Let's tackle software upgrades...

I am not going to say which way I am leaning when it comes to software upgrades, be it from GAIC or what not, so as to avoid a flame-war. However, the whole process got me thinking. For the purposes of this thread, let's just ASSUME that the software upgrades DO work. That being the case, why would Porsche NOT include these software 'improvements' in the standard 996? Clearly, the software modification seems simple enough that the factory would want to make the modifications for improvement in performance. So...what might be the reason why they would NOT want to do so? Does it negatively impact: -fuel economy? -longevity? -about town driveability (in which case they WOULD encourage the upgrade for track usage)? -engine wear and tear? Again, this isn't to question whether or not the chip/software upgrade works; instead, let's assume it does. It just might be fun to think about why it isn't done OEM. Cheers, Edward

For a Normally Aspirated car I would not bother flashing the ECU. I would probably answer all of the above you listed.

My understanding is that in conjunction with other mods such as headers, exhaust, etc. a "normally aspirated" engine would find some improvements. For example, my headers/exhaust/intake upgrades yielded some great gains in the mid-range and top-end, but they came at a cost of losing a little bottom-end. I've been told by many that going with a new flash ECU upgrade will clean that up and gain back some of the lost bottom-end. Any thoughts?

Reasons for PAG to have not made these changes: emissions ability to survive with low octane (91)

Yeah, but exclusive of CA, 93 and even 94 octane gasoline are very readily available (or at least on the east coast). See, my thinking is that it is predominantly an emissions thing also. It's just easier to construct a car for the lowest common denominator (in this case, CA's rigid environmental concerns) than to create myriad options. From my experience on motorcycles, freeflowing intakes, exhausts and, in my motorcycle's case, new jet kits (it's kind of like an ECU upgrade) resulted in dramatic performance increases (torque and horsepower). It would make sense that the same thing woudl apply to a car. Hence, it might seem that ECU flashes are relatively benign, but Porsche avoids it because of varying state by state restrictions. Makes one think...

I think that Porsche has to satisfy many types when producing a sports car. For most of the pure enthusiasts here, they would offer more power. But that would sacrifice smoothness and drivablility. It would also add to the price since there would be more warrantee issues. Now for the mainstream Porsche owner, they are looking for a "cool" car that is smooth, quiet, well mannered, handles like its on "rails", etc... all at a competitive price. You get the picture. Porsche needs to appeal to the non-enthusiast which is their main market. BTW, I was recently at the factory and there were two separate engine sections: one for US and the other for ROW. The ROW engines have a little more power. So emissions do play a role.

Addendum: I asked the tour guide what changes there were to the two engines so that I could maybe modify my engine to ROW specs and he said there were alot of plumbing changes and it would be difficult to retrofit my engine. That is much different than just an ECU flash.

The largest gain from these chips imho is a result of them advancing the timing. They are able to do this because you are required to run 91 octane gas and the risk of detonation is reduced. "Timing advance helps produce more power by igniting the sparks sooner, providing more time for the fuel/air mixture to burn completely, increasing cylinder pressure, thus providing more power. Advancing the ignition timing is an inexpensive (free) modification that can make a noticeable difference in throttle response and through the entire powerband with the largest gains in the midrange, around 5500 rpm. Fuel economy is also improved if your driving habits remain the same with the additional power. " The question is can you advance the timing without getting the chip?

Emmisions are a big part, but PAG is also thinking for the future. Case in point the 40th anniversary 996's have 25 more hp than a C2 yet uses an identical motor.

Bowman is right about where the power reserve is. However, it's my understanding that the stock computer will optimize timing up to 94 octane. I don't think you can get a lot of advantage out of chipping unless you are willing to run 100 octane. The Gran Am Cup guys can modify their computers and all make this mod. It makes a big difference. PCA makes us run stock computers so I wouldn't know. Bert, the 40th has an x51 engine. It's very different than the stock 3.6.

This is one reason that Porsche has to appeal to many types. (and I'm not judging here) Link

I KNEW IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, maybe I don't know anything at all.

Faced with this same decision (stock car slower than what I wanted, doing the intake/exhaust/ECU for minimum gains, X-51, supercharging) I decided to go twin-turbo. I paid $69k for a 2001 If I was going to buy a 2002 ($50k) and add an exhaust plus power kit (approx $16k) I was in TT country.....but with a lot less hp, doesn't look as good, etc.