Official pics of next year's all new 911 leak onto the internet.
It may look familiar, but under the sheet metal, the 991 is the most radical redesign of the 911 since it sprouted radiators twelve years ago. As expected, it's not a huge departure looks-wise. All the classic 911 design hallmarks - the classic rear engine stance, the wide rear haunches and round head lights - are present, as shown in this batch of leaked press photos.
But look a little closer and you'll find some subtle yet interesting updates. The front LED light housings are set slightly askew of the intakes below them, which adds a touch of visual drama. In the back, the rear lights are much squintier than before and there's a well defined crease that spans between them, under the rear spoiler, giving the rear a tauter, more minimalist look. At 4.49 meters, it's 56 mm longer than the outgoing car. This is partly to accommodate a 10 mm longer wheelbase which is expected to aid stability.
The interior borrows several elements from the Panamera, such as the array of center console buttons and high grade leather. A Burmeister stereo and all new sat-nav with improved connectivity for mobile devices round out the package.
Engines and transmissions will be totally new too. The entry level Carrera will be powered by a 3.4 liter direct injection flat-six producing 350 hp, while the Carrera S will have a 3.6 producing 400 hp. Both of these engines are down in displacement from their 3.6 and 3.8 liter predecessors. The Carrera S will sprint from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 188 mph, while still being capable of returning 25.8 mpg. Two transmissions will be offered - a seven-speed dual clutch PDK and a very intriguing seven-speed manual.
Even though they usually look pretty much the same from one generation to the next, the arrival of a new 911 is always an event. Not that one was needed, but it feels like a new beginning. Turbo, GT3, GT2 and a plethora of other variants that we probably haven't even considered are surely in the works. We're sure to learn more about the 991 through more official channels in the coming months.
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