So, as I learn bit by bit about the various models, and options, I can't find a lot of info on this aero deal. I know there are aftermarket aero kits on ebay but some cars are touting a "factory" aero mod.

Does anyone know the option code for this if it really does exist?

From what I can tell, it's a different nose piece, rocker panels, wing/spoiler, and the little ventrals on the lower rear bumper surround. Am I missing any of the bits?

What benefits other that looking a bit more gaudy? Is it lower C/d? Different fuel economy? Better grip(I assume)?

I found one for sale that isn't black or silver which I will not own, so I'm getting more interested but need to figure out this aero deal.

 

I don't know the specifics of the taco spoiler - the correct wing for the MKI 996 aero package - but the MKII/GT3 wing on my 996 is adjustable with shims so you can customize the downforce created by the wing. Going from no shims to 8 degrees of shim on the wing significantly increased how well the rear end stays connected when cornering at higher speeds.

So, at least one of the aero components available for the 996 is for both form AND function.

 

Gaudy? Ouch. Factory code is XAA. Some cars do not have the wing. On Mark I's, the wing is called a "taco" wing for obvious reasons. Most cars do not have the little ventrals (called "GT Trim"). Look here for more info: https://rennlist.com/forums/996-foru...mk1-aeros.html

Most people consider the Mk I Aeros to be more attractive than the non-Aero cars, so I suppose it is mostly for appearance. However, the general consensus is that the Aero bits really transform the look and enhance the basic design of the narrow body cars.

 

Yes code is XAA its basically the best option they had(ve) for Mk1 &2 cars IMO. I also quite like it on 997's but do not know the option code for those.

 

Mk1 front bumper and rear wing do keep the car more planted and less "floaty" at higher speeds. The rear mk1 taco spoiler is adjustable for rake and doesn't require shims like mk2 wing.

 

All the parts work together at higher speeds...say 100 mph +. The MK1 taco is adjustable at least for the factory Aero. There are several knock off kits that cannot be adjusted. The option code is XAA.

This picture is from my option sticker.

 

Pete, are you sure that's the right code? I was expecting something else...

 

Ha! The "codes" are on my home laptop

 

Outstanding. Where might one find the option sticker on the 99 996? Meh, I'll do a search.

 

Under the frunk. I found a pic of a whole bunch of frunks.

 

Those don't look like factory Aeros , definitely after market

 

Yeah, those are nice options but a couple of them are clearly 'aftermarket'.

So, back to this car I found. It's one of those factory, but not factory optioned cars. I guess dealer installed. It does not have the XAA option code, but, but, but - when we look at the engine cover, the embossed 996.512.901.00 PN and "Made in France" info is there, which would indicate this was modded with the factory bits. Thusly, a non-factory, factory aero car. According to the seller, the car was bought 'off the lot' and not ordered which I find suspect, but I guess stranger things have happened.

So, I came up with this scenario; Guy hits lotto, or gets a big commission check, goes to Porsche, sees shiny bauble, buys it and drives off. Few weeks go by and he sees one with aero and thinks 'hey! I want those gewgaws too!', drives back to Porsche and says; 'gimme the aero kit'. Of course, Porsche is happy to oblige and further drains the wallet with the aero bits. Viola! Aero car.

 

I'll be doing that to a 997S in a few months. I can purchase the kit (Suncoast) and have my friendly auto body shop paint and mount.

 

I have read that at 90mph or so the front tends to feel a bit light and that the Aero-kit makes that go away.
I can say that mine feels firmly planted at 90+

 

XAA is for the Aerokit, XAD is for the rear bumper flappy things. XRL, I think, is for the rims that go with the Aero car.