Swapping radio and heater controls around

[simonf]

Hi,

I am thinking of installing the Porsche Classic Radio Navi unit that was released by Porsche fairly recently. I will go into my 2003 986, and replace the cdr23.

However, the screen is quite small so I would like to position the unit higher, so that it can be more easily seen. It is single DIN - does anyone know if it is possible to swap the heater/aircon controls around so that they sit beneath the radio, and the radio sits on top? I know you can move the heater/aircon controls to lower part of the central console, where I currently have two cubby holes, but I don't want to do this.

The Porsche unit can be seen here:

http://www.porsche.com/uk/accessoriesandservice/classic/news/classicnews/?pool=uk&id=2010-11-04-classic

Anyone put one in a 986?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Geoff_Fields]

Not sure that the retro look unit would look right in your more modern interior? But it's your choice. Another issue is what about future map updates? Porsche don't exactly have a good rep in that department. Check on update prices and availability first.

 

[simonf]

Yes, initially I thought that too, but I have seen the unit and it doesn't look that retro in the flesh. I think it will look OK but I am worried about the fact that some 993 owners have mentioned that the unit sticks out a bit - it is not flush with the dash. That could be a problem for me.

 

[zorbs]

Hi

I have been advised by Reading OPC that it will not fit in a 986. It fits up to 986 but not including. I was going for it as it is very reasonably priced but was told it will not fit my 2003 986.

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

I can't see any reason why you couldn't fit one in a 986, unless you have a MY2003- MOST equipped car, which would make it more tricky.

Personally, I think it would look quite wrong though. A better bet IMO would be a Becker unit, if you can find one.

 

[simonf]

Yes, there is some confusion regarding model compatibility. The press ads say it is compatible with models up to and including 986 and 996. My local OPC has confirmed this and are due to fit the unit next week. However, I won't be fully convinced either until the unit is in the car.

I'll keep you updated...

 

[simonf]

After trying to fit the unit today, Bristol OPC did a U-Turn and decided it would not fit a post 2002 986. So those that have MOST. No real surprise but I wish they had confirmed this before they had my car for the day and caused me to drive 300 miles to and from the dealership. It wasn't as if I hadn't asked them to check (again and again).