This Is The One
by David Morgan (10 Dec 07)

The Porsche 911 Carrera 2S is a masterclass in performance automotive engineering. This 997 model adds up to perfection in a classical teardrop with an audio soundtrack from its tuned flat-six 3.8-litre heart that makes its radio totally redundant.

I was lucky enough to lay my hands on a test car complete with £8241 worth of Power Upgrade technology to lift its already serious 355bhp to a heady 381bhp at 7200rpm. It's as fine an example of Teutonic precision as you are likely to see on a public road – with one possible exception.

Earlier this year a tangible threat to my all-time favourite performance car appeared on the scene - Audi's beautiful R8 quattro - and challenged my Porsche 911 loyalty. Both are remarkable cars – thoroughly engineered, impeccably built, a delight to drive and very expensive.

But while the R8 is another stunning sub-£100,000 German supercar with V8 power and four-wheel drive that brings a inner glow to my heart, I can tell you that a week with the rear-drive 911 2S has proved once again that only the Porsche can stir my driving soul.

Even in standard guise with 355bhp and a £68,750 price tag the 911 is a memorable car - but with the Power Upgrade kit and £10,133 of other Porsche options the £87,124 model I had on test added up to an impressive GT. Forget its ludicrous 186mph top speed, skin-tingling 4.6-second sprint from rest to 62mph and teeth-loosening, board-like ride in grunty Sport mode - the 2S is an immaculate joy to drive even at a more acceptable pace.

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