Porsche 911 Carrera T: A Tip of the Scale. Lighter Yet Powerful
One of the prominent highlights of the 911 Carrera T is its weight. Tipping the scales at a lean 3,254 lbs., Porsche manages to shed a remarkable 100 lbs. from the standard 911 Carrera (PDK only). This reduction in weight is primarily attributed to the standard seven-speed manual transmission and features focused on weight-saving, such as the rear seat deletion, which does beg the question, how does this rear seat deletion affect passenger comfort? The rear seat is, however, available as a no-cost option for those who desire it.
Driving Experience: On the Fine Line of Pleasure and Performance
Porsche has fitted the new 911 Carrera T with a series of features designed to boost driving enjoyment and performance. The PASM Sport Suspension, with a 10mm ride height reduction compared to the standard 911 Carrera, is standard here. Paired with reduced sound insulation, this provides a driving experience more akin to a track day escapade than a leisurely Sunday drive. Nevertheless, some may find the reduced sound insulation, although exciting for the enthusiasts, a bit intrusive on the regular driving comfort.
Engine and Transmission: Twin-Turbo Power and Speed
With the new 911 Carrera T, Porsche does not shy away from touting its sporting credentials. The twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, producing a healthy 379 hp and 331 lb.-ft. of torque, underlines its status as a serious sports car. It also brings the benefit of the mechanical limited-slip differential with Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), which is standard on the 911 Carrera S but not available for the standard 911 Carrera. The result: a swift 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds with the standard seven-speed manual transmission, further reduced to 3.8 seconds with the no-cost eight-speed PDK.
The “T” Special Touch: Exclusive Interior and Exterior Details
Opting for the 911 Carrera T doesn't just mean a more visceral driving experience; it also brings unique aesthetic touches. Dark grey accents lend a sophisticated air to the interior, while the exterior features Agate Grey accents on the upper and lower mirror covers, as well as the model designation on the doors and rear. Even the exhaust system, featuring high-gloss black tailpipes, complements the understated yet distinct appearance.
Personalization: A Cornucopia of Options and Colors
Porsche goes further to offer a series of attractive options for the 911 Carrera T. The Carrera T Interior Package is especially notable, introducing seat belts, stripes on the seat centers, and floor mats in either Slate Grey or Lizard Green. Yet, Porsche is no stranger to color choices. From the standard black, white, Guards Red, and Racing Yellow to the metallic colors and special colors, the range is nothing short of vast. Furthermore, the "Paint to Sample" program, not available on the previous 991 generation model, adds another 110 colors to the palette.
The Encore Performance
Finally, the new 911 Carrera T will grace U.S. dealerships by Spring 2023 with a base MSRP of $116,600, not including a $1,450 delivery, processing, and handling fee. Bearing the 'T' badge that stands for Touring, a concept that Porsche has successfully implemented in various models since its homologation in 1968, the 911 Carrera T aims to blend the pure, light experience of a 911 variant with contemporary technological advancements and personalization options. It's a compelling proposition indeed, with the potential to make waves in the sports car market. Only the road will truly reveal the full character of the 911 Carrera T.
-Ed
2023 Porsche 911 Carrera T
