a title="Land Rover" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Rover"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Land Rover</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to develop the smaller, sportier, and less off-road capable </span><a title="Land Rover Range Rover Sport" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Rover_Range_Rover_Sport"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Range Rover Sport</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> as well as to offer a </span><a title="Supercharged" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercharged"><span style="color:#ffffff;">supercharged</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> version of their top-range model.<br />The Cayenne comes standard with alloy rims from 17"-20" sizes and a vareity of styles. The least-expensive Cayenne model comes standard with the 17" rims, but has the cability to upgrade to any of the four 18"-20" rims. An all-season tire is standard on the 17" rim, and available as a no-cost option for 18" rims. These are the wheels that are most suitable for off-road/snow use. Lower-profile, high performance wheels are standard for wheels above 19". These wheels would not be suitable for off-road/snow use. Porsche/Volkswagen jointly did extensive off-road testing with the Cayenne and Touraeg and both are in actuality extremely capable off-road. Both vehicles are standard with 4-wheel drive, a manually lockable center differential and a "low range" setting. Options to make the vehicles more capable off-road include an available air suspension system which can raise the car's ride height on command and an interior switch allowing the rear differential to be manually locked along with the center unit. At maximum ride height, the air suspension system gives the Cayenne 10.7 inches (272 mm) of ground clearence.<br /></span><a name="Cayenne_Turbo_S"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne Turbo S<br />Porsche introduced a higher-output Turbo S version at the </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Los Angeles Auto Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_Auto_Show"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Los Angeles Auto Show</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to compete with the </span><a title="Mercedes-Benz M-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_M-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, which produces 510 hp (375 kW) and accelerates from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.0 seconds. The Turbo S produces 520 hp (389 kW) and 531 ft·lbf (720 N·m), making it the second most powerful vehicle Porsche has ever built for the road, after the </span><a title="Porsche Carrera GT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Carrera_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera GT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It is able to accelerate to 60 mph quicker than the </span><a title="Porsche Cayman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman S</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> at 4.8 seconds (mfg. claim).<br />The Turbo S also has a recalibrated suspension, 20 inch wheels, and larger brake discs. It lowers 27 mm above 125 km/h and 11 mm more above 210 km/h.<br /></span><a name="Controversy"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Controversy<br />Some Porsche enthusiasts are unhappy with the company for producing an SUV, seeing it as diluting the meaning of the </span><a title="Brand" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brand"><span style="color:#ffffff;">brand</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. According to </span><a title="Wheels magazine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheels_magazine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wheels</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a well-regarded Australian car magazine, the decision to develop the Cayenne was a contentious one for the company for this reason. Management reportedly felt, however, that the company needed a more dependable source of revenue than the fickle sports car market. Much of the disapproval from Porsche owners come from the joint development of the car with Volkswagen. Although both the Cayenne and Touareg are solid SUVs in the market today, many believe the Cayenne would be superior in many departments if developed solely by Porsche. Some believe the Touareg is a better executed car available for significantly less money.<br />In May </span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Porsche issued a recall on the Cayennes for seatbelts that do not function properly during a collison.<br />At the </span><a title="Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internationale_Automobil-Ausstellung#2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">IAA 2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Porsche announced it will produce a </span><a title="Hybrid vehicle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hybrid_vehicle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hybrid</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> version of the Cayenne before </span><a title="2010" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2010"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2010</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />It is also rumored that Porsche could produce a second SUV, a mini-Cayenne based on the </span><a title="Audi Q5" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Q5"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi Q5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />External links<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/" href="http://www.porsche.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne models at official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne S</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-s-titanium-edition/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-s-titanium-edition/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne S Titanium Edition</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-turbo/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-turbo/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne Turbo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-turbo-s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-turbo-s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne Turbo S</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.autoguidewiki.com/Porsche_Cayenne_Turbo" href="http://www.autoguidewiki.com/Porsche_Cayenne_Turbo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AutoGuideWiki.com</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Porsche Carrera GT<br />Porsche Carrera GT<br /></span><a title="2005 Porsche Carrera GT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:SC06_2005_Porsche_Carrera_GT_edit.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Production:<br /></span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–</span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Predecessor:<br /></span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Supercar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Supercar</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> / </span><a title="Ultracar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultracar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ultracar</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />2-door </span><a title="Roadster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">roadster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Platform</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="MR layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MR_layout"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mid-engine RWD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br />5.7 L </span><a title="V10 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V10_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">V10</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Similar:<br /></span><a title="Ferrari Enzo Ferrari" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_Enzo_Ferrari"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferrari Enzo Ferrari</span></a><a title="Koenigsegg CCX" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koenigsegg_CCX"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Koenigsegg CCX</span></a><a title="Lamborghini Murciélago" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini_Murci%C3%A9lago"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lamborghini Murciélago</span></a><a title="Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_SLR_McLaren"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren</span></a><a title="Pagani Zonda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pagani_Zonda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Pagani Zonda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The Porsche Carrera GT is a </span><a title="Supercar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">supercar</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, manufactured by </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Germany</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /><br />History<br />Porsche began developing the Carrera GT in </span><a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2000</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> as a successor to the </span><a title="Porsche 911 GT1" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_GT1"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 GT1</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> car they had discontinued in late </span><a title="1998" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1998</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> because of FIA rule changes. However, there was speculation that Porsche discontinued development at the behest of </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">VW</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/</span><a title="Audi" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> chairman </span><a title="Ferdinand Piëch" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Pi%C3%ABch"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand Piëch</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - Piëch was reportedly concerned over the prospect of a Porsche vehicle competing against the </span><a title="Audi R8 Race Car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_R8_Race_Car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Audi R8</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> race car, which had just been introduced. As a member of the Porsche family, Piëch holds a seat on the company's board of directors and owns a percentage of the firm, so his influence could be exacted from inside. In addition, Porsche needed to free up capital and manpower for development work on the </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and dropping development of the race car made it possible.<br />Porsche did however produce one unit, and showed it at the </span><a title="2000" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2000</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Geneva Motor Show, mainly in an attempt to draw attention to their display. Surprising interest in the vehicle and an influx of revenue being provided by the Cayenne helped Porsche decide to make use of the car, and development started on a road-legal version that would be produced in small numbers at Porsche's new manufacturing facility in </span><a title="Leipzig, Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leipzig%2C_Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Leipzig</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Porsche started a production run of Carrera GTs in </span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, shipping the units with an MSRP of $440,000 </span><a title="United States Dollar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Dollar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">USD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and a dealer invoice price of approximately $414,800 </span><a title="United States Dollar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Dollar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">USD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. In addition, the delivery charge could be as much as $15,000 </span><a title="United States Dollar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Dollar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">USD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Originally, a production run of 1,500 cars was slated. But Porsche announced in August, </span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> that it would not continue production of the Carrera GT throughout </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, reducing the total production estimate to 1,250 units. Porsche announced that this discontinuation was due to changing airbag regulations in the US. However, reports of diminishing sales volumes, relatively high dealer inventory levels, and dealer discounts below MSRP were reported by the automotive press as being the true factors driving an early end to the production run. Despite the early end to production, sales of the Carrera GT were a huge success, with worldwide sales volumes surpassing the combined totals of Ferrari's </span><a title="Enzo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enzo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Enzo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, Mercedes' </span><a title="McLaren SLR" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=McLaren_SLR&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">McLaren SLR</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and Pagani's </span><a title="Zonda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zonda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Zonda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> models[</span><a title="Wikipedia:Citing sources" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources"><span style="color:#ffffff;">citation needed</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">].<br />340 Carrera GTs were sold in the United States in 2005. Production of the Carrera GT stopped on May 6, 2006 after more than 1270 units had been manufactured. Approximately half of the vehicles were sold in North America.<br />Design<br />The Carrera GT is powered by an all-new 5.7 </span><a title="Litre" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Litre"><span style="color:#ffffff;">litre</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="V10 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V10_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">V10</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Internal combustion engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internal_combustion_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> producing 612 SAE </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">horsepower</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (450 k</span><a title="Watt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watt"><span style="color:#ffffff;">W</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">). Porsche claims it will accelerate from 0 to 100 </span><a title="Km/h" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Km/h"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (62.5 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) in 3.9 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">seconds</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and has a maximum speed of 330 km/h (206 mph), although road tests indicated that in actuality the car could accelerate from 0-60 in under 3.5 seconds and to 0-100 in 6.8 seconds and has a top speed of 335-340km/h (209-212.5mph). The Carrera GT has a basic 5 colour paint schemes which include: Black, Guards Red, Fayence Yellow, Basalt Black, GT Silver and Seal Grey. A six-speed </span><a title="Manual transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manual_transmission"><span style="color:#ffffff;">manual transmission</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is the only available transmission, in contrast to its rival the </span><a title="Ferrari Enzo Ferrari" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_Enzo_Ferrari"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferrari Enzo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> which is only offered with </span><a title="Sequential manual transmission" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sequential_manual_transmission"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sequential manual transmission</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. With the Ferrari Enzo priced around $660,000, the Carrera GT base price of $448,400 makes the dream of owning a piece of Le Mans inspired technology somewhat more attainable. The Carrera GT is also priced at $559,000 in </span><a title="Canadian dollars" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_dollars"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Canadian dollars</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and at 390,000 in Euros.<br />The Carrera GT has large side inlets and airdams that help cool the large V-10 that lies framed by the carbon fibre rear hood. Fitted with Porsche's latest brake system, the 15 inch </span><a title="Ceramic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ceramic"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ceramic</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> pad brakes make a stunning appearance underneath the 19 inch front and 20 inch rear tires. Similar to other Porsche Models, the GT includes an automated rear wing spoiler which deploys in the higher ranges of speed (70 mph).<br /></span><a name="Technology"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Technology<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:PCCB_Brake_Carrera_GT.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The Porsche Carrera GT's carbon-ceramic (silicon carbide) </span><a title="Disc brake" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disc_brake"><span style="color:#ffffff;">disc brake</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Technology of note includes a pure </span><a title="Graphite-reinforced plastic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graphite-reinforced_plastic"><span style="color:#ffffff;">carbon fibre</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Monocoque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monocoque"><span style="color:#ffffff;">monocoque</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and subframe, </span><a title="Dry sump" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_sump"><span style="color:#ffffff;">dry sump</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> lubrication and inboard </span><a title="Suspension (vehicle)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suspension_%28vehicle%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">suspension</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The carbon fibre monocoque and subframe were produced and assembled by the </span><a title="http://www.atrgroup.it" href="http://www.atrgroup.it/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ATR Composites Group of Italy</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The main innovation on this vehicle however is the use of a ceramic clutch. This is the first appearance of this race car technology in a road car. The clutch, although difficult to master, allows the engine to sit lower in the chassis than in any other super car, both improving its aerodynamics and lowering its center of gravity.<br />Despite a seemingly difficult clutch, Porsche incorporated computer management of the clutch when the car is on an incline. Drivers are able to lift completely off the clutch and not stall the car. </span><a title="http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=" href="http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=66411"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Unlike some of its rivals, the Carrera GT does not use the same electronic driving aids such as </span><a title="Dynamic stability control" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dynamic_stability_control"><span style="color:#ffffff;">dynamic stability control</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, but it does have traction control. Porsche engineers have designed a communicative chassis and rely on the ability of the driver.<br /></span><a name="Owners"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Owners<br />Famous Carrera GT owners include:<br /></span><a title="Jay Leno" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jay_Leno"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jay Leno</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - Tonight Show Host<br /></span><a title="Ralph Lauren" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ralph_Lauren"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ralph Lauren</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - Fashion Designer<br /></span><a title="Jerry Seinfeld" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Seinfeld"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jerry Seinfeld</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - Comedian / Actor<br /></span><a title="Tiger Woods" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiger_Woods"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tiger Woods</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - Professional Golfer-- (which is currently for sale)<br /></span><a title="Thierry Henry" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thierry_Henry"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Thierry Henry</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - professionall footballer<br /></span><a name="Gallery"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Gallery<br /></span><a title="Image:Porsche carrera gt front.jpg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_carrera_gt_front.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera GT front<br /></span><a title="Image:Porsche carrera gt rear.jpg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_carrera_gt_rear.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera GT rear<br /></span><a title="Image:Carraragtinterior.jpg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Carraragtinterior.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera GT interior - note placement of the gear selector immediately adjacent to the steering wheel<br /></span><a title="commons:Category:Porsche_Carrera_GT" href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Porsche_Carrera_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera GT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/" href="http://www.porsche.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche official web site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.woomp.com/porsche/porschecarreragt" href="http://www.woomp.com/porsche/porschecarreragt"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera GT Gallery</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - 30 Porches Carrera GT pictures<br /></span><a title="http://supercarnews.com/cars/porsche/carrera_gt/Porsche_Carrera_GT" href="http://supercarnews.com/cars/porsche/carrera_gt/Porsche_Carrera_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SuperCarNews Carrera GT Image Gallery</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> - High Resolution Porsche Carrera GT Images<br /></span><a title="http://www.autoguidewiki.com/Porsche_Carrera_GT" href="http://www.autoguidewiki.com/Porsche_Carrera_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AutoGuideWiki.com</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.motorcounty.com/carrera-gt-the-definitive-porsche/" href="http://www.motorcounty.com/carrera-gt-the-definitive-porsche/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera GT Article</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /><br />Porsche Panamera<br /></span><a title="Current event marker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Current_event_marker.png"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">This article or section contains information about a scheduled or anticipated </span><a title="Category:Upcoming automobiles" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Upcoming_automobiles"><span style="color:#ffffff;">future automobile</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />It is likely to contain information of a speculative nature, but is usually sourced from the automotive news media, automaker media press releases, or other news sources. The content and specifications for upcoming vehicles may change significantly as the vehicle nears production and more information becomes available. Upcoming automobiles are also subject to delays or even cancellation by the automaker.<br /><br />Porsche Panamera<br /></span><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Full-size car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Full-size</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Luxury car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">luxury car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />4-door </span><a title="Coupe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coupe"><span style="color:#ffffff;">coupe</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Similar:<br /></span><a title="Aston Martin Rapide" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aston_Martin_Rapide"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Aston Martin Rapide</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Maserati Quattroporte" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maserati_Quattroporte"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Maserati Quattroporte</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_CLS-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz CLS 55 AMG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Panamera is a four-door, four-seat </span><a title="Coupe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coupe"><span style="color:#ffffff;">coupe</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, currently still in concept stages, set to be launched in </span><a title="2009" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2009"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2009</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It will be front engined and rear wheel drive and powered by a modified version of the 4.5 L V8 found in the </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, equipped with the </span><a title="Gasoline direct injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gasoline_direct_injection"><span style="color:#ffffff;">FSI</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> system invented by </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (Porsche and Volkswagen collaborated on the Cayenne/</span><a title="Volkswagen Touareg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Touareg</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Sport utility vehicle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sport_utility_vehicle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sport utility vehicle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">). Rumours suggest that the </span><a title="V10 engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V10_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">V10</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> engine from Porsche's limited-run </span><a title="Porsche Carrera GT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Carrera_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera GT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> supercar may be offered as well, although this is still extremely unlikely given the expense of manufacturing the engine and that Porsche does not currently have a facility capable of producing a suitable number of the V10 per year.<br />The final assembly of the vehicles will take place in </span><a title="Leipzig" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leipzig"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Leipzig</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Engines will be assembled in </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Stuttgart</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and the car's painted body will come from the Volkswagen facility in </span><a title="Hanover" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanover"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Hanover</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />The Panamera is generally considered to be the long-awaited fruit of their </span><a title="Porsche 989" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_989"><span style="color:#ffffff;">989</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> concept from the late 1980s; some argue that it also presents itself as a suitable successor to the 2-doored </span><a title="Porsche 928" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_928"><span style="color:#ffffff;">928</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, although some amount of debate surrounds this. It will be marketed as a direct competitor to automobiles such as the </span><a title="Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_CLS-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz CLS 55 AMG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Maserati Quattroporte" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maserati_Quattroporte"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Maserati Quattroporte</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and (to a lesser degree) a less expensive alternative to vehicles such the </span><a title="Bentley Continental GT" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Continental_GT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bentley Continental GT</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Ferrari 612 Scaglietti" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_612_Scaglietti"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferrari 612 Scaglietti</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Aston Martin Rapide" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aston_Martin_Rapide"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Aston Martin Rapide</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It is the first </span><a title="V8" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8"><span style="color:#ffffff;">V8</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-engined </span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> built by Porsche since </span><a title="1995" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1995</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, when the 928 was discontinued and will be produced in the new plant at </span><a title="Leipzig" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leipzig"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Leipzig</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> alongside the </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Artist renderings of the car already distributed by Porsche show a low-slung, four-door sports car with narrow side windows and flowing lines.<br />The Panamera's name is derived, like the </span><a title="Porsche Carrera" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Carrera"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> line, from the </span><a title="Carrera Panamericana" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrera_Panamericana"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera Panamericana</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> race. Earlier prototypes of four-door sedans such as the </span><a title="1991" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1991"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1991</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Porsche 989" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_989"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 989</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> prototype or the even earlier 4 door 911 based prototype, never went into production.<br /></span><a title=" " href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Sportcar_sergio_luiz_ara_01.svg"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">This article about a </span><a title="Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> produced after 1975 is a </span><a title="Wikipedia:Perfect stub article" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Perfect_stub_article"><span style="color:#ffffff;">stub</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. You can </span><a title="Wikipedia:Find or fix a stub" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Find_or_fix_a_stub"><span style="color:#ffffff;">help</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Wikipedia by </span><a title="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Porsche_Panamera&action=edit" action="edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">expanding it.</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Porsche Cayman<br />Porsche Cayman S<br /></span><a title="Porsche Cayman S" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_Cayman_%28IAA_2005%29.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Production:<br /></span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–<br />Predecessor:<br /></span><a title="Porsche 968" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_968"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 968</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />2-door </span><a title="Coupe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coupe"><span style="color:#ffffff;">coupe</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Automobile platform" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_platform"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Platform</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="MR layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MR_layout"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mid-engine RWD</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br />2.7 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Boxer engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxer_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">boxer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">3.4 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Boxer engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxer_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">boxer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Related:<br /></span><a title="Porsche 987" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_987"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 987</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Cayman S is a mid-engine 2-seat </span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> launched for the 2006 model year. It is based on the compact </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> but uses a modified </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> engine, which is at 3.4 liters in terms of engine size and performance in between the Boxster and the </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The Cayman S is intended to be a purer sports car than the Boxster, with a stiffer suspension and higher performance. Whilst very similar in looks to a Porsche 911, it is similar in performance to a Boxster.<br />The Cayman S is produced alongside the Boxster by </span><a title="Valmet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valmet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Valmet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in </span><a title="Finland" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finland"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Finland</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The name "Cayman" is said to be an alternate spelling of </span><a title="Caiman" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">caiman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a species of reptile closely related to the alligator, and has nothing to do with the </span><a title="Cayman Islands" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cayman_Islands"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman Islands</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Porsche has, in fact, donated to a </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Stuttgart</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> zoo's caiman exhibit, because of the shared namesakes between the animal and the automobile.<br /></span><a name="Development"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Development<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_Cayman_S_%28LAAS%29.JPG"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The Porsche Cayman S at the 2006 </span><a title="Los Angeles Auto Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_Auto_Show"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Los Angeles Auto Show</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />The Cayman series (project code 987 C7S) was developed for two years. The first official photographs and technical details were released by Porsche in May 2005. The Cayman S had its public launch in September 2005 at the </span><a title="Frankfurt Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankfurt_Motor_Show"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Frankfurt Motor Show</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> It was spied on numerous times, often referred to as a Boxster coupe. During prototype testing, </span><a title="Rally racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rally_racing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> legend </span><a title="Walter Röhrl" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_R%C3%B6hrl"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Walter Röhrl</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> reportedly lapped the </span><a title="Nürburgring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C3%BCrburgring"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Nürburgring</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> track faster than the </span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 Carrera's</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> time of 8 minutes, 15 seconds. The Cayman S and the 911 Carrera come close in terms of performance, leaving it open whether sales of the Cayman S will cannibalize sales of the 911 Carrera, which is $12,400 more expensive than the Cayman S in the United States. Furthermore, a motorsport-tuned Cayman ("Cayman RS") has been rumored to be in testing at the Nürburgring. </span><a title="http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/15/porsche-cayman-rs-in-the-works/" href="http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/15/porsche-cayman-rs-in-the-works/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> The Cayman (without an "S") was released in July, 2006.<br /></span><a name="Statistics"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Statistics<br />Model<br />MSRP (Cost in USD)<br />Horsepower<br />Torque<br />0-60 Acceleration<br />Top Speed<br />Official Model Site/Minisite<br />Cayman<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$49,400</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />245 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />201 </span><a title="Torque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque"><span style="color:#ffffff;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />5.8 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />160 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[2]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/</span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/centreforward/cayman/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/centreforward/cayman/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=94&variant=§ion=&bandwidth=dsl" bandwidth="dsl" variant="§ion=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool="><span style="color:#ffffff;">[3]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Cayman S<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$58,900</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />295 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />250 </span><a title="Torque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque"><span style="color:#ffffff;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />5.1 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />171 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman-s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman-s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[4]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/</span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/cayman/flash/default.asp?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/cayman/flash/default.asp?language=en&market=int&browser=ie&instance=115&variant=&section=&bandwidth=dsl&screenwidth=1024&screenheight=768" market="int&browser=" screenwidth="1024&screenheight=" section="&bandwidth=" instance="115&variant="><span style="color:#ffffff;">[5]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The Cayman shares the </span><a title="MR layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MR_layout"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mid-engined</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> platform of the Boxster, along with its interior, front end, doors, and lights. The Cayman sports a 2.7 litre engine, while the Cayman S has a 3.4 litre engine. It has a glass hatchback for added practicality. Suspension is the same as in the Boxster. Six-speed manual and optional 5-speed </span><a title="Tiptronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiptronic"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tiptronic</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> transmissions are available. A Sport Chrono Package including PASM and ceramic composite brakes is also available.<br />See also<br /></span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Boxster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 997</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="commons:Category:Porsche_Cayman" href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Porsche_Cayman"><span style="color:#ffffff;">The Porsche Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />References<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/" href="http://www.porsche.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official Porsche website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman models at official Porsche website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman-s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayman/cayman-s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cayman S</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/centreforward/cayman/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/centreforward/cayman/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=94&variant=§ion=&bandwidth=dsl" bandwidth="dsl" variant="§ion=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool="><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official Cayman minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/cayman/flash/default.asp?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/cayman/flash/default.asp?language=en&market=int&browser=ie&instance=115&variant=&section=&bandwidth=dsl&screenwidth=1024&screenheight=768" market="int&browser=" screenwidth="1024&screenheight=" section="&bandwidth=" instance="115&variant="><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official Cayman S minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.caymanregister.org/" href="http://www.caymanregister.org/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official PCA Cayman Register</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.caymanclub.net/" href="http://www.caymanclub.net/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Unofficial Cayman Enthusiast site</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.automobilemag.com" href="http://www.automobilemag.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Automobile Magazine Page 42 August 2005 issue</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.mph-online.com/mag/features/0049" href="http://www.mph-online.com/mag/features/0049"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Feature Story and Wallpaper MPH Magazine Nov. 2005 issue</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.data.minsk.by/minsk/outdoor/17042006.html" href="http://www.data.minsk.by/minsk/outdoor/17042006.html"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Outdoor Ads</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Porsche 911<br />The Porsche 911 (pronounced as nine eleven) is a </span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> made by </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Aktiengesellschaft" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aktiengesellschaft"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AG</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of </span><a title="Stuttgart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttgart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Stuttgart</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Germany</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The famous, distinctive and durable car has undergone continuous development since its introduction in 1964. Mechanically it is notable for being </span><a title="Rear engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rear_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">rear engined</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and, until the introduction of the all-new Type 996 in 1999, </span><a title="Air-cooled" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air-cooled"><span style="color:#ffffff;">air-cooled</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. All 911s use six-cylinder </span><a title="Boxer engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxer_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">boxer engines</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Since its inception the 911 has been modified, both by private teams and the factory itself, for </span><a title="Motor racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_racing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">racing</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Rally racing" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rally_racing"><span style="color:#ffffff;">rallying</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and other types of automotive competition. It is often cited as the most successful competition car ever, especially when its variations are included, mainly the powerful </span><a title="Porsche 935" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_935"><span style="color:#ffffff;">935</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />In the international poll for the award of the world's most influential </span><a title="Car of the Century" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_of_the_Century"><span style="color:#ffffff;">car of the twentieth century</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> the 911 came fifth after the </span><a title="Ford Model T" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Model_T"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ford Model T</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the </span><a title="Mini" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mini"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mini</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the </span><a title="Citroën DS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citro%C3%ABn_DS"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Citroën DS</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and the </span><a title="Volkswagen Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a title="Porsche 911 in hillclimb" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_911_Pegomas-Tanneron_2005.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_911_Pegomas-Tanneron_2005.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 in </span><a title="Hillclimb" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hillclimb"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hillclimb</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="A 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_911_RS.jpg"></a><br /><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_911_RS.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">A 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS<br /><br />History<br />A note on designations: the series letter (A, B, C, etc.) is used by Porsche to indicate the revision for production cars. It often changes annually to reflect changes for the new model year. The first 911 models are the 'A series', the first 993 cars are the 'R series'.)<br />A note on the models listed: not all of the Porsche 911 models ever produced are mentioned here. The listed models are notable for their role in the advancements in technology and their influence on the following vehicles from Porsche.<br />A note on model names: although the articles below use Porsche's internal classifications (</span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911#911_Series_.281964-1989.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911#964_Series_.281989-1993.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">964</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911#993_Series_.281993-1998.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">993</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911#996_Series_.281998-2004.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911#997_Series_.282004-Present.29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">997</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">) the car was always sold as 911. "Carrera", "GT3", "Turbo", etc. refer to the specific model trim (they are all 911s).<br /></span><a name="Air-Cooled_Engines_.281964_-_1998.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Air-Cooled Engines (1964 - 1998)<br /></span><a name="911_Series_.281964-1989.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 Series (1964-1989)<br />Porsche 911<br /></span><a title="1981 Porsche 911 SC" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche911sc.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Also called:<br />Porsche 911</span><a title="Porsche Carrera" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Carrera"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Production:<br /></span><a title="1964" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1964"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1964</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–</span><a title="1989" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1989"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1989</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Predecessor:<br /></span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 356</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Successor:<br />Still in production<br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="RR layout" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RR_layout"><span style="color:#ffffff;">RR</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> or </span><a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">All wheel drive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />2-door </span><a title="Coupe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coupe"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Coupe</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br />2.0 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-3.3 L flat-6<br />The 911 was developed as a much more powerful, larger, more comfortable replacement for the </span><a title="Porsche 356" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_356"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 356</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the company's first model, and essentially a sporting evolution of the </span><a title="Volkswagen Beetle" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen Beetle</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The new car made its public debut at the 1963 </span><a title="Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internationale_Automobil-Ausstellung"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, better known to English speakers as the </span><a title="Frankfurt" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankfurt"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Frankfurt</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> motor show.<br />It was designated as the '</span><a title="Porsche 901" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_901"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 901</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">' (901 being its internal project number). </span><a title="Peugeot" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peugeot"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Peugeot</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> protested on the grounds that they owned the </span><a title="Trademark" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trademark"><span style="color:#ffffff;">trademark</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to all car names formed by three numbers with a zero in the middle. So, before production started, the new Porsche had its name changed to 911. It went on sale in 1964.<br />]<br /></span><a name="911_2.0-litre_.2F_O.2C_A_and_B_series_.2"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 2.0-litre / O, A and B series (1964-1969)<br />The earliest editions of the 911 had a 130 </span><a title="PS (horsepower)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PS_%28horsepower%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">PS</span></a><a title="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911#Notes#Notes"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (96 kW) six-cylinder engine, in the '</span><a title="Flat engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">boxer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">' configuration like the 356, air-cooled and rear-mounted, displaced 1991 cc compared with the 356's four-cylinder 1600 cc unit. The car had four seats although the rear seats are very small, and the car is usually called a 2+2 rather than a four-seater (the 356 was also a 2+2). It was mated to a five speed manual 'Type 901' </span><a title="Transmission (mechanics)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_%28mechanics%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">transmission</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The styling was largely by </span><a title="Ferdinand Alexander Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Alexander_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand "Butzi" Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, son of </span><a title="Ferdinand Anton Ernst Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_Anton_Ernst_Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferdinand "Ferry" Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. </span><a title="Erwin Komenda" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erwin_Komenda"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Erwin Komenda</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the leader of the Porsche car body construction department, was also involved in the design.<br />The 356 came to the end of its production life in 1965, but there was still a market for a 4-cylinder car, particularly in the USA. The </span><a title="Porsche 912" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_912"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 912</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, introduced the same year, served as a direct replacement. It used the 356's 4-cylinder, 1600 cc 90 PS (66 kW) engine but wore the 911 bodywork.<br />In 1966 Porsche introduced the more powerful 911S, the engine's power raised to 160 PS (118 kW). Alloy wheels from Fuchs, in a distinctive 5-leaf design, were offered for the first time. In motorsport at the same time, installed in the mid-engined </span><a title="Porsche 904" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_904"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 904</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and </span><a title="Porsche 906" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_906"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 906</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the engine was developed to 210 PS (154 kW).<br />In 1967 the </span><a title="Targa top" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Targa_top"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Targa</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> version was introduced. The Targa had a removable roof panel, a removable </span><a title="Plastic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastic"><span style="color:#ffffff;">plastic</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> rear window (although a fixed glass version was offered alongside from 1968) and a </span><a title="Stainless steel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">stainless steel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">-clad roll bar. (Porsche had, at one point, thought that the </span><a title="NHTSA" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NHTSA"><span style="color:#ffffff;">NHTSA</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> would outlaw fully open </span><a title="Convertible" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convertible"><span style="color:#ffffff;">convertibles</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in the </span><a title="United States" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States"><span style="color:#ffffff;">US</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, an important market for the 911, and introduced the Targa as a 'stop gap' model.) The name 'Targa' came from the </span><a title="Targa Florio" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Targa_Florio"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Targa Florio</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> road race in </span><a title="Sicily" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sicily"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sicily</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, in which Porsche had notable success: victories in 1956, 1959, 1960, 1963, 1964, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970 and 1973.<br />The 110 PS (81 kW) 911T was also launched in 1967 and effectively replaced the 912. The staple 130 PS (96 kW) model was renamed the 911L. More excitingly, the 911R was produced in tiny numbers (20 in all). This was a lightweight racing version with thin aluminium doors, a magnesium crankcase, twin-spark cylinder heads, and a power output of 210 PS (154 kW).<br />In 1968 the B series was introduced: the wheelbase for all 911 and 912 models was increased from 2211 mm to 2268 mm, an effective remedy to the car's nervous handling at the limit. The overall length of the car did not change: rather, the rear wheels were relocated aft. Fuel injection arrived for the 911S and for a new middle model, 911E. A semi-automatic Sportomatic </span><a title="http://www.sportomatic.org" href="http://www.sportomatic.org/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> model, composed of a torque converter, an automatic clutch, and the four speed transmission, was added to the product lineup.<br /></span><a name="911_2.2-litre_.2F_C_and_D_series_.281970"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 2.2-litre / C and D series (1970-1971)<br />For the 1970 model year the engines of all 911s was increased to 2195 cc. Power outputs were uprated to 125 PS (92 kW) in the 911T, 155 PS (114 kW) in the 911E, and 180 PS (118 kW) in the 911S. The 912 was discontinued, thanks to the introduction of the </span><a title="Porsche 914" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_914"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 914</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> as an entry model.<br />The 2.2 L 911E was called "The secret weapon from Zuffenhausen". Despite the lower power output of the 911E (155 PS) compared to the 911S (180 PS) the 911E was quicker in acceleration up to 160 km/h (100 mph).<br />[<br /></span><a name="911_2.4-litre_.2F_E_and_F_series_.281972"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 2.4-litre / E and F series (1972-1973)<br />The 1972-1973 model years consisted of the same models of 911—the entry level T, the midrange E and the top of the line S. However, all models got a new, larger 2341 cc/142 in³ engine. This is universally known as the "2.4 L" engine, despite its displacement being closer to 2.3 litres — perhaps to emphasize the increase over the 2.2. The new power ratings were 130 PS (96 kW), or 140 hp (104 kW) in the U.S., for the T, 165 PS (121 kW) for the E and 190 PS (140 kW) for the S.<br />The 911E and 911S used mechanical </span><a title="Fuel injection" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_injection"><span style="color:#ffffff;">fuel injection</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (MFI) in all markets. The US 911T 911T was carbureted, except in the US where it also used MFI, which accounts for the 7 kW power difference between the two. In January, 1973, US 911Ts were switched to the new K-Jetronic CIS (Continuous Fuel Injection) system from </span><a title="Robert Bosch GmbH" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Bosch_GmbH"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bosch</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. These cars are commonly referred to as 1973.5 models.<br />With the power and torque increases, the 2.4 L cars also got a newer, stronger transmission, identified by its Porsche type number 915. Derived from the transmission in the </span><a title="Porsche 908" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_908"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 908</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> race car, the 915 did away with the 901/911 transmission's 'dog-leg' style first gear arrangement, opting for a traditional H pattern with first gear up to the left, second gear underneath first, etc. Some say this was because the dog-leg shift to second gear was inconvenient for in town driving, other say it was due to Porsche’s desire to put 5th gear outside the main transmission housing where it could easily be changed for different races. The Sportomatic transmission was still available, but only as a special order.<br />In 1972 tremendous effort was made to improve the handling of the 911. One thing Porsche did was relocate the oil tank from its position behind the right rear wheel to in front of it. This had the effect of moving the weight of almost 9 </span><a title="Quart" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quart"><span style="color:#ffffff;">quarts</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of oil from outside the wheelbase to inside, improving the handling. To facilitate filling of the oil tank, Porsche installed an oil filler door (much like the fuel filler door on the left front fender) on the right rear quarter panel. Unfortunately, this unique design was scrapped after only one year, some say because inattentive gas station attendants were putting gas in the oil tank! The oil tank was moved back to its original position for the 1973 model year, and there is stayed until it was moved back within the wheelbase for the 964 models.<br />These cars also gained a discreet spoiler under the front bumper to help high-speed stability. With the car's weight only 1050 kg (2314 lb), these are often regarded as the best classic mainstream 911s. For racing at this time, the 911 ST was made in tiny numbers. The cars were available with engines of either 2466 cc or 2492 cc, producing 270 PS (199 kW) at 8000 rpm. Weight was down to 960 kg. The cars had success at the Daytona 6 Hours, the </span><a title="Sebring 12 Hours" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebring_12_Hours"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sebring 12 Hours</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the </span><a title="1000Km Nurburgring" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=1000Km_Nurburgring&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1000Km Nurburgring</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and the </span><a title="Targa Florio" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Targa_Florio"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Targa Florio</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a name="911_Carrera_RS_2.7_.281972-1974.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 Carrera RS 2.7 (1972-1974)<br />This model, much prized by collectors, is one of the all-time classic 911s. It was built so that Porsche could enter racing formulae that demanded that a certain minimum number of production cars were made. Compared with a standard 911S, the Carrera RS had a larger engine (2687 cc) developing 210 PS (154 kW), revised and stiffened suspension, a 'ducktail' rear spoiler, larger brakes, larger wheels & wheel-arches, and was about 150 kg lighter — most of the saving coming from the thin-gauge steel used for parts of the bodyshell. In total 1636 were made, comfortably exceeding the 500 that had to be made to qualify for the vital </span><a title="Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%A9d%C3%A9ration_Internationale_de_l%27Automobile"><span style="color:#ffffff;">FIA</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Group 4" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_4"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Group 4</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> class. A more powerful version, the Carrera RS 3.0, was also made. The 3.0 L cars used standard-gauge steel, and thanks to that extra 180 kg the extra 20 PS (15 kW) did not give it a performance advantage.<br />The Carrera RSR 3.0 and Carrera RSR Turbo (its 2.1 L engine due to a 1.4x equivalency formula) were made in tiny numbers for racing. The turbo car came second at the </span><a title="24 Hours of Le Mans" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24_Hours_of_Le_Mans"><span style="color:#ffffff;">24 Hours of Le Mans</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in 1974, a significant event in that its engine would form the basis of many future Porsche assaults on sportscar racing, and can be regarded as the start of its commitment to turbocharging. The large rear spoiler and the 3.0 turbo engine were to be used again in the production 911 Turbo and the 934 racing car.<br /></span><a name="911_2.7-litre_.2F_G.2C_H.2C_I_and_J_seri"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 2.7-litre / G, H, I and J series (1974-1977)<br />From 1974 a detuned version of the 2687 cc engine from the Carrera RS was used in the mainstream production cars. The cars looked rather different from the previous year's, thanks to bulky new bumpers front and rear, to conform with low-speed impact protection requirements of US law. The interior was refreshed too. The model line-up was now: 911, 911S and 911 Carrera (the latter now a regular production model). The Turbo was introduced in 1975 (see below). In 1976 the Carrera model was upgraded to what was essentially the Turbo's 2992 cc engine, minus the turbocharger, developing 200 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower#PS"><span style="color:#ffffff;">PS</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (147 kW). The 2.7 engines proved to be less reliable than the 'bulletproof' 2.4 units. In effect, the 2.4 L engine had been enlarged with no additional cooling capacity. The engines saw problems, particularly in hot climates, where the different rates of </span><a title="Thermal expansion" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermal_expansion"><span style="color:#ffffff;">thermal expansion</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> between the </span><a title="Magnesium" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnesium"><span style="color:#ffffff;">magnesium</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of the crankcase and the </span><a title="Aluminium" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminium"><span style="color:#ffffff;">aluminium</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> of the </span><a title="Cylinder head" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cylinder_head"><span style="color:#ffffff;">cylinder heads</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> contributed to major failure. In addition, some engines saw problems whereby the cylinder head studs would pull themselves out of the crankcase. The 3.0 L engine of the Turbo and Carrera had not used magnesium, but rather aluminium, thereby showing equal expansion rates to the cylinders. The move to that engine across the board was welcome for reliability reasons. However, the aluminium case weighed 15 lb more than the magnesium one. In addition with the 1973.5 engines Porsche moved away from MFI to Bosch K-Jetronic CIS. This system varied fuel pressure to the injectors dependant on the mass airflow. While this system was exceedingly reliable, it did not allow the use of as "hot" cams as MFI or carburators allowed. Therefore the 911S's horsepower decreased from 190 to 175 despite the displacement increase from 2.4 to 2.7 L. However, the engine did have increased drivability.<br />Also produced for the 1976 "model year", for the U.S. market, was the 912E, a 4-cylinder version of the 911 like the old 912 that had last been produced in 1969. It used the I-series chassis and the 2.0 </span><a title="Volkswagen" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Volkswagen</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> engine from the </span><a title="Porsche 914" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_914"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 914</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. In all, 2099 units were produced. In 1976 the </span><a title="Porsche 924" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_924"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 924</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> took this car's place for the 1977 "model year" and beyond.<br /></span><a name="Position_vis-.C3.A0-vis_the_Porsche_928"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Position vis-à-vis the Porsche 928<br />Although Porsche was continuing development of the 911, executives were troubled by its declining sales numbers and in 1971 greenlighted work on the </span><a title="Porsche 928" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_928"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 928</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Larger, with a front-mounted V8 engine that was considerably more powerful than the contemporary 911's, the 928 was not only designed to eclipse its performance, it was designed to be a more comfortable car, a sporty </span><a title="Grand tourer" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_tourer"><span style="color:#ffffff;">grand tourer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> rather than a focused sports car. The 928 sold reasonably well, and managed to survive from its introduction in 1977 until 1995. Throughout its 17 years, despite its capabilities on the road, it never outsold the 911. Notably, it achieved little success in racing.<br /></span><a name="911_Turbo_.28Type_930.29_.281975-1989.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 Turbo (Type 930) (1975-1989)<br />Main article: </span><a title="Porsche 930" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_930"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 930</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />In 1975 Porsche introduced the first production </span><a title="Turbocharged" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharged"><span style="color:#ffffff;">turbocharged</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> 911. Although called simply </span><a title="Porsche 911 Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_Turbo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 Turbo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> in Europe, it was marketed as Porsche 930 (930 being its internal type number) in North America. The body shape is distinctive thanks to wide wheel-arches to accommodate the wide tyres, and a large rear spoiler often known as a 'whale tail' on the early cars, and 'tea-tray' on the later ones. Starting out with a 3.0-litre engine (260 PS or 191 kW), it rose to 3.3 L (300 PS or 221 kW) for 1978. The early cars are known for extreme </span><a title="Turbocharger" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbocharger#Lag"><span style="color:#ffffff;">turbo lag</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Production figures of the car soon qualified its racing incarnation for FIA Group 4 competition as the </span><a title="Porsche 934" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_934"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 934</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, of 1976. Many participated at </span><a title="Le Mans 24 Hours" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Mans_24_Hours"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Le Mans</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and other races including some epic battles with the </span><a title="BMW E9" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_E9"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW 3.0 CSL 'Batmobile'</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The wilder </span><a title="Porsche 935" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_935"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 935</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a more highly tuned car in FIA Group 5 and evolved from the 2.1 L RSR Turbo of 1974, was campaigned in 1976 by the factory and won Le Mans in 1979. Private teams continued to compete successfully with the car until well into the 1980s.<br />As demand for the Turbo soared in the late 1980s, Porsche introduced novelty variants including a slant-nose version, while not significantly improving the range mechanically. Although these cars could be sold for extraordinary premiums over the standard models, the company's reluctance to invest in research and development of the entire 911 line at that time turned out to be an almost fatal decision not only for the 911, but for the entire company.<br />Only in its last production year the 930 was equipped with a five-speed gearbox. Before, the five-speed gearboxes of the </span><a title="Naturally-aspirated" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturally-aspirated"><span style="color:#ffffff;">naturally-aspirated</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> cars were not strong enough to cope with the torque of the turbo engines. With the four-speed gearbox the 930 was capable of exceeding 200 km/h (125 mph) in third gear!<br />There have been turbocharged variants of each subsequent generation of 911. Four-wheel-drive was standard from the 993 Generation and on, except for the lightweight GT2.<br /></span><a name="911_SC_.281978-1983.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 SC (1978-1983)<br />SC stands for "Super Carrera" (although Porsche never claimed this or marketed it as such). All 911 models standardized on the 2994 cc engine for late 1977. This engine was a unit fresh from the factory delivering 180 PS (132 kW) that was still capable of substantial extra tuning, compared with the 2.7 which was almost at its limit. Yet, the weight of the extra equipment on these cars was blunting performance compared with what would have been expected from earlier, lighter cars with the same power output.<br />SCs sold in the UK could be specified with the Sport Group Package (UK) which added the rear spoiler, front air dam and black Fuchs wheels.<br />In 1981 a Cabriolet concept car was shown at the Frankfurt motorshow. Not only was the car a drop top, but it also featured four-wheel drive. In late 1982 (débuting as the 1983 model) the first 911 cabriolet went on sale (the first Porsche cabriolet since the 356). To many, this was a much more attractive car than the Targa, the other open-top 911. But while the Targa was priced to match the regular car, the Cabriolet cost significantly more. Cabriolet versions of the 911 have been offered ever since.<br />In 1979 Porsche made plans to replace the 911 with the 928, but the 911 still sold so much better than the 928, that Porsche revised its strategy and inject new life into the Type 911 European editions. Those cars (1981-1983 911 SCs) were massaged to yield 204 bhp @ 5900 rpm from their 2994 cc powerplants. North Americans would have to wait for the replacement 3.2 L 911 Carrera in 1984 before seeing any extra horsepower.<br /></span><a name="911_3.2_Carrera_.281984-1989.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 3.2 Carrera (1984-1989)<br />In 1984 a new 3.2 L car replaced the 3.0 L SC model. It was badged '911 Carrera' but known as '3.2 Carrera', the first time the sporty label had been applied to the basic 911. Power was increased, brakes were better, the fuel injection was upgraded to enhance everyday reliability, and the car was more refined. The non-Turbo models became available as 'Turbo-look' or 'Super Sport', a style that aped the Turbo with wide wheel-arches and the 'whale-tail', but did not reflect any mechanical changes.<br />In 1987, the Carrera got a new five-speed gearbox sourced from </span><a title="Getrag" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Getrag"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Getrag</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, model number G50. This included a hydraulic clutch.<br />The 911 Speedster, a low-roof version of the Cabriolet, evocative of the Porsche 356 Speedster of the 1950s, was produced in limited numbers. The Carrera Club Sport from 1987 (340 produced) is highly collectible. It was stripped of electric windows, electric seats, and radio to save a claimed 50 kg in weight. Its engine was allowed to rev higher, and the engine developed a little more power.<br /></span><a name="964_Series_.281989-1993.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">964 Series (1989-1993)<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_964.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">1993 Porsche 911 Carrera RS<br />Main article: </span><a title="Porsche 964" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_964"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 964</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />In late 1989, the 911 underwent a major evolution with the introduction of the Type 964.<br />This would be a very important car for Porsche, since the world economy was undergoing recession and the company could not rely on its image alone. It was launched as the Carrera 4, the '4' indicating </span><a title="Four-wheel-drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four-wheel-drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">four-wheel-drive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a decision that surprised many but demonstrated the company's commitment to engineering by reminding buyers that race and rally engineering (of the 959) does affect road cars. Drag coefficient was down to 0.32. A rear spoiler deployed at high speed, preserving the purity of line when the vehicle was at rest. The chassis was redesigned overall. Coil springs, ABS brakes and power steering made their debut. The engine was increased in size to 3600 cc and developed 250 PS (184 kW). The car was more refined, but thought by some journalists to have lost some purity of the 911's concept. The rear-wheel-drive version, the Carrera 2, arrived a year later.<br />The 964 incarnation of the 911 Turbo returned in 1990 after an absence from the price lists, using a refined 3.3 L engine of the previous Turbo, but two years later a turbo engine based on the 3.6 L engine of the other models was introduced.<br />Porsche introduced the ahead-of-its-time </span><a title="Tiptronic" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiptronic"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tiptronic</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> automatic transmission in the 964 Carrera 2, featuring adaptive electronic management and full manual control. The 964 was one of the first cars in the world offered with dual airbags standard (from 1991).<br />In 1992, Porsche re-introduced a limited-edition RS model, inspired by the 1973 Carrera RS and emissions-legal in Europe only. Appeals from American customers resulted in Porsche developing the RS America of which 701 were built. However, while European RS was a homologation special, RS America was a low spec variant of the regular model. The RS 3.8 of 1993 had Turbo-style bodywork, a larger fixed whale tail in place of the moveable rear spoiler, and a 300 PS (221 kW) 3746 cc engine.<br />Since the RS/RS America was intended as a no-frills, higher performance version of the 964, there were only 4 factory options available: a limited-slip differential, AM/FM cassette stereo, air conditioning, and a sunroof. The interior was more basic than a standard 911 as well; for example the interior door panels lacked the armrests and door pockets and had a simple pull strap for the opening mechanism. Although RS America was about $10,000 cheaper than a fully-equipped C2 at the time of their production, these models now command a premium price on the used market over a standard 964 (RS Europe was about $20,000 more expensive than a C2).<br /></span><a name="964_Turbo_.281990-1993.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">964 Turbo (1990-1993)<br />In 1990 Porsche introduced a Turbo version of the 964 series. This car is sometimes mistakenly called 965 (this type number actually referred to a stillborn project that would have been a hi-tech turbocharged car in the vein of the 959). For the 1991 and 1992 model years, Porsche produced the 964 Turbo with the 930's proven 3.3 L engine, improved to produce 320 PS (235 kW). 1993 brought the Carrera 2/4's 3.6 L engine, now in turbo-charged form and sending a staggering 360 PS (265 kW) to the rear wheels. With the 993 on the way, this car was produced through 1994 and remains rather rare.<br /></span><a name="993_Series_.281993-1998.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">993 Series (1993-1998)<br />Main article: </span><a title="Porsche 993" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_993"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 993</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_993_GT2.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">The mid-nineties Type 993 had sleeker bodywork. This is the lightweight GT2 variant.<br />The 911 was again revised in 1993 and was now known as the Type 993. This car was significant as it was the final incarnation of the air-cooled 911, introduced in 1964.<br />The exterior featured an all new front and rear end, with only the windscreen, side windows and doors maintained from the previous 964. The revised bodywork was smoother, having a noticeably more aerodynamic front end somewhat reminiscent of the </span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Styling was by Englishman </span><a title="Tony Hatter" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Tony_Hatter&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tony Hatter</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> under the supervision of design chief </span><a title="Harm Lagaay" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harm_Lagaay"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Harm Lagaay</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Along with the revised bodywork, mechanically the 993 also featured all-new multilink rear suspension that improved the car's ride and handling.<br />The new suspension, along with chassis refinements, enabled the car to keep up dynamically with the competition. Engine capacity remained at 3.6 L, but power rose to 272 PS (200 kW) thanks to better engine management and exhaust design, and beginning with model year 1996 to 286 PS (210 kW). A new four-wheel-drive made a return as an option in the form of the Carrera 4, the rear wheel drive versions simply being called Carrera. A lightweight RS version saw capacity rise to 3.8 L, with power reaching 300 PS (221 kW). The RS version had rear-wheel drive only.<br />Non-turbo models appeared that used the Turbo's wide bodyshell and some other components (the Carrera 4S and later the Carrera S).<br />The Targa open-topped model also made a return, this time with a large glass roof that slid under the rear window.<br />The Targa and wide-body versions remained in production in model year 1998, when the entirely new </span><a title="Porsche 996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> was launched, the 993´s successor.<br /></span><a name="993_Turbo_.281995-1998.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">993 Turbo (1995-1998)<br />A Turbo version of the 993 was launched in 1995 and became the first standard production Porsche with twin turbochargers and the first 911 Turbo to be equipped with all-wheel-drive (in order to delete the 4WD, one had to refer to the more powerful and race homologated GT2). The similarity in specification and in performance levels inspired several comparison road tests with the </span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (f.e. Car and Driver, July 1997, p. 63).<br /></span><a name="Water-Cooled_Engines_.281998-Present.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Water-Cooled Engines (1998-Present)<br /></span><a name="996_Series_.281998-2004.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">996 Series (1998-2004)<br />Main article: </span><a title="Porsche 996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2002_911C4S.JPG"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">996 Carrera 4S<br />After 34 years in production the famous air-cooled 911 was replaced by an all-new water-cooled model. Known as the Type 996 this car was a major leap for Porsche, although many of the traits that made the 911 what it was during the past 34 years still remained with the new model. As with the 993 before it the 996 was also a significant model, but mainly for the way it was conceived and designed, and the effect it had on Porsche during the 1990s.<br />Pundits criticised the 996's styling a great deal, largely because it shared its headlamps — indeed much of its front end, mechanically — with the less expensive </span><a title="Porsche Boxster" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Boxster</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The 996 had been on the drawing board first and was a more advanced car in some respects, but the cost-cutting seemed inappropriate for an expensive car. Otherwise, the Pinky Lai-penned shape followed the original Butzi Porsche design very closely. The interior was further criticised for its plainness and its lack of relationship to prior 911 interiors, although this came largely from owners of older 911s.<br />The Type 996 spawned over a dozen variations, including all wheel drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S models, the club racing-oriented </span><a title="Porsche 911 GT3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_GT3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">GT3</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and the forced-induction 996 Turbo and GT2. The Turbo, four-wheel-drive and twin-turbo, often made appearances in magazines' lists of the best cars on sale.<br />The Carrera and Carrera 4 underwent revisions for model year 2002, receiving the front headlight/indicator lights which were first seen on the Turbo version two years earlier. This allowed the 911 to be more distinguishable from the Boxster. A mildy revised front fascia was also intorduced, though the basic architecture remained.<br />Engine wise, displacement was 3.4 L and power 300 PS (221 kW), increased in 2002 to 3.6 L and 320 PS (235 kW).<br /></span><a name="996_GT3_.281999-2004.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">996 GT3 (1999-2004)<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:996_-_GT3_RS.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">996 GT3 RS<br />Porsche unveiled a road-going GT3 version of the 996 series which was derived from the racing GT3. Simply called GT3, the car featured lightweight materials inside and out, including thinner windows, the GT3 was a lighter and more focused 911 with the emphasis on handling and performance. The suspension was lower and more aggressive than other 996s, leading to excellent handling and razor-sharp steering though the ride was very very firm. Of more significance was the engine used in the GT3. Instead of using a version of the water-cooled units found in other 996s, the naturally-aspirated engine was derived from the </span><a title="Porsche 911 GT1" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_GT1#1998"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 GT1-98</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> sports-prototype racing car and featured lightweight materials which enabled the engine to rev highly.<br /></span><a name="996_Turbo_.282000-2004.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">996 Turbo (2000-2004)<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2004_Porsche_996X50.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">996 Turbo X50<br />In 2000, Porsche launched the Turbo version of the Type 996. Like the GT3, the new Turbo engine derived from the 911 GT1 engine and, like its predecessor, featured twin-turbos and now developed 420 PS (309 kW). Also like its predecessor the new Turbo was only available with 4 wheel drive. A 17,000 USD factory option, the X50 package, was available that boosted the engine output to a tidy 450 PS with 620 N·m (457 lbf·ft) of torque across a wide section of the power band. With the X50 package in place the car could make 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.8 seconds.<br />Styling wise, the car was more individual than previous Turbos. Along with the traditional wider rear wings, the 996 Turbo had different front lights and bumpers when compared to the Carrera and Carrera 4. The rear bumper had air vents that were reminiscent of those on the </span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and there were large vents on the front bumper, which have been copied on the Carrera 4S and Cayenne Turbo.<br /></span><a name="997_Series_.282004-Present.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 Series (2004-Present)<br />Main article: </span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 997</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2005-Porsche-911-Carrera-S.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 Carrera S<br />In 2004 the 911 was heavily revised and the 996's replacement, the 997, was unveiled in July. The 997 keeps the basic profile of the 996, bringing the drag coefficient down to 0.28, but draws on the 993 for detailing. In addition, the new front fascia is reminiscent of the older generation "bug eye" headlights. Its interior is also similarly revised, with strong links to the earlier 911 interiors while at the same time looking fresh and modern. The 997 shares about 30% of its parts with the outgoing 996, but is still technically very similar to it. The 0-100 km/h acceleration for the Carrera S was noted to be as fast as 4.2 seconds in a recent Motor Trend comparison, but other sources contradict that. Type 997 versions of the GT2 and Turbo S have yet to have a released introduction date. The Targas (4 and 4S) will be released in November 2006.<br /></span><a name="997_Turbo_.282006-Present.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 Turbo (2006-Present)<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_997_Turbo.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 Turbo<br />In 2006 Porsche unveiled the Turbo version of the 997 series. Still simply called the Turbo the new car was a heavily revised over the 996 Turbo, incorporating many of the upgrades from the Carrera versions of the 997 when it was launched in 2004.<br />The Turbo still featured the same 3.6 L twin-turbocharged engine as the 996 Turbo, but this time it developed 480 PS (353 kW) and 620 N·m (457 lbf·ft) of torque. This was in part due to the 997's new variable-geometry turbocharger (a first on a petrol-engined road car) which essentially combines the low-rev boost and quick responses of a small turbocharger with the high-rev power of a larger turbocharger. As well as producing more power and flexibility, the new turbocharger improved fuel consumption over the 996 Turbo. With these performance upgrades, it accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds (3.4 with the Tiptronic transmission) and reaches a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph).<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2006_Porsche_911_GT3.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 GT3<br />The optional Sports Chrono overboost package increases torque to 680 Nm (505 lbf.ft) for short periods (maximum 10 seconds) but over a narrower rev range.<br />The Turbo's standard 4-wheel-drive system was new though, featuring many of the features found on the </span><a title="Porsche Cayenne" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Cayenne"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Cayenne</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Featuring PTM (Porsche Traction Management) the new system incorporates a clutch-based system which varies the amount of torque to the front wheels, regardless of wheel slip front and rear. This, according to Porsche, aids traction and the handling by redirecting the torque to control oversteer or understeer, thus resulting in far more neutral handling, as well as greatly improved performance in all weather conditions (as opposed to older 4WD system which gave the Turbo stability under hard acceleration).<br />Styling wise, as with the 996 Turbo the car featured more unique styling cues over the Carreras, one of the more distinctive elements the front LED driving/parking/indicator lights mounted on a horizontal bar across the air intakes. The traditional rear wing is a variation of the 996 bi-plane unit.<br /></span><a name="997_GT3_.282006-Present.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 GT3 (2006-Present)<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2007_Porsche_911_GT3_RS.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 GT3 RS<br />Porsche released information for one of two of their two-seating, lightweight 911 models, the </span><a title="Porsche 911 GT3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_GT3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 GT3</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> on </span><a title="February 24" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/February_24"><span style="color:#ffffff;">February 24</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (the other would be the GT2); it is reported to accelerate 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and have a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph), identical to the Turbo. It was released in the summer of 2006. The </span><a title="Porsche 911 GT3 RS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_GT3_RS"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 GT3 RS</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> will be release in October 2006 in Germany (spring 2007 in the United States). It is stripped of most luxuries to reduce weight, therefore increasing performance. However, it will sport the same 415 hp flat-six. The RS model also includes the the 44 mm wider Carrera 4 body and the inclusion of a roll cage behind the front seats.<br /></span><a name="998_Series_.282009-Unknown.29"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">998 Series (2009-Unknown)<br />Porsche is expected to debut its next entirely new 911, the Type 998, in </span><a title="2009" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2009"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2009</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. The 998 is rumoured to have an entirely new 3.8 litre or 4.0 litre flat eight engine, still hanging over the rear axle. This is just a rumour, and a very doubtful one at that. It is said that the current flat six can't be bored over 4.0 litres, so Porsche will concentrate on shaving off weight developing a new sequential transmission. The 998 is rumored to have a unit aluminum body (like the Audi A8) and a 7 speed dual clutch sequential transmission. There is also the possibility it might have dual rear-mounted radiators (like Lamborghinis and Ferrari Testarossa/512) for better weight distribution and to make more efficiant use of the rear-mounted longitudinally-mounted flat-6 configuration. Also, the next GT2 and GT3 models are expected to have optional carbon fiber wheels (like the Koenigsegg CCX) to reduce unspung weight. It is worth noting that the 996 GT2 was the first production car to feature ceramic disc brake rotors, which are now on nearly every supercar made today, so if carbon fiber wheels catch on in the next few years it is highly likely they will be featured. Previous Porsche press releases said that for the 911 they would never deviate from the flat-6 rear engine rear drive platform although apparently there are some Porsche engineers who would like a </span><a title="Mid-engined" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-engined"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mid-engined</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> platform for future 911s.<br /></span><a name="Porsche_911_in_rallying"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 in rallying<br />The Porsche 911 showed great promise in rallying from the start. The rear engine means that the car has inherently good traction. Here are a few of its more significant rallying achievements.<br /></span><a name="1965"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1965<br />5th, </span><a title="Monte Carlo Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monte_Carlo_Rally"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Monte Carlo Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (911, Herbert Linge)<br /></span><a name="1967"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1967<br />3rd, Monte Carlo Rally (912, </span><a title="Vic Elford" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vic_Elford"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Vic Elford</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a name="1968"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1968<br />1st, Swedish Rally (911T </span><a title="Björn Waldegård" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bj%C3%B6rn_Waldeg%C3%A5rd"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Björn Waldegård</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br /></span><a name="1969"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1969<br />1st, Monte Carlo Rally (911T, Björn Waldegård)<br /></span><a name="1970"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1970<br />1st, Monte Carlo Rally (911T, Björn Waldegård)<br /></span><a name="1974"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1974<br />3rd, </span><a title="1000 Lakes Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1000_Lakes_Rally"><span style="color:#ffffff;">1000 Lakes Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (911 Carrera RS 3.0, Björn Waldegård)<br />2nd, </span><a title="Safari Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safari_Rally"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Safari Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (911 Carrera RS 3.0, Björn Waldegård)<br /></span><a name="1978"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1978<br />1st, Monte Carlo Rally (911 Carrera RS 3.0, Jean-Pierre Nicolas)<br /></span><a name="1980"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1980<br />1st, </span><a title="Tour de Corse" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tour_de_Corse"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Tour de Corse</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (911SC/RS, Jean-Luc Therier)<br /></span><a name="1984"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1984<br />1st, </span><a title="Paris-Dakar Rally" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris-Dakar_Rally"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Paris-Dakar Rally</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (953, </span><a title="Rene Metge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Rene_Metge&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rene Metge</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/Dominic Lemoyne)<br />(The Porsche 953, sometimes called the 911 Carrera 4x4, used the 4x4 drivetrain of the 959, which was still being developed.)<br /></span><a name="1986"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">1986<br />1st, Paris-Dakar Rally (959, </span><a title="Rene Metge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Rene_Metge&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rene Metge</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/Dominic Lemoyne)<br />2nd, Paris-Dakar Rally (959, </span><a title="Jacky Ickx" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacky_Ickx"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jacky Ickx</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/Claude Brasseur)<br />1st, </span><a title="Rallye des Pharaons" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rallye_des_Pharaons"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rallye des Pharaons</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (959, </span><a title="Saeed Al Hajiri" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Saeed_Al_Hajiri&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Saeed Al Hajiri</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />(In the 1980s Porsche developed the </span><a title="Porsche 959" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_959"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 959</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a four-wheel-drive twin-turbo development of the 911 to compete in the </span><a title="FIA" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIA"><span style="color:#ffffff;">FIA</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">'s </span><a title="Group B" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_B"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Group B</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> category. This won the prestigious Paris-Dakar Rally of 1986.)<br />...<br />Awards<br />In </span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Sports Car International" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_Car_International"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sports Car International</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> named the 911 number three on the list of </span><a title="Sports Car International Top Sports Cars" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_Car_International_Top_Sports_Cars"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Top Sports Cars of the 1960s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, the Carrera RS number seven on the list of </span><a title="Sports Car International Top Sports Cars" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_Car_International_Top_Sports_Cars"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Top Sports Cars of the 1970s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, and the 911 Carrera number seven on the list of </span><a title="Sports Car International Top Sports Cars" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_Car_International_Top_Sports_Cars"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Top Sports Cars of the 1980s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. In addition, the 911 was voted Number 2 on </span><a title="Automobile Magazine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_Magazine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Automobile Magazine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">'s list of the "100 Coolest Cars". The 997 was nominated for the </span><a title="World Car of the Year" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Car_of_the_Year"><span style="color:#ffffff;">World Car of the Year</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> award for </span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a name="Trivia"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Trivia<br />Sally Carrera, from the </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Pixar" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixar"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Pixar</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> movie, </span><a title="Cars (film)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cars_%28film%29"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cars</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> is a 2002 Porsche 911.<br />In Level 2 of the 1988 arcade game </span><a title="Bad Dudes" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bad_Dudes"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bad Dudes vs Dragonninja</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> where the level is set with the player fighting and moving on from one roof of a truck trailer to another, a random ninja can be seen launching from a roof of a 930.<br />References<br />Frère, P (1999). Porsche 911 Story (sixth edition). Patrick Stevens Limited. </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=1852605901"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ISBN 1-85260-590-1</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Meredith, L (2000). Porsche 911. Sutton Publishing. </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0750922818"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ISBN 0-7509-2281-8</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Wood, J (1997). Porsche: The Legend. Parragon. </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0752520725"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ISBN 0-75252-072-5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Morgan, P (1995). Original Porsche 911. MBI Publishing. </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=1901432165"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ISBN 1-901432-16-5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Official Website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />Raby, P (2005) "Porsche 911 Identification Guide". Herridge & Son. </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0954106385"><span style="color:#ffffff;">ISBN 0-9541063-8-5</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="commons:Category:Porsche_911" href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/" href="http://www.porsche.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official Porsche website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">911 (997) models at official Porsche website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://flash.porsche.com/all/masterwerk/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://flash.porsche.com/all/masterwerk/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=531&variant=§ion=&bandwidth=isdn&width=945&height=513" bandwidth="isdn&width=" variant="&section=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="513"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Turbo official minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://flash.porsche.com/all/originmotorsport/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://flash.porsche.com/all/originmotorsport/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=787&variant=&section=&bandwidth=dsl&width=1005&height=415" bandwidth="dsl&width=" variant="§ion=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="415"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) GT3 official minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/911gt3rs/en/page1.htm" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/911gt3rs/en/page1.htm"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS official minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=274&variant=§ion=&bandwidth=dsl&width=795&height=550" bandwidth="dsl&width=" variant="&section=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="550"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Targa official minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/accessoriesandservices/classic/classic-models/models-porschecars/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/accessoriesandservices/classic/classic-models/models-porschecars/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Previous Porsche road models (including some 911 models)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/eventsandracing/motorsport/history/history-racingcars/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/eventsandracing/motorsport/history/history-racingcars/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Previous Porsche racing models (including some 911 racing models)</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a name="Notes"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Notes<br />"PS" is the </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">metric horsepower</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, a common way to specify the power output of German cars. There is a very small difference between PS and the </span><a title="English unit" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_unit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">English</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">horsepower</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (1 PS = 0.986320073 hp), but it should still be left written as PS because of this slight difference.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Porsche 997<br />Porsche 997<br /></span><a title="Porsche 997 S" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:P997_carrera_s_frontview.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Also called:<br />Porsche 911</span><a title="Porsche Carrera" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Carrera"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Carrera</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Production:<br /></span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">–present<br />Predecessor:<br /></span><a title="Porsche 996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car classification" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_classification"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br /></span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Body style:<br />2-door </span><a title="Coupé" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coup%C3%A9"><span style="color:#ffffff;">coupé</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">2-door </span><a title="Convertible" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convertible"><span style="color:#ffffff;">convertible</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Layout:<br /></span><a title="Rear-engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Rear-engine&action=edit"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Rear-engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="Rear wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rear_wheel_drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">rear wheel drive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/</span><a title="All wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_wheel_drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">all wheel drive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="Car engine" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_engine"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Engine</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">:<br />3.6 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">3.8 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Similar:<br /></span><a title="Aston Martin V8 Vantage" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aston_Martin_V8_Vantage"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Aston Martin V8 Vantage</span></a><a title="BMW 6 Series" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_6_Series"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BMW 6 Series</span></a><a title="Cadillac XLR" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadillac_XLR"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Cadillac XLR</span></a><a title="Dodge Viper" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Viper"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Dodge Viper</span></a><a title="Ferrari F430" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_F430"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Ferrari F430</span></a><a title="Jaguar XKR" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_XKR"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Jaguar XKR</span></a><a title="Lamborghini Gallardo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini_Gallardo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Lamborghini Gallardo</span></a><a title="Maserati Coupe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maserati_Coupe"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Maserati Coupe</span></a><a title="Mercedes-Benz SL-Class" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_SL-Class"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Mercedes-Benz SL-Class</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The Porsche Type 997, or simply 997 (nine-nine-seven or nine-ninety-seven) is the </span><a title="Project code name" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_code_name"><span style="color:#ffffff;">project code name</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> for the current version of the </span><a title="Sports car" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car"><span style="color:#ffffff;">sports car</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, built by the </span><a title="Germany" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany"><span style="color:#ffffff;">German</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Automaker" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automaker"><span style="color:#ffffff;">manufacturer</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> </span><a title="Porsche" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> since </span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Production began in July </span><a title="2004" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2004</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> and two variants, the Carrera and Carrera S </span><a title="Coupé" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coup%C3%A9"><span style="color:#ffffff;">coupés</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, were available immediately. The </span><a title="All-wheel drive" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All-wheel_drive"><span style="color:#ffffff;">all-wheel drive</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S versions began shipping in November </span><a title="2005" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2005</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /><br />Design<br />The base Carrera has essentially the same 3.6 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> engine that its predecessor, the Type </span><a title="Porsche 996" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_996"><span style="color:#ffffff;">996</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> Carrera used, producing 239 kW (325 PS). The Carrera S uses a new 3.8 L flat-6 engine producing 261 kW (355 PS). The X51 powerkit with a 381 hp power output is available as an option for the Carrera S, Carrera 4S, and Targa 4S models.<br />While the exterior styling is changed and especially the 997 Carrera S and Carrera 4S models don't share any parts with its predecessor, the 996, it is again more evolution than revolution, typical of Porsche and the Carrera. The most notable difference between 997 and outgoing 996 is the return to circular headlights, like those of pre-996 Carreras, with separate indicator units. The interior has been almost entirely re-invented and all the controls are new.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_Carrera_Interior.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006 Porsche 997 Carrera (Interior)<br />Performance<br />According to testing carried out by several American automotive publications the Carrera S model is capable of going 0 to 60 in as little as 3.9 seconds, and carries a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph), while the standard model is slightly slower, with the capability to run 0 to 60 in 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 285 km/h (175 mph); note, however, that these figures contradict the conservative </span><a title="Porsche 997" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_997#Statistics"><span style="color:#ffffff;">official Porsche figures</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br />The Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S will use the same engines as the Carrera and Carrera S, respectively. Visually, the rear bodywork is nearly 2 in (50.8 mm) wider over larger tires. The all wheel drive system sends between 5% and 40% of engine </span><a title="Torque" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque"><span style="color:#ffffff;">torque</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> to the front wheels as needed.<br /></span><a name="Special_editions"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Special editions<br />In 2006, the </span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/transitional/usa/clubs/pca/50thanniversary/default.asp" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/transitional/usa/clubs/pca/50thanniversary/default.asp"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 Club Coupe</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> was produced in limited numbers (50) as a commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the </span><a title="http://www.pca.org/" href="http://www.pca.org/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche Club of America (PCA).</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> The first production model was returned to the Porsche Museum in Germany and one lucky PCA member won the fiftieth model in a sweepstakes drawing. The remaining 48 models were offered to randomly chosen PCA members who applied to purchase this extremely rare car. The </span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/transitional/usa/clubs/pca/50thanniversary/default.asp" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/transitional/usa/clubs/pca/50thanniversary/default.asp"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 Club Coupe</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> which is available only in the unique Azurro California color, comes equipped with a more powerful 381 hp motor thanks to the X51 Powerkit. Other features unique to this special model include a vehicle identification number (VIN) which ends with the production number and special commemorative badging and door sills which adorn the interior.<br /></span><a name="Turbo"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Turbo<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Porsche_997_Turbo.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006 Porsche 997 Turbo<br />The </span><a title="Porsche 911 Turbo" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_Turbo"><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 Turbo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> debutted in February </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> at the </span><a title="Geneva Motor Show" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geneva_Motor_Show"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Geneva Motor Show</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. It uses a new front bumper with </span><a title="Light-emitting diode" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light-emitting_diode"><span style="color:#ffffff;">LED</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> parking lights in a horizontal bar through the air intake. The fog lights are moved to the corners of the bumpers. Large air intakes in front of and behind the rear wheels are other obvious visual cues. The retractable rear wing is also one of the highlights, a feature which has been available on the 996 Turbo too.<br />The engine is reported to be based on the rugged and very reliable 964/GT1 design at 3.6 L with power output at 353 kW (480 PS) and 620 N·m (457 ft·lbf). The turbochargers will include </span><a title="BorgWarner" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BorgWarner"><span style="color:#ffffff;">BorgWarner</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">'s new Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG), which uses guide vanes located in front of the turbine wheel that modulates inflow angle and speed. While the 911 Turbo is the </span><a title="List of automotive superlatives" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_automotive_superlatives#Engine_technologies"><span style="color:#ffffff;">first</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> non-</span><a title="Diesel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">diesel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> production car to feature a variable geometry turbine, a similar approach was used by </span><a title="Garrett Systems" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garrett_Systems"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Garrett Systems</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> starting in 1989 with the </span><a title="Shelby CSX" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelby_CSX#CSX-VNT"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Shelby CSX</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, that used variable nozzles instead. The optional Sport Chrono Package includes a temporary 2.9 psi overboost, upping peak torque to 680 N·m (502 ft·lbf) for ten second bursts.<br />According to official Porsche figures, it produces 480 hp, accelerates 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds with manual transmission and 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.4 seconds with Tiptronic S transmission, and has a top speed of 193 miles per hour.<br />A Turbo Cabriolet is expected in the near future.<br /></span><a name="GT3"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">GT3<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2006_Porsche_911_GT3.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006 Porsche 997 GT3<br />The </span><a title="Porsche 911 GT3" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_GT3"><span style="color:#ffffff;">997 GT3</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> model also debuted at Geneva in 2006. Like previous GT3 models, it is a way for Porsche to </span><a title="Homologate" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologate"><span style="color:#ffffff;">homologate</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> aerodynamic features for racing, as well as a starting model for customer racing. The 997 GT3 is priced at </span><a title="US$" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/US%24"><span style="color:#ffffff;">US$</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">106,000 and uses an updated version of the </span><a title="Naturally-aspirated" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturally-aspirated"><span style="color:#ffffff;">naturally-aspirated</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> 3.6 L </span><a title="Flat-6" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-6"><span style="color:#ffffff;">flat-6</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> from the 996 GT3. This engine produces 415 hp(PS)/409bhp (309 kW) and weighs 3075 lb (1395 kg) with a new variable intake system. It has an 8400 rpm redline which is the same as the 612 bhp Carrera GT's. Torque is also up to 299 ft·lbf (405 N·m).<br />The GT3 body includes a special front bumper which increases cooling for the front-mounted radiators as well as a split spoiler at the rear. The GT3 also includes a special rear bumper and center tailpipes which draw heat away from the engine. It is lowered and rides on 30-series 305 mm (12 in) tires on 19 in (483 mm) wheels.<br /></span><a title="Enlarge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2007_Porsche_911_GT3_RS.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">2007 Porsche 997 GT3 RS<br />The 997 GT3 is more driver-friendly than its predecessor, with "comfort" seats and the Porsche Communication Management system installed. The special </span><a title="Porsche 911 GT3 RS" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_GT3_RS"><span style="color:#ffffff;">RS</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> model will strip most of these luxuries out for strict track use. The RS version will be released in Europe in October 2006; the North American release is spring 2007.<br />The ratios on the six-speed transmission are more aggressive, allowing the GT3 to hit 60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.1 seconds, a half second quicker than the 996 version. It will continue to 100 mph (161 km/h) in 8.7 seconds and has an ungoverned 193 mph (311 km/h) top speed.<br /></span><a name="Targa"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Targa<br />The Targa 4 and Targa 4S versions, like the previous Targa, will be equipped with a glass roof and hatch, and will debut in November 2006. This is the first time in the 911 Targa's 41-year history that it will feature a four-wheel drive system.<br />Statistics<br /><br />Model<br />MSRP (Cost)<br />Horsepower<br />0-60 Acceleration*<br />Top Speed<br />Slogan<br />Official Model Site<br />911 Carrera<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$71,300</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />325 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.8 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />177 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/285 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The dream lives on.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[1]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Carrera S<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$81,400</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />355 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.6 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />182 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/293 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Same soul. Even more heart.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[2]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Carrera Cabriolet<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$81,400</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />325 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />5.0 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />177 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/285 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The top goes down. Spirits rise.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[3]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Carrera S Cabriolet<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$91,400</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />355 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.7 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />182 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/293 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Let the sun chase you.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[4]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Carrera 4<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$77,100</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />325 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.9 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />174 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/280 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 to the power of 4.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[5]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$87,100</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />325 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />5.1 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />174 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/280 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Open to take any corner.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[6]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Carrera 4S<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$87,100</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />355 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.6 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />179 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/288 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />The perfect distribution of power.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[7]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$97,100</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />355 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.7 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />179 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/288 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Take control of the road and sky.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[8]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Turbo<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$122,900</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />480 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />3.7 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />193 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/311 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />A new interpretation of masterwerk.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-turbo/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-turbo/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[9]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 GT3<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$106,000</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />415 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.1 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />193 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/311 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Origin Motorsport.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-gt3/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-gt3/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[10]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />911 Targa 4<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$85,700</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />325 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />5.3 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />174 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/280 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Skydriving.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=274&variant=&section=&bandwidth=dsl&width=795&height=550" bandwidth="dsl&width=" variant="§ion=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="550"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[11]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (minisite)<br />911 Targa 4S<br /></span><a title="Suggested retail price" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suggested_retail_price"><span style="color:#ffffff;">$95,900</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />355 </span><a title="Horsepower" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower"><span style="color:#ffffff;">hp</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />4.9 </span><a title="Second" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second"><span style="color:#ffffff;">s</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />179 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">mph</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">/288 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">km/h</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />Skydriving.<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=274&variant=§ion=&bandwidth=dsl&width=795&height=550" bandwidth="dsl&width=" variant="&section=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="550"><span style="color:#ffffff;">[12]</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (minisite)<br />Note: This table shows official </span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/" href="http://www.porsche.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> peformance figures, which are usually conservative. Independent automobile magazines may find acceleration times less than those shown above.<br />Note: 0-60 acceleration times refer to the time taken to reach 60 </span><a title="Miles per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">miles per hour</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"> (about 97 </span><a title="Kilometers per hour" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilometers_per_hour"><span style="color:#ffffff;">kilometers per hour</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">).<br />See also<br /></span><a title="Porsche 911" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br />References<br /></span><a title="http://autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=" href="http://autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060224/FREE/60223010/1024/LATESTNEWS"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Geneva Giant: Porsche’s race-bred 911 is back</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. </span><a title="AutoWeek" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AutoWeek"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AutoWeek</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">. Retrieved on </span><a title="February 27" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/February_27"><span style="color:#ffffff;">February 27</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">, </span><a title="2006" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006"><span style="color:#ffffff;">2006</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<br /></span><a name="Pictures"></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">Pictures<br /></span><a title="Image:P997 carrera s hinten rechts.jpg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:P997_carrera_s_hinten_rechts.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera S (Rear)<br /></span><a title="Image:P997 carrera s innenraum.jpg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:P997_carrera_s_innenraum.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera S (PCM)<br /></span><a title="Image:P997 carrera s amaturen.jpg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:P997_carrera_s_amaturen.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera S (Instruments)<br /></span><a title="Image:P997 carrera s 19er felge.jpg" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:P997_carrera_s_19er_felge.jpg"></a><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">Carrera S (19" </span><a title="Wheel" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheel"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wheel</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;">)<br />External links<br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/" href="http://www.porsche.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche official website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) models at official Porsche website</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera S</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-s-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera S Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera 4</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera 4S</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera 4 Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s-cabriolet/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-carrera-4s-cabriolet/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Carrera 4S Cabriolet</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-turbo/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-turbo/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) Turbo</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-gt3/" href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/911/911-gt3/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 911 (997) GT3</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://flash.porsche.com/all/masterwerk/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://flash.porsche.com/all/masterwerk/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=399&variant=&section=&bandwidth=isdn&width=945&height=513" bandwidth="isdn&width=" variant="§ion=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="513"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official 911 (997) Turbo minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://flash.porsche.com/all/originmotorsport/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://flash.porsche.com/all/originmotorsport/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=908&variant=§ion=&bandwidth=dsl&width=1005&height=415" bandwidth="dsl&width=" variant="&section=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="415"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official 911 (997) GT3 minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/911gt3rs/en/page1.htm" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/911gt3rs/en/page1.htm"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official 911 (997) GT3 RS minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=" href="http://www.porsche.com/all/skydriving/flash/default.aspx?language=en-us&market=PCNA&pool=usa&browser=other&instance=274&variant=&section=&bandwidth=dsl&width=795&height=550" bandwidth="dsl&width=" variant="§ion=" browser="other&instance=" market="PCNA&pool=" height="550"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Official 911 (997) Targa minisite</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.edmunds.com/new/2006/porsche/911/100624913/roadtestarticle.html&articleId=" href="http://www.edmunds.com/new/2006/porsche/911/100624913/roadtestarticle.html&articleId=103494&tid=edmunds.e.roadtest.content...Porsche*" tid="edmunds.e.roadtest.content...Porsche*"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Edmunds.com review</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.rennteam.com" href="http://www.rennteam.com/"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Porsche 997 Discussion Forum</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://supercarnews.com/cars/porsche/911_carrera/Porsche_911_Carrera" href="http://supercarnews.com/cars/porsche/911_carrera/Porsche_911_Carrera"><span style="color:#ffffff;">SuperCarNews High Resolution 997 Porsche 911 Carrera Images</span></a><span style="color:#ffffff;"><br /></span><a title="http://www.autoguidewiki.com/Porsche_911_Carrera_S_Cabriolet" href="http://www.autoguidewiki.com/Porsche_911_Carrera_S_Cabriolet"><span style="color:#ffffff;">AutoGuideWiki.com</span></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0