Porsche 911 Review Presentation

Jul 11, 2024

Porsche 911 Review Presentation

Controversial Updates

  • No more paddle starter, now a standard starter button.
  • Analog rev counter replaced with a digital one with customizable looks.

Presentation Overview

  • Exterior design changes.
  • Interior updates and technology improvements.
  • Performance comparison of new GTS vs old GTS.
  • Launch performance test from 0 to 60 mph.

Design of Facelifted Porsche 911 (992.2 Generation)

Major Exterior Changes

  • Front Indicators: Integrated into the headlights.
  • Bumper Redesign: Enabled by the new indicator placement.
  • GTS Model Specifics:
    • Fins that open/close for brake/engine cooling.
    • New alloy wheel designs: 20s at the front and 21s at the rear.
    • Center-locking nuts like the GT3 RS.
  • Rear End:
    • New rear bumper and rear diffuser design.
    • Centrally mounted exhaust pipes.
    • Higher number plate location.
    • Redesigned rear light bar and fins.
  • Interior Updates:
    • Fully digital driver's display with customizable views.
    • Drive select mode standard on all models.
    • Alcantara effect materials in GTS model.
    • Carbon fiber inserts standard in GTS.

Performance and Technology

Engine and Power

  • Carrera's Engine: Same 3L Flat-6 Twin Turbo, larger turbochargers from the old GTS.
    • 394 horsepower (+9 HP from before).
  • New GTS Engine: 3.6L Flat-6 engine.
    • Single turbocharger, electrified.
    • 541 horsepower (+61 HP from old GTS), 570 Nm of torque (+40 Nm).
    • Hybrid system adds weight: 1595 kg (rear-wheel drive), additional 50 kg for 4-wheel drive.

0 to 60 MPH Test

  • Carrera 4 GTS: 3 seconds claimed by Porsche.
  • Actual test result: 2.96 seconds despite damp track conditions.
  • Video comparison with former Formula 1 driver Mark Weber shows new GTS faster in a drag race.

Track Performance Comparison

  • On track comparison with racing driver Jörg Bergmeister.
  • Old car's lap time: 1:19.93.
  • New car's lap time: 1:18.53.
  • New engine and four-wheel drive add significantly to performance.

Explanation of Hybrid Technology

  • Presented by Matias Hofstetter using VR headsets.
  • Hybrid system components: High voltage battery, electric machine in gearbox, new turbocharger with hybrid boost.
  • Benefits: Reduced emissions, improved performance.

Practical Aspects

  • Interior Practicality:
    • Good door bin and cup holder space.
    • Occasional rear seats available, suitable for children.
    • Reasonable front boot space.
  • Driving Assistance and Comfort:
    • Adaptive dampers and rear axle steering for improved handling.
    • No brake blending with carbon ceramic brakes.
    • Various noise and comfort trade-offs evaluated.

Pricing and Availability

  • GTS starts at £133,000 for RWD, £140,000 for 4WD.
  • Considerably higher than the predecessor.
  • Hybrid technology raises the price point but offers significant performance gains.

Conclusions

  • Advantages:
    • Enhanced engine performance with hybrid technology.
    • Excellent practical features for a sports car.
    • Improved handling and braking systems.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Higher cost and additional weight from hybrid system.
    • Some design elements might not appeal to all.

Final Verdict

  • Recommended as the best all-round sports car despite the new hybrid system.
  • GTS now considered the sweet spot of the 911 range due to the new hybrid enhancements.