The ninth generation of Porsche’s iconic sports car is code-named 991 and, at a first glance, is quite similar to its predecessor, the 997. However, as with any 911 in the model’s 48 year- history, appearances can be deceiving.
Although it sports similar external dimensions, the new 911 has a new bodywork, a 100 mm longer wheelbase and reduced height which, combined with the wider front track, the repositioned mirrors and the new headlights, give it a more dynamic look while still retaining the signature 911 shape.
The new 911 features an aluminum-steel body that offers significantly increased rigidity as well as a 45 kg weight reduction. Thanks to improved aerodynamics and the wider extending rear spoiler, the new Carrera has reduced lift without increasing its drag coefficient.
In contrast to the bodywork, the interior is completely different. Porsche says that it drew inspiration from the Carrera GT, with the centre console rising up to meet the driver and a high-mounted shift lever located close to the steering wheel in typical motor sport fashion. Classic Porsche elements have been retained, such as the instrument cluster with five round instruments, of which one of them is a high resolution multifunction screen, as well as the central rev counter and the ignition lock to the left of the steering wheel.
At launch, the new 911 will be offered in two formats, the base Carrera and the sportier Carrera S. Both are available with either a new 7-speed manual gearbox or the dual-clutch PDK automatic transmission.
The Carrera is powered by a new version of the flat-six engine with a displacement of 3.4-liters and a maximum output of 257 kW. Despite the new engine’s reduced capacity (the base 997 had 3.6-liters), the Carrera accelerates from 0 – 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds when equipped with the PDK transmission, and 4.4 seconds when the Sport Chrono package is specified. When equipped with the PDK, fuel consumption is just 8.2 L/100km and its CO2 emissions fall, for the first time ever in a Porsche, below the 200 g/km mark at 194 g/km.
The 3.8-litre engine that powers the Carrera S has an output of 294 kW, up from 283 kW, and enables the sportscar to accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds with the PDK transmission and 4.1 seconds with the Sport Chrono package. Yet its average consumption is 14% lower, at 8.7 L/100 km and its CO2 emissions are 205 g/km. The improved fuel efficiency is achieved through the addition of an auto stop/start system, better thermal management, electrical system recuperation, a new electro-mechanical steering wheel and the new 7-speed gearboxes.
Along with the wider front tracks and the longer wheelbase, the 991 also gets a new rear axle and, for the first time in the Carrera S, Porsche’s Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilisation system as an option.
Even though the new 911 will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13, Porsche announced that it is taking orders from September 1st and the car’s launch will take place just two days later. Local deliveries can be expected in the first quarter of 2012. Pricing for South Africa has not been finalised.
