The Porsche 911 Turbo has always been the go-to benchmark for many sports car manufacturers. While the Turbo is no slouch to begin with, Porsche keeps on pushing the envelope with every generation of the Turbo S without giving it the compromise of being a weekend car much like the GT models. That being said, the new 992 iteration will definitely give you a run for your money.Introducing the all-new Porsche 911 Turbo S, powered by a new turbocharged 3.8-litre boxer engine, delivers a noticeable leap in performance from its predecessor: an increase of nearly 70hp and 50 Nm, and is a full second quicker at 8.9 seconds from 0-200 km/h. To put it into perspective, a new MK8 VW Golf GTI does the 0-100km/h sprint at 5.9 seconds. This is all thanks to a completely new engine for the new 911 Turbo S which features a completely redesigned charge air cooling system and a new intake system to improve engine efficiency.
Creeping Into Supercar Territory
The Porsche 911 Turbo is arguably the ultimate sports car that has ever existed. Though, it is constantly debated among car guys on why it isn't a proper thoroughbred supercar. However, just because it doesn't have the engine in the middle, doesn't mean it couldn't pack a punch. Now with the latest Turbo S, supercar or not, the 640hp is definitely something that will wipe the smile of most guys at the traffic lights.
This range-topping 911 is powered by a new 3.8 litre boxer engine with two VTG turbochargers, which delivers 640hp and a maximum torque of 800 Nm. The Turbo specific eight-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) cuts 0.2 seconds from the zero to 100km/h sprint, compared to its predecessor. Despite the higher power figures, the top speed remains unchanged at 330 km/h.The new six-cylinder engine is aspirated by a new intake system. In this instance, the previous routing of process air and charge air cooling was swapped around: part of the process air now flows through the characteristic Turbo air intakes in the rear side sections. In front of the air filters, now situated in the rear wings, two other airflows have also been incorporated, through the rear lid grille. This means the new 911 Turbo S has four intakes with a larger overall cross-section and lower resistance, helping to improve engine efficiency, responsiveness, power, torque, emissions and revving ability.
Less Drag, Better Dynamics
Modified track widths, further developed aerodynamics and new mixed-sized tyres contribute to the agility and sportiness of the new 911 Turbo S: the track is now 42 mm wider at the front axle and 10 mm wider at the rear axle. The dimensions of the 911 Turbo S have also been increased significantly in line with the enhanced driving dynamics, whereby it is 45 milimetres wider above the front axle (1,840 mm) and an increase of 20 milimetres in overall width above the rear axle (1,900 mm).
For the first time, the 911 Turbo S transfers its power to the road with mixed tyres in two different sizes: it has 20-inch tyres with their unique 255/35 dimensions at the front, and 21-inch 315/30 tyres at the rear.
Actively Active Aero
The active cooling flaps, together with the variable front spoiler lip as well as the larger extending and tilting rear wing which delivers 15% more downforce, offers three active aerodynamic components, depending on the speed and driving mode. In the newly available Eco configuration, the rear wing is retracted over a large speed range so that the vehicle can be driven with minimum drag.
Also newly available, the Wet mode is focused on driving stability in wet conditions. The extended but not yet tilted rear wing combined with the completely retracted front spoiler lip shifts the aerodynamic balance towards the rear axle when the Wet mode is activated. This results in a higher rear-end and driving stability for greater safety on wet road surfaces.
In the event of full braking at high speed, the new airbrake function will be activated automatically. The front spoiler and rear wing are moved to the Performance position for higher drag and increased downforce to reduce the braking distance and improve driving stability during braking.
Paying A Pretty Penny.
What's the cost for all these power and tech, you may ask? A lot. Like RM 2,235,463.00 a lot. However, that is the starting price for the base Turbo S before you start including certain optional upgrades, Porsche "Paint-To-Sample" or Porsche's Carbon Ceramic Brakes. Also, the price is only valid during the SST exemption period as it will be bumped up again soon.
For more information on the new 911 Turbo S, contact your nearest Porsche Centre and schedule your appointment now.
Images by | Porsche