The 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S, more of a 911 than ever

T HE new Porsche 911 Carrera is a completely new generation of the iconic coupe that has been acclaimed as one of the world’s benchmark sports cars since its launch in 1963. True to the 911 tradition, the distinctive Porsche design language exudes power and elegance. The unmistakable silhouette still catches the eye while incorporating new, exciting contours and precisely designed details; a 100 mm longer wheelbase for improved stability and greater interior space; front and rear overhangs are shorter, maintaining the compact footprint that has been a longstanding 911 attribute; the sporting stance is emphasized by the lower roof line and a wider front track increases on-road presence further still while raising the renowned chassis dynamics. The rear-mounted, flat six cylinder engine is an equally symbolic component of the 911 identity, and behind the rear axle of the new car lies an uprated range of powerful, efficient and evocative ‘boxer’ engines.
The Porsche 911 Carrera is powered by a new 3.4-liter engine developing 350 hp, and the Carrera S features a 400 hp version of the familiar 3.8-liter. These new engines offer performance improvements for both models. The 3.4-liter Carrera with PDKaccelerates from 0-62 mph in 4.6 sec, 0.1 sec quicker than the prior model. Pressing the Sport Plus button on the optional Sport Chrono Pack cuts that to 4.4 sec. The 3.8-liter Carrera S with PDK can accelerate from 0- 62 mph in 4.3 sec (Sport Plus 4.1 sec), 0.2sec quicker than its predecessor.
Principle among the innovative steps forward is the all-new, lightweight body, featuring intelligent aluminum-steel composite construction. It is responsible for a significant proportion of the vehicle weight reduction of up to 45 kg.
Aside of course from offering better acceleration in a straight line, the new 911 also ensures top performance at an unprecedented level across the entire dynamic repertoire. In addition to the longer wheelbase, the greater agility, precision and driving stability are based, among other things, on the wider front track, a new rear axle and new electro-mechanical power steering.
Depending on the model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available as well that further enhance the driving dynamics.
The familiar athletic appearance of the 911 is given further dynamism with a 100 mm longer wheelbase, reduced height and up to 20-inch diameter alloy wheels. At the same time, the typically compact exterior dimensions have been retained.
To complement the modern exterior, the Porsche designers created an interior style which takes its cue from that of the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the center console rising up to the front with the high-mounted shift lever - or PDK gear selector - located close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion.
Setting the standard in its class, as it has for generations, the new Porsche 911Carrera and Carrera S raise the performance and efficiency standard to new levels. Fuel consumption and emissions of all versions are up to 16 percent lower compared with its predecessors.
The new electro-mechanical power steering system offers not only the typical precision and feedback expected of a Porsche, but also helps to increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Evidently, it has therefore been possible in the new 911 Carrera to extend yet further the span of apparently contradictory attributes such as performance and efficiency, sportiness and everyday usability that has always typified the Porsche 911. It could be said that the new 911 Carrera is thus more of a 911 than ever.