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Turbo Wheels and Tires
I have a 2002 Porsche Turbo X50 Tiptronic. Can you recommend a wheel and tire package that is lighter than stock? I just ordered the ceramic break upgrade and an ECU upgrade. Will the reduction in unsprung weight really make noticeable difference to the feel of the car?
T.J.
via the Internet
Although I'm not sure of your tastes in wheel style, for performance I'd recommend either three-piece BBS or Fikse wheels. I have been happy with the Toyo Proxes T1-S every time I've tried them. As for the ceramic brakes, unless you're taking this car on the track or slamming on the brakes repeatedly corner after corner, I don't think you're going to notice much of a difference. The stock brakes on the 996 are pretty damn good. I would think you'll get more feedback from the upgraded tires, assuming the tires you now run are not very good.
70s 911
I really enjoyed your articles about the Project 911S. I'm interested in purchasing a Porsche 911 from the 1970s. I'm looking to restore it to street condition for my own personal enjoyment, so I will probably throw in a few performance modifications just for fun. Do you have any recommendations on where to begin shopping for this type of vehicle? What models from the 1970s would you recommend? Is there anything specific to 70s 911s I should look for when I find a model?
Shane Henderson
Mckinney, TX
First, you should decide which type of 911 you're looking for. The 70s cars can be broken down into three distinct groups: the early cars 1969-1973, the mid-70s 1974-1977, and the later cars made from 1978 onward. Which is the right car is a personal choice, although I would shy away from the mid-decade cars as they were not the best Porsche offered. They had several engine problems along with fit and finish issues.I could write endlessly on the differences of the early cars compared to the later versions (and some people think I do), but the best thing for you to do is to invest in several buyers guides for the 911. One of the best is Patrick Paternie's book Porsche 911 Red Book 1965-1999. Another is Randy Leffingwell's Porsche 911 Buyer's Guide. These books will arm you with a wealth of knowledge.As for locating a car, join your local chapter of the Porsche Club of America. They will be able to hook you into the Porsche market across the country.