The Porsche Cayenne Is Taking the Off-Roading World By Storm
For cheap, off-road fun, car enthusiasts are turning to modified Porsche Cayennes. While the early 2000s SUV might not seem like the perfect dirt vehicle, it certainly scratches an off-roading itch.
Off-roading is a pastime that many adventurous motorists enjoy. When people think of off-roading vehicles, names such as Jeep or Land Rover come to mind. Indeed, hearing the terms “off-road” evokes images of a rugged, durable vehicle that can handle whatever obstacles the elements throw at it.
However, there is one SUV model that is taking the off-roading world by storm, and it's from an automaker that is known for making
. It’s the Porsche Cayenne, and after extensive modding, it might just be the perfect wealthy off-road ride. And while it's made by Porsche, it's relatively inexpensive and powerful, which is
writes about people using Porsche Cayennes to go off-roading. The article notes that you can get a first-generation, early 2000s model for around $5,000. That era Cayenne has aged well, going from a "luxury-focused mall crawler," to a rugged favorite that is capable of more than just driving along suburban streets. With V8 power, it's a good choice for off-roaders on a budget.
One caveat is you'll have to be willing to do your own maintenance and repairs if you take a Porsche Cayenne off-roading. Because Porsche didn't design the Cayenne to be used off-road, you may have to make some modifications to it.
Using certified Porsche mechanics and parts can be expensive, so having some DIY skills will allow you to save some money when it is time to make some repairs.
The specs of the Porsche Cayenne
If you go with an early-model Cayenne, you'll get a PL71 chassis with low-range four-wheel drive, which works well for off-road purposes. Air suspension is available, which gives you up to an extra 4.5 inches of height for additional ground clearance. Porsche also offered an optional off-road package with the Cayenne, adding skid plates, a disconnect for the rear sway bar, and a locking rear differential.
As far as engines go, in the launch year, Porsche gave buyers the choice of 340 hp and 450 hp versions of a dry-sump 4.5L V8, with the 450 hp having twin turbos. The following model year added a third option, with a 520 hp 3.2L VR6. The transmission is a six-speed automatic.
took the Cayenne on an off-road adventure to get a sense of how good it is in that environment. The author concluded that he "was surprised how well the Porsche Cayenne performed in an off-road environment," especially considering very few owners will use it for that purpose.
Taking the Porsche Cayenne off-roading can do a number on it
We already discussed being able to do your own repair work if you take the Cayenne off-roading. It’s vital to know your way around a car, especially when you’re off-roading, as wear and tear is inevitable. With that in mind, anyone who takes a Porsche Cayenne off-road should make sure they have a good insurance policy.
And those people should use Jerry to find a policy at a low price that they can afford. There's a reason why
is the first car super app. We compare rates from more than 50 companies, including Allstate and Travelers, and save the average driver $879 a year on car insurance, which gives you more money to prep your vehicle for off-roading fun.
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