Iconic Performer: 2016 Porsche 911 Turbo coupe
Since its introduction in 1963, the Porsche 911 has provided the ultimate pairing of performance and practicality among the world's sports cars, a vehicle that can be driven daily on the road and enjoyed during weekends at track events. The seventh generation of the 911 demonstrates this in convincing fashion.
The 2016 Porsche 911 Turbo is based on the seventh-generation (991 Series) platform which debuted in 2012 loaded with state-of-the-art features. The result raises the bar in driving dynamics with even more sure-footed tracking and roll stability.
The Porsche 911 continues to exemplify the automaker's commitment to the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy - improved performance using less fuel with increased efficiency, reduced emissions and reduced mass. Nearly 90 percent of the seventh-generation 911's components are new or significantly redesigned compared to the previous generation.
At the front, the new 991 has wide-set headlights that are more three-dimensional. Front fender peaks are a bit more prominent, and wedgy directionals now appear to float above the intakes for the twin coolant radiators. The stretched rear 3/4 view has changed the most, with a slightly more voluminous form and thin taillight slivers capped with the protruding lip of the bodywork. The biggest and main change in the interior is the center console, inspired by the Carrera GT and adopted by the Panamera.
Available in Turbo and Turbo S models, power for the 911 Turbo Coupe is produced by a 3.8L twin-turbo horizontally opposed six-cylinder aluminum prime mover. Torque is communicated to all four wheels through a PDK seven-speed automatic transmission with Porsche Traction Management. When equipped with PDK the 991 models can accelerate from 0–60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The 991 is the first 911 to use predominantly aluminum construction. This means that even though the car is larger than the outgoing model, it is still up to 110 lbs lighter.
One of Porsche's primary objectives with the new model was to improve fuel economy as well as increase performance. In order to meet these objectives, Porsche introduced a number of new technologies in the 911. The cars also feature an engine stop/start system which turns the engine off at red lights, as well as a coasting system which allows the engine to idle while maintaining speed on downhill gradients on highways. This allows for up to 16% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions over the outgoing models.
The new car also has a number of technologies aimed at improving handling. This includes a torque vectoring system which brakes the inner wheel of the car when going into turns. This helps the car to turn in quicker and with more precision.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 96.5; overall length: 177.4; width: 74.0; height: 51.0
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 3.8L twin turbo Boxer six-cylinder – 520 hp at 6,000-6,500 rpm and 487 lbs-ft of torque at 1,950 -5,000 rpm.
Transmission: seven-speed PDK
EPA Fuel Economy: 17 city/24 hwy.
Cargo capacity: 4.0 cubic feet (front)/9.2 cubic feet (rear)
Safety features
Dual front airbags, Porsche Side Impact Protection System, dual front seat knee airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, Porsche Stability Management with anti slip regulation, automatic brake distribution, electronic dynamic traction control, brake assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Porsche Communications Management, navigation, Bluetooth hands free phone system, HomeLink programmable garage door opener, Bi-Xenon high intensity discharge headlamps, Porsche Dynamic Light System, daytime running lights, remote central door locking, engine immobilizer, alarm system, and tire sealing compound/air compressor.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Corrosion: 12-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Porsche 911 Turbo starts from $157,100 for the 911 Turbo and $182,700 for the Turbo S. Destination charges add $995.