The 10 Best Porsche Models of the Noughties
The Noughties, also known as the decade from the year 2000 through 2009 delivered some of the most remarkable models in the history of Porsche. While they can’t quite compete with some of the vintage masterpieces, there is little doubt that in time they will become as treasured among collectors. After comparing their merits, we chose a list of 10 of the best Porsche models from the noughties for your enjoyment and your consideration.
10. Porsche Boxster S
In 2003 the Boxster S had undergone changes that gave it an air of refinement. The engineers curved the side air intakes of the front skirt and gave the body a recontour that enhanced engine cooling along with changes to its aesthetics. It looked more like the Carrera. The rear end got a new bumper and two new tailpipes. Changes to the taillight cluster enhanced the sportiness. Heated rear window glass and a folding roof with better support, along with a host of new upgrades made it a popular choice among drivers.
9. Porsche Carrera 911 4s
The Carrera 911 4s received an update in 2009 which thrilled Porsche enthusiasts. Among them was an upgrade to its 3.8-liter flat-6 engine that gained 30 horsepower for a total of 385. Other goodies included 4-wheel-drive options, an 15 pound-feet increase in torque to 310 for better acceleration, and a weight loss of 13 pounds from the engine. It just kept getting better.
8. Porsche Boxster 986
The Boxster 986 was even more popular than the previous iteration. This new sibling stepped into the spotlight with an advance from a 2.5-liter engine to a 2.7. You also had the choice of a 3.2-liter S if you were looking for a firm ride and crazy power. The upgraded trim models were the most popular because they afforded drivers full leather, air-conditioning, sports pack suspension, and traction control. It was available in a soft-top or an optional hardtop.
7. Porsche Boxster 987
The 987 Boxster became one of Porsche’s most highly desired sports cars in the noughties. The 987 was a redesigned version of the 986 that contained just 20 percent of the DNA of the 986. The exterior was modeled after the Carrera, which achieved a thumbs up from many Porsche drivers. The entry-level version was equipped with a 2.7-liter flat-six but it received a bump in horsepower and torque. It was also two-tenths of a second faster.
6. Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia Special Edition
The Cayenne S Transsyberia Special Edition was a big success. It was a celebratory model that same with a boatload of updates to mark the win at the 2007 intercontinental rally. The SUV is as good off-road as it is on. The 4.8-liter V8 engine cranked out 405 bhp with 500 Nm of torque. Although the price was high for the special edition vehicle, drivers seemed willing to pay for the sophisticated styling, and the high-performance engineering and handling.
5. Porsche Cayenne GTS
The Cayenne GTS delivered high with its 405 horsepower engine. It’s the equivalent of having the best of both worlds with a sexy and sporty GTS body kit, Nordic Gold Metallic paint, and leather and Alcantara interior components. It jumped to 60 mph from a standstill in just 6 seconds flat. The only real drawback to the Cayenne GTS was the fuel economy rating of 13 mpg in the city and 18 on the highway.
4. Porsche Cayenne S
The Porsche Cayenne S was in its second generation in the noughties. It had been a highly desired mid-size luxury crossover because of its on and off-road capabilities. The direct injection technology during the noughties made it even more appealing than previous iterations. The second generation made its debut in 2010 at the Paris Motor Show and later, a new plug-in E-Hybrid version would be revealed.
3. Porsche Panamera
The Panamerica emerged from Porsche production lines as a study undertaken by its designers. It took the basic concepts of a sports car and melded them with a futuristic-looking vehicle with the characteristics of a dune buggy. It was available in a choice of a 290 horsepower engine up to a 550 size in either a 3.6-liter V6 or a 4.8-liter V8.
2. Porsche 911 GT3RS
The Porsche 911 GT3RS gets second place for its improved engine performance. It received an upgrade from the previous 996 engine, updated to a 997 generation of Porsche engines. It was first released in the Fall of 2006 with a 409 horsepower engine. It rolled off production lines with a weight that was 20kg lighter than the GT3. It was decked out with the same racing bare interior fully equipped with a larger rear wing and a roll cage that warmed the blood and raced the hearts of those with a need for speed.
1. Porsche Carrera GT
Goodwood votes the Porsche Carrera GT as one of the best cars the brand put out during this era. It was acclaimed as the fastest car of its time. The V10 engine screamed at a high pitch that worked drivers into a joyful frenzy at the very sound. It was more akin to a powerhouse you’d find in a Formula 1 vehicle. It was used for a period of time in LMP racing during the 1990s era, but in 2000, it appeared in the concept Porsche Carrera GT that made its debut at the 2000 Paris Motor Show. Production of the Carrera with its 5.7-liter engine commenced in 2003 and it became one of the most desirable Porsche supercars ever.