The Power of the Turbo
In its seventh generation, the mid-cycle refresh is one of Porsche 911’s biggest evolutions. A decision was made that from the 991.2 generation, all 911’s would be turbo-charged. Although the 991 generation had a turbo model, the shift to all new 3.0-liter twin-turbo models provides an exciting glimpse into the future of Porsche’s sports car. In addition to the turbo-charged engine, the 991.2s will come with subtle changes to the exterior, immediately distinguishing them from the 991 models. The most obvious of these are the two vents behind the rear wheels which allows the air from the turbos to exit as well as the more three-dimensional look of the rear tailgates.
However, our excitement remains with the engine. Dr. Bruno Kistner, the manager of Boxer Engine Mechanics, has told of the continuous development of the new turbo motors over the past four years. Apparently they have undergone over 10 000 hours of lab testing and over three million miles of environmental testing. A turbocharged engine is one to which a turbocharger has been added. This add-on uses recycled exhaust gases to increase power. Such engines are typically more a lot more fuel efficient and have a lower emission rate of CO2, while simultaneously increasing the performance power of the motor.
The 991.2’s fuel consumption has been reduced by up to one liter per 100km and the new Carrera emits just 190g of CO2 per kilometer. As for power, the new engine pulls like an ox and produces maximum torque from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm. The Carrera is equipped with 370 horsepower and the Carrera S with 420. This is 20 up from previous models. The top speed of these models is equally exceptional, with the Carrera reaching 183 mph and the Carrera S reaching 191 mph. Furthermore, the Carrera dispatches 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds while the Carrera S does it in a recording-claiming 3.9 seconds. This essentially makes these models some of the fastest cars on the planet. More detailed specifications can be found here.
Another important aspect is the sound. It comes as no surprise that Porsche has engineered the turbo motors to take full advantage of a 7,500 rpm redline, despite the fact that max horsepower happens at 6500 rpm. This allows the engines to rev, something that is problematic for numerous turbocharged engines. Although one is still able to appreciate the unmistakable sound of the flat-six, it is somewhat stifled by the addition of the dual impellers.
Despite the fact that the 911s will probably never undergo any drastic design changes, this new 991.2 generation has made a huge leap forward in terms of engine performance, while at the same time heeding the call for environmentally-friendly technology. It is no wonder that these cars will set you back a hefty amount, with prices for the Carrera souring up to around $100,000. You can however be assured that you will be getting a one-of-a-kind supercar.