But specifically what are the changes? Do they result in different torque/hp curves, or anything else that noticeably changes performance?

 

exactly..

 

Is it possible for dealer to program the p4s so it always starts with sport mode on?

 

I use sports mode on the freeway and any open area. In the city I just cruise along. I use my sport plus entering the freeway and at lights sometimes.

 

Is there a DIY or way to make the default setting Sport as opposed to having press the button every time you start the car? LOL, I know it's not that huge of a burden, just wish it was a **** style selector switch. And no, I don't want a can opener in the car too!

 

ECU/engine mapping changes affect throttle profile, PSM sensitivity on manual cars and that plus shifting points/shifting programs/shifting speed on PDK cars.

Some say that it's only a throttle profile map. PCNA says it is more than that. It certainly feels it is far more responsive.

 

I wish there was a way to make Sport Mode ON a default, but dealer service says not an alternative. My Pre-Flight Routine is to Press Sport Button, then turn OFF PASM (too rough for daily driving), then PSE On. EVERY TIME I START THE CAR. I might disconnect the PSE valve in the rear to just leave PSE on all the time, but there are times when I don't need it as loud (especially with SW Bypass installed).

The way I see it: Sport button equals Go Faster button.

 

I don't use the sport mode button on my 997. I find that it messes with relationship of throttle position when I'm shifting (and in particular setting off from a stop) and yields a bit more over-revving than I want. With it off, I know how much throttle tip in is required for smooth seamless launches and shifts, with it on, I tend to over-blip. So I just leave it off but I may try using it a bit more in the future and see if I like it after adjusting to it since I may not have given it a fair shot.

I do use the equivalent sport button in my M3 but it is less aggressive and I can program the car to always have it on (don't have to press the actual button)

 

I agree!!! I wish I could just "set" my choices, like the seat memory. Why can't the various choices be in the PCM, you simply set your preferred settings to the key fob or a pre-set number of settings. The throttle response, suspension, with the new electronic steering, maybe steering response, exhaust note, PDK response and shift points, PSM, etc, etc. We are driving computers these days, how cool could cars be if we personalized the driving dynamics. It could be the ultimate customization.

 

BMW has done this on M for some time now. Porsche is notoriously behind on electronics.

 

And cup holders too!

 

Possibly Porsche is concerned that the MPG rating used to meet to achieve CAFE criteria could be adversely affected if the user can easily put the car into semi-permanent Sport mode versus having Sport mode as a user opt-in every time the car is started. Sort of like the safety warning prior to seeing the navi/map screen. Just a wild guess. I know nothing about CAFE criteria.

 

I always drive with it on, but I do have a question. Is it best to let the car warm up before turning it on?

 

I always do!

 

If you like the way it drives in Sport mode, then I can't think of any reason not to use it all the time (with a little lower miles per gallon).

Regarding letting the car warm up, from what I know, it's better to stay our of the high RPMs until the thermostat opens and the coolant is circulating (the temperature guages begin to move toward normal temps), which goes for both Sport and non-Sport mode.