Porsche 911 Seventh Generation (2011–2019)
Porsche unveiled the seventh generation Porsche 911, also known as the type 991, in 2011. With this new model, Porsche made some fundamental changes to the 911. The new 991 was more powerful, but also provided more space and comfort than its predecessor, the 997 generation.
Porsche 911 Seventh Generation
Compared to the previous model, the seventh generation Porsche 911 was almost completely new. Porsche had further developed or redesigned almost 90 per cent of the components. A longer wheelbase, wider track width and a completely new chassis provided a new kind of driving experience. Wheelbase was 10 cm longer, which made the cabin more spacious. Although the car’s dimensions had grown, it was lighter. Thanks to a newly developed platform with a stiffer lightweight body made of aluminium and steel, the weight of the body was reduced by 80 kg.
Although it looks very much a 911, the 991 differs visually compared to its predecessor. The front appears wider than that of its predecessor. The most eye-catching feature are the newly designed, flatter-looking LED tail lights and an altered front bumper with bigger air intakes. In the 991, Porsche also introduced active aerodynamics, rear-wheel steering and PDCC anti-roll stabilisation.
The newly designed interior referenced the Carrera GT and united classic 911 elements with digital displays such as the high-resolution multi-function screen. This was used to operate the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with improved connectivity and Real-time Traffic Information.
Introduction of the Turbocharged Engines
The seventh generation 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera was powered by a 3.4-litre engine developing 350 PS. The Carrera S delivered 400 PS and the Carrera GTS 430 PS. With the 2015 model update (991.2), Porsche introduced the new, 3.0-litre turbocharged engines. The new power units offered more power with lower emission values. Despite the reduction of displacement, the new engines with two turbochargers were more powerful (+20 PS) than before.
With a new turbocharged engine, the 911 Carrera S with PDK and Sport Plus could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than four seconds. Meanwhile, the new manual seven-speed gearbox, the first of its kind in the world, provided new level of driving enjoyment.
The top model of the 991 generation was the 911 GT2 RS. It delivered 700 PS and could reach top speed of up to 340 km/h, making it the fastest series-production 911 ever. The 911 GT3 RS, with a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine delivered 520 PS while being fitted with the very best of motorsport technology.
Wide Range of Variants
For the 991, customers could choose between a Coupe, a Cabriolet and a Targa. Along with the various bodystyles, Porsche offered further special models such as a lightweight Porsche 911 R and a Porsche 911 Carrera T. To wrap up generation 991, Porsche presented the limited-edition 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster.
The 991 generation was a very successful. A total of 233,540 Porsche 911 models of the 991 generation left the factory. It was replaced by the eight generation Porsche 911, known as the 992 generation.
You may also like
- What is the VarioCam Plus?With the type 996 Porsche 911 Turbo, Porsche introduced the VarioCam Plus. But what is the VarioCam Plus? Let's find out
- 2007 Porsche Boxster SportDesign PackageIn 2006, Porsche introduced a new SportDesign Package available for the 987 Porsche Boxster and Boxster S models
- 2001 Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe (996.1) SpecsHere are the technical specifications of the 2001 Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe
- Porsche Design Turbo No. 1 SunglassesPorsche Design have launched an exclusive limited-edition eyewear collection to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo
- 2005 Porsche Boxster – 10 Fast FactsPorsche unveiled the second generation Porsche Boxster, known as the type 987, in 2004. Here are 10 fast facts about the 2005 Porsche Boxster