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While the 997 offers a truly modern-day analog experience, find out how this upgrade from Porsche Classic brings it's aging tech upto speed
by Khris Bharath on September 19, 2024, 09:00I’m a fan of the Type 997, and outside of the current 992, it remains one of the best generations of the Porsche 911. Where the tech-laden 992 is ridiculously fast and a bit too clinical, the 997 hits the sweet spot between modern and analog. The 997, in general, is widely regarded by Porsche people as a comeback, as it fixed several drawbacks like poor reliability and a better interior of the infamous fried-egg 996.
But if there’s one thing in the cabin that shows its age, it’s that capacitive touchscreen infotainment system that shipped with the car back in the mid-2000s. Now, I own a VW group car that’s based on the MKIV Golf from this era, and I’ve skipped upgrading the head unit with an inexpensive solution(more on that later), so I’m familiar with the dilemma of missing out on having the convenience of a modern radio that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Thankfully, there is a solution that you bring your 997’s tech game, up to speed.
Old Car Modern Tech
Enter the PCCM Plus (Porsche Classic Communication Management) system for the type-997.1 (there are ways to get CarPlay to work on the stock PCM 3.0 on the 997.2). According to Porsche, this unit seamlessly integrates with the existing hardware, adding new functions, that were previously unavailable with the original car. Installation is pretty straightforward and is mostly a plug-and-play affair. If you’re into DIY, you can skip the visit to your local shop and get the job done in under an hour max. You can watch the detailed video (linked above) on how to go about doing this.
Now, after the installation, you can operate the 7.0-inch (DIN-2 slot) touchscreen display using buttons and rotary push-button controls. The high-resolution display is optimized for easy navigation. The state-of-the-art navigation technology offers 2D and 3D map route guidance, including the Traffic Message Channel (TMC) for updates on traffic disruption.
The PCCM Plus 997 integrates your phone through a wired USB connection, and it interfaces directly with the device. So unfortunately, this is a wired solution, out of the box, but an aftermarket adapter can get you the wireless experience. Bluetooth enables phone functions, including contact access.
The factory-installed sound systems can be integrated, and external music sources and phones can be controlled via the touchscreen. Additionally, all systems come with one internal and one external microphone. The PCCM Plus systems also support BOSE sound system functions like BOSE AudioPilot.
Finally coming to the cost, it goes without saying that since this is a solution, directly from Porsche Classic, the MSRP on the PCCM Plus is $1,475.99. Yes, I know that sounds steep, and while there’s no shortage of cheap aftermarket radios for just a couple of hundred bucks if you want to do it the right way, it’s best to go the Porsche route, as sticking with an OEM part will help retain the cabin’s look with that same high-quality finish.
This system is also compatible with the Boxster/Cayman 987.1. On a final note, as promised, if you’re okay with using your phone’s screen for NAV and just need a wireless connection to the stock head unit, you can get an inexpensive Bluetooth radio receiver for 20$ on Amazon.
Khris Bharath
Khris is a Mechanical Engineer and a classic car aficionado, who adores his Jags, Alfas, and old-school American muscle cars. He keeps tabs on everything from super exotics like an old EB 110 to the latest from Lucid and geeks out on three-row family haulers. Formula One remains very close to his heart, and he diligently makes time to tune in for the Grand Prix on Sundays. Khris also loves his road trips and he prefers a stick shift over an auto. Read full bio
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