#2 - Sibling Porsche Experience ATL Review - 992 Carrera S
In January 2022, we received the Porsche Experience at PECATL (Porsche Experience Center Atlanta). My Sister drove the Carmine Red Macan GTS and I was in the Aventurine Green 992 Carrera S. First time Porsche drivers, we both left the experience wanting one. We had a great time and learned valuable driving lessons in the process.
Instructors Byron and Michael helped make the experience memorable. We had 1.5 hrs on track. As we started, Mike informed me if we did go off track, it would probably be minor, and after getting checked we could quickly get back on track. It was cool being assured they want you to push the car and your abilities. Most thankfully, this was a b-day gifted experience from my Mum for my 30th B-day, but I'd say it was just worth the $500 cost for the experience if it’s out of your own pockets. I learned useful basics like the proper driving line and where to keep your eyes in turns. It was uber fun to launch control and then mash the brakes to see how fast it gets up and down. It sounds and feels like you're being shot out of a cannon with that 443hp, twin-turbo, flat six magic and exhaust setup behind you. The low-friction zone was a top highlight. Getting comfortable stomping the pedal in turns while the nose points off track, to then experience the whole thing straighten out, was amazing. Felt like being in a controlled tornado. The other top highlight was letting instructor Mike do a few laps (optional). Most of those laps felt like floating in the seat... we were flying! I could get close to the cones, but when Mike was driving it looked like we were running over every one we passed. It was great to see that driving accuracy. It also helps humble those of us who think we are professional drivers.
In the wet circle, I couldn't pull off a full 360 slide. In better conditions I believe I could’ve got it, but maybe these 992s are that much harder to control in a circle. Of course, Mike made it seem easy when he had a go. For the kick plate, I controlled about 2/7. Another one where it was fun, but also felt a bit impossible. When I'd react to correct the steering, the rear was already lost most of the time. Would've been fun to get it down, but I didn't want to waste too much time on it.
The whole track and layout they have setup there is amazing. The cost are slightly higher at PECLA, but I'm looking forward to a trip there, and one back at PECATL. My next Porsche goal is to Turo rent one for 1-2 days. Maybe Cayman, maybe 911, we shall see.
As for weather conditions, it was January early morning with temps in low to mid 30s. There was snowfall right before we went on track. Not enough to prevent us from going out, just enough to add to the magic that was happening.