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2012 The Porsche 911

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Model strengths:

Iconic style with a recent spin; exceptional agility; top-level engine performance

Model changes:

The Porsche 911 has been given a considerable update for 2012. Internally, the new evolution of the automobile is understood because the 991, and though it still options a rear-mounted flat-6-cylinder engine, the automobile currently options a three.9-inch increase in its wheelbase over the outgoing model. The body is simply two.2 inches longer and it sits zero.4 inches below the 2011 model.

The body, that is currently largely aluminum, has been given an evolutionary redesign. New options embody larger headlamps fitted to slightly higher front fenders, higher wheelhouses, a a lot of sharply angled rear window, a better wasteline and wider rear fenders. All-new LED taillights have conjointly been fitted.

The base engine, offered within the Carrera, has dropped in displacement from three.6 liters to three.4 liters, however it currently makes 345 hp – a gain of four hp over the larger outgoing unit. Carrera S models once more get a three.8 L unit, creating 394 hp. Seven-speed transmissions are currently featured, as well as the quality manual and optional PDK automatic.

Model value:

In the world of high-end sports cars, the 911 is that the most iconic alternative, with over thirty years of evolution underneath its belt. For 2012, the planning has modified, however the basics are still in place: rear-mounted flat 6-cylinder engine and a precision chassis developed with handling in mind. Together, the elements create for a sports automobile that’s arduous to beat each in terms of aesthetics and performance. It’s arguably a capable competitor for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Audi R8, BMW M3 and Nissan GT-R.

Model overview:

The Porsche 911 is all new for 2012, following on its history of evolutionary changes instead of revolutionary leaps. Overall, whereas styling is updated, the automobile remains unmistakably 911 throughout, with the characteristic form and spherical headlights we’ve come back to expect from Porsche’s lead sports automobile.

Body changes are refined however varied, with larger LED main-beam projector headlamps fitted in higher front fenders, a wider rear finish, a better facet waistline and all-new LED taillamps.

Two engines are accessible in 2012. within the base-level Carrera, patrons get a three.4L horizontally-opposed direct-injected 6-cylinder that creates three45 horsepower – a solid four horsepower increase over last year’s 3.6L engine. Carrera S patrons get a rather larger three.8L flat 6-cylinder, that makes 394 horsepower. alternative engines are slated for production later within the 2012 model year, as well as a Turbo version said to place out quite five hundred horsepower.

Also new for 2012 may be a 7-speed manual transmission, that is obtainable as normal equipment. A 7-speed PDK gearbox is optional, serving as an automatic with manual options. within the new manual, the ratios are shut along in each gear except seventh, that helps to realize a much better fuel consumption rate throughout highway use. alternative changes embody all-new electrical power steering in place of the previous hydraulic system, furthermore as a hydraulic decoupler of the front and rear sway bars, called Porsche Dynamic Chassis management. additionally, Porsche has added a rear wheel torque vectoring system that helps build traction using the rear brakes at the side of the rear differential.

Inside, the 911 gets a very new interior, with styling touches in keeping with Porsche’s Panamera and Cayenne. There’s no mistaking the new style as one thing apart from 911, however, with a number of gauges flanking an outsized tachometer, mounted front and center. the middle console is currently wider and mounts a bigger color touchscreen monitor for navigation and stereo functions. The shifter has conjointly been moved up slightly, and a lot of switches and knobs are placed there.

In addition to the optional Carrera S package, there’s a Sport Chrono package, that adds a thick-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel with multifunction controls.