The Porsche World Roadshow is an event that enables drivers from novice to seasoned Porsche owners to have a “hands on the wheel” experience of Porsche engineering. The PWR is, as their slogan states, “Like a shot of adrenaline…Intravenously.”
At the event, you are welcomed by a friendly knowledgeable staff that is able to answer questions about the Porsche vehicles from technical to financial. A quick driving tutorial is given with tips on how to drive a high performance vehicle on the course and then it’s off to the heart pounding excitement where you will drive several Porsche vehicles on two types of courses (Performance/Autocross) and a 30 minute Everyday on-road test. If you are interested in owning a high performance vehicle or know someone who is – Porsche World Roadshow is the first step in the right direction.
On a rain soaked course at the Palm Beach International Raceway, 9 Magazine’s Tim Deutsch put the Porsche vehicles to the test in conditions that you might consider less than ideal but, as expected, the performance was superb.
We were first directed to an autocross track where they provided several Boxsters and Caymans, including the news Cayman R. The track was fun and offered 11 turns and 3 straights which really showcased the cars ability to handle and brake even on a wet track. The new Cayman R which has 330hp 10 hp more than the Cayman S, was an absolute blast to drive.
After our time was up on the autocross, it was on to the main track. The road course at Palm Beach International Raceway consists of 11 turns and has a 6/10 mile long straightaway. For this track the 911 was the car of choice. We were able to get behind the wheel of 4 variations of the 911. First off was the base 911 Carrera which offers 345hp. After 4 laps of excitement it was off to the Carrera S. The Carrera S offers the same thrill as the Carrera with an increase from 3.6 to 3.8 liters and an extra 40hp. With the track being a little wet from the afternoon rain, I was excited to get behind the wheel of the Carrera 4S to see just how well the all wheel drive Carrera would handle. As I accelerated down the straight I could feel all four tires gripping and wanting to pull us forward faster and faster. The Carrera 4S entered and exited the corners even on a wet track with no hesitation at all. All in all it was the easiest of the cars to drive in the wet conditions. If 385hp is still not enough then the all new Carrera GTS might be what you’re looking for. It also has a 3.8 liter engine yet offers an extra 23hp more bringing the grand total to 408hp @ 7,300rpm. The Carrera GTS offered the most thrill and excitement of the day. It has all the power you need to go fast and when it comes to stopping that is no problem either. The Carrera GTS comes equipped with four-piston aluminum monoblock fixed calipers.
All in all it was a superb day on a superb track with an unbelievable array of fast Porsches. A big thanks to Porsche, Palm Beach Raceway and the sponsors who helped put on such a wonderful event and a special thanks to Robin from Porsche and her staff for the exceptional hospitality.
CAUTION: 9 out of 10 psychiatrists agree attending the Porsche World Roadshow will result in Porsche envy.
Photos: 9 magazine, Mark Peebles
