Great appearance for the new 911 in the Alps

Porsche has presented the new 911 on snow and ice. After the world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the end of November 2018, the eighth generation of the sports car icon was presented yesterday, Friday, at the Areit-Alm high above Zell am See in Austria. It was the first appearance of the vehicle away from a motor show. For this, a helicopter flew the new 911 to the Alm, which is located at an altitude of 1,408 metres. The presentation was accompanied by Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG, Albrecht Reimold, Member of the Executive Board responsible for Production and Logistics, the brand ambassadors Walter Röhrl and Mark Webber as well as the works drivers Timo Bernhard and Richard Lietz.

More powerful, faster, digital: the new 911
The new 911 will also set standards in the future in terms of exclusive sportiness, and unmistakably features the Porsche design DNA. Intelligent control and chassis elements as well as innovative assistance systems combine the uncompromising dynamics of the classic rear-engine sports car with the demands of the digital world. The now launched Carrera S models are equipped with further developed flat-six turbocharged engines producing an impressive 331 kW (450 PS). The power is delivered by a newly developed eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Both S models beat the four-second mark for acceleration from zero to 100 km/h: with the optional Sport Chrono Package, the rear-wheel-drive Coupé needs just 3.5 seconds, while the 911 Carrera 4S with all-wheel drive completes the sprint in 3.4 seconds. The top speeds are 308 km/h (911 Carrera S) and 306 km/h for the all-wheel-drive version.

The 911 Carrera S costs from 120,125 euros in Germany, the 911 Carrera 4S from 127,979 euros; the corresponding Cabriolet variants are available from 134,405 euros or 142,259 euros respectively. The prices include value-added tax and country-specific equipment.

Legend on your wrist: 911 Chronograph Timeless Machine Limited Edition
Porsche Design is honouring the new generation of the 911 with a strictly limited special-edition watch: the 911 Chronograph Timeless Machine Limited Edition. Like the legendary sports car, the chronograph impresses with purist design, uncompromising functionality and absolute performance. The chronograph will be available from April 2019 at a price of 4,911 euros (RRP) in Porsche Design Stores, Porsche Centres, specialist shops and also online at www.porsche-design.com.

Motor sports spectacle on snow and ice
The presentation took place before the “GP Ice Race” in Zell am See. This is the new edition of the ice race held from 1937 to 1974. The event, which is taking place this Saturday and Sunday at Zell sports airport, offers spectators plenty of motor sports action with historic and current race and rally vehicles – including numerous Porsche models. The around 130 participants who will drift around the 600-metre long ice track include the Le Mans winner Hans-Joachim Stuck as well as the Porsche brand ambassadors Mark Webber and Walter Röhrl.

New Porsche 911 Cabriolet set for open-top season

Six weeks after the Coupe launch, attention now turns to the Porsche 911 Cabriolet. The open-top 911 continues a decades-long tradition, established when the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer unveiled the prototype of the first 911 Cabriolet at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in September 1981: customers and fans alike were instantly captivated. The first fully open-roof 911 variant rolled off the production line in 1982, and it has been a constant feature in the model range ever since.

The new model echoes the timeless and contemporary design of the Coupe, remaining unmistakably a Porsche 911 in Cabriolet form. The fully-automatic soft top has an integrated glass rear window and the roof structure contains magnesium surface elements, known as ‘bows’, which reliably prevent ballooning of the roof at high speeds. The top can be opened or closed at speeds up to 30 mph; and new roof hydraulics reduce opening time to around twelve seconds – quicker than ever – while an electrically extendable wind deflector ensures high comfort for the driver and passenger.

The 911 Cabriolet is initially available as a Carrera S with rear-wheel drive and Carrera 4S with all-wheel drive. Both use the charismatic flat-six cylinder, 2,981 cc, twin-turbocharged ‘boxer’ engine producing 450 PS (331 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 530 Nm torque between 2,300 and 5,000 rpm. The drive efficiency has been increased and emissions reduced by way of an improved fuel injection process; other optimisation measures have also been implemented, such as a new layout for the turbochargers and charge air cooling system. The power is delivered by a newly-developed eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission.

The Carrera S accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds (with optional Sport Chrono Package: 3.7 seconds) and, where permitted, can reach speeds up to 190 mph. The Carrera 4S attains a top speed of 188 mph and achieves 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds (with optional Sport Chrono Package: 3.6 seconds). The fuel consumption (NED-correlated) of the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet is 31 mpg (208 g/km CO2 equivalent) and for the Carrera 4S Cabriolet is 31.3 mpg (207 g/km CO2 equivalent).

The new mounting position for the flat-six engine makes the Cabriolet even more rigid torsionally than its predecessor. For the first time, the sport chassis configuration with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is available for the 911 Cabriolet. The springs are shorter and stiffer, the front and rear anti-roll-bars toughened, and the ride height overall has been lowered by ten millimetres. These adjustments give the 911 a more neutral feel on the road, with better weight distribution.

An exterior design that draws on earlier generations of the 911
The new 911 Cabriolet looks wider, more self-assured and altogether more muscular than its predecessor. Wider arches envelope the large 20-inch diameter wheels at the front and 21-inch diameter wheels at the rear. The rear-wheel-drive models now match the bodywork width of the existing all-wheel drive versions, being broader by 44 mm. The nose – generally 45 mm wider across the front axle – revives a traditional feature from earlier 911 generations: a forward-extended bonnet with a distinctive recess in front of the windscreen. Both elements lengthen the front of the car and lend further dynamic purpose.

The rear of all models is dominated by the significantly wider, variable-position aerodynamic spoiler and the seamless, elegant light bar. With the exception of the front and rear sections, the entire outer skin is now made from aluminium.

Redesigned interior with clear lines
The interior is distinctive, with clear, straight lines and recessed instruments defining the dashboard. As it does in the original 911, the new dashboard covers the entire width between two horizontal wing levels. Alongside the centrally positioned rev counter, two thin, frameless freeform displays deliver information to the driver. Now 10.9 inches in size, the centre screen of the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) can be operated quickly and without causing distraction.

Sophisticated assistance systems enhance safety and comfort
In a world first, Porsche has developed Wet Mode, which is included as standard. This function detects water on the road, preconditions the control systems accordingly and warns the driver, who can then set the car up to focus on safety, by simply pushing a button or using the mode switch on the steering wheel (in combination with Sport Chrono Package). The camera-based warning and brake assist system, also fitted as standard, detects the risk of collision with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and initiates a warning or emergency braking procedure if necessary. A park assistant system including reversing camera completes the standard configuration of the Cabriolet. Options for the 911 include Night Vision Assist with thermal imaging camera, as well as adaptive cruise control with automatic distance control, stop-and-go function and reversible occupant protection.

The new models are available to order from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland from today. The 911 Carrera S Cabriolet is priced from £102,755.00 RRP and the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet from £108,063.00 RRP.

Customers will also be invited to explore the potential of their new car, and further develop their own skills behind the wheel, by participating in a bespoke driving experience around the unique tracks at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

 

New Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport featuring natural-fibre body parts

Three years after the premiere of the first Cayman GT4 Clubsport, Porsche now unveils its successor. The new 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport represents a consequent further development of the successful model from Weissach.

In developing the new 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport, the focus was put not only on further improved driveability and faster lap times but also on the sustainable use of raw materials. The 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport is the first ever production race car to feature body parts made of natural-fibre composite material. The driver and passenger doors and the rear wing are made of an organic fibre mix, sourced primarily from agricultural by-products such as flax or hemp fibres and feature similar properties to carbon fibre in terms of weight and stiffness.

Powering the 718 GT4 Clubsport is a 3.8-litre flat-six engine producing 425 bhp (313 kW). Compared to its predecessor, this represents a 40 bhp increase in performance. The power is transferred to the rear wheels via a Porsche dual-clutch gearbox with six gears and mechanical rear axle differential lock. The lightweight spring-strut front suspension is taken from its big 911 GT3 Cup brother. The impressive racing brake system features steel brake discs all round measuring 380 mm in diameter.

Tipping the scales at 1,320 kg, the 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport, delivered ex-works with a welded-in safety cage, a racing bucket seat as well as a six-point harness, is a real lightweight.

For the first time, the near-standard mid-engined racer comes in two versions ex-works for global track driving excitement: the “Trackday” model and the “Competition” variant for national and international motor racing. Only the “Competition” edition is offered in the UK.

The “Competition” model – which is available in the UK via the Porsche Cars GB Motorsport department – features a raft of details relevant for racing. The shock absorbers can be adjusted in three stages. The safety fuel tank with a capacity of 115 litres is suitable for long-distance events. Thanks to a brake balance system, the balance bias can be infinitely adjusted between the front and rear axle. An integrated air jack system guarantees fast pit stops. The quick-release racing steering wheel adopted from the 911 GT3 R ensures a range of adjustment options for the individual needs of the drivers. An automatic fire extinguishing system adds another safety feature for the racetrack. The 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport “Competition” is priced at £130,300.00 plus VAT, and is not homologated for road use.

“The new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport possesses significantly more racing genes than its successful predecessor,” says Porsche’s head of motorsport Fritz Enzinger. “The power of the engine has increased considerably. At the same time, we were able to increase the downforce and the cockpit is now even better suited to drivers’ needs. I’m confident that we can build on the excellent sales figures of the predecessor, of which we have delivered 421 cars.”

The car is available to order immediately and will be delivered to teams and drivers around the world from February.

Technical description Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport (Type 982)

Concept
• Single-seater, near-standard production-based race car, not road homologated

Engine
• Aluminium six-cylinder mid-positioned boxer engine with rigid mounting
• 3,800 cc; stroke 77.5 mm, bore 102 mm
• Max. power: 425 bhp (313 kW ) at 7,500 rpm
• Max. rpm: 7,800 rpm
• Max. torque: 425 Nm at 6,600 rpm
• Compression ratio: 12.5:1
• Racing optimised water cooling with thermal management for engine and gearbox
• Four-valve technology with adjustable camshaft phasing and variable valve timing VarioCam Plus
• Fuel quality: Super Plus unleaded, minimum 98 octane
• Racing optimised electronic engine management (Continental SDI 9)
• Integrated dry sump lubrication
• 100-cell metal catalytic converter complying with DMSB specifications

Transmission
• Rear wheel drive
• 6-speed PDK gearbox with rigid suspension and electronic control unit optimised for racing
• Reinforced dual mass flywheel
• Internal pressure oil lubrication with active oil cooling
• Differential lock optimised for racing

Bodywork
• Lightweight body in aluminium-steel composite construction
• Welded-in roll cage, certified according to FIA Art. 277
• Front bonnet with quick release fasteners
• Rear hood with quick release fasteners
• Fixed rear wing with “swan neck” mount made of natural-fibre composite materials, including the sideblades, black aluminium wing supports with integrated carbon fibre Gurney flap
• Driver and co-driver doors of natural-fibre composite materials
• Roof including escape hatch, certified according to FIA Art. 275a
• Recaro race bucket seat with longitudinal adjustment and padding system, adjustable to the individual needs of the drivers (in accordance with FIA Standard 8862/2009 – the latest FIA requirements)
• Three-piston air jack system
• Provision for safety net
• FIA-certified towing loops, front and rear
• Motorsport centre console with enhanced functionality and adapted usability
• Six-point safety harness
• 115-litre FT3 safety fuel cell with “Fuel Cut Off” safety valve complying with FIA regulations

Suspension
Front axle:
• MacPherson suspension strut, adjustable in height, camber and track
• Forged suspension links: optimised stiffness, double shear mounting, high-performance spherical bearings
• 5-bolt wheel hubs
• Racing 3-way shock absorbers with rebound and 2-stage compression adjustment, high and low speed
• Electromechanical power steering with variable steering ratio
• Anti-roll bar, 3-hole design

Rear axle:
• MacPherson suspension strut, adjustable in height, camber and track
• Forged suspension links: optimised stiffness, double shear mounting, high-performance spherical bearings
• 5-bolt wheel hubs
• Racing 3-way shock absorbers with rebound and 2-stage compression adjustment, high and low speed
• Adjustable blade-type anti-roll bar

Brake system
Front axle:
• Aluminium, mono-bloc six-piston racing callipers with “Anti Knock Back” piston springs
• Steel brake discs, multi-piece, ventilated and grooved, 380 mm diameter
• Racing brake pads
• Brake balance adjustment via a balance bar system

Rear axle:
• Aluminium, mono-bloc four-piston racing callipers with “Anti Knock Back” piston springs
• Steel brake discs, multi-piece, ventilated and grooved, 380 mm diameter
• Racing brake pads
• Brake balance adjustment via a balance bar system

Electrics
• COSWORTH instrument cluster ICD with integrated data logger
• Upgraded fault diagnosis with PIWIS motorsport tester
• Porsche Track Precision Race App
• Integrated lap trigger via GPS signal
• Electronic throttle system
• Lightweight lithium-ion (LiFePo) battery, 60 Ah, leak-proof, mounted in passenger footwell
• Emergency cut-off switch in cockpit and outside left of the windscreen
• Driving stability system PSM (Porsche Stability Management) with ABS, traction Control (TC) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), able to be completely deactivated
• Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
• Central fire extinguishing system in accordance with FIA regulations
• Air conditioning
• Electric wing mirror adjustment
• Multifunctional CFRP motorsport steering wheel with pit speed limiter and quick release coupling
• Centre console with map switch to adjust the ABS, ESC, TC and switch between preset tyre circumferences

Weight/dimensions
• Total weight: 1,320 kg
• Total length: 4,456 mm
• Total width: 1,778 mm
• Total height: 1,238 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,456 mm

Rims/Tyres
Front axle:
• One-piece light-alloy forged wheels in new weight-optimised rim design, 9J x 18 offset 28 with 5-bolt mounting
• Delivered with Michelin transportation tyres, dimension: 25/64-18
• Michelin slick/wet tyres, dimension: 25/64-18

Rear axle:
• One-piece light-alloy forged wheel in new weight-optimised rim design, 10.5J x 18.5 offset 53 with 5-bolt mounting
• Delivered with Michelin transportation tyres, dimension: 27/68-18
• Michelin slick/wet tyres, dimension: 27/68-18

Colours
• Water-based paint
• Exterior: white C9A
• Interior: white filler-coat, without lacquer

Delivery
Starting in February 2019

 

Porsche tackles Le Mans again with four works cars

Porsche has paid tribute to the worldwide achievements of its teams and drivers over the 2018 season at its Night of Champions motorsport gala in Weissach. On this occasion, the Board announced the intense continuation of its worldwide GT activities as well as a number of innovations.

Commitment to Le Mans
At the 87th edition of the 24-hour race at Le Mans, Porsche will again field four works vehicles. The two Porsche GT Teams from the FIA WEC and the IMSA Weathertech Championship each campaign a pair of ca. 510 hp GT racers from Weissach. The cockpit of the #91 car is shared by Gianmaria Bruni, Richard Lietz and Frédéric Makowiecki. The #92 vehicle is helmed by the title defenders Kévin Estre, Michael Christensen and Laurens Vanthoor. Patrick Pilet, Nick Tandy and Earl Bamber take up the race in the number 93 car. Sharing driving duties in the 911 RSR with the starting number 94 are the youngsters Sven Müller, Mathieu Jaminet and Dennis Olsen. As in 2018, customer teams contesting the GTE-Am classes will also be strongly. For the first time in the history of the FIA World Endurance Championship, the 24 Hours of Le Mans marks the season finale of the championship.

Top-flight squad
Porsche focuses on continuity in its works driver squad. All factory drivers who were part of the team in 2018 are also under contract for 2019. The same applies to all Porsche Young Professionals. The only newcomer to the team is the Porsche Junior Jaxon Evans. The 22-year-old New Zealander is the reigning champion of the Porsche Carrera Cup Australia and came out on top at a shootout against ten other talented youngsters from international one-make cup series. A total of 24 drivers make up the squad for 2019.

Continued factory involvement in the USA
Porsche will again tackle the IMSA WeatherTech Championship with two 911 RSR in 2019. The collaboration with Core Autosport has been extended for another three years. As in the past, the cockpit of the number 911 vehicle is shared by Nick Tandy and Patrick Pilet. They will be joined at the particularly long races in Daytona, Sebring, Watkins Glen and at Petit Le Mans by Frédéric Makowiecki. The No. 912 sister car is manned by the regular crew of Earl Bamber and Laurens Vanthoor. These two receive backing at the endurance classics from Mathieu Jaminet.

Intensive support for customer teams
Porsche continues its intensive support of customer teams in worldwide GT3 racing series. The new 911 GT3 R featuring particularly efficient aerodynamics and significantly improved driveability will be fielded for the first time. Porsche Motorsport has sold 45 units of this customer sport racer. In 2019, strong three-man crews will contest all rounds of the Intercontinental GT Challenge and the Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup: Romain Dumas, Sven Müller and Mathieu Jaminet as well as Dirk Werner, Dennis Olsen and Matt Campbell. In the Blancpain GT World Challenge America and the ADAC GT Masters, Porsche also supports at least two vehicles run by customer squads in the pro-category. Customer support will also be given at a number of national series and selected events.

Project title defence at the Nürburgring
The winning Manthey-Racing team aims to defend its title at the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring in 2019. Backed by the factory for this campaign, the squad from Meuspath, Germany, will tackle the race with two new 911 GT3 R. The winning quartet of 2018 remains unchanged, with Richard Lietz, Frédéric Makowiecki, Patrick Pilet and Nick Tandy sharing the cockpit of the rear-engine car. In the sister vehicle, Earl Bamber joins forces with the Le Mans winning trio, Michael Christensen, Kévin Estre and Laurens Vanthoor. Moreover, Porsche assists a number of other teams with drivers and also provides technical and strategic support.

World premiere of a successful racer
The successor to the winning Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport will celebrate its world premiere on January 3, 2019, at the “Roar before Daytona” tests. The 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport is the first ever production race car with body parts that are sustainably manufactured: the front hood, doors and rear wing are all made of natural-fibre composite material. Three weeks after its launch, the new clubsport racer will make its race debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona. The GT4 rounds off the clubsport family of Porsche Motorsport, which includes the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport and 935 models.

New head at Porsche Motorsport
As of January 1, 2019, Fritz Enzinger assumes the overall management of Porsche Motorsport, which in addition to GT racing will also include Formula E in the upcoming season. Until now, Enzinger was responsible for the management of the LMP1 project and in February 2018 also took on the role as head of Group Motorsport. The Vice President of Motorsport, Frank-Steffen Walliser, who has held this position since 2014, will move into the department of the CEO, where he will be responsible for the 718 and 911 sports car model lines.

Porsche Cup: Christian Ried defends private driver award
The Porsche Cup, the trophy for the world’s most successful private Porsche driver, again goes to Christian Ried (39). The racing driver/owner of Dempsey Proton Racing was awarded the coveted trophy by Dr Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Porsche AG. In addition, Ried takes home a Porsche valued at more than 120,000 Euro. Thanks to his successes in the FIA WEC and the European Le Mans Series, he earned 10,348 points over the past season at the wheel of the Porsche 911 RSR. Second-placed Robert Renauer, the 2016 winner of the Porsche Cup, can look forward to prize money totalling 30,000 Euro. For third place, Julien Andlauer from France wins 25,000 Euro. The Porsche Cup, based on an idea of Ferry Porsche, has been awarded since 1970.

Works drivers for 2019
Earl Bamber (28/New Zealand)
Jörg Bergmeister (42/Germany)
Timo Bernhard (37/Germany)
Gianmaria Bruni (37/Italy)
Michael Christensen (28/Denmark)
Romain Dumas (40/France)
Kévin Estre (30/France)
Brendon Hartley (29/New Zealand)
Neel Jani (35/Switzerland)
Richard Lietz (34/Austria)
Patrick Long (37/USA)
André Lotterer (37/Germany)
Frédéric Makowiecki (38/France)
Sven Müller (26/Germany)
Patrick Pilet (37/France)
Nick Tandy (34/Great Britain)
Laurens Vanthoor (27/Belgium)
Dirk Werner (37/Germany)

Young Professionals
Matteo Cairoli (22/Italy)
Matt Campbell (23/Australia)
Mathieu Jaminet (24/France)
Dennis Olsen (22/Norway)

Juniors
Julien Andlauer (19/France)
Jaxon Evans (22/New Zealand)

Race series overview
FIA World Endurance Championship
911 RSR #91 – Gianmaria Bruni / Richard Lietz
911 RSR #92 – Michael Christensen / Kévin Estre

24 Hours of Le Mans
911 RSR #91 – Gianmaria Bruni / Richard Lietz / Frédéric Makowiecki
911 RSR #92 – Michael Christensen / Kévin Estre / Laurens Vanthoor
911 RSR #93 – Earl Bamber / Patrick Pilet / Nick Tandy
911 RSR #94 – Sven Müller / Mathieu Jaminet / Dennis Olsen

IMSA WeatherTech Championship
911 RSR #911 – Patrick Pilet / Nick Tandy / Frédéric Makowiecki*
911 RSR #912 – Earl Bamber / Laurens Vanthoor / Mathieu Jaminet*
* North American Endurance Cup

Nürburgring 24 Hours, Team Manthey Racing
911 GT3 R – Earl Bamber / Michael Christensen / Kévin Estre / Laurens Vanthoor
911 GT3 R – Richard Lietz / Frédéric Makowiecki / Patrick Pilet / Nick Tandy

Intercontinental GT Challenge and Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup
911 GT3 R – Romain Dumas / Sven Müller / Mathieu Jaminet
911 GT3 R – Dirk Werner / Dennis Olsen / Matt Campbell

 

World premiere in Los Angeles

Near standard and yet spectacular – the new Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport celebrated its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show today. The 700 PS (515 kW) racing version of the road-going 911 GT2 RS sports car is limited to 200 units and can be run at club motor sport events as well as selected race meetings.

“For the upcoming years, our customers will not only race the GT2 RS Clubsport on track days but also at international motor racing events. We are currently holding very productive talks with the race organiser SRO,” says Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, Vice President Motorsport and GT Cars.

The technology of the race car from Weissach is based on the high-performance 911 GT2 RS sports car, just like in the 935, which Porsche unveiled nine weeks ago. Both share the same engine as their road-legal relative: a state-of-the-art 3.8-litre flat-six twin-turbo motor. Power from the rear engine is transferred via a rigidly mounted seven-speed Porsche dual clutch gearbox (PDK) to the 310 millimetre-wide rear wheels. Like in all other racing versions of the 911, the driver changes gears via ergonomically-positioned shift paddles on the steering wheel. The positioning of the engine behind the rear axle ensures excellent traction and braking performance. Six-piston aluminium monobloc racing callipers on the front axle in combination with internally ventilated and grooved steel brake discs with a 390 millimetre diameter provide excellent deceleration values at the front axle. The rear axle is fitted with four-piston callipers and 380 millimetre discs.

Like the 911 GT2 RS road car, the 1,390 kg Clubsport version is equipped with PSM (Porsche Stability Management) including traction control as well as an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Thanks to a map switch positioned on the centre console, these assistance systems can be adjusted separately or switched off completely, depending on the driving situation.

The carbon steering wheel and the colour display behind it have been taken from the 2019 Porsche 911 GT3 R race car. A massive safety cage combined with a racing bucket seat and a six-point safety harness ensure maximum safety. Air conditioning provides optimal cooling of the interior.

The new Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport can be ordered now via Porsche Motorsport in Flacht, Weissach, Germany. It is priced from 405,000 Euro plus VAT. Customers will receive their vehicles from May 2019 at exclusive delivery events.

Technical description Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport (Type 991, Gen. 2)

Concept:
• Single-seater near-standard non-road-homologated race car
• Basis: Porsche 911 GT2 RS (991.2)

Weight/dimensions:
• Weight: ca. 1,390 kg
• Length: 4,743 mm
• Width: 1,978 mm
• Total height: 1,359 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,457 mm

Engine:
• Water-cooled 6-cylinder aluminium twin-turbo rear-mounted boxer engine and rigid suspension; 3,800 cc; stroke 77.5 mm; bore 102 mm;
ca. 700 PS (515 kW)
• 4-valve technology with camshaft adjustment and valve-lift switchover
Vario-Cam Plus
• Electronic engine management (Continental SDI 9)
• DMSB-approved 100-cell metal catalytic converter
• Rear silencer with twin tailpipes mounted centrally

Transmission:
• 7-speed PDK gearbox with rigid suspension and short throw
• Dual mass flywheel
• Internal pressurised oil lubrication with active oil cooling
• Limited slip differential optimised for racing

Bodywork:
• Weight-optimised bodyshell in aluminium-steel composite design
• CFRP motorsport rear wing
• Enlarged air inlets with integrated LED headlights in 4-point design
• CFRP roof with removable escape hatch complying with FIA Art. 275a
• Lightweight CFRP front hood with quick release catches
• Removable CFRP rear hood with quick release catches
• 115-litre FT3 safety fuel cell, refuelling through the front hood
• Welded-in safety cage
• Recaro racing bucket seat with longitudinal seat adjustment and padding sys-tem in accordance with FIA Standard 8862/2009
• 6-point safety harness
• Air jack system (three jacks)
• Fire extinguishing system with electronic release unit

Suspension:

Front axle: McPherson suspension strut; adjustable height, camber and track, op-timised stiffness with high-performance spherical bearings, centre-locking wheel nuts; 3-way racing dampers, reinforced tie-rod; electro-mechanical power steering with variable steering ratio; blade anti-roll bar

Rear axle: McPherson multi-link rear axle; adjustable height, camber and track, optimised stiffness with high-performance spherical bearings, centre-locking wheel nuts; 3-way racing dampers, reinforced tie-rod, blade an-ti-roll bar

Brakes:

Brake system:
• Two separate brake circuits for front and rear axles; adjustable via brake bal-ance bar system

Front axle:
• Six-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with anti-knock-back piston springs; steel brake discs, internally ventilated with 390 mm diameter, racing brake pads, optimised brake cooling ducts

Rear axle:
• Four-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with anti-knock-back piston springs; steel brake discs, internally ventilated with 380 mm diameter, racing brake pads, optimised brake cooling ducts

Electrical system:
• Instrument cluster consisting of COSWORTH ICD with integrated data logger, sport Chrono watch and boost gauge in a vintage finish
• Removable Porsche steering wheel with shift paddles
• PSM (Porsche Stability Management) with ABS, Traction Control and Elec-tronic Stability Control (able to be completely switched off)
• Centre console with map switch to adjust the ABS, ESC, TC and switch
between preset tyre circumferences
• Porsche Track Precision Race App
• Integrated lap trigger
• Lightweight lithium-ion (Li-Fe-Po-) battery, 60 Ah, leakproof, mounted in pas-senger footwell
• Emergency cut-off switch in cockpit and outside left of the windscreen
• Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
• Air conditioning

Rims/Tyres:

Front axle: One-piece light-alloy forged wheels
10.5J x 18 offset 28 with centre-locking nut; Michelin transport tyres 27/65-R18

Rear axle: One-piece light-alloy forged wheels
12.5J x 18 offset 46 with centre-locking nut; Michelin transport tyres 31/71-R18

Colour:
White water-based paint

Vehicle price:
405,000 Euro plus country-specific VAT. Delivery from May 2019

The new Porsche 911: more powerful, dynamic and digital

Sensation in Los Angeles: the Porsche 911 is now entering its eighth generation. The new 911 celebrated its world premiere on the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show. It continues to set the standard when it comes to exclusive sporting performance. Unmistakably true to the ethos of Porsche design DNA, the new 911 features a much more muscular stance, and an interior featuring a 10.9-inch touchscreen monitor. Consequently, the new 911 is both timeless and contemporary. Intelligent control and chassis components together with innovative assistance systems have led the engineers and designers to balance the benchmark driving experience that the iconic rear-engined sports car is famed for, with the increasing demands of the digital world.

The next generation of flat-six turbocharged engines has been further developed and is more powerful than ever before, with 450 PS (331 kW) now standard in the S models. Efficiency has been increased via an improved direct fuel injection process and a new arrangement for the twin turbochargers and charge air cooling system. The power is fed to the wheels by a new eight-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission.

Additional highlights include new assistance systems, including Porsche Wet mode that helps modulate the car’s behaviour on wet roads, Night Vision Assist with thermal imaging camera, supported by comprehensive connectivity that now also uses swarm intelligence. In the UK, the features of the 911 are rounded off by two further exclusive digital offerings: the Porsche Road Trip app for extraordinary tours, and the web-based Porsche Impact emissions calculator for neutralising your individual carbon footprint.

Carrera S models start from 450 PS
The turbocharged flat-six engine of the 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera 4S now produces 450 PS (331 kW). This corresponds to an increase of 30 PS (22 kW) compared with the previous model. Both 911 models can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in under four seconds: the rear-wheel-drive Coupé can achieve this benchmark in 3.7 seconds and the 911 Carrera 4S with all-wheel drive in 3.6 seconds. This makes both cars 0.4 seconds faster than the previous model in each case. This advantage is increased by a further 0.2 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package.

Where permitted, the top speeds are now 191 mph (911 Carrera S) and 190 mph for the all-wheel-drive version. The fuel consumption (NEDC-correlated) of the 911 Carrera S is 31.7 mpg (8.9 l/100 km) Combined (equivalent to 205 g/km CO2), while the 911 Carrera 4 S records this figure as 31.4 mpg (9.0 l/100 km) Combined (equivalent to 206 g/km CO2).

Clear design language, unmistakable identity
The exterior design is completely new and emphasises the leap in performance for the 911 Type 992. Significantly wider wheel housings arch over the 20-inch diameter front wheels and 21-inch diameter rear wheels. The rear shoulders of the car are now the same width across all models, further highlighting the slim line centre section. Flush integration of the electric pop-out door handles further emphasise the tapered and smooth side contours. The entire outer skin of the body is now made from aluminium, apart from the front and rear sections.

Across the nose the body is 45 mm wider, and between the new LED headlights lies a subtle yet distinctive styling feature; a bonnet with a pronounced recess that evokes the design of the first 911 generations. The rear of the new 911 is dominated on all models by the significantly wider, variable-position rear spoiler. Beneath the spoiler lip and spanning the width of the car is a seamless light bar, a now familiar element of the Porsche design language.

The completely new interior is characterised by the clear and straight lines of the fascia design with recessed instruments. The 911 models from the 1970s provided the inspiration here. Alongside the central rev counter – typical for Porsche – two thin, frameless freeform displays supply further information to the driver. The centre screen of the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is now 10.9 inches, and can be operated quickly and without distraction thanks to the new architecture. Located beneath this there is a compact switch unit with five buttons for direct access to primary vehicle functions. In terms of digitalisation, the 911 takes the next step into the future with permanent connectivity as well as new functions and services. Feature highlights of the PCM include online navigation based on swarm data as well as Porsche Connect Plus.

New assistance systems increase safety and comfort
In a world first, Porsche has developed Wet mode, included as standard. This function detects water on the road, preconditions the control systems accordingly and warns the driver, who can then set up the vehicle for a particular emphasis on safety, by simply pushing a button or using the mode switch on the steering wheel (when Sport Chrono Package is specified). The warning and brake assist system, also fitted as standard, detects the risk of collisions with moving objects and initiates emergency braking if necessary. Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera is optionally available for the 911 for the first time. The adaptive cruise control option includes automatic distance control, stop-and-go function, reversible occupant protection and an innovative autonomous Emergency Assist function.

The 911 Carrera S Coupé with PDK costs from £93,110.00 RRP and the 911 Carrera 4S Coupé with PDK from £98,418.00 RRP. Both models are available to order from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland from today.

Digital applications: ‘Road Trip’, and ‘Impact’
‘Porsche Road Trip’ supports car enthusiasts in planning, organising and navigating special trips. The curated routes it offers include exclusive hotel and restaurant recommendations as well as points of interest and viewpoints along the route.

‘Porsche Impact’ is an emissions estimator. It estimates the financial contributions that Porsche customers can pay to offset their CO2 footprint. They themselves can choose the internationally certified climate projects in which to invest. The projects available are spread out all over the world and focus on biodiversity, hydro and solar power, as well as forest protection.

 

The type 964: a new start with this 911

The eighth generation of the Porsche 911 will celebrate its world premiere in Los Angeles on 27 November. It’s 55 years since the original 911 model debuted, and so a perfect opportunity to take a look back at the previous seven generations.

The third generation of this sports car, known internally as the type 964, combined the traditional silhouette of the classic model with state-of-the-art technology. It was also a bet on the future of the company, which was experiencing economic challenges – a bet that this third generation would win.

The first model variant immediately showed just how advanced the new 911 was: an all-wheel drive that Porsche had originally designed for the high-performance sports car 959 was introduced to the series for the first time on board the Carrera 4. With electronically controlled and hydraulically regulated power distribution, it was well ahead of its time. The all-wheel-drive system used the sensors of the anti-lock braking system (ABS) which – just like power steering – then became fitted as standard in this model, rather than being an optional extra.

The 911 Carrera 2 with rear-wheel drive followed in 1989. At the same time, the Cabriolet and Targa versions also celebrated their debut alongside the Coupé. What’s more, under that familiar body – in practice only modified by having integrated bumpers – 85% of the 964 also consisted of newly designed parts

At 3.6 litres, the air-cooled flat-six engine reached new heights in terms of displacement, and delivered 250 PS in the Carrera 2/4 models. One of the technical innovations in the boxer engine was its twin-spark ignition, which Porsche had originally developed for greater operational reliability in aircraft engines. At the same time, the aerodynamic lift at the rear axle was almost completely eliminated due to the rear spoiler now being retractable. And there was another new feature: the adaptive Tiptronic gearbox, which allowed smooth gear shifting without any interruption in power.

The 911 Jubilee model was one of the most distinctive variations of the 964 generation, with only 911 of these special, limited-edition cars to mark 30 years of the 911 made available on the market in 1993 – and they sold out quickly. With wide wings at the front and rear, this model combined the drive unit of the Carrera 4 with the Coupé body and 17-inch chassis of the 911 Turbo, but came without its rear wing. Porsche combined the exclusive exterior colour Viola Metallic with a full leather interior in Rubicon Grey.

Adding to the exclusivity, the 911 Speedster was launched in 1993 with a shortened windscreen, modified roof structure, and signature double-bubble cover behind the front seats. 930 cars were built on the basis of the Carrera 2 Cabriolet, plus a further 15 vehicles with a wide turbo-look body.

The turbocharged versions were the top-of-the-range 911 type 964 models. The 911 Turbo initially adopted its predecessor’s 3.3 litre engine, which at that time produced 320 PS, and the 911 Turbo S engine delivered an impressive 381 PS. The model was switched to the new 3.6-litre engine with 360 PS at the start of 1993, and the next in line was already knocking at the door from October of that year, and so the sports car icon took the next step. Porsche produced a total of 63,762 type 964 vehicles between 1988 and 1994.

 

The 996 First 911 with water-cooled flat engine

On 27 November, the eighth generation of the Porsche 911 will celebrate its world premiere in Los Angeles – 55 years after the debut of the original 911 model. This is reason enough to take a look back at the previous seven generations:

With the fifth generation of the 911 introduced in 1997 – the type 996 – Porsche took the bold step to stop using air-cooled engines. After 34 years, the sports car manufacturer completely revamped its icon with the new 911 and in doing so solved a number of urgent challenges. As part of a process that had started with the predecessor, the focus was on reducing production costs through maximum compatibility of parts with other model series, such as the Boxster, as well as on meeting updated safety and emissions regulations. Porsche found its path into the future with the 996.

It did this by preserving classic proportions and combining them with modern technology – in short, re-inventing a sports car legend and preparing it for the future. The 996 had a difficult legacy to follow, but it also represented the first chapter of a new era. That was already clear in the design.

The result was a newly developed body, which impressed with an elegant, no-frills look. The dimensions also grew: The new 911 was now 18.5 centimetres longer, and the wheelbase was also lengthened for the second time in the history of the model series. This increased by 80 mm, while the body width also added another three centimetres. The interior also benefited from these changes: the 996 offered more elbow room and a more generous feeling of spaciousness. The dashboard also had a new look: the five round instruments merge into each other – another break with tradition.

However, the greatest revolution was at the rear. The flat engine design was preserved – but not its air cooling, because this cooling principle did not have enough reserves to comply with the increasingly strict emissions regulations. In contrast, the newly developed water cooling system was ready for the future. This was also true for its performance: the four-valve six-cylinder engine generated 300 PS from a displacement of 3.4 litres, therefore matching the legendary 911 Turbo 3.3. After the engine facelift with a displacement of 3.6 litres, this increased to 320 PS, and in the anniversary edition “40 years of Porsche 911”, the power output even reached 345 PS.

The 911 Turbo also received a new water-cooled flat engine. This came with an impressive track record: as a 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine, it had already powered the 911 GT1 to victory in the Le Mans race in 1998. Thanks to twin turbocharging, it delivered 420 PS in the series-production vehicle. This 911 Turbo was therefore the first series model from Porsche to break the 300-km/h barrier. In the 911 GT2, the unit even produced up to 483 PS. The PCCB with ceramic brake discs also made its debut in the extreme sports car and was standard equipment in the GT2. This was 50 percent lighter than the brake with standard brake discs and had a service life of up to 300,000 kilometres.

With the same engine but without turbocharging, the 911 GT3 marked the start of a new era: it offered pure driving pleasure both on the road and on the race track as part of Track Days. It also formed the basis for the Porsche brand cups, and was the starting point for many race victories of Porsche customer motorsport all over the world. In the 996, the 3.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine initially had an output of 360 PS, and then 381 PS. The 911 GT3 RS followed in 2003 as an even sharper edition. Between 1997 and 2005, Porsche produced a total of 175,262 Type 996 vehicles.

 

The 993 Pinnacle of the air-cooled era and the last of its kind

On 27 November, the eighth generation of the Porsche 911 will celebrate its world premiere in Los Angeles – 55 years after the debut of the original 911 model. This is reason enough to take a look back at the previous seven generations.

One thing is certain, and not just for fans of sports cars from Zuffenhausen: the fourth generation of the 911 – the 993 – is one of the most desirable editions in the history of this classic vehicle. Although practically only the roofline remained unchanged, the new model impressed with an exciting interpretation of the 911 design DNA beginning in 1993. The natural interplay of concave and convex forms, integrated bumpers, flush-mounted windows and the wide rear end with its angled tail-light panel set the hearts of almost all sports car enthusiasts aflutter. Even the new front wings – a flatter design made possible by new polyellipsoid headlights – quickly found widespread approval.

The 993 also underlined its leading position in the sports car segment with its technical features – such as the completely redesigned LSA aluminium chassis, which combined lightweight construction, stability and agility. Up to the present day, the multi-link suspension is considered to be the ultimate development stage of the “Weissach” rear axle, which made history with its self-steering properties. The result: even better driving dynamics and enhanced suspension comfort.

The new generation also set standards with its drive unit: the 911 Turbo with standard all-wheel drive came with two turbochargers in 1995. The effect: outstanding 408 PS. At the same time, the 3.6-litre biturbo engine impressed with the lowest exhaust emissions of all series-production units at the time. At the rear of the two-wheel-driven 911 GT2 – and limited to an edition of 100 – it even produced up to 450 PS.

Initially, Porsche offered the 993 only as a Coupé and Cabriolet. The Targa did not make its debut until 1995, at which time it arrived with a new concept: Instead of a removable hardtop, it had a broad electric glass roof which slid under the rear window. There was also another body variant as a series-production model: the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4S – followed slightly later by the Carrera S – combined the wide body and chassis of the 911 Turbo. Only the rear wing was omitted.

The flat-six engine provided another reason why the 993 is so popular among collectors and fans: it was the last 911 unit to feature classic air cooling. Initially with a power output of 272 PS, the two-valve model – again equipped with twin-spark ignition – already delivered 285 PS from 1995 onwards. Porsche also optionally offered a 300 PS variant. The manual transmission was also new: with a top speed of now up to 270 km/h, it received a sixth forward gear to cover this speed range without curtailing the engine’s power development due to a long ratio. The gear changes were also once again more precise.

In the end, staking everything on the 911, Type 993 paid off for Porsche. The chapter of air-cooled engines in this unique model history ended with the fourth generation of this iconic sports car in 1998. The second era then started after 35 years. It was the beginning of a time that would see unparalleled success. For the 911. And for Porsche. Porsche produced a total of 68,881 vehicles of the Type 993 between 1993 and 1998.

 

Porsche scores fourth at Macau

Porsche has finished the 2018 FIA GT World Cup in Macau (China) on fourth place. In a fiercely contested race on the Guia Circuit, works driver Earl Bamber (New Zealand) narrowly missed out on claiming a podium spot. Porsche Young Professional Mathieu Jaminet (France) concluded his maiden outing in the Asian gambling paradise on position seven, while his Craft Bamboo teammate Darryl O’Young crossed the finish line in 14th. After being shunted out of contention by another competitor, works driver Laurens Vanthoor was unable to take part in the race. His ca. 500 hp Porsche 911 GT3 R had been too badly damaged by a crash into the barriers.

Shortly after the start, Bamber launched a pursuit of the leaders, but found insufficient space to overtake. Instead, the New Zealander safeguarded his tyres in preparation for the final stage of the ca. 110-kilometre race over 18 laps. This strategy paid off. In the closing phase, Bamber was the fastest driver on the 6.115-kilometre racetrack. However, the narrow street circuit left no room for a successful attack on the leading vehicles. At the flag, the two-time Le Mans winner was just 1.460 seconds of claiming a podium place with the No. 912 Porsche 911 GT3 R.

Jaminet concluded his Macau debut with a strong and flawless drive in the main race. The Frenchman made up two positions in the vehicle fielded by the Porsche customer team Craft Bamboo Racing – a feat no other driver managed to achieve. His teammate Darryl O’Young (Hong Kong) crossed the finish line in 14th in front of home crowds.

Comments on the race
Sebastian Golz (Project Manager Porsche 911 GT3 R): “We had a strong weekend. In the practice sessions and the race we managed to maintain a pace that was in no way inferior to our competition. Unfortunately we didn’t quite secure the qualifying positions we needed to achieve a better result. Earl drove a first-class race and was particularly strong in the last laps. And Mathieu Jaminet did very well, too. He managed to pass two rivals, but more wasn’t possible.”

Earl Bamber (Porsche 911 GT3 R #912): “It was a really tough race. I managed to defend my position at the start, then the gaps varied occasionally. Towards the end, when the car became lighter with less fuel on board, we were really fast. The qualities of the Porsche 911 GT3 R came into their own, which allowed a consistently fast speed even on used tyres. We’ve underlined that our car is without doubt one of the strongest GT3 vehicles. If we’d started further up the grid we could’ve done much better, but that’s just the way it is in Macau.”

Mathieu Jaminet (Porsche 911 GT3 R #991): “I started from ninth on the grid and finished on seventh – that’s not bad. I simply tried to bring the car home without any damage. It’s great fun to drive so close to the barriers. The circuit is a little like a shortened version of the Nordschleife with the guardrails right next to the track edges. I’m very pleased that Porsche gave me the chance to race in Macau. I hope to return to this special racetrack next year.”

Darryl O’Young (Porsche 911 GT3 R #55): “I’m not happy with my result and the pace in the race. We never really managed to get into the swing of things over the entire race weekend – it’s a great shame. We tried a whole raft of things, but nothing helped. That’s how it is in Macau sometimes. I’ll try to come back to my home race next year.”

Race result
1. Augusto Farfus (BR), BMW M6 GT3, 18 laps
2. Maro Engel (D), Mercedes AMG GT3, 18 laps
3. Edoardo Mortara (CH), Mercedes AMG GT3, 18 laps
4. Earl Bamber (NZL), Porsche 911 GT3 R, 18 laps
5. Robin Frijns (NL), Audi R8 LMS, 18 laps
6. Christopher Haase (D), Audi R8 LMS, 18 laps
7. Mathieu Jaminet (F), Porsche 911 GT3 R, 18 laps
8. Dries Vanthoor (B), Audi R8 LMS, 18 laps
9. Raffaele Marciello (I), Mercedes AMG GT3, 18 laps
10. Alexandre Imperatori (HKG), NISMO GT-R GT3, 18 laps
11. Adderly Fong (HKG), Audi R8 LMS, 18 laps
12. Oliver Jarvis (GB), NISMO GT-R GT3, 18 laps
13. Tsugio Matsuda (J), NISMO GT-R GT3, 18 laps
14. Darryl O’Young (HKG), Porsche 911 GT3 R, 18 laps

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