Porsche is proud to present, forty-eight years after the original model, the new 2012 Porsche 911 – code-named 991, a new car that combines new technology, improved performance and the iconic style of 911.
The new Porsche 911 sports larger LED headlamps with new internal graphics and more accentuated front fenders incorporating a wider front track. There is also a longer hood and an modified front apron with larger air duct for better cooling. The sides are improved with larger exterior mirrors fixed on the doors and additional sculpturing to the area beneath the doors. The rear shows new LED tail lamps and a changed rear wing. The new 911 definitely has a more contemporary look than ever.
In order to decrease weight, the new model was given a body shell made from aluminum and steel instead of the all-steel construction used until now.
The new 2012 Porsche 911 offers the choice of two horizontally opposed six-cylinder engines, including a new 3.4-liter base unit to replace the previous 3.6-liter engine version. Even if the volume is lower, the new engine provides the Carrera an extra 4 hp, producing 345 hp at 6,400 rpm. On the other hand, the Carrera S still has a 3.8-liter engine, but the improved induction system brings an additional 15 hp, delivering 394 hp at 7,000 rpm.
Among the gearbox choices, there is the seven-speed manual, making the new Porsche the first road-going production car which comes with this type of gearbox. Another option is a lightly modified version of the optional seven-speed PDK (double-clutch) gearbox as seen on the outgoing 911.
The Carrera featuring the PDK gearbox and Sports Chrono package claims a 0-62-mph time of 4.4 seconds, while the stronger Carrera S sets 4.1 seconds for the benchmark sprint. When it is about top speed, the standard Carrera is 179 mph, but the Carrera S reaches 188 mph.
Improvements have been made to the chassis, such as the lengthening of the front track and a modified rear multilink suspension. To diminish fuel consumption, there is a new electromechanical steering system. The new Carrara S can also comes with the Porsche Active Chassis Control (PACC).
The two rear-wheel-drive versions Carrera and Carrera S will be available starting February, 2012, with base prices of $82,100 and $96,400, respectively.
2012 Porsche 911 Pictures Gallery
