The eight-generation 911 has just been revealed at the L.A. Auto Show and the evolutionary nature of Porsche’s development philosophy means that it gets the usual incremental improvements in just about every area without rocking the boat too much. This is, after all, still the core model in the entire Porsche range, changing too many things at once would have everyone up in arms. Just ask the 996.
So most of the press releases are of the cut-and-paste variety where you just replace the 991-model number with 992. Larger dimensions? Check. New PDK gearbox with quicker-shifts? Of course. Wider track to tame the rear end even further? You guessed it.
On the engine front, the big change happened during the 991’s mid-life facelift and the twin-turbo 3.0-litre flat-six is still there, although now with incrementally more power (444 bhp for the S) allied with better economy. Who would have guessed?
992: What else is new?
Porsche has wisely not messed with the iconic silhouette too much and the seven-speed manual is still on offer, although only from early next year.
The hybrid version though will only be compatible with the new PDK cars so tightening emissions legislations may well see our beloved self-shifter slowly disappear from the scene.
Is it still a 911?
While Porsche has gone to great lengths to retain the visual cues that are unique to every 911 since the original, has it kept some of that charm that defines the driving experience too?
Early signs are that it still feels like a 911, albeit a very refined one, so we have compiled a short-list of requests that can inject some excitement back into the most successful sports car of all time.
A naturally aspirated model in the spirit of the current 991 Carrera T
With the heart of the 500bhp 4.0-litre GT3. It can even have a bit less power to preserve the model hierarchy, we just want that glorious sound and throttle response back.
A modern but retro-inspired special edition 911
A car that takes the hi-tech elements of the 992 and packs them into an air-cooled 911 shell. Similar to what Singer and countless other specialists are doing but with proper Porsche backing and at an affordable price.
A rally version of the new 992 that could compete in the WRC
Similar to what the 959 did in the ‘80s. This could inspire other sportscar manufacturers to do the same, imagine rally-spec supercars battling it out on the world’s toughest off-road circuits.
The signs are looking good
Surely at least one or two of these wishes could be met, after all, Porsche has shown that they are willing to listen to their customers. Models like the existing GT3 TP and 911 R bear testament to that.
Even the upcoming Porsche Cayman GT4 will be using a flat-six powerplant instead of the soulless flat-fours doing duty in the rest of the range. The 992 may be the most advanced 911 yet but with a bit of luck, this generation may also produce some of the most memorable Porsches ever.