I drove the Porsche 911 50th Anniversary model! Thorough explanation of the differences from the same 991 GTS

Porsche 911 50th Anniversary (991 first half)
Reviews & Test Rides

The 50th anniversary model of the 911 (991 model) was introduced in 2013.

Officially called the "911 50th Anniversary Edition," this model is,Limited to 1,963 units worldwideThis is a rare special model. I had a chance to drive this car and would like to describe my impression of it in detail.

Distinctive exterior of the 50th anniversary model

Although based on the Carrera S, the 50th anniversary model has special equipment throughout.
The first thing that catches the eye are the 20-inch special wheels.Design based on the legendary Hooks wheeland is characterized by its matte black coloring and polished center section. This wheel design is favored by many Porsche owners as an important symbolic element of the 911's history.

Exclusive exterior colors include,Graphite Gray and Geyser Gray MetallicThe latter is the color used in this case. This particular model is the latter, and can be said to be the forerunner of the crayon colors that have become popular in recent years. Black monochrome is also available, but the exclusive color is more distinctive of the 50th anniversary model.

At the rear end, the engine compartment grille fins have a chrome finish, giving it a classic look.This chrome shine is an exquisite accent to the modern design, bringing the 911 of yesteryear to life.The "911 50" is a special model with a two-tone emblem. In addition, the two-tone emblem is engraved with the words "911 50" to assert that it is a special model.

Signs of the commemorative model scattered throughout the interior

The interior space also has specifications that distinguish it from regular models.
The instrument panel has a design reminiscent of models from 50 years ago. Compared to my 991, the atmosphere around the meters is quite different.

In addition to the green indexes and white hands, the hands have silver caps on the pivots. This meter design retains the genes of the classic 911 in its modern precision.

Meter for Porsche 911 50th Anniversary (early 991)

The seats feature a classic pepita-pattern design (staggered plaid). This design was also a precursor to the heritage design of today's 911. The fabric is not only visually pleasing, but also provides a high quality finish with comfort in mind.
Individual serial numbers are engraved on the cup holder panels, giving the limited edition car a special touch.

Difference in ride quality with 991 Carrera 4 GTS

I usually drive a 991 Carrera 4 GTS, and I was surprised at how different it felt from this 50th anniversary model, even though it is the same 991 early model.
The most noticeable difference is the ride.While the GTS has a much tighter suspension, the 50th Anniversary model has a more supple and milder ride. This characteristic will be a great advantage for long distance driving and daily use.

Interior of Porsche 911 50th Anniversary (early 991)

Originally, the Carrera S of the first half of the 991 generation gave the impression of a wonderfully comfortable ride, but when compared again, the Carrera S-based 50th anniversary model has a mild finish that is very pleasing to the eye.

The engine sound is also clearly more assertive in the GTS. In particular, because my GTS is rear seat-less, there is less soundproofing material and the sound comes in more directly, but the 50th anniversary model has an elegant and calm sound quality. The fact that the sound quality is always refined from idling to high RPM range is not overbearing and can be used in any situation.

Difference between RR and 4WD personalities

The difference in drive system also has a significant impact on driving quality: the GTS's 4WD has a massive feel that grips the road surface firmly, whereas the 50th anniversary model's RR is lighter around the front and easier to maneuver. This characteristic makes a big difference, especially in city driving.

The behavior of the 50th Anniversary model is also contrasting: while the GTS has a powerful acceleration, the 50th Anniversary model has a smoother and more linear acceleration feel. feel.

Porsche 911 50th Anniversary (991 first half)

The impression around town is really similar to that of a high-quality sedan. Despite the same wheels and tires of the same size, the smoothness of the rolling feel is more pronounced than that of the GTS. the GTS is great for driving around alone on mountain roads, but frankly, it is not a date car. However, the 50th anniversary car has a comfortable ride, good sound, and smooth acceleration feel that can be used for date night.

This felt more differently tuned than I expected.

Rediscovering the appeal of the 991 Carrera S

There is also a clear difference when the Sport mode or Sport exhaust is activated, with the GTS sounding more loud and bubbly. However, this does not necessarily indicate the superiority of the GTS. Rather,The high quality and calm characteristics of the 50th anniversary model may be more indicative of the true value of the original 911 as a sports car that can be used on a daily basis.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

Experiencing these differences reaffirmed for me the position of the Carrera S in the early 991 model range. The Carrera S, with its perfect balance of everyday handling and high performance, would be an ideal choice for many Porsche drivers. The Carrera S, especially in this early 991 model, is the most complete of all previous-generation 911s, offering a good balance of reliability, comfort, and adequate performance.

If you have the next opportunity to choose 991,I would consider the Carrera S.I guess. This car embodies the essence of the 911 to such an extent that my encounter with the 50th anniversary model brought me to this realization.

Two shots of the 911's 40th and 50th anniversary cars

Two shots of the 911's 40th and 50th anniversary cars

Hiro

I am Mina's husband. We don't drive cars for fashion or status symbols. We like cars that are fun to drive, are good industrial products, and have a sense of the maker's intention...

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