PDK vs manual turbo
Rennlist Member
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 13,005
Likes: 1,478
From: North Bay Area, CA
Manuals used to be the way to go; for many, many years I would have nothing else, even in family cars. Times change, technologies improve. I agonized briefly over transmissions when building my PDK equipped '09 C2S but have never regretted my choice. For your Turbo build, PDK, without question.
Rennlist Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,924
Likes: 28
From: Tejas Hill Country
For the record, I'm a dyed-in-the-wool manual gearbox fan. I'd have a tough time ever buying a PDK 911 or Boxster for myself.
But I think the Turbo screams for a PDK transmission and it makes no sense to buy one with a manual. I'm aligned 100% with Betternotbigger's post above. It's all about context, and the context of a Turbo says "PDK" to me.
But I think the Turbo screams for a PDK transmission and it makes no sense to buy one with a manual. I'm aligned 100% with Betternotbigger's post above. It's all about context, and the context of a Turbo says "PDK" to me.
Three Wheelin'
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,835
Likes: 18
From: ATL
Hello everyone. I just sold my C2S after three years and I am now building a turbo. I thought I would post here as well for additional insight. What are current thoughts regarding manual vs PDK? I know if I want the fastest possible car I should go PDK, but I really enjoy a manual. I have read that 90% of turbo owners opt for PDK but I seriously think I may be in the 10% minority who prefers a manual. Thanks.
And no one is going to look at your car and ever say "wow, 6-spd - really?
". All this transmission dogma - that's no fun. Go with you heart and gut. It'll be way cool no matter what you choose.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,123
Likes: 28
While PDK maybe superior from a technical perspective, my personal choice is a manual. I just get more driving enjoyment and satisfaction with it; there's nothing like blipping the throttle yourself for that perfect heel toe downshift.
Just as I feel a mid-engine layout is superior and easier to drive than the rear engine 911, there's certain satisfaction one get's out of mastering a 911. That's why the 911 is also my choice over other cars.
Just as I feel a mid-engine layout is superior and easier to drive than the rear engine 911, there's certain satisfaction one get's out of mastering a 911. That's why the 911 is also my choice over other cars.
Rennlist Member
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 4,027
Likes: 4
From: Scottsdale, AZ
I just can't emphasize enough how important it is to choose what will be the most fun for YOU overall. The overall feel & personality of the car, as you'd like it to be, is what makes ownership of cars like these worthwhile.
If I wanted something faster I could have bought a base Corvette for half the price. But it wasn't what I would have had the most fun in driving and overall enjoying. All of the "little things" about my car really bring a smile to my face, on every drive.
If I wanted something faster I could have bought a base Corvette for half the price. But it wasn't what I would have had the most fun in driving and overall enjoying. All of the "little things" about my car really bring a smile to my face, on every drive.
Race Car
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 4,727
Likes: 505
From: Cyprus and USA
There is no question - a Turbo is better suited with PDK. The lag is minimized and the acceleration is unbelievable. This is coming from a die hard manual guy. I instead chose to go the GT3 route, but if I went Turbo, PDK is the way to go. As others said though, do what you feel is best. Don't listen to others when spending your hardearned money on Porsche's flagship! (Get the Turbo S and then you won't have to make a decision!)
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Three Wheelin'
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,835
Likes: 18
From: ATL
