9WERKS Radio : The Porsche and Car Podcast

Has Porsche lost the magic, or is the future faster and more focused than ever? This week, from an MOT station at VAS Works, Lee and Andy sit down to dissect a month of intensive driving across six of the most important models in the Porsche back catalogue and current lineup.

We start with the "Holy Grail" of the 90s: the 964 Carrera RS. How does its seam-welded chassis and manual rack compare to the technological powerhouse that is the new 992.2 GTS T-Hybrid? We also dive deep into the GT3 lineage, revisiting the 996.2 GT3 — the car that many believe represents the peak of the water-cooled Mezger era.

Then, we turn our attention to the mid-engine masters. With the 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 and the 718 GT4 both in the mix, we ask if the newer cars have finally eclipsed the legendary 987.2 Cayman R. Is the R's hydraulic steering still the benchmark for feel, or does the GT4's chassis precision win the day?

In this episode, we discuss:

• The 964 RS vs. 992.2 GTS: A 35-year gap bridged. Does the T-Hybrid system deliver the same visceral thrill as a blueprinted air-cooled flat-six?
• GT3 Purity: Why the 996.2 GT3 is still the "sweet spot" for many purists in 2026.
• Mid-Engine Battle: 718 GT4 vs. Cayman R. We settle the debate on which mid-engine Porsche offers the most "Driven Not Hidden" rewards.
• The GTS 4.0 Factor: Why the 718 GTS 4.0 might actually be the best all-rounder Porsche has ever built.
• Future Values: Which of these six icons is the smartest place for your money right now?

The 9WERKS Testing Lineup:

• Porsche 964 Carrera RS: The analog benchmark.
• Porsche 996.2 GT3: The Mezger-powered icon.
• Porsche 992.2 GTS: The T-Hybrid future.
• Porsche 718 GT4: Track-bred precision.
• Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0: The daily-driver hero.
• Porsche 987.2 Cayman R: The lightweight legend.

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is this the purest modern Porsche ever produced? In this episode of 9WERKS Radio, we are joined by a "quad-squad" of 987.2 Cayman R owners from the Driven Not Hidden Collective to find out why this stripped-out special has become the definitive modern classic of 2026.

While the 981 and 718 GT4s might have more power and "mini-supercar" looks, the Cayman R is the final stand for hydraulic steering and a sub-1,300kg curb weight. Our four guests break down the reality of owning the "R" – from the iconic pull-strap doors and carbon bucket seats to the sublime balance that only 330hp in a mid-engine chassis can provide.

In this Cayman R Owners Roundtable:

• Steering Perfection: Why the transition to electric steering in later models makes the 987.2 R feel "alive" in comparison.
• The Weight Debate: Does saving 55kg over a Cayman S really transform the car on a twisty UK B-road?
• Spec Warfare: Manual vs. PDK, and why the Carbon Buckets (P03) and Sports Exhaust (PSE) are the non-negotiable "must-haves" for 2026 buyers.
• Real-World Values: With Cayman R prices solidifying, is this the last "safe" place to put your money in the Porsche world?
• Living with the R: Four owners share their stories of track days, European tours, and why they haven't "traded up" to a GT4.

The Cayman R "Holy Grail" Checklist

If you're hunting for one of these in 2026, our owners agree these are the specs that define the experience:

• Transmission: 6-speed manual for the purists, though the 7-speed PDK is surprisingly sharp.
• Interior: Carbon fiber bucket seats are essential for both the feel and the future resale value.
• Air conditioning: Yes, it added weight, but it gets hot in there without it!
• Wheels: The ultra-lightweight 19" Spyder alloys are a must for that unsprung weight advantage.

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is it really like to live with a V10-powered analog masterpiece for two decades? In this episode of 9WERKS Radio, we are joined by a man who needs little introduction to the Porsche community: Mark Sumpter, founder of Paragon Porsche and a veteran of the British GT Championship.

While most Carrera GTs are treated as static financial instruments, tucked away in climate-controlled bubbles with delivery mileage, Mark’s story is the antithesis of the "investment" mindset. He has owned his silver CGT for over 20 years, experiencing everything from the initial excitement of its 2004 launch to the long-term realities of maintaining a car with a Le Mans-derived heart.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The Acquisition: How Mark secured his car and why he chose it over the 911 GT2s of the era.
• The Driving Experience: Mark describes the physical demands of the ceramic twin-plate clutch and why the 5.7L V10 remains the greatest engine ever put in a road car.
• Long-Term Maintenance: The reality of the "Major Service." We discuss the technical challenges of the carbon-fiber monocoque and what it takes to keep a Carrera GT in peak health after 20 years.
• The Market Evolution: Mark shares his perspective as a specialist dealer on how the CGT went from a "difficult sell" to a multi-million pound icon.

Driven Not Hidden: Why Mark continues to take his car on European road trips and why he believes these cars "die" if they aren't driven.

Technical Deep Dive: The CGT Components

Owning a Carrera GT is a commitment to precision engineering. During the interview, Mark touches on the specific components that define the ownership experience:

• The PCCC (Porsche Ceramic Composite Clutch): Why its reputation for being "difficult" is misunderstood, and how to drive it properly to ensure longevity.
• The Pushrod Suspension: How the racing-derived setup handles real-world B-roads.

Service Requirements: From engine-out valve clearances to the specialized magnesium wheels.

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to design a legend? In this very special episode of 9WERKS Radio, we are joined by a true titan of Weissach and our 2026 Awards Guest of Honour: Grant Larson.

Having officially retired at the start of 2026 after 36 years at Porsche, Grant joins Lee and Andy to reflect on a career that saved the company and defined the dreams of generations. From the original 986 Boxster Concept that rescued Porsche in the 90s to the poster-child Carrera GT and the "return to form" 997, Grant shares the behind-the-scenes stories from the design studio.

The 2026 9WERKS Awards: Alongside Grant, we officially introduce the 2026 9WERKS Awards. We celebrate the cars, the specialists, and the community members who have defined the "Driven Not Hidden" philosophy over the last twelve months. Who will DNHC members reard for excellence in 2026?

In this episode, we discuss:

• 36 Years at Weissach: Grant Larson on his journey from the 989 to the 992 Sport Classic.
• The Boxster Revolution: How the 1993 Detroit show car changed everything.
• 2026 Awards Reveal: A full breakdown of this year's Awards categories and why they represent the best of the Porsche world.

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the "ultimate" 911 actually too much for the road? In this episode of 9WERKS Radio, we explore a move that most enthusiasts would find unthinkable. We are joined by His Geezership, Guy Feltham, who reveals why he decided to sell his stunning Porsche 911 (991.1) GT3 RS to get behind the wheel of a "lesser" 991.1 Carrera GTS.

Guy’s story isn’t just about the car; it’s a deep dive into the reality of RS ownership. Does the 4.0L track weapon lose its charm when you’re not on a circuit? Guy breaks down the ergonomics, the "Specialness vs. Usability" debate, and why the naturally aspirated 3.8L GTS might just be the most rewarding 911 he’s ever owned.

The Reality of Porsche GT Ownership: To go even deeper, the team from Garage Therapy joins the conversation. We tackle the hidden "downfalls" of owning a Porsche GT car—from the psychological stress of "mileage buckets" and stone chips to the high-stakes maintenance that comes with track-bred engineering.

Finding the 911 Sweet Spot: Finally, we sit down with Danny from Lakeside Classics to look at the market data. Danny explains why the 991.1 GTS has emerged as the definitive "sweet spot" in the 911 lineage, combining the last of the wide-body, naturally aspirated Carrera DNA with modern reliability and road-focused damping.

In this episode, we discuss:

• RS to GTS: Guy Feltham’s honest comparison between the 991.1 GT3 RS and GTS equivalent. 
• The "GT Trap": Garage Therapy share personal realities of the merits and compromises of Porsche GT products.
• The Mezger-lite? Why the 991.1 GTS engine is becoming a modern classic.
• Lakeside Classics’ View: Why the 991 GTS is currently the most requested 911 in their showroom.
• "Driven Not Hidden": How to actually use a high-value Porsche without the fear of depreciation.

Connect with our Guests:

 Guy Feltham: Follow Guy’s Porsche journey @askgeez  Garage Therapy: Professional car care and detailing experts. Visit https://garagetherapy.co.uk  Lakeside Classics: Find your next 911 at https://lakesideclassics.co.uk

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you turn a teenage passion for VWs into a global automotive empire?

In this episode of 9WERKS Radio, Lee and Andy are joined by Barney Dines, the CEO of Heritage Parts Centre, as the company celebrates a monumental 40th anniversary. Barney shares the "Driven Not Hidden" origins of his career—from restoring his first VW Beetle at just 15 years old to leading one of the world's most respected Porsche and VW parts suppliers.

We dive deep into Barney's personal garage, including why he considers his Porsche 997 to be the finest car he’s ever owned and his ambitious future plans to resurrect a 550 Spyder and get it back on the road where it belongs.

But it’s not just about the stories; we get into the "nitty-gritty" of Porsche maintenance and modification. Barney settles the debate on OEM vs. Genuine vs. Patent (Aftermarket) parts, explaining when to save and when to spend to ensure your Porsche stays in peak condition.

In this episode:

• The Heritage Story: How a passion project became a 40-year business success.
• The 15-Year-Old’s Restoration: Barney’s first Beetle and the lessons it taught him.
• The 997 Verdict: Why the 997 is the "Goldilocks" 911 for the CEO of a parts giant.
• The 550 Spyder Project: Bringing a legend back to the road.
• The Parts Masterclass: Understanding the difference between Genuine, OEM, and Patent parts.
• Building a Brand: How Heritage Parts Centre has evolved since 1986.

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has Porsche design reached a turning point? In this special collaboration episode, 9WERKS Radio joins forces with James and Andy from the Curb & Canyon podcast to dissect the past, present, and high-stakes future of Porsche aesthetics. With the legendary Michael Mauer stepping down after two decades and former McLaren/Bentley designer Tobias Sühlmann taking the reins as the new Head of Style, we ask the big question: where does Porsche design go from here?

The team dives deep into the "Highs and Lows" of the Mauer era—from the redemption of the Panamera and the futuristic Taycan to the challenges of keeping the 911 icon fresh across the 997, 991, and 992 generations. We also tackle the "elephant in the room": the controversial transition to an all-electric lineup and how Sühlmann’s background in hypercars (like the McLaren Solus GT and Bentley Batur) will influence the next generation of Stuttgart’s sports cars.

In this 9WERKS x Curb & Canyon Special:

• The Changing of the Guard: What Tobias Sühlmann’s appointment means for the future of the 911.
• Mauer’s Legacy: Ranking the greatest (and most controversial) designs from 2004–2026.
• The SUV vs. Sports Car Debate: Can Porsche maintain its DNA as it prioritizes the Macan and Cayenne EV?
• Design "Highs & Lows": From the 918 Spyder masterpiece to the models that missed the mark.
• The "McLaren-isation" of Porsche: Discussing the influence of CEO Michael Leiters and the new design direction.

Links & Community

 Follow Curb & Canyon: Search for "Curb & Canyon" on your favorite podcast app.

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the future of the Porsche community in safe hands? In this episode of 9WERKS Radio, Lee Sibley and Andy Brookes are joined by a selection of younger members from the Driven Not Hidden Collective (DNHC). We explore the passion behind the next generation of owners and how they are navigating the world of modern classic Porsche ownership.

From the affordable entry point of a Porsche 986 Boxster to the dream of owning an air-cooled 911, we discuss what draws a younger demographic to the brand in 2026. Whether it’s the heritage, the engineering, or the "Driven Not Hidden" lifestyle, these enthusiasts prove that the Porsche bug is more contagious than ever.

Inside This Episode: Porsche Passion & The DNHC

Buying Your First Porsche: Navigating the Modern Market

For many young Porsche owners, the path to ownership involves strategic buying. We dive into:

• Entry-level Porsche models: Why the 986 Boxster, 944, and 996 Carrera are the "sweet spots" for new enthusiasts.
• DIY Maintenance: How the next generation is using the internet to keep their cars on the road.
• The Daily Driver Reality: Can you really use a 20-year-old Porsche as your only car?

Heritage vs. Innovation: The Future of the Porsche Brand

We ask our guests what they value most: the analog feel of a manual gearbox or the cutting-edge performance of a Taycan or 992 GT3. We also look at the "Forever Car" — the ultimate dream Porsche they hope to one day have in their garage.

Why the Driven Not Hidden Collective (DNHC) Matters

Community is the backbone of the Porsche world. We discuss why the 9WERKS DNHC is the perfect home for enthusiasts who believe cars are meant to be driven, regardless of age, model, or mileage.

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a late-night browse on Collecting Cars goes “wrong”? In this episode, the 9WERKS team – Lee Sibley and Andy Brookes – sit down with former co-host Max Newman to hear the unbelievable story of how he accidentally became the next custodian of James May’s 2010 Porsche 997.2 Carrera S.

From the “fussy” cleaning brush included in the sale to the nerve-wracking moment the hammer fell, Max reveals the reality of buying a celebrity-owned 911, the “purist” spec that tempted him, and why this particular Carrera White 997.2 might just be the perfect daily-driver 911.

Key Discussion Points

• The “Accidental” Bid: Max walks us through the auction process and the moment he realized he was the high bidder on a piece of Top Gear and The Grand Tour history.
• The James May Spec: Why “Captain Slow” chose a manual gearbox, Carrara White paint, and a rare limited-slip differential (LSD).
• Provenance & Detail: A look at the car’s impeccable service history at Porsche Centre West London and why James May included his famous cleaning brush in the sale.
• 997.2 vs. The World: Why the Gen 2 997 remains a “sweet spot” for enthusiasts, blending analog feel with modern DFI engine reliability.
• Living with a Legend: Max’s plans for the car—will it be a “garage queen” or stay true to the 9WERKS “Driven Not Hidden” mantra?

The Car: 2010 Porsche 911 (997.2) Carrera S

• Engine: 3.8L Naturally Aspirated Flat-Six (DFI)
• Power: 380 hp / 310 lb-ft
• Transmission: 6-Speed Manual (with optional LSD)
• Exterior: Carrara White
• Interior: Ocean Blue Extended Leather
• Key Options: 19-inch Carrera Classic wheels, PASM, BOSE Sound System, and PCM 3.0 with Extended Navigation.

Links & Resources

• Find your next Porsche: 9WERKS Marketplace
• Follow Max Newman: @maxripcor
• Follow 9WERKS: @9.werks
• Sponsor: Special thanks to Heritage Parts Centre. Use code 9WERKS10 for 10% off your order.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is there really an "off-season" for Porsche owners? We don’t think so.

In this episode of 9WERKS Radio, Lee and Andy are joined by a powerhouse panel from the Driven Not Hidden Collective (DNHC) —Ben, Paul, Saquib, and Mark — to recount their recent winter adventure. We dive into the grit, the salt, and the pure joy of tackling a winter road trip when most Porsches are tucked away under covers.

We also bring you the highlights from our first event of 2026: 9WERKS at the Warehouse. Despite freezing temperatures, the DNHC descended on Heritage Parts Centre for a morning of coffee, Porsche chat, and indoor Wiggle Car racing.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Winter Road Trip: Why an "off-season" tour offers a unique (and quieter) driving experience.
• Winter Prep: How the panel readies their air-cooled and water-cooled 911s for the cold.
• Heritage HQ Highlights: A look back at our first major DNHC gathering of the year.
• Porsche Factory Trivia: We reveal exactly how many Porsche 911s are produced at Zuffenhausen in a single day (Hint: It’s more than you think!).

Whether you’re planning your own winter escape or just want to hear about the reality of year-round 911 ownership, this episode is for you.

To see pictures of the Heritage event visit Heritage Parts Centre’s website.

Find your dream Porsche on the 9WERKS Marketplace: 9werks.co.uk/marketplace

Thanks to our friends heritagepartscentre.com for sponsoring this podcast, get up to 10% off your basket by entering the code ‘9WERKS10’ at the checkout on heritagepartscentre.com

‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.

The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Support the show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.