Believe it or not, my job doesn't always allow for as much seat time in shiny dream machines as I'd like. The demands of testing, evaluating, photographing, video recording and writing about test cars means there often isn't even a single night left over for "editor in chief driving."
But last week a combination of circumstances allowed me to experience four full days of Porsche 911 C4S bliss in a brand new 2009 model. What's more, in those four days I utilized the 911 under a wide variety of circumstances, furthering my understanding and appreciation for the model. That's particularly good because in a car like the Porsche 911 you can't simply blast down a mountain road and assume you've got it all figured out.
During my 96 hours in the 911 I commuted three times, I shopped four times, I transported my kids once and I drove through heavy rain for over 50 miles (even Mother Nature was helping me experience all aspects of this sports car).
So without further delay, I present my 11 Reasons I Love the Porsche 911:
11: Have it Your Way
Do you know how many versions of the 911 exist? There were 15 for 2008, and, so far, there are 12 for 2009. Now add in the two billion options available on each one and you can pretty much make a 911 to suit your exact needs.
10: Timeless Design
There aren't many silhouettes that work 40 years after originally penned. I can think of only four: Jeep Wrangler, Mini Cooper, Ford GT, Porsche 911. This car still draws a double take, even from non-automotive types. Beautiful shape.
9: Kid-Tested, Mother (and Father) Approved
While not exactly a Chevy Traverse, the Porsche 911 has remarkable interior space for a sports car. At one point I had my entire family-of-four in the car with no complaints. Don't try that in a Corvette, SL or R8.
8: Now Available in iPod-Friendly Flavors
Plug in your iPod or iPhone and you'll have full access to playlists, artist and song information, all displayed on a sharp and colorful LCD screen featuring an interface that's easy to navigate.
7: An Homage to Tradition
Most engineers would warn against placing the engine over the rear wheels, but Porsche's engineers have not only stuck with the original 911's design, they've constantly improved it, keeping the car on the leading edge of sports car performance for over four decades.
6: Forever Young
Most high-end sports cars age about as gracefully as mayonnaise. I rarely see one over 10 years old on the street, even in LA. Except for one model I see all the time, being driven as if it's got another 100,000-plus miles to go.
5: PDK = Pretty Damn Kool
Yeah, technically it stands for some hard-to-pronounce German term, but the reality is that Porsche has caught up with Audi, Mitsubishi, Nissan and other automakers who can offer a fully functional automated-manual transmission with no negative side effects.
4. Rain Only Adds to the Fun
Rather than run and hide from foul-weather driving, an AWD-equipped 911 revels in it. Combined with PSM (Porsche Stability Management) it's easy to ignore weather reports and assume you'll get where you're going regardless of road conditions.
3. Zero-to-60 Record Holder
And when it's not raining AWD offers physics-defying grip for acceleration and handling heroics on par with the world's greatest supercars. Zero-to-60 in 3.3 seconds with the Turbo (and without lunching your transaxle like, ahem, some other "supercars")
2. Steering -- and Nothing More
Some automakers have tried to "improve" their steering systems with various techno-gadgets that consistently add complexity while diluting feel and feedback. But not the 911. Even with all the luxury this modern car offers the steering feels as pure at it did in 1964.
1. The Boxer's Knockout Punch
The horizontally-opposed engine design has always offered exceptionally broad torque. Now, with direct injection, 12.5-to-1 compression and 385 horsepower, it's also rev-hungry and ultra-refined. Did I mention the addictive exhaust note?
No, the 911 isn't perfect. The manual shifter is fully functional but not as precise or rewarding as it cold be. The tires can rumble over certain pavement types, even in the upscale models, and then there's the price. No one will ever accuse a new 911 (particularly a well-equipped new 911) of being a bargain.
But as the above list suggests, you'd be hard pressed to find a more overall capable and enduring sports car anywhere -- at any price. True, in the past I've called the 911 "a dentist's car" because it's not as pure as it used to be. The Cayman, for all intents and purposes, has inherited the original 911's spirit.
Yet it remains an iconic driving tool with a unique combination of features and performance.
Do you agree? If not, what sports car do you consider superior, overall, to the 911?
By dougtheeng
on December 16, 2008
06:41 AM
When I was younger, I knew a guy who worked for Porsche (used to race them before a career ending accident) so the Boxter and 911 were the first sports cars I ever had seat time in. These memories have definitely stuck with me, and I still turn my head to look at a Porsche on the road. I don't necessarily like the direction of some styling choices (I'm looking at you, Cayman), and even though there are a lot of them on the road (for an exotic anyways), I still adore them.
Regarding the longevity of the 911 - I've always thought it was important to build a reputation and history for a vehicle name. Its one reason I love my MINI - it may not be mechanically similar to the original, but its part of a tradition. This is a big draw for the 911 as well, imo.
By isaacl
on December 16, 2008
07:03 AM
I am only 31 and have never driven in/owned/ or hoped to own a Porsche. However...
The 911 will hold a place in my heart FOREVER.
Ever since being a boy and reading about the 959, I have held Porsche's in the utmost regard.
I will always turn my head to follow a 911 on the road.
I place the 911 above ANY other supercar on the road (the GT-R however is challenging that position)
Lamborghini? Ferrari? Mclaren? pshht....whatever, give me a Porsche poster and I am happy.
If EVER I am fortunate enough to own a supercar, it will be a 911 variation, (new or used, i dont care)
Thank you Karl, you confirm my hopes of just how wonderful it must be.
By blueguydotcom
on December 16, 2008
07:05 AM
Fantastic car.
By chavis10
on December 16, 2008
07:06 AM
I generally like the 911. The only thing that would make me hesitate (assuming I had the money) is the weird styling. The car doesn't look as expensive as its price suggests. I think that's due to the cartoonish proportions of a tiny wheelbase and huge front overhang. If you've ever examined a wide fender 911 turbo or C4S, the foot print is almost squarish. I perfer the better proportions of say the Aston Martin DBS which has a more convention wheelbase - body length relationship. The 911 almost looks like a toy in comparison. I see 911s all the time in this area and even a few Turbos from time to time and they do definitely catch your attention because they look so odd.
That said, the new interior looks much more functional and finally has up-to-date features. If I had $100k, I would definitely get the any 911 over say the GT-R. The engine sounds great too- except at idle where it sounds a bit too guttural like a Detroit Diesel big rig.
By vvk
on December 16, 2008
07:12 AM
I agree -- 911 is the pinnacle of sports car engineering.
I would prefer the 993 to whatever they are selling these days. If I HAD to buy new, I would rather have a Cayman S.
By estreka
on December 16, 2008
07:21 AM
The only vehicle I can think of that is as iconic as the Porsche 911 would be the BMW M3. Unlike the 911, however, the M3 hasn't always aged well (jumping the shark) and it's not a dedicated platform.
I could also argue the case for the Miata, but even that can't hold a light to the 911. Sure, it's a great driver's car, but is it iconic? Same with the S2K.
The Mustang obviously is iconic, but it's never been a driver's car.
====
I do have one argument against #7 and I can sum it up with one word: Cayman. Many suspect Porsche might have exceeded their own expectations with their mid-mount. Will it replacee the 911 someday?
By arm51
on December 16, 2008
07:49 AM
The 911 is my favorite sports car. Yeah, it may not be the quickest to 60 against every car, but it is more than the sum of it's parts. There is something about the whole package that makes it so desirable.
I have never owned a 911, but I do have a savings account set up as my '911 Fund'. Hopefully sometime in the future, I'll be able to tick off all of those points. Except #5, I'll stick with the manual, thanks.
By 1487
on December 16, 2008
10:10 AM
The 911 is a very expensive sports car that delivers what an expensive sports car should. I find high performance at a bargain price to be much more impressive. The 370Z is impressive while the 911 is delivering no more or less than what you'd expect for a car with such a hefty price tag.
By ahightower
on December 16, 2008
10:30 AM
I agree that the 911 is a true classic, and if money were no object, a C4S just like the one you tested would probably be the perfect balance of performance, comfort, and luxury for me as a daily driver.
However, to answer the question "what sports car do you consider superior, overall, to the 911?", I'd have to answer that except for that back seat, the Boxster/Cayman has it beat on every level.
By brett8210
on December 16, 2008
03:36 PM
"911 is delivering no more or less than what you'd expect for a car with such a hefty price tag."
Obviously you haven't driven one. Or you would appreciate all the subties a 911 offers are far and away better than a 370Z of all things.
Can you put them in a caetgory and boil it down to a "stat"? probably not, but that makes it all the more meaningful. Does that make it worth the extra money. That is up to each to decide.
Karl, I actually love the new 911 more than any design except the 993. The new one appears to try to go back to that classic small profile and tight design. But after driving several 993's that is still the dream for me.
I actually go on Ebay every once in awhile and look at the prices for the 1996, 1997, and 1998 993's.
It doesn't hurt that they get the wife in a good mood. You can't say that about a 370Z.
By wasaabi92
on December 16, 2008
07:22 PM
I'm all of 22, but ever since the introduction of the 993 I've LOVED the 911. I've had a few drives in some old ones (87 Turbo, 93 RS America, 94 C4), and I just remember the seating position and the view ahead. Oh, and that air cooled clatter behind me! I would love to own one, but I would look like such a tool.
Maybe in ten years or so...
By petrolhead85
on December 16, 2008
09:21 PM
"Believe it or not, my job doesn't always allow for as much seat time in shiny dream machines as I'd like."
Listen very, very closely Karl and you just might hear the sound of the world's smallest violin playing a sad lullaby.
As for the 911, you're right on all points. Yes we all know the joke about the difference between a cactus and a Porsche. Yes they are hideously expensive (my dream C4S would set me back $137,920 according to Porsche's Canadian website) And yes, I know there are cheaper cars that can lap the Nurburgring many seconds quicker than a 911.
But I still turn my head and look every time I see one, and judging from other comments, I'm not the only one. I think points 6 and 10 sum it up nicely. A timeless design that doesn't mind being driven on a daily basis. So in response to your question, I can't think of another car that is more superior, overall, to the 911.
By iskch
on December 17, 2008
10:03 AM
Karl, is a car that changed so little after more than 40 years in production. The Cayman S is a cheaper choice but it doesn't carry the Porsche traditional shape and recognition.
By andersendl
on December 17, 2008
10:46 AM
Used to own an '87 911 3.2 Carrera Coupe. Just loved it. The overall package was, and still is, an unbeatable combination of pure sports car and reliable daily usability. And 911s are one of the few street-legal cars that are truly track-ready right out of the box, no mods necessary.
Still prefer the air cooled versions - pining for a '96-'98 993 Carrera S or a '93-'94 RS America, The current model is growing on me (can't argue with 380hp naturally aspirated), even though they are overpriced in my view. But one can easily find well cared for used 911s, depending on the model and year, some for the price of new Camry or less. As you say, 911s age gracefully, and most 911 owners are the obsessive/fastidious types who make sure of this.
By 1487
on December 17, 2008
12:15 PM
"Obviously you haven't driven one. Or you would appreciate all the subties a 911 offers are far and away better than a 370Z of all things."
I know your reading skills are lacking so I will clearly state that I do not believe the 370Z is a better car than a 911. It shouldn't be when you consider how little it costs relative to the Porsche. You dont have to prove to me you're a tough guy anymore. I got the message. Just try and attack statements that were actually made going forward.
By brett8210
on December 17, 2008
01:08 PM
"I will clearly state that I do not believe the 370Z is a better car than a 911."
No, I didn't say that you did. But you did say that you find it more impressive for high performance at a bargain price. And then denigraded the 911 as being typical of high cost sports cars. I will even put your words here for convenience.
"I find high performance at a bargain price to be much more impressive. The 370Z is impressive while the 911 is delivering no more or less than what you'd expect for a car with such a hefty price tag."
This comment shows that you haven't driven a 911 or any other high end sports cars. Because to have done so would demonstrate the differences amoung them. And then you could make a comment that was not necessarily parroted by an auto journalist. [Biased no doubt] [And of course we know that you were just recently reading the new reviews of the 370Z in all the new magazines, hense the reference]
While value performance can be impressive, I know that the kind of "performance" you are speaking of [0-60 times, g's in the corners, and braking feet, hp and torque] are not impressive to build to spec.
By mnorm1
on December 17, 2008
01:30 PM
I see the 911 as a car with a flawed design (reason 7), that engineers have spent 40 years trying to camouflage. They aren't for me, and I know I'm in the minority.
By motorstreet
on January 8, 2010
09:33 PM
The biggest reason I love the 911 is that over the 60 years since Porsche's original rear engine sports car, the 356, Porsche's engineers have managed to perfect a design that was so hopeless for decades that Porsche came up with several potential replacements for the 911. In 1993 Porsche managed to create a 911 that had predictable handling, but now they have created the perfect sports car. It has everything a sports car needs, precise handling, character, good looks, power, low weight, and most importantly an unbeatable driver involvement. Most of the 911's competitors are front or mid engined, which gives them better balance and more predictable handling, but Porsche has overcome all the rear engine layout's shortcomings and created the ultimate sports car. Sure the Nissan GT-R has better performance and amazing technical sophistication, but I would still choose the 911 every time.