One of the oldest sports coupes still in production today, the 911 is one of the most iconic models to have been made by the German carmaker, and it played a huge role in taking Porsche to the level of fame that it enjoys today. It was introduced in 1963 with the distinctive design that has been present in all other subsequent generations of the car. Although the 911 had a humble start, it went one to become one of the most popular and recognizable cars in the world today. Although it has been marketed as the ‘911’ over the years, every generation of the car has received an internal classification number. The latest generation, designated as the Porsche 991, was introduced in 2011 as the 2012 model. It came with a lot of changes, although it still remains the same 911 in its heart as it has always been.
New For 2013
Porsche’s staggered rollout of the new 911 continues with the all-wheel-drive C4 and C4S. The Turbo variants remain on the old platform for now.
Exterior
Although the 2013 Porsche 911 has the same basic exterior design as the classic 911, there were some very significant changes that were introduced last year in terms of design. Michael Mauer headed the design team, and he introduced a longer and wider Porsche than previous generations. The design was smoothened a lot more, with trimmed overhangs and the rear axle tucked a little more towards the rear.
The car also got more three-dimensional wide-set headlights, and the front fenders were made to stand out more. The intakes for the twin radiators got directional blades to complete a fully refreshed front end. Towards the rear, the car looks a lot bulkier than before and taillight design is also modified for a slimmer appearance. On the side, the wheel arches got pronounced flares for that extra muscle to complete the look of the car.
Interior & Cargo
As expected from Porsche, the 2013 911 has one of the best cabins in its class, and even in the country. Build quality is exceptional with the best materials being used for every inch of the interior. The leather surfaces are of the best quality, and the little plastics spread here and there are also textured to give a high-class look and feel. The most predominant feature of the dash is the center console, which sweeps upwards and bridges the dash with the center armrest in a fashion similar to the Porsche Panamera sedan. As a result, the gearshift is placed at a more convenient location neared to the steering wheel, but the design also compromises on a lot of space. The cabin does not feel as open as the last generation did, but the longer wheelbase of the car adds to the space available. However, the addition is just around one inch and that too for the front seats.
Like any other coupe, the 2013 Porsche 911 also has a cramped rear bench. The seats did get some legroom last year, but it is still not suitable enough for adults or even small children. The only thing they can be used is for carrying some luggage. Up front, the bucket seats offer lots of support and comfort to the driver and passenger. Backroom and legroom are also great for the front occupants. The controls are fairly easy to operate, and all the nifty features expected from a car of this stature and cost are available, including an iPod interface, ventilated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and a navigation system.
Safety
Anti-lock ventilated brakes, side curtain airbags, front and side airbags, knee airbags for the front passenger and driver, and stability control are standard safety features of the 2013 Porsche 911. Braking performance is incredible, with a stopping distance of 98 feet from 60 miles per hour. The optional ceramic composite brakes offer even better performance, but they are not a necessity unless the car is being pushed to the limit constantly.
Driving Experience
The 2013 Porsche 911 has a rear-mounted, horizontally opposed, six-cylinder engine that differs in displacement and power output with different models. The base engine is a 3.4-liter engine that delivers 350 horsepower and 287 lb-ft of torque. Models with this engine go from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 4.4 seconds. The next in line is a 3.8-liter engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, which propels the 911 past the 60 miles per hour mark in 3.9 seconds. A seven-speed automated manual transmission called PDK is optional for all but the Turbo S and GT3 models. Other models get a six-speed manual transmission as standard, and all-wheel drive is standard for all models with a 4 in their name and for the Turbo and Turbo S models. These two models have a turbocharged version of the six-cylinder engine that delivers 500 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.
The 911 has always been held up to high standards, and with each generation it has been able to meet those standards constantly. The 2013 Porsche 911 is an extraordinary car that delivers superb handling and performance. The electric-assisted steering is precise, and every version of the six-cylinder engine delivers blistering acceleration and sound great while doing it. The suspension is soft enough to keep the ride smooth and comfortable even for long distances, making the 911 a great everyday sports car. More than that, however, the 911 is the embodiment of Porsche’s legacy, which is something that very few cars can offer.
Key Competitors For The 2013 Porsche 911
- Audi R8
- Chevrolet Corvette
- Jaguar F-type
- Nissan GT-R