Is it just me or is my 997 C2S nervous ?

[Guest]

I've had my 997 C2S for about 5 months now and still can't really get use to the twitchyness of the front end. It always feels a bit light. First I thought it might be the tyre preassure but those are set correctly. I originally had a Boxster and that felt so much more planted at the front and inspired far more confidence. Sure, the C2S has bags more performance and perhaps I should expect some characteristic lightness from the font end with a rear engined car. Has anyone else been a bit (dare I say) "dissapointed" with this element of the driving experience or do you think my car just needs a different set up ? Can anyone suggest a good garage in the Guildford area (the OPC there seems always to be a bit too busy to spend time with me) I can get the set up right with ? Incidentally I lent the car to friend for two weeks whilst I went on holiday and though he was delighted to be driving the car ....... guess what he mentioned when he returned the car........... "are they all this light at the front ?"

 

[Andy Tims]

1) Are you sure your running the correct tyre pressures?
2) If so, it must be worth either trying another car to compare, or getting the OPC to check it.
3) If your car is "normal" it may just be that your not used to it. Maybe a driver training day on an airfield to get used to the handling would help.

All 911's are light at the front compared to front engined cars, but the 997 has to have the most "mainstream" handling yet.

 

[Rob Edwards]

Hi
Having also bought a 997S after a succession of boxsters (and older 911 and 944), I agree that the front end does indeed feel markedly lighter than the Boxster.
This was also noticeable in my older 911SC, especially under acceleration, so I accepted this 'lightness' as 911 trait. Presumably, it is something to do with the physics of engine at back under acceleration 'lifting' the weight over the front axle. My old 911 used to characteristically 'bob' at the front, which I found rather idiosyncratic rather than a worry.
I have driven my 997S with a great deal of vigour, and I can assure you that providing you don't do something really silly, there is always sufficient grip at the front, despite the lightness. Think of it more as 'delicacy' of steering rather than a flaw. I would suggest that if your pressures and suspension are at factory setting, go for a commited blat around a track or airfield - you'll be surprised at how much grip you have at the front, and this might assuage any worries you have and give you confidence in your 911 again.
If you want to see just how far Porsche have come over the past 30 yrs, try and older 911 on the track - pitch it in carrying too much speed and just before the apex, lift off the accelerator or hit the brakes for good measure (ensuring a nice uninterrupted gravel run off area) and once you've got your bearings back and undone your bicycle clips to 'vent your angst', you'll appreciate the solidity and safety of todays 911 - I know, I was best friends with a hedge in my 911SC once![&:]
Enjoy the 'scientific' research out there on the track!![]
Rob

 

[Guest]

Thanks Rob et al. I think its just a case of adapting to a car with an uncovnetional engine configuration. AS suggested I think some time on a track is going to give me a better idea of how the car performs and instill some confidence that way. My other thought is to run the car with 18" wheels. Supposedly the 996/997 runs better on 18 " but that did'nt stop Porsche producing the GT3 with 19" wheels. There again might try a C4S. Good to know that even when you buy your dream car, theres still room for improvement !!!!!!

 

[Guest]

Actually, can anyone suggest a suitable school for one on one tuition and then some time on a track ? (accessible from London W1 or the Guildford area). Someone mentioned that there are some aerodromes in Surrey, any ideas ??

 

[robert997]

Henkus, try Bernard Aubry - www.bernardaubry.com - he is a true gent and been tutoring Porsche drivers for more than 25 years. He was the Porsche Driving Instructors' driving instructor, if you know what I mean, as well as the Police Surrey Driver Trainer. He's based in West Sussex but runs his courses at Chobham in Surrey on a private airfield (M25 J11). And he gives a discount for the PCGB members. Check-out his website, give him a call and tell him I sent you - you won't be disappointed.
Rob

 

[NicD]

Our GT3 is no lighter at the front than our Boxster S, sticks like glue. I dont see it as just engine placement. Note, they both have been aligned to road/track settings, with sticky Corsa R tyres on the GT3.

I would recomend you get a full chassis alignment done by Parr or JZ Machtech.

 

[Guest]

I've got Michelins on my 997 C2S and it does tend to understeer if you're really pushing on through a roundabout, but apart from that it's no more of a handful than my 2002 Boxster S was...

Except it can be a bit tail happy in the rain...[]