My 964 C2 puts out 260 bhp in standard form. No modifications whatsoever. No chip, no hot film, no fancy exhaust mods. Why? Well the 964 engine was `detuned` to achieve the published figures of 250 bhp. Why? Well what is the difference between the 964 and 993 engine. Not much. So how is it, more importantly why is it that the first 993`s gave 272bhp. Think about it. When Porsche launched the 964 the 993 was in its gestation period. So the 964 was literally strangled. Thats why the hot film system releases so much power. So a 964 engine will, without too much effort or obscene expenditure release nigh on 300bhp. Call me synical but thats my belief. By `detuning` the 964`s to 250 bhp it made the 993`s performance worthy of the increased price. If the 964 had been allowed to give 270 or even 280 bhp what would be the big selling point of a 993 other than its more curvy look. Rubbish idea, you tell me. I have not found another plausible explanation. GARY

You also might be interested in following as reply from Jan at AmD: "The throttle body is the icing on the cake really, - not much more power, but gives smooth throttle response and allows more plentiful supply air into the engine. A K&N-type filter does not give much more power but at least is re-useable. Similarly exhausts. All sorts of power claims are made for these products, but in reality they give only a little. However, every bit adds up, and at least an aftermarket exhaust looks good." Regards Melvin

see www.auto-amd.com

The cost for the Filmstar and Throttle body was £1693.00 the mods were done in 1999 so this price may be out of date - Ken W

Very interesting comments on Film Star and throttle body. I know that it is the most popular mod in Germany and owners are very
pleased with it. Have you noticed any increase in fuel consumption? With regards to engine power 260bhp for a standard 964 
seems about right as the 300 bhp Turbo (5 speed) is only .5 sec faster in the standing km (both Autocar figures). Where the 993
really gains is stability and wet weather handling where it is far superior. The 993 engine (M64 05/06) had revised crankshaft,
con rods and hydraulic tappets, with a completely different exhaust system, reducing back pressure. I will let you decide if these
mods alone are worth 22bhp. It is safe to say that it has more power as it has a marginally higher top speed for more drag, but 
does not accelerate any faster. I think Porsche have always played down their power outputs whereas the likes of Ferrari were
always a touch optimistic. Regards Winston B

12.3.01 - Speak to Steve McHale or Jonas Zambakides at JZ Machtech. Steve is the engine tuning / tweaking wizard there but 
both he and Jonas should be able to offer suggestions on how you might like to spend your money. Funnily enough, Steve 
doesn't think it's worth bothering with a K&N filter but there seems to be a general concensus on this list that a K&N is a good
thing.

As a rough guide on prices (ex VAT):
- Dizzy belt - £125 (dunno about the vent kit)
- Cat bypass - £320
- Performance chip - £250
- Alignment (pick any four wheels) - £240

Beyond that, I think you're getting into spending silly money (if that isn't silly enough already). Might also be worth getting the
spark plugs checked, depending on when you last had them changed - Michael H