new 911 deets trickle out...
 

apparently porsche is about to unveil the 2012 911. some details are still under wraps, but journalists have been invited to check out some of the test mules and are able to talk about some of the new stuff:

1. the base engine shrank from 3.6 to 3.4 liters, though HP went up to 350.
2. the S engine is the same size as before, but increases to 400 hp.
3. 7-speed PDK or
4. 7-speed manual
5. both PDK and manual have launch control
6. electronic steering in, hydraulic steering out
7. RPMs up a little to nearly 8k
8. "substantial" improvements to fuel efficiency (12-15%)
9. cabin interior - "ergonomic efficiency and visual presentation have all leapt forward." apparently it is even more similar to the panamera than previous versions.
10. electronic handbrake (?)

"Once [the driver giving the reporters rides] comes steaming into a downhill left-hand corner, apparently too fast, forcing him to stand on the brakes as he turns into the curve, just as the camber of the road starts to drop away. It's a situation that would have given even a 997 more work than it would have felt comfortable doing, but the 991 simply sheds all the necessary speed as if it had been braking on a flat, smooth and straight road."


http://www.insideline.com/porsche/911/2012/first-ride-2012-porsche-911.html

http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2011/06/leaked-c-issue-spills-beans-on-brand.html

Reading between the lines a bit, maybe they extended wheelbase to move the engine inboard, bringing the better balance that the reporter experienced around the braking corner.

This appears to confirm my thoughts on making the engine more midship by moving the wheels back.

http://www.teamspeed.com/forums/997-996/61215-another-991-test-top-gear.html

Slowly and quietly, they are making the 911 into the boxster by moving the motor midship instead of hanging out the back.

Those snooty 911 boys better sit up and take notice!

Seven speed? Who asked for that?

Taller? (higher center of gravity?)

Power goes up but does weight come down?


p.s.

I don't think Porsche offer enough SPORTS cars. They're leaving money on the table. You've basically got four high production models and two aren't even sports cars and the perception is that one is drifting towards the other GT. I'm sure they could come up with a few more models simply using the bulk of the existing parts bin, like a 2+2 that could actually fit four and unlike the Pana you'd actually see at a track event .

1. Carrera (not practical for more than 2 passengers)
2. Cayenne (SUV)
3. Boxster/Cayman (not practical for most buyers)
4. Panamera (GT)

You many need to register to see these pictures.

http://www.planet-9.com/club-911-general-discussion/60610-official-991-pics.html