Porsche offers Apple CarPlay-enabled radios for classic models

Following the launch of the original navigation system for older models, Porsche has launched a new head unit with additional features including Apple CarPlay compatibility, Porsche Classic announced Thursday.

The head unit is based on the previous radio navigation system. Like the previous system, it is in a single DIN format and can be mounted on the dashboard of 911 models from the early 1960s through the latest air-cooled 911s from the 1990s (993 models). According to Porsche, it can also be installed on early front- and mid-engine models. These presumably include the 914, 924, 944, 928 and 968 models built in the same era.

The head unit has two rotary controls and six buttons, as well as a 3.5-inch touchscreen display. All of these features are carried over from the previous system, but the new version adds Apple CarPlay and a dots function for navigation (maps are stored on the SD card) Media playback via Bluetooth or USB is also included;

The new system also includes a new 3.5-inch touchscreen display.

Porsche has also added a second design head unit compatible with later models. This dual DIN connector unit was designed for the 911 generation 996 and Boxster generation 986 models. These models feature a 7.0-inch touchscreen at the expense of additional space on the dashboard. The unit is designed to merge with surrounding switchgear and work with existing components such as the amplifier and navigation display in the instrument cluster.

The 7.0-inch touchscreen unit also features navigation with maps stored on an SD card; Apple CarPlay is included, but Android Auto is also supported. Like the second unit, it has Bluetooth and USB for media playback.

Prices start at around $1,550 at current exchange rates. The head unit can be purchased at Porsche Classic centers or online.