When it comes to updating your classic Porsche with the latest technology, there are some improvements that deliver satisfaction instantly. Unlike a compact windscreen washer reservoir, the Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus (PCCM+) will bring music for your ears – amongst other cool touchscreen technologies that make motoring easier.

Infotainment systems for classic Porsches

The PCCM+ is the full package – navigation system, responsive touchscreen tech, Bluetooth connectivity, and DAB radio – in a sleek package with a 7-inch touchscreen and a row of smaller buttons below for easy access to main functions. It’s been designed for the 911 and 996 classic Porsches manufactured between 1997 and 2005.

If your 911 pre-dates ’97, the Porsche Classic Communication Management (without the plus) is what you’ll be looking for. This has a smaller screen but similar functionality to the PCCM+ that we’ve detailed here. It’ll also bring a tidy infotainment system to the 924, 944, 928, 968 models – fitting interiors as far back as ’65 and all the way through to 1998.

Updating infotainment technology with style

The PCCM+ pulls the classic 911 and 996s firmly into the current decade and is designed to work with all your car’s existing components. The high resolution touchscreen is big enough for those of us with clumsy fingers and the physical buttons are a nice touch. Quick access to the most important functions is made easier for those of us with slightly less dexterity when we’re cruising down the road.

The touch screen responds quickly and the modern connection options are abundant. Thanks to Bluetooth pairing, most recent Androids and iPhones won’t have a problem connecting with the Android Auto or Apple Carplay capabilities it includes.

Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus Music & Navigation

The larger screen of the PCCM+ makes scrolling through your phone contacts or music playlists a breeze. Spotify is easier to manage from the larger screen too and you can also connect MixCloud and other music apps to make sure you’ve got the right tunes for your trip.

Unfortunately, there is no Wireless CarPlay so you’ll need to make use of one of the two USB plugs supplied with the unit to listen to your tunes. It’s not a massive issue unless you want to keep your phone in your bag or pocket.

When it comes to navigation options, you’ll get the most recent maps on an SD card and directions are given in both 2D and 3D. The whole system integrates nicely with the rest of the car – right down to the Porsche lettering on the unit.

Traffic information leaves a little to be desired and it’s likely you’ll get better traffic updates from Waze or Google Maps. Both look great on the 7” screen. Flitmeister also works well with the system to give fair warning of traffic obstacles and cameras. In some cases, navigation via CarPlay or Android Auto can be the most convenient option.

The DAB radio is quality – reception is great and you’ll be able to tune into the whole selection of stations. Audio quality is reliant on your speakers as well as the infotainment unit, but the unit itself is unlikely to be the cause of issues – it’s superbly designed.

When you’ve had enough of radio, the audio options are extensive  Spotify (of course), podcasts, streaming radio, playlists on SD cards, USB sticks, even AUX connections and Bluetooth.

Caption: The Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus fits seamlessly with the 911 and 996 interior.

Fitting the PCCM+

The PCCM+ fits in the same space as the PCM1 for the Porsche 996, the 911’s front mounting bracket where the PCM1 sits, needs some modification to enable the PCCM+ to slot in. The box comes with everything you need for the system itself – various cables, adaptors, even an empty SD card for your music. It’s clear that Porsche has thought carefully about this infotainment system integration.

Installation of the unit takes about 3 hours at a Porsche Classic or Porsche Centre, and it’s recommended that you get the professionals to do this job. That said, there are plenty of forums with advice and guides as well as videos to show you how, if you’re handy with these sorts of things and want to try fitting one yourself.