hazchem88

The purchase is subject to confirmation it really IS an X50.

After reading many forums, and typically with polar opposite and contrasting opinions,
the 'X50' code isn't always printed on the sticker under the bonnet.

I will give Porsche a call and see what they say.

Any other ways to check?
Physically I hear the intercoolers are different. But not knowing what standard ones are like that may not be much help?

any other thoughts?

thanks!

split71

Do you have the VIN?

Berra

They say that you could feel the intercoolers by hand. If it's smooth, it's the 420 hp Turbo, if it's a rougher surface, X50. This is what I've been told.

Also, if the car is stock go out and drive if possible, X50 should boost 0.8-0.9.

Non X50 boosts 0.7

hazchem88

checking boost isn't a sure fire way since low boost power due to a problem would affect figures.
I have a VIN so will call a Porsche shop

Dock

I can't imagine why the Porsche factory options installed on a 996 Turbo would not be reflected on the factory installed sticker under the bonnet. If the bonnet is factory original for the 996 Turbo in question, and the options sticker is factory original for that car, and that car has the factory installed X50 option, it should be indicated as such on the sticker.

mcbit

There have been a couple of proven exceptions noted on UK forums where the X50 option is not present on the option sticker but has been confirmed by VIN.

Dock

Original to the car bonnet and options sticker?

jeanmarcboilard

My cars bonnet sticker does not have X50 on it, but it has the matching VIN number to the original winder sticker, which has the $18,000 power option.

wross996tt

After seeing their factory its not hard to believe they put the wrong stickers on the cars...

Dock

What year is your 996 Turbo?

"02996ttx50

just feel up the intercoolers by running your hand over them. if they are rough like cheese graters = gt2 ic's, and if as noted if car boosts to .8 with ease and regularity ... well, you've got the extra 30 horses.

jeanmarcboilard

2002. My car has had many aftermarket upgrades, most notably the GT2860 turbos.
Not that it makes any difference, only that I can't "tell" that its an X50 from the regular methods, ie k24, boost. It does have the gt2 intercoolers still.

Dock

Now that I think about that, I'd have to agree (the "chassis stiffness" issue coming to mind).

Having looked into this during the past hour, it may be that the dealers are who install the stickers on the new cars they receive. I've got an email out to someone asking for confirmation of this.

If the dealers are responsible for installing the "options" stickers then I can see where there might be mistakes.

hazchem88

the one I have a deposit on is 2003. I looked at the intercoolers when I was there but since I don't know what standard ones are that didn't help me.
I will of course give porsche the VIN and get a definitive answers.
Forums are all helpful with lots of info, the problem is some of it conflicts! hopefully porsche themselves will know for sure.
I will see if seller can get a picture of the intercoolers -
If there is no hard evidence it really is an X50 then I will back out the deal (sale is subject to clear confirmation!)

Dock

So factory or dealer installed options stickers, what are the chances that they make mistakes on X50 in both directions? Sticker states it's X50 when it's not, or sticker not stating X50 when it actually has X50?