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Bi-Xenon Headlamps

Bi-Xenon Headlamps
By Michael Souza, November 2011

Bi-Xenon headlamps use high voltage electricity to create an arc between two tungsten electrodes inside a bulb filled with special gasses and minerals. Those gasses and minerals produce additional light when heated, intensifying the bulb's output.

These High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps use less current to produce more light and less heat than conventional filament type lamps. Porsche's Bi-Xenon headlights use a single bulb for both low (dipped) and high (main) beam. The output pattern is electromechanically changed when high beams are requested, allowing light to project much higher and further than the low beam pattern.  This results in a very fast and seamless transition from one beam to the other.

987.1 (2006-2008):
Click image to enlarge.

987.2 (2009-2012):
Click image to enlarge.

Benefits:

The Bi-Xenon headlamps are not only much brighter than conventional halogen headlamps, they also provide a wider and more consistently diffused supply of light in front of the car.  Their blue-white color is very close to the wavelength of actual daylight which reduces eye strain.

© Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

The Bi-Xenon headlamps are self leveling and come with headlight washers, an easy visual identifier for this option.  When activated the headlight washers telescopically extend upward by 10cm and provide a high pressure blast of windshield washer fluid to the headlight lens (see video).

In 2009, Dynamic Cornering Lights were added, which will aim the light pattern by up to 15 degrees when turning.

Because HID lamps need time to ignite and warm up, these lamp assemblies contain halogen main beam bulbs for use as passing lights when short intermittent bursts of light are needed.

Drawbacks:

Because these lights are highly desirable, there have been some incidents of theft. 

Replacement bulbs are more expensive, and these headlamps are heavier than the halogen lamps because of the addition of ballasts and headlight washers.

Details:

  • Option Code: P74

  • Price (2006): $1,050

  • Available on: All Cayman Models

  • Conflicts or Requirements: None

More Information:

discussion  for "Xenon" and show that contain results, or for current pricing and more information visit the Porsche website.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Park Assist System

Park Assist System
By Michael Souza & Chuck Cinque, November 2011

Click to Zoom

The Park Assist system is a parking aid with four distance sensors integrated into the rear bumper of the car. It works by emitting ultrasonic sound and "listening" to judge how far an object is away. Inside the vehicle, the distance is conveyed to the driver by beeping sounds. As one approaches an object the beeping increases in frequency, eventually becoming a continuous beep cautioning the driver about an object being too close.

Benefits:

Parking sensors can detect hard to see objects, such as low poles, curbs, children, pets, thus preventing accidents while parking or exiting a parking spot. The Park Assist system also emits a beep when reverse is engaged.

Drawbacks:

© Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

Sensors are only present in the rear and also do not pick up certain sound absorbing or thin objects. Some might consider the sensors to be aesthetically unpleasing.

Very small, or low obstructions may not be detected, and Porsche warns that, "Despite use of the parking assistant system, the driver is still responsible for taking due care and assessing obstacles when backing up".

Be aware that the parking assistant system is not switched on if the car rolls backward without reverse gear being engaged.

Details:

  • Option Code: 635

  • Price (2006): $530

More Information:

discussion  for "Park Assist" and show that contain results, or for current pricing and more information visit the Porsche website.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM)

Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM)
By Michael Souza, November 2011

PASM is an electronically adjustable suspension system.  It allows a Cayman to automatically adapt to changing road and driving conditions.  Caymans equipped with PASM will have a button on the center console that allows the driver to select between a "Normal" or "Sport" mode. Regardless of which program is selected, PASM is always continuously adjusting the damping rates of the shock absorbers within a predetermined range to suit the current driving conditions.

Benefits:

Click to ZoomThe primary benefit of PASM is the ability to have the best of both worlds.  PASM can deliver a soft comfortable ride without sacrificing driving precision or handling when desired. 

In PASM Normal mode, a PASM equipped Cayman's damping rates will vary from a setting that is considerably softer than a Cayman with Standard suspension to a setting that is a little harder.  In Sport mode, the damping rates will vary from the about the same as that of the standard suspension to a rate that is significantly harder.  This adaptability makes a PASM equipped car very versatile.  At one moment it can be a soft driving street car that is forgiving over rough pavement, and the next moment it can be a taught track car ready for a DE event.

Springs & Ride Height:

PASM comes with different springs than the standard suspension.  Those springs are 10mm shorter and 15% stiffer (46 N/mm vs. 40N/mm).  These springs reduce the ride height of a PASM equipped Cayman by 10mm (~1/2 inch).  Because of this lower ride height, Cayman's with PASM are aligned with a little more negative camber

Electronic Adaptability:

PASM is incredibly complex, maybe too complex for complete coverage in this form of writing. It is very important to understand that PASM is not just a bi-modal suspension, with normal or sport modes available.  Regardless of the program selected, PASM is always adapting the damping rates to match the driving conditions.

Click to ZoomThe PASM computer continually monitors and evaluates a wide range of vehicle dynamics and uses that information to vary the damping rates. Among the vehicle dynamics evaluated are:

  • Vertical movement

  • Lateral Acceleration

  • Steering Angle

  • Travel Speed

  • Brake Pressure

  • Engine RPM

  • Engine Torque

  • Chassis Pitch

  • Chassis Yaw

  • Chassis Roll

Beyond continuous adjustment of the damping rates within the Normal and Sport modes, there are a number of software 'modules' that are programmed to react to complex vehicle behaviors, including:

  • Lane Change Module - Damper force is immediately increased in response to rapid steering movements, reducing body roll and instability during lane changes.

  • Vertical Control Module - Damper force may be reduced or increased with vertical changes, like long sweeping bumps (increased damping) or fast uneven pavement (reduced damping) to prevent instability or loss of traction.

  • © Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

    Lateral Acceleration Module - If specific speed dependent thresholds for lateral acceleration are exceeded in Normal mode, damper force is increased by different predefined amounts for each side of the vehicle, increasing stability and driving precision.

  • Braking Module - PASM increases damping resistance in response to braking to reduce vehicle nose dive and tail lift, increasing braking traction.

  • Load Change Module - Damper characteristics are individually altered for front and rear axles when accelerating heavily, releasing the throttle or changing lanes.  This module can reduce pitching or soften rear axle damping to increase acceleration traction.

Popular Misconceptions:

When the Cayman was first introduced in 2006, some automotive journalists reported that pressing the PASM button lowers the car by 10mm.  Activation of the system does not reduce the ride height.  PASM equipped Caymans are always 10mm lower than a standard Cayman.

Click to ZoomMany potential Cayman buyers make the incorrect assumption that the benefits of PASM could only be appreciated on the track. This is very far from true.  A PASM equipped Cayman in Normal Mode is a lot more comfortable when driven over rough pavement like that you would find on the street.  PASM provides benefits both on the street and on the track. 

Drawbacks:  

Whether you're looking to restore / maintain an older Cayman, or considering the installation of an aftermarket suspension system, PASM will limit your choices in replacement dampers. To preserve the functionality of the PASM system, dampers need to be replaced by either the original equipment Porsche dampers, or one of the Bilstein PSS DampTronic dampers (at the time of this writing, Bilstein offered 5 choices for PASM equipped Caymans). 

It is possible to install conventional dampers on a PASM car, but that would render the PASM system inoperative and it would result in a 'PASM Failure' error message.  If you're thinking that you'd like to build a track Cayman that sits on specialized custom dampers, you might be better off starting with a Cayman that has Standard Suspension.

Details:

  • Option Code: 475

  • Price (2006): $1,990

  • Available on: All Caymans except the Cayman R

  • Conflicts or Requirements: Requires Sport Package Plus on Cayman

More Information:

discussion  for "PASM" and show that contain results, or for current pricing and more information visit the Porsche website.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Porsche Composite Ceramic Brakes (PCCB)

Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB)
By Michael Souza, November 2011

Click image to enlarge.

The Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake System represents the absolute state of the art in friction braking.  This braking system is centered around four large ceramic reinforced carbon fiber composite brake rotors, but the upgrades don't stop at the rotors. PCCB also includes upgraded six piston monobloc calipers up front (the same calipers you'd find on a GT-3) and larger four piston monobloc calipers in the rear (the usual Cayman S front calipers), both of which utilize larger brake pads that offer more friction surface area (see table below). 

  Cayman Cayman S
(Big Red brakes)
PCCB
Front Rotors: 11.8" x 0.9"
(299mm x 24mm)
12.5" x 1.1"
(318mm x 28mm)
13.8" x 1.3"
(350mm x 34mm)
Front Pad: 8.3 sq-inches
(54 cm2)
9.61 sq-inch
(62 cm2)
17.36 sq-inch
(112 cm2)
Rear Rotors: 11.7" x 0.8"
(298mm x  20mm)
11.8" x 0.9"
(299mm x 24mm)
13.8" x 1.1"
(350mm x 28mm)
Rear Brake Pad: 7.44 sq-inches
(48 cm2)
7.44 sq-inches
(48 cm2)
9.61 sq-inch
(62 cm2)
Master Cylinder: 23.8mm piston
997.355.910.00
23.8mm piston
997.355.910.00
25.4mm piston
997.355.910.10

Benefits:

© Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

A test drive of a PCCB equipped Cayman would reveal that the PCCB feel very different than conventional brakes. The first thing you'll notice is significantly improved initial bite, particularly when cold or wet.  Continue to work the brakes hard and you'll find that they are pretty much impervious to fade. PCCB provides very consistent friction values.

Though improved feel and fade resistance are very important, the greatest benefit of PCCB is the fact that their rotors weigh approximately half as much as conventional cast iron rotors of the same size, significantly reducing the unsprung weight at each wheel.  Reducing unsprung and rotational weight will improve a Cayman's ability to maintain grip on rough surfaces, will improve both acceleration and deceleration and will allow the use of stiffer dampers without loss of comfort because the dampers and springs have less mass to control.

PCCB rotors have a much longer service life than conventional cast iron rotors and owners have reported that the PCCB brake pads create much less brake dust than conventional pads. 

PCCB calipers are easily recognizable by their bright yellow paint job as the next evolution to the 'Big Red' calipers of the past.  They look absolutely stunning inside a Cayman wheel and send a message that your Cayman is a very serious performance tool.

Drawbacks:

At $8,150 (2006 price), this is the most expensive option available on a Cayman. The cost of consumables (pads and rotors) is also very high. Brakes are wear items so don't expect warranty coverage.  For this reason, PCCB may not be the best choice for Caymans used on the race track where rotors and pads are consumed at an accelerated rate.

The selection of aftermarket brake pads and rotors for PCCB is limited, reducing the number of choices and options when replacements are needed.

Ceramic rotors are more fragile.  There is a chance of chipping one when changing wheels, which would require replacement, so extra care is required when changing wheels or brake pads.

Details:

  • Option Code: 450

  • Price: $8,150 (2006)

  • Available on: 2006 - up Cayman S and higher models

  • Conflicts or Requirements: None

More Information:

discussion  for "PCCB" and show that contain results, visit the Porsche website to learn more.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Porsche Sport Exhaust (PSE)

Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE)
By Michael Souza & Chuck Cinque, November 2011

A sports exhaust system – for a more resonant sound – is available as an option for each of the Cayman models. Though Porsche promises the Cayman flat-six will produce a "powerful acoustic presence" without it, they offer the option of a dual-mode sport exhaust system for customers who desire a more agressive tone, and the ability to calm things back down at the touch of a button - the best of both worlds.

If you want more sound, with a different character than the base option provides, but the idea of modifying your prized Cayman makes the hairs on the back of you neck stand up, well then the Porsche Sports Exhaust System might be for you.

The PSE option provides you with a modified baffle that is electronically controlled. There is a switch on the center console that controls two vacuum actuators in the baffle which allows the driver to select a 'Quiet' or 'Sport' sound at will. Selecting the 'Sport' sound will retune the baffle to give you a more robust sport car sound. In cars equipped with Sport-Chrono, control of this exhaust system is tied to the SC 'Sport' button.

This option became available for the 2007 model year Cayman and continues until today, also included in the package are stainless steel tailpipes with a hard chrome plated finish.

Benefits:

PSE nicely complements PASM and the Sport-Chrono System by adding one more layer of adaptability to a Cayman. If you would like to cruise down the highway in peace and quiet, no problem, just select the 'Quiet' mode. If you want to make a little noise and hear the engine sing, your wish is just a button push away.

Being an original equipment item, there aren't the same warranty issues that could possibly be created by fitting an aftermarket exhaust.

Click to Zoom
Click to Zoom

Drawbacks:

Many people who change their exhaust system do so to achieve power gains. Porsche does not claim an increase of one single horsepower by choosing this option, though they do list this option under the "Performance" heading. There are some that believe it does add power but that Porsche won't go on the record in regard to a promised increase for a variety of reasons.

In models equipped with PSE, the system automatically switches to quiet mode between 25-40 MPH to comply with certain noise emission requirements. Owners of those vehicles have found various ways to circumvent the 'quiet window', but this brings you right back to modifying your car and contradicts one of the reasons to buy such an option. With these two drawbacks in mind, many people would rather spend the money on an aftermarket system that will deliver more horsepower.

Details:

  • Option Code: XLF

  • Price (2006-2008): $2,100

  • Price (2009- Present): $2,500 - $2,810

© Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

More Information:

discussion  for "PSE" and show that contain results, or for current pricing and more information visit the Porsche website.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Seat Options

Seat Options
by Michael Souza, December 2011

There are really just a few connections between man and machine when talking about cars. If I asked a car person to list them, they'd  probably say "Steering wheel, shifter, hand controls and pedals..."  I would not be surprised if they did not list the seats, yet they are one of the most important connections.  The seats provide the greatest surface area in the man / machine interface. The proper seats can make a driver one with a car, they can help the car communicate movements, approaching limits and/or even mechanical problems.

Porsche has made several different seat options available on the Cayman models which really adds to the versatility and configurability of the cars.  Let's take a look at the options.

Sport Seats
Option Code:
P79 / 2012 Price: $800 or $2,825 w/full leather

Click image to enlarge.The Sport seats are the least expensive seat option in the Cayman, and arguably one of the best values on the option list (costing only $400 in 2006).  They provide the same type of adjustments as the Standard Seats, which includes a manual adjustment for for/aft position, a pump lever for seat height / seat bottom angle and an electric adjuster for seat back angle. These are sometimes referred to as "Barber Chairs" in the Porsche world because of the pump action required to change their height. It's important to understand that with these mechanical seats the height and seat bottom angle are not independently adjustable.  As you raise or lower the seat, the angle changes with it.  

Where the Sport seats differ is in their shape and construction.  The Sport Seats are constructed with firmer materials.  Their shape is much different, with a deeper dish for the seat bottom and a wider, deeper seat back with widened shoulder bolsters.  The Sport Seats get a hard plastic back, painted in volcano grey from 2006-2008, and all seating surfaces are real leather, unlike the standard seats.

Click image to enlarge.Sports Seats add a very sporty feel to any Cayman and they do a pretty nice job of keeping a driver in position during high G force maneuvers.  However, they may not be right for everyone.  If you're a bigger person, you might want to test them before committing.  On long rides (> 8 hours), the inability to be able to change your position in the seats can cause fatigue.  For moderate touring and sport driving, these seats are fantastic.

Power Seats
Option Code: P
15 / 2012 Price: $1,550 or $3,935 w/full leather

The Power Seats provide a Cayman driver with the same luxury and comfort as the standard seats, but with power seats owners gain some obvious and some not so obvious benefits. 

On the obvious side you get electric adjustment of the for/aft position, front and rear seat height (which allows you to adjust seat bottom angle independent of height) and seat back angle.  On the not so obvious side, a Cayman equipped with power seats also gains adjustable lumbar support, seat adjustment memory and auto dipping of the right side rear view mirror when the reverse gear is selected, which can be very helpful when parallel parking.

Adaptive Sport Seats
Option Code: P01 / 2006 Price: $3,055 or $5,080 w/full leather

© Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

If you can't decide between the Sporty feel and connection of the Sport Seats and the nice functionality, luxury and comfort of the Power Seats, then the Adaptive Sport seats might be right for you. They combine all of the benefits of two prior seats plus they add inflatable bolster control. But it doesn't stop there.  The Adaptive Sport Seats also have electronic adaptability so you don't have to spend weeks trying to fine tune the seat settings.  Just jump in, drive the car  and the adaptive system will figure out the most comfortable and effective bolster and lumbar settings for you. 

These seats are the perfect solution for the Cayman enthusiasts that wants the best of all worlds, comfort, luxury and sport.  But be prepared to pay, these seats are not cheap.  In 2006, this option was one of the most expensive options on the list. 

Sport Bucket Seats
Option Code:
--- / 2012 Price: $2,990 or $5,350 w/full leather

Click image to enlarge.In 2011 a fourth seat option became available in Caymans. The Sport Bucket Seats were intended to be a pure sport seat.  They are made of beautiful lightweight materials including fiberglass and carbon fiber, shaving 26 lbs out of a Cayman.  They also provide cut outs for racing harnesses.  A driver truly sits in these seats, in the same way a fighter pilot sits in an aircraft seat.  They are not the easiest to get in and out of and they provide only one adjustment, a mechanical for/aft position adjustment.  Clearly these seats won't be right for everyone, but for the hard core track enthusiast it just doesn't get any better than this.  In usual Porsche fashion of 'less is more', be prepared to spend big bucks on these seats if you want them, but don't miss the value proposition.

Most track junkies (and I use that term lovingly) will end up spending $5,000 - $10,000 on a set of aftermarket racing seats.  Those seats generally don't provide the same comfort and fit and finish that you'll find in the genuine Porsche Sport Buckets.  More importantly, I don't know of a single racing seat that contains side impact air bags.  The Porsche Sport buckets do, which means you'll be safer and you won't need to have your air bag system reprogrammed to resolve the air bag system failure that you'll get with aftermarket seats.  If you see a lot of track time in your future, you'd be crazy not to seriously consider these seats at time of purchase.

Important Note: These are big boy seats.  They are NOT compatible with child seat restraints and are not recommended when a child safety seat is required.   

More Information:

discussion  for "Seats" and show that contain results, or for current pricing and more information visit the Porsche website.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Sport Chrono Package

Sport Chrono Package (SC)
By Michael Souza, November 2011

Like PASM, the truth about the Sport Chrono Package has eluded many automotive journalist, many of whom have suggested that this feature is nothing more than an expensive stop watch.  Sport Chrono is much, much more than a watch.

Click image to enlarge.True, the Sport Chrono package does include an analog stopwatch mounted in the center of the dash top.  That stopwatch can be used to time anything, including lap times.  A digital read out of the clock's results can be read in the instrument cluster, which is much easier to read and provides resolution down to 1/100th of a second.  This stopwatch is one of the benefits of the Sport Chrono package, but it's probably the least significant benefit.

Click image to enlarge.Like PASM, Sport Chrono provides a Sport button that lets you have your cake and eat it too.  With the Sport Chrono Sport Mode off, a Cayman is calm and gentle, easy to drive and forgiving.  Turn the Sport Mode on and many characteristics of the car take on an aggressive and sporty feel. Among the changes are (depending on equipment):

  • Improved Throttle Response

  • Increased PSM Intervention Limits

  • The Soft Rev Limiter is replaced with a Hard Rev Limiter proving full power to redline

  • PASM changes to its Sport Mode (if equipped)

  • TipTronic S or PDK switch to sporty shifting maps (if equipped)

  • Porsche Sport Exhaust is changed to its Sport Mode (if equipped)

  • Launch Control (on PDK equipped cars, 2009 - up)

Understanding Rev Limiters:

© Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

A rev limiter is a safety device that cuts fuel, ignition or both at a specified RPM to prevent an engine from continuing to rev beyond safe mechanical limits. Because hitting a hard rev limiter can be uncomfortable for the driver and hard on the car, Caymans come with a 'Soft Rev Limiter'. A Soft Rev Limiter reduces power output by adjusting ignition timing as the engine approaches the cut off RPM. As the ignition timing is retarded and power drops off, the resulting feel of power loss signals the driver that it's time to shift. If a driver ignores this, ignition timing is retarded further until the rev limit is reached, at which point the resulting cut off is much 'softer' because the engine is not being cycled on and off between full power and no power.

A Hard Rev Limiter does nothing until the engine reaches the predefined engine speed, at which point fuel and ignition are shut off. This can be very abrupt and hard on the power train as the engine cycles on and off, but this type of rev limiter will provide the most power and acceleration, all the way to redline.  This is how the rev limiter behaves when SC Sport mode is selected.

Sport Chrono Plus Package:

Caymans equipped with the optional Porsche Communication Management (PCM) can be equipped with the "Sport Chrono Plus Package". This is the same as the Sport Chrono package shown above plus extra electronic integration with the PCM display. That integration allows users to record, store and review lap times for each individual driver.

Click image to enlarge.

Sport Plus Mode:

Click image to enlarge.Not to be confused with the Sport Chrono Plus Package, Sport Plus mode is an extra Sport Chrono mode available only on Caymans that are equipped with Sport Chrono and PDK.  When Sport Plus mode is selected, the PDK transmission will deliver the following enhancements:

  • 1st Gear is always used from a stop

  • 7th Gear will NOT be selected at any time

  • Upshifts are not delivered until 7,300 RPM

  • Downshifts are delivered at 4,500 RPM

This shift strategy provides lightning fast full performance shifting that would be impossible to duplicate with any other technology.  This is ideal for performance or track driving.  Set the Sport Plus Mode, forget about shifting and focus on your turn in and braking points.

Drawbacks:

Using the Sport Chrono sport mode increases your chances of hitting the rev limiter as the hard rev limiter gives no warning that you are reaching the top of the rev range.

Details:

  • Sport Chrono Package

    • Option Code: 639

    • Price: $920 (2006-2008), $960 (2009-up)
       

  • Sport Chrono Plus Package

    • Option Code: 640

    • Price: $920 (2006-2008), $960 (2009-up)

More Information:

discussion  for "Chrono" and show that contain results, or for current pricing and more information visit the Porsche website.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
By Michael Souza, November 2011

TPMS is an electronic system that can report real time individual tire pressures to the driver of a Cayman.  It will also provide a warning in the instrument cluster if a tire's pressure falls below a safe threshold.

TPMS communicates the exact pressure of each tire and/or their deviation from ideal pressure.  This does away with the need for regular air pressure checks at the service station, which often prove highly inconvenient.

© Copyright Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG July 2006

Additionally, having the correct air pressure reduces tire wear (a deficiency in pressure of 0.3 bar (4.4psi) and can reduce the service life of tires by up to 25%). Driving on under inflated tires also results in increased fuel consumption.

TPMS is a valuable safety device that can be of great value when you're driving around on expensive wheels and tires with no spare tire or jack.

Accuracy:

Many have suggested that TPMS is not as accurate as a good quality hand held tire gauge.  This is normal because TPMS delivers an absolute pressure instead of a relative pressure, which can fluctuate with atmospheric conditions. When using a tire pressure gauge to measure ambient pressure, environmental conditions can introduce up to a 15% variability in tire pressure due to temperature and altitude variations. TPMS also adds correction based on temperature.  Therefore, TPMS readings may be significantly different from those delivered by a hand held tire pressure gauges.

TPMS is not intended to be a replacement of your hand held tire pressure gauge.  It's intended to be a safety device that can alert you of a dangerous drop in tire pressure.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

Drawbacks:

Using tire pressures outside of those recommended by Porsche may deliver a 'Flat Tire' warning.  For example, if a Cayman is used on the track it will be necessary to release about 8 psi from each tire to reach the proper tire pressures when hot.  In this situation, the TPMS will be very unhappy and will report a false flat tire.

There are different versions of TPMS and the radio frequencies used by the system vary from country to country. When installing TPMS sensors into your wheels, it is very important that you select sensors that are compatible with your vehicle. 

The TPMS system cannot be disabled.

Details:

  • Option Code: 482

  • Price: $590 option in 2006, Standard equipment from 2007 up on all US Caymans.

More Information:

discussion  for "TPMS" and show that contain results, or for current pricing and more information visit the Porsche website.

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.


Tourist Delivery

Tourist Delivery (aka European Delivery)
by Michael Souza, November 2011

Description:

Tourist Delivery is an option that allows Porsche buyers to take delivery of their new Porsche at the Porsche Factory in Zuffenhausen Germany and then drive it around Europe before it's sent to its new home country. 

The Tourist Delivery process is a bit complex.  Educating yourself on it can eliminate many surprises and make the experience more enjoyable.

Benefits:

Click image to enlarge.Imagine visiting the Porsche Museum, then crossing the street to pick up your new Porsche.  Imagine driving your new Porsche on the Autobahn, through the Swiss or Italian Alps, or on the world famous Nürburgring race track.  Imagine showing your car to your friends back home and being able to say that you picked it up at the factory in Germany and drove it at 150 mile per hour legally. 

Incredible scenic roads, highways with no speed limits, the world famous race tracks, European food and drink and a vacation in which you get to know and drive your new Porsche.  It doesn't get much better than that. Tourist Delivery will be the trip of a lifetime for most Porsche enthusiasts.  There is no better way to explore Europe than in your own brand new Porsche.

Drawbacks:

There will be lots of waiting, a hefty VAT deposit, break in on the autobahn and holes in your front bumper. (To drive your car in Europe you will need to have two license plates on your car.  There is no way around this.  Your front bumper WILL be drilled.)

What's Included in Tourist Delivery:

  • Transport of your car from the factory in Uusikaupunki Finland to the Factory in Zuffenhausen Germany (2006 - 2010)

  • Preparation of your car for street use in Europe

  • Temporary European registration and license plates (yours to keep as souvenirs after your trip)

  • Appropriate Insurance Coverage for your vehicle during your trip (16 days included - US insurance is void in the EU)

  • Legally required First Aid Kit and Emergency Triangles (yours to keep)

  • Lunch passes for 2 to Porsche's Executive Dining Lounge (5 star dining room)

  • Transport of you car from Zuffenhausen to your home dealership

  • One night hotel accommodation in Stuttgart.  There are 3 different hotels to choose from, all first class..

  • Reimbursement for your transportation between the hotel and the factory.

  • A full tank of gasoline. (That's a value of >$120 in Germany)

Important Considerations:

If you want to take advantage of tourist delivery, there are several things to consider: 

  • You can only request Tourist Delivery on a purchased vehicle.  This option is not available on leased vehicle. 

  • You will need to order your vehicle several months (at least 3) before your desired delivery date.

  • Your car must be paid for (either by cash or auto loan) 45 days before your delivery date.

  • You will need to post a refundable $10,000 deposit to cover the German VAT tax.

  • Your car will take 6-8 weeks to make it's journey home.  Be prepared for an excruciating wait.

Preparation for Tourist Delivery:

  • Approximately one month before your delivery date you will receive a tourist delivery package.  This will contain a welcome letter explaining the process, a voucher for a nights stay in one of three different hotels, a map of the Stuttgart area, a brochure about the Factory Tour and the Porsche Museum.

  • It's important to have a cell phone on a trip like this.  Call your cell service provider before your trip to inquire about your phone's ability to work in Europe and any applicable international calling fees or needed international plans.  If your cell phone doesn't work in Europe, you can rent one that does. 

  • There are a lot of insects in the German country side.  It would be a real good idea to come prepared.  Bring some speed shine,  windshield cleaner, bug remover, car wash and some micro fiber towels with you.

  • The Steigneberger Graf Zeppelin (one of the hotels you can choose) is a 5 start hotel that is located right above a train station that provides convenient transport to/from the airport.  There is also a very nice city center with lots of nice shops and good food within walking distance.

  • Will you be bringing a portable navigation device?  If so, make sure you have European Maps loaded into it.

  • Call your credit card company and let them know you will be making charges in Europe.  Otherwise, they may flag your unusual activity as fraud and shut your card down.  Program their international customer service phone number into your phone just in case you need it (not the 1-800 number, that won't work from Europe).

Once you're in Germany:

  • Make sure you program the phone number for Porsche Road Side Assistance into your telephone before you leave the factory.  Cars can break, and if yours does you will be very happy that you prepared for it.

  • You will want to switch your speedometer to km/h.  You can learn how to do this on page 94 & 134-135 of the 2007 Owners Manual.

  • Pay attention to German speed limit signs.  When there is a speed limit, the Germans take it very seriously.  There are many photo radar cameras around the country and they will ticket you for as little as 5 km/h over the limit.  Passing on the right is strictly prohibited.  Never do this.

  • Gas stations are not nearly as plentiful in Germany as they are in the U.S.A..  If you're low on gas and you see a gas station, fuel up.  You can literally drive 30 miles before you see another one.

  • Pay attention at the fuel pumps.  Leaded fuel is still available in Europe and if you put it into your car Porsche will not allow it to leave the country until the car has been repaired at your expense.

  • Click image to enlarge.There is a Coin Operated Self Wash just 2 blocks away from the factory where you can wash your car before your return it ('Gottfried Keller Strasse' Longitude:9.15945E / Latitude:48.83512 N). 

  • Your car will have a long journey home, and although the chances of it being damaged are very small, if it is damaged it will be hard to determine if you caused it or if they did.  Once you're back in the Porsche parking lot, completely unload your car, take pictures of your odometer showing mileage and time and take a wide angle shot of the surrounding area so there is no disputing when and where you took the pictures.  Then take pictures of every exterior panel, the front spoiler lips, your seats, your glove box opened (so you can see the contents), your cargo net, your empty trunk and hatch, your wheels, etc....

Questions and Answers:

Do I have to buy my car in Germany if I want to do tourist delivery?

No.  You buy your car at your local dealership and request this option.  This is where you will pick up your car after tourist delivery, and this will be your dealership for support and service.

Will I save money by taking advantage of Tourist Delivery?

No.  Contrary to popular belief, Porsche Tourist Delivery actually costs more money.  $2,250 more to be exact.

I'm an ace negotiator.  What kind of discount can I expect to negotiate on tourist delivery.

Don't take it personal, but Porsche will NOT discount the tourist delivery option by even one dollar.  You may be able to get a discount on your car and every other option, but be prepared to pay full price for this one.

Does Porsche provide a discount on airfare?

Kind of.  They have partnered with Lufthansa to get you a regular coach fare with no restrictions.  But if you shop around you are likely to find a much better price on a restricted ticket from your favorite airline.  Ask your sales specialist for more information.

Why do I have to post a $10,000 deposit?  What is a VAT?

In Germany, cars are not subject to normal sales tax.  They are subject to a Value Added Tax (VAT).  That's similar to a sales tax, but instead of a simple percentage, there are different tiers of tax based on a car's value.  If you bought a Cayman in Germany you would need to pay this tax and it would be about $10,000.  If your car doesn't leave Germany, Porsche will have to pay this tax as if you bought the car there.  For this reason Porsche insists that you provide a security deposit.  Once your car clears customs in the United States (or your home country), the deposit is refunded (with a small amount of interest).

When will I get my VAT deposit back?

Typically within 30 days of your car's arrival in the USA.

I don't have an international drivers license.  Can I drive in Europe?

Yes, the European Union recognizes most driver's license as valid permission to drive in Europe.

I can't speak German.  How will I communicate with people in Germany?

English is a required study from grade 6 to 13 in Germany.  Almost all Germans can speak fluent English and are happy to try.

Click image to enlarge.I want to check out of my hotel room on the day of my delivery.  Can I bring my luggage to the factory?

Yes.  There is a locker room in the New Car Delivery Area with lockers of various sizes.  You can store your bags here while taking the factory tour, visiting the museum, eating lunch and/or taking delivery of your car.  Bring a couple of One Euro Coins with you and ask the receptionists if they'd show you to the locker room.  You will need to insert a coin into the back of the locking mechanism.  This will allow you to lock the locker and take the key.  When you return the key to the locker, you will get your coin back. 

My wife loves to shop.  Can we leave her shopping spree acquisitions in our car so we don't have to take them on the plane?

Only if you never want to see them again.  The port will remove all items that do not belong in the car because all items entering the country need to be declared through customs.  (They even took my CD out of the radio.)

I was hoping to drive to Italy and tour the country but I only have 2 weeks.  Do I need to take my car all the way back to Zuffenhausen when I'm done?

No.  There are many drop off points around Europe where you can leave your car, for an additional fee of course.  Take a look at the Alternative Drop Off Point list.

I really don't want holes in my bumper.  Can I provide Porsche with a tow hook mounted license plate holder?

No.  They can not and will not mount any accessory onto a vehicle unless it is TÜV certified.

Once back home I don't plan to use a front license plate.  I really don't want to see those holes in my bumper.  Do I have any other options?

Yes.  Bumper plugs cost only $24.95.  They look a lot better than holes and if anyone ever says, "What are those", you will be invited to tell them all about your adventure and how you drove your car in Germany where a front license plate is required. 

Click image to enlarge.Speaking of license plates, I saw a picture of those cool little European plates that they put on the cars over there.  Is there any way I can take them home as souvenirs?

You're in luck.  The license plates are yours to keep, but they must remain on your car until it clears customs. 

Make sure that your salesperson knows that you will be expecting your Tourist Delivery license plates when you pick up your car.

I'd love to tour the Alps, but I have no idea where to start.  Any suggestions?

Buy the book titled 'Motorcycle Journeys Through the Alps and Corsica' by John Herman.  It contains lots of great suggestions for great drives through the Alps (Southern Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France).

You mentioned that they will give me emergency triangles and a first aid kit.  Why? 

It's a legal requirement in Germany that all cars contain these items.  In European Porsches, there are holders on top of the tool kit that hold the emergency triangles.  If you'd like to store your triangles this way, you can order the following parts from one of our sponsors for under $10. (997.551.801.00.02A , 997.551.802.00.02A , 999.073.362.09 x 2) (Special thanks to S.3G for sharing this info.)

Details:

  • Option Code: TD5

  • Price: $2,250 (2007)

  • Conflicts or Requirements: Purchased Car, Prepaid VAT Deposit

More Information:

discussion  for "European Delivery" and show that contain results, visit the Porsche website to learn more.

Available Files:


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Acknowledgement
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Alternate Drop
Off Locations

*Photographs and Videos property of Porsche AG, used under license by the PCA Cayman Register.



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