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Boxster S 550 Spyder Anniversary Edition


Swoxy
06-28-2004, 10:24 AM
http://www.rsportscars.com/foto/04/boxsterse04_01.jpg

Taken from here (http://www.auto123.com/en/info/news/roadtest,view,Porsche.spy?artid=18907&pg=2).

While obviously much more advanced, the new 550 Spyder mirrors the original mid-engine, two-seat, lightweight design, once again with unbeatable driving dynamics. Set to make its debut at the Detroit show and hit the showrooms by March of '04, the modern-day speedster will have a limited run of just 1,953 models.

Porsche has subtly tweaked the exterior of the regular Boxster S to create a distinctive car, not too wild or too bold. Aside from its dark silver metallic paint scheme, this Boxster S has a few specific details to differentiate it from others. Body-color intake vents on the car's rear fenders are included as a part of the package, as are painted 18-inch alloy wheels; they are borrowed from the 911 Carrera. Litronic xenon-beam headlamps that feature a powerful wash/wipe system are also included in this special edition Porsche.

Exterior aside, the biggest change is under its midsection decklid. Though Porsche still relies on its 3.2 liter horizontally-opposed six-cylinder engine, power has been increased marginally for that extra bit of kick. We're not talking anything major, just an improvement of 8 horsepower to 266. The massaged engine's torque figure remains the same at 229 lb-ft.

Part of the reason behind the newfound output is its updated exhaust system, featuring a specially-designed, short-pipe unit crafted of top-spec polished stainless steel. Aside from giving a meaner exhaust note, its unique tail pipe adds visual flair. These upgrades allow for a slight edge in straight-line performance for the 50th Anniversary over the regular S at 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, topping out at 266 km/h for the six-speed manual, and 6.4 seconds, and 264 km/h for the Tiptronic variant.

Much like the original 550 Spyder, the Boxster is one of the most nimble cars available when it comes to tackling twisting roads. Racetracks or curvy mountain passes, this anniversary model only enhances the already competent Boxster S package. Porsche has widened the track by 10 mm while its ride height has been lowered by 10 mm. With improved springs and adjusted damping rates road holding capabilities reportedly go up, turn in is said to become sharper, while roll, pitch and dive decrease. The adjustments to the suspension work hand in hand with the car's short throw shifter. With throws on the six-speed gearbox decreased by 15 percent, changes can be made more quickly. For those who order a Tiptronic-equipped car, there are steering-wheel mounted controls to change gears.

http://www.rsportscars.com/foto/04/boxsterse04_02.jpg

http://www.rsportscars.com/foto/04/boxsterse04_03.jpg

http://www.rsportscars.com/foto/04/boxsterse04_inter.jpg

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