Porsche continues to introduce new 911 variants for 2014. The current 911 is based on the updated 991 platform that debuted with the Carrera and Carrera S in 2012.
Several engines are available in 2014. In the Carrera and Carrera 4, buyers get a 3.4L horizontally-opposed direct-injected 6-cylinder that makes 350 horsepower. Carrera S and Carrera 4S buyers get a slightly larger 3.8L flat-6, which makes 400 horsepower. The 40th Anniversary Edition, the GT3, the Turbo and the Turbo S all use different versions of this same 3.8L engine, making different power in each variant. In the 40th Anniversary Edition, the engine makes 430 horsepower while in the GT3 it makes 475 horsepower. The addition of two turbochargers brings horsepower up to 520 and 560 for the Turbo and Turbo S respectively.
All engines are mated to a standard 7-speed manual transmission. The 7-speed PDK double-clutch automatic is optional, and standard on the Turbo S. In the manual, the ratios are close together in every gear except 7th, which helps to achieve a better fuel consumption rate during highway use. Other features include electric power steering and a hydraulic decoupler of the front and rear sway bars, known as Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control. In addition, 911s feature a rear-wheel torque vectoring system that helps build traction using the rear brakes in conjunction with the rear differential.
Inside, the 911 interior features styling touches consistent with Porsche's Panamera and Cayenne. There's no mistaking the design as something other than 911, however, with a host of gauges flanking a large tachometer, mounted front and center. The center console sports a large color touchscreen monitor for navigation and stereo functions. Overall, the 911 strikes a good balance between being a focused sports car and a luxurious cruiser, never feeling too hardcore to keep its occupants comfortable.
Several packages add features such as special sports seating, Bose audio, ambient lighting, auto dimming mirrors, and more. The Sport Chrono Package includes dynamic engine mounts, a dash-mounted analog and digital stopwatch, performance display, a Sport Plus button to control engine mapping and throttle response and launch control for cars equipped with PDK.
Iconic Design With A Fresh Spin
Exceptional Agility
Top-level Engine Performance
Available All-wheel Drive
Convertible Options
Surprising Fuel Efficiency
Porsche redesigned its venerable 911 in 2012, evolving the car from the "997" generation to the "991" generation, beginning with the rear-wheel-drive Carrera and Carrera S models in both coupe and convertible form. Last year saw the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S updated to the "991" platform, while this year, the Turbo, Turbo S, Turbo Cabriolet, GT3 and 40th Anniversary Edition join the party.
With these changes, the 911 line is once again solely built on one platform, ensuring than any 911 sold in 2014 will be fully up to date.
In the world of high-end sports cars, the 911 is the most iconic choice, with 50 years of evolution under its belt. Though the design continues to change, the fundamentals are still in place: rear-mounted flat-6 engine and a precision chassis developed with handling in mind. Together, the components make for a sports car that's hard to beat both in terms of aesthetics and performance, as well as history. It's a capable competitor for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Audi R8, BMW M3 and Nissan GT-R.
