Porsche 911
How it looks when you see it on the street: Even people who don’t know anything about cars can spot a 911, but only obsessive Porsche enthusiasts will be able to discern the distinctions of the 992 generation, so engrained is the 911 on our psyche. If you want the latest and most modern iteration of the iconic 911 Carrera, this is it. It’s a head turner, an ego booster, and doubles down on its flawless form that is so beloved. For those seeking out details, this version has a new taillight bar. Rather than think of the Carrera as a base model, we think of it as base camp — a foundational place to start in a timeless classic that holds up and basically delivers delight on wheels.
How it makes you feel when you get in: Snug as bug in a rug, in the best way possible. A lot of carmakers talk about cockpits, but the supported seating and set up feel contoured to a medium-sized body. Porsche makes us want to go to all analogue, but the digital cockpit was easy enough to read despite the tactility. What is the only thing that’s a little off-putting is the lack of space on the center arm rest for stashing small things and fitting a phone comfortably. Our model included extra features in the Premium Package, like a storage note. surround view camera with parking sport, ventilated seats, lane change assist, and an ionizer. The combo of red and black leather gave it a Parisian vibe.
How it drives: The 3.0-liter flat-6 twin-turbo engine produces 388 horsepower, which is plenty of verve for a small package. It clock a 0 to 60 mile per hour time of 3.9 seconds, or 3.7 seconds when equipped with the $2,400 Sport Chrono Package, which faster than you can say “Porsche 911 Carrera” to put in perspective. Nimble performance driving credentials make it fun to zip in and out lanes and it’s small stature also affords it a planted lightness. The stronger brakes mean all that momentum comes to a strict stop. The 911 has what it feels like to be a dancer’s body— compact but toned up. And the note emitted form 8-speed PDK transmission is sweet. The gas model we drove earns an average of 21 miles per gallon. Porsche also offers a first-time hybrid 911 GTS model this year, too.
Space for people and things: Here’s the thing, we were able to make it to a sports tournament with two people, bats, baseballs, and small suitcases in tow. Seating was totally fine for my 6-foot 3-inch passenger.
What should you compare it to: BMW M4, Aston Martin Vantage, Mercedes-AMG SL.
How much does it cost: Our test car was $144,445 with the extras including a black and Bordeaux red leather interior, a sport exhaust, Spyder wheels, and sport chrono and sport premium packages.