Porsche/VW

[70Sixter]

I think the reference to the 356 as an entry model is interesting as it was the 911 model of its day. The Speedster was conceived as the entry model for the US against Porsche's better judgment since it was thought that such a car was not a real Porsche.

I guess the entry level VW-engined 914 or Audi-engined 924 will never be officially mentioned again, altho there was that VW/Audi/Porsche platform that some called the new 914 in Porsche configuration.

By the way, the new Boxster "Speedster" is very, very interesting and not cheap at all.

[pbanders]

Like 70Sixer, as a 914 owner, I would love to see a revival by Porsche of a 914-like flat-four, mid-engined configuration. What would be really great would be a car with these features;

* sub-2000 lb weight (1750 lb would be great - extensive use of aluminum and other lightweight materials)
* 2-seater, mid-engined configuraton
* Targa roof
* 2.0L normally-aspirated direct injection water cooled motor, optimized for a good compromise of fuel economy, low emissions, torque and HP. 7500 rpm redline, 225 HP / 175 lb-ft
* minimalist cockpit, a la Lotus
* focus on handling and responsiveness
* focus on rigid chassis and safety

A turbo option or model would be desirable. Plenty of 914 owners have been making their own FrankenPorscheSubarus which aren't far from this concept, and the results are pretty impressive. No reason why Porsche couldn't make a car like this that could deliver 30 mpg on the euro or the EPA combined cycle, cost less than a Boxster (not very hard these days!) and help jack up Porsche's EPA mileage levels to meet coming standards. Price target of $30K to $35K would also be great, and would pull in a new generation of Porsche owners. Lots of possibilities for a great racing model of a car like this, too.