Updated: Porsche 997 coming in 2004

Dear 001,

Porsche is not sitting back idly watching sport car sales slide...

I just heard that the 997 will show up FOR SURE as a 2005 model. My sources tell me it could be revealed as early as the Detroit Auto Show.

How about these rumors...My sources tell me to expect GT3 type performance on the new 911 with its 450HP Twin Turbo engine, under the hood.

I'm glad they're getting serious again because the current model is to tame compared to E55's, RS6's and M5's...

All bodies on the 997 are wide-body...like the C4S and revert to the older style round 911 headlamps (AMEN BROTHER!). I always thought the boxster type headlamps on the 911 were a mistake. It would be like Rolex changing to square watch cases...

Your man in Milan,

Sergio

Auto Spies update: The Spies anonymously surveyed two dozen US Porsche dealers this week and all of them confirmed they are expecting a significantly improved 911 (exterior and interior) in model year 2005