2012 Porsche 911
Following on from it’s world premiere in Frankfurt earlier this year, the latest generation Porsche 911 (internally coded 991) is set for its U.S. debut at the LA Auto Show later this month.
Despite boasting a longer wheelbase, the new model is some 100 lbs lighter than the old, thanks to extensive use of aluminum in its body structure. It’s also the first production car to boast a seven-speed manual gearbox, though a ZF sourced seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or, literally ,dual-clutch gearbox) will be available for those so inclined.
The new 911 will initially be offered in two forms, the base Carerra, powered by a 3.4-liter 350 hp flat-six and the higher performing Carerra S, equipped with a 3.8-liter 400 hp motor.
Besides the new 911, Porsche will also showcase full hybrid versions of the Cayenne S and Panamera S at the LA show; the latter being billed as the world’s fastest full mode hybrid that also produces the lowest C02 emissions.
