First Looks

First Drive
2002 Porsche 911 Carrera
More Engine-More Sports Car
A common complaint about the current 911 Carrera is that it shares the same nose as the less-expensive Boxster. For '02, Porsche has addressed this by redesigning the front and rear bodywork to make the car more distinctive. The changes also improve engine cooling through twin, front-mounted radiators, while reducing front and rear aerodynamic lift.

The 3.4L flat-six engine has been replaced by a new 3.6L version good for 316 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, compared to 296 hp and 258 lb-ft for the old engine. The 3.6 (based on the Turbo's engine of the same size) features VarioCam Plus, an electrohydraulic system that varies intake-valve timing and lift to optimize power, torque, fuel economy, emissions, and idle quality. Not that there's a problem with the current car, which goes 0-60 mph in 5.0 sec, but the new one feels even faster and should dip into the high 4-second range.

Our tester rode on newly designed and optional five-spoke 18-in. wheels that are complemented by an improved shock and spring package. These parts reduce body roll and improve turn-in feel (which was already great), while maintaining a relatively comfortable ride despite the short-sidewall 225/40ZR18 front and 285/30ZR18 rear tires. The body structure has also been stiffened, further aiding handling.

Like the present car, the '02 911 is available in coupe and cabriolet body styles, with either rear- or all-wheel drive. Notable interior upgrades include a real glove compartment and cupholders (firsts for a 911), a revised instrument cluster (same as the Turbo's), and a new Bose audio system. Soft-top models get a much-needed glass rear window in place of the former plastic one. In all, one of the best sports cars just got better.-C.S.

First Look
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500
Techno-Powerhouse Roadster Could Pack Up To 450 Horses
For the first time in a dozen years, Mercedes-Benz is rolling out an absolutely all-new high-line roadster. The original 300SL "Gullwing" of 1954 was a technological, performance, and styling trendsetter when it first debuted; the '03 SL500 will be no less.

High-tech highlights include a fully retractable, self-tonneau-covering hardtop, conceptually similar to the smaller SLK's. Press one button, and the SL500 goes from fully enclosed coupe to wide-open roadster in 16 seconds. But the real flash trick is the world's first production-car use of a fully electronic braking system. A conventional pedal controls a computer managing four fast-acting valves that apply braking force to the wheels. Mercedes claims it serves up quicker, more sure-footed response than conventional brakes, especially in emergency situations. A hydraulic system is employed as a backup.

Stylewise, the SL carries forth the facial expression of the CL coupe and C-Class sedan; aggressively bulging wheelhouses and twin-speared side vents clearly recall those original SLs of the '50s.

The new drop-top will be launched in 5.0L/302-hp V-8 form; it's the same engine we've come to love in the current S500. But stay tuned, as even more juice will arrive in 12-18 months, most likely in the form of a supercharged 5.0-5.5L AMG version, cranking out as much as 450 hp.-Matt Stone