My Aqua Blue Metallic/Carrera Red '12 Spyder - Tale of a custom order!
09-14-2011, 07:34 PM
#33
Nordschleife Master
Thread Starter
MSRP on this Spyder
Window Sticker on this Spyder - First, let me start by saying that I believe that most options on a Spyder are unnecessary to achieve the great rewards of Spyder ownership. If there was ever a car where the cliche 'Less is More' applies, it's this model from Porsche. The beauty of this car is that in just base form ($61800 in MY2012 / $61,200 in MY2011), you got the lightest body Porsche makes, a unique non-PASM suspension, spectacular carbon fiber sport buckets and an exceptional weight to power ratio...and you are ready to 'roll'! That is the best bang for the bucks that Porsche has offered in a very long time! So, nothing that you will see as 'options' on this Monroney is necessary, vital or significant. It is just pure icing on the cake!
But icing can add twist of spice to any good carrot cake. The first options I chose were the 'Sport Exhaust', 'Sport Shifter' and 'Sport Chrono'. This is my second experience with 'Sport Exhaust' and 'Sport Chrono' - I had both in the 997.1 Carrera S. They are both delightful additions to the character of the vehicle. I collect Heuer Rally chrono timepieces, so the 'wart' is to me very attractive, reminding me of the rally watches found in vintage cars in earlier years. This is my first try at the 'Sport Shifter'. I am surprise how well it works. It does NOT seem 'notchy' at all and I wonder if they have improved it for MY2012. If you order 'Sport Chrono', you must choose the CDR-30 Radio to control the functions of 'SC'. That radio / computer screen unit is 'no cost', but to hear anything you need to order the 'Sound Package Plus' at $700. 'Bluetooth' and 'Universal Audio Interface' (e.g. Ipod connection) is also a 'no cost' option.
'Bi-Xenons', with dynamic corner system, is a pricey option at $1560. I had some fun with this option by having the mandated spray nuzzles painted in 'Guards Red' (at $295) to match the rear hooks (which come painted in Guards Red on all Spyders, regardless exterior color) for attaching the Bimini top. 'Self-Dim Mirrors & Rain Sensors' cost $690. It is ordered quite often on the Spyders and most other Porsche models. Just a convenience which you can't retrofit later on.
'Park Assist in the Rear' is a seldom ordered option on a Spyder. I remember Savyboy telling me he wished he had ordered it on his '11 Spyder. So I decided to add this beeping sensor to my order. If it prevents me just one little scratch on my rear bumper over the life of my ownership of this car, it will have paid for itself!
'Automatic Climate Control' is a controversial option. 99% of all Spyders have been ordered with it. It adds some 26 plus pounds (I think) but you rarely see even the most sporty of Porsches today - whether a gt3 RS or a Spyder - without it. I think mostly because one is afraid of being penalized for not having it at resale. It will come handy on any long interstate travel between Carmel and Colorado via Western deserts! And if I add an after-market light weight Lithium-Ion Battery (the $1700+ factory one is a bit controversial), I can make up for some of that added A/C weight!
The 'SportDesign Steering Wheel' was only $250. This was not offered on manual Spyders in MY2011, so it is unique to MY2012 Spyders with the standard transmission. I find it quite attractive and it looks pretty distinctive with my Carrera Red interior since it has a red colored body (as opposed to a black body on the standard Spyder wheel).
There are $9500 worth of 'Porsche Exclusive' options on this car. Some are quite familiar to all - the 'Sport Exhaust' at $2810, the 'Sport Shifter' at $795, the 'Porsche Crest Emboss Headrests' at $285 and the 'Additional Alcantara Interior Package' (for the doors) at $655. Note that the 'Sport Exhaust' is a 'Porsche Exclusive' part - not a regular option available via series production. It was tested and developed by 'Porsche Exclusive' at the request of its customers. As you may remember, when the optional .2 997 Sport Exhaust came out on the DFI engines, customers complained that it didn't sound as good as it did on the .1 997. That is why 'Porsche Exclusive' (not series production!) stepped in and developed a new Sport Exhaust for the Spyder's DFI engine. It has been so successful that (it's my understanding) they were given the right to develop the new Export Exhaust for the 991.
The rest of the 'Porsche Exclusive' options are what makes this interior so unusual: 'Carpeting in Deviating Color', 'Defroster Trim in Leather', 'Gear Lever Trim in Leather', 'Steering Column Casing Leather', 'Leather Sunvisors', 'Rear View Mirror in Leather' and the 'Customizing Package' (leather door sills and console bin lid). I will discuss this aspect of order on the next post and explain my interactions with 'Porsche Exclusive' as I pondered what to order on this Spyder!
Saludos, z356
But icing can add twist of spice to any good carrot cake. The first options I chose were the 'Sport Exhaust', 'Sport Shifter' and 'Sport Chrono'. This is my second experience with 'Sport Exhaust' and 'Sport Chrono' - I had both in the 997.1 Carrera S. They are both delightful additions to the character of the vehicle. I collect Heuer Rally chrono timepieces, so the 'wart' is to me very attractive, reminding me of the rally watches found in vintage cars in earlier years. This is my first try at the 'Sport Shifter'. I am surprise how well it works. It does NOT seem 'notchy' at all and I wonder if they have improved it for MY2012. If you order 'Sport Chrono', you must choose the CDR-30 Radio to control the functions of 'SC'. That radio / computer screen unit is 'no cost', but to hear anything you need to order the 'Sound Package Plus' at $700. 'Bluetooth' and 'Universal Audio Interface' (e.g. Ipod connection) is also a 'no cost' option.
'Bi-Xenons', with dynamic corner system, is a pricey option at $1560. I had some fun with this option by having the mandated spray nuzzles painted in 'Guards Red' (at $295) to match the rear hooks (which come painted in Guards Red on all Spyders, regardless exterior color) for attaching the Bimini top. 'Self-Dim Mirrors & Rain Sensors' cost $690. It is ordered quite often on the Spyders and most other Porsche models. Just a convenience which you can't retrofit later on.
'Park Assist in the Rear' is a seldom ordered option on a Spyder. I remember Savyboy telling me he wished he had ordered it on his '11 Spyder. So I decided to add this beeping sensor to my order. If it prevents me just one little scratch on my rear bumper over the life of my ownership of this car, it will have paid for itself!
'Automatic Climate Control' is a controversial option. 99% of all Spyders have been ordered with it. It adds some 26 plus pounds (I think) but you rarely see even the most sporty of Porsches today - whether a gt3 RS or a Spyder - without it. I think mostly because one is afraid of being penalized for not having it at resale. It will come handy on any long interstate travel between Carmel and Colorado via Western deserts! And if I add an after-market light weight Lithium-Ion Battery (the $1700+ factory one is a bit controversial), I can make up for some of that added A/C weight!
The 'SportDesign Steering Wheel' was only $250. This was not offered on manual Spyders in MY2011, so it is unique to MY2012 Spyders with the standard transmission. I find it quite attractive and it looks pretty distinctive with my Carrera Red interior since it has a red colored body (as opposed to a black body on the standard Spyder wheel).
There are $9500 worth of 'Porsche Exclusive' options on this car. Some are quite familiar to all - the 'Sport Exhaust' at $2810, the 'Sport Shifter' at $795, the 'Porsche Crest Emboss Headrests' at $285 and the 'Additional Alcantara Interior Package' (for the doors) at $655. Note that the 'Sport Exhaust' is a 'Porsche Exclusive' part - not a regular option available via series production. It was tested and developed by 'Porsche Exclusive' at the request of its customers. As you may remember, when the optional .2 997 Sport Exhaust came out on the DFI engines, customers complained that it didn't sound as good as it did on the .1 997. That is why 'Porsche Exclusive' (not series production!) stepped in and developed a new Sport Exhaust for the Spyder's DFI engine. It has been so successful that (it's my understanding) they were given the right to develop the new Export Exhaust for the 991.
The rest of the 'Porsche Exclusive' options are what makes this interior so unusual: 'Carpeting in Deviating Color', 'Defroster Trim in Leather', 'Gear Lever Trim in Leather', 'Steering Column Casing Leather', 'Leather Sunvisors', 'Rear View Mirror in Leather' and the 'Customizing Package' (leather door sills and console bin lid). I will discuss this aspect of order on the next post and explain my interactions with 'Porsche Exclusive' as I pondered what to order on this Spyder!
Saludos, z356
Last edited by Z356; 09-15-2011 at 12:37 AM.
09-14-2011, 10:11 PM
#35
Rennlist Member
Window Sticker on this Spyder - First, let me start by saying that I believe that most options on a Spyder are unnecessary to achieve the great rewards of Spyder ownership. If there was ever a car where the cliche 'Less is More' applies, it's this model from Porsche. The beauty of this car is that in just base form ($61800 in MY2012 / $61,200 in MY2011), you got the lightest body Porsche makes, a unique non-PASM suspension, spectacular carbon fiber sport buckets and an exceptional weight to power ratio...and you are ready to 'roll'! That is the best bang for the bucks that Porsche has offered in a very long time! So, nothing that you will see as 'options' on this Monroney is necessary, vital or significant. It is just pure icing on the cake!
But icing can add twist of spice to any good carrot cake. The first options I chose were the 'Sport Exhaust', 'Sport Shifter' and 'Sport Chrono'. This is my second experience with 'Sport Exhaust' and 'Sport Chrono' - I had both in the 997.1 Carrera S. They are both delightful additions to the character of the vehicle. I collect Heuer Rally chrono timepieces, so the 'wart' is to me very attractive, reminding me of the rally watches found in vintage cars in earlier years. This is my first try at the 'Sport Shifter'. I am surprise how well it works. It does NOT seem 'notchy' at all and I wonder if they have improved it for MY2012. If you order 'Sport Chrono', you must choose the CDR-30 Radio to control the functions of 'SC'. That radio / computer screen unit is 'no cost', but to hear anything you need to order the 'Sound Package Plus' at $700. 'Bluetooth' and 'Universal Audio Interface' (e.g. Ipod connection) is also a 'no cost' option.
'Bi-Xenons', with dynamic corner system, is a pricey option at $1560. I had some fun with this option by having the mandated spray nuzzles painted in 'Guards Red' (at $295) to match the rear hooks (which come painted in Guards Red on all Spyders, regardless exterior color) for attaching the Bimini top. 'Self-Dim Mirrors & Rain Sensors' cost $690. It is ordered quite often on the Spyders and most other Porsche models. Just a convenience which you can't retrofit later on.
'Park Assist in the Rear' is a seldom ordered option on a Spyder. I remember Savyboy telling me he wished he had ordered it on his '11 Spyder. So I decided to add this beeping sensor to my order. If it prevents me just one little scratch on my rear bumper over the life of my ownership of this car, it will have paid for itself!
'Automatic Climate Control' is a controversial option. 99% of all Spyders have been ordered with it. It adds some 26 plus pounds (I think) but you rarely see even the most sporty of Porsches today - whether a gt3 RS or a Spyder - without it. I think mostly because one is afraid of being penalized for not having it at resale. It will come handy on any long interstate travel between Carmel and Colorado via Western deserts! And if I add an after-market light weight Lithium-Ion Battery (the $1700+ factory one is a bit controversial), I can make up for some of that added A/C weight!
The 'SportDesign Steering Wheel' was only $250. This was not offered on manual Spyders in MY2011, so it is unique to MY2012 Spyders with the standard transmission. I find it quite attractive and it looks pretty distinctive with my Carrera Red interior since it has a red colored body (as opposed to a black body on the standard Spyder wheel).
There are $9500 worth of 'Porsche Exclusive' options on this car. Some are quite familiar to all - the 'Sport Exhaust' at $2810, the 'Sport Shifter' at $795, the 'Porsche Crest Emboss Headrests' at $285 and the 'Additional Alcantara Interior Package' (for the doors) at $655. Note that the 'Sport Exhaust' is a 'Porsche Exclusive' part - not a regular option available via series production. It was tested and developed by 'Porsche Exclusive' at the request of its customers. As you may remember, when the optional .2 997 Sport Exhaust came out on the DFI engines, customers complained that it didn't sound as good as it did on the .1 997. That is why 'Porsche Exclusive' (not series production!) stepped in and developed a new Sport Exhaust for the Spyder's DFI engine. It has been so successful that (it's my understanding) they were given the right to develop the new Export Exhaust for the 991.
The rest of the 'Porsche Exclusive' options are what makes this interior so unusual: 'Carpeting in Deviating Color', 'Defroster Trim in Leather', 'Gear Lever Trim in Leather', 'Steering Column Casing Leather', 'Leather Sunvisors', 'Rear View Mirror in Leather' and the 'Customizing Package' (leather door sills and console bin lid). I will discuss this aspect of order on the next post and explain my interactions with 'Porsche Exclusive' as I pondered what to order on this Spyder!
Saludos, z356
PS Let me know if the attached MSRP pdf does not work.
But icing can add twist of spice to any good carrot cake. The first options I chose were the 'Sport Exhaust', 'Sport Shifter' and 'Sport Chrono'. This is my second experience with 'Sport Exhaust' and 'Sport Chrono' - I had both in the 997.1 Carrera S. They are both delightful additions to the character of the vehicle. I collect Heuer Rally chrono timepieces, so the 'wart' is to me very attractive, reminding me of the rally watches found in vintage cars in earlier years. This is my first try at the 'Sport Shifter'. I am surprise how well it works. It does NOT seem 'notchy' at all and I wonder if they have improved it for MY2012. If you order 'Sport Chrono', you must choose the CDR-30 Radio to control the functions of 'SC'. That radio / computer screen unit is 'no cost', but to hear anything you need to order the 'Sound Package Plus' at $700. 'Bluetooth' and 'Universal Audio Interface' (e.g. Ipod connection) is also a 'no cost' option.
'Bi-Xenons', with dynamic corner system, is a pricey option at $1560. I had some fun with this option by having the mandated spray nuzzles painted in 'Guards Red' (at $295) to match the rear hooks (which come painted in Guards Red on all Spyders, regardless exterior color) for attaching the Bimini top. 'Self-Dim Mirrors & Rain Sensors' cost $690. It is ordered quite often on the Spyders and most other Porsche models. Just a convenience which you can't retrofit later on.
'Park Assist in the Rear' is a seldom ordered option on a Spyder. I remember Savyboy telling me he wished he had ordered it on his '11 Spyder. So I decided to add this beeping sensor to my order. If it prevents me just one little scratch on my rear bumper over the life of my ownership of this car, it will have paid for itself!
'Automatic Climate Control' is a controversial option. 99% of all Spyders have been ordered with it. It adds some 26 plus pounds (I think) but you rarely see even the most sporty of Porsches today - whether a gt3 RS or a Spyder - without it. I think mostly because one is afraid of being penalized for not having it at resale. It will come handy on any long interstate travel between Carmel and Colorado via Western deserts! And if I add an after-market light weight Lithium-Ion Battery (the $1700+ factory one is a bit controversial), I can make up for some of that added A/C weight!
The 'SportDesign Steering Wheel' was only $250. This was not offered on manual Spyders in MY2011, so it is unique to MY2012 Spyders with the standard transmission. I find it quite attractive and it looks pretty distinctive with my Carrera Red interior since it has a red colored body (as opposed to a black body on the standard Spyder wheel).
There are $9500 worth of 'Porsche Exclusive' options on this car. Some are quite familiar to all - the 'Sport Exhaust' at $2810, the 'Sport Shifter' at $795, the 'Porsche Crest Emboss Headrests' at $285 and the 'Additional Alcantara Interior Package' (for the doors) at $655. Note that the 'Sport Exhaust' is a 'Porsche Exclusive' part - not a regular option available via series production. It was tested and developed by 'Porsche Exclusive' at the request of its customers. As you may remember, when the optional .2 997 Sport Exhaust came out on the DFI engines, customers complained that it didn't sound as good as it did on the .1 997. That is why 'Porsche Exclusive' (not series production!) stepped in and developed a new Sport Exhaust for the Spyder's DFI engine. It has been so successful that (it's my understanding) they were given the right to develop the new Export Exhaust for the 991.
The rest of the 'Porsche Exclusive' options are what makes this interior so unusual: 'Carpeting in Deviating Color', 'Defroster Trim in Leather', 'Gear Lever Trim in Leather', 'Steering Column Casing Leather', 'Leather Sunvisors', 'Rear View Mirror in Leather' and the 'Customizing Package' (leather door sills and console bin lid). I will discuss this aspect of order on the next post and explain my interactions with 'Porsche Exclusive' as I pondered what to order on this Spyder!
Saludos, z356
PS Let me know if the attached MSRP pdf does not work.
Question off topic, the green engine cover in the garage? Does that mean the PtS Carrera orginally did not have an aerokit?
PS beautiful abode.
09-14-2011, 11:04 PM
#36
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I've had my MY2012 Spyder since August 20th. I have Sport Chrono and CDR-30. How are they linked? I thought you only had integration between SC and the PCM, no? Waiting for enlightenment! Not that being in the dark on this has detracted from any amount of enjoyment. I'm elated with the Spyder and I'm so glad I shifted my target from the 997.2. The Spyder is truly special, and yours is sublime. Excellent choice.
09-14-2011, 11:17 PM
#37
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Great write up Eduardo and great option choices. My wife loved the color combo and the mix of red/alcantara inside.
You mention that the Sports Exhaust on the Spyder differs from other DFI Boxsters, is that right? I can tell you that EVERYONE that has gone for a ride in my Spyder has commented on the exhaust not and music it creates. It sounds sooooo goooooood and not harsh at all. I find myself down shifting just to hear it.
Absolutely love the garage! Definitely a good home for the Spyder.
Enjoy in good health.
You mention that the Sports Exhaust on the Spyder differs from other DFI Boxsters, is that right? I can tell you that EVERYONE that has gone for a ride in my Spyder has commented on the exhaust not and music it creates. It sounds sooooo goooooood and not harsh at all. I find myself down shifting just to hear it.
Absolutely love the garage! Definitely a good home for the Spyder.
Enjoy in good health.
09-15-2011, 12:59 AM
#38
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Saludos, z356
09-15-2011, 02:33 AM
#39
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Eduardo,
What a stunning car! Excellent Package. Its great to see something different. I also like your signal green 997 but my favorite is your Signal yellow 73T. That to me is the perfect!
Oh yeah, the house is nice too!
What a stunning car! Excellent Package. Its great to see something different. I also like your signal green 997 but my favorite is your Signal yellow 73T. That to me is the perfect!
Oh yeah, the house is nice too!
09-15-2011, 08:23 AM
#40
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Thank you for the explanation on the PSE, not sure how I missed that it was originally developed for the 997. I think I need to get my eyes checked
On your window sticker I see "Customization Package DZE", what options are covered under this?
On your window sticker I see "Customization Package DZE", what options are covered under this?
09-15-2011, 10:58 AM
#41
Nordschleife Master
Thread Starter
Package DZE includes just the special door sills and the console bin lid in leather. I will explain the way these special DZ+ packages (e.g. DZB or DZE) are configured in a future post. It will give you an insight unto how 'Porsche Exclusive' prices unusual requests not normally offered in the 'configurator' or via dealer's 'order guides'. z356
09-15-2011, 11:41 AM
#42
Sounds like you had some fun making this order Eduardo!
Thanks for taking the time to share the process with us. Look forward to reading the next chapter!
Cheers,
Phil
09-15-2011, 02:56 PM
#43
Nordschleife Master
Thread Starter
There are no interchangeable exhaust parts between Boxsters and 911s. Totally different layout between the mid and rear engine setups. Different muffler locations and shapes altogether. So when designing mufflers for each model, the designers would start with a clean sheet. No need to even look at the other model's setup.
Sports Exhaust System Option #176 $2,810
If you use the Configurator to spec a Spyder, you will see this:
Sport Exhaust System 'Exclusive" Option #XLF $2,810
Anything done by 'Porsche Exclusive' usually has letters as an option classification. Not always, but in general. I will explain what I learned about the entire 'Porsche Exclusive' range of options and numbering system in a future post. As an aside, I asked 'Porsche Exclusive' why they didn't darkened the exhaust tips on their 'Sport Exhaust' option to blend more with the black trim in the rear valances of our Spyders. They explained that their tips have a special nano-coating of advanced design that helps prevent carbon build-up on the exterior surfaces. They couldn't duplicate this 'advantage' with the black-out tips normally seen on the standard exhaust on the Spyder! That is the reason the tips are done in the natural metal color! In any case, that is their story and they are sticking with it.
Here is where it gets 'iffy'. I was told by a representative of 'Porsche Exclusive' this August that the new 'Sport Exhaust' option on the 991 was given to them for development. However, when you look at the PCNA configurator for the new 991, you see that this option has a regular 'series' option (# 176) and does not mention 'Exclusive' as you saw on the Spyder.
Sport Exhaust System Option #176 $2,950
So we still need to verify who is responsible for the development of this particular 'Sport Exhaust'. In any case, I hope the new 'Sport Exhaust' on the 991 sounds as good as the one on our Spyders!
Saludos, z356
Last edited by Z356; 09-15-2011 at 09:05 PM.
09-16-2011, 11:09 AM
#44
Aqua blue was the colour I was looking for when I was shopping for my Spyder. My other convertible is a Sapphire Blue Miata, which looks a lot like aqua blue.
Beautiful colour in my opinion, but the Carrara white one was just about perfectly optioned (for me) and I couldn't pass up the deal.
Beautiful colour in my opinion, but the Carrara white one was just about perfectly optioned (for me) and I couldn't pass up the deal.
