Monday, September 7, 2009

Porsche 911 Sport Classic


”Out with the old and in with the new” is an oft used statement and when the new draws heavily on the old a future classic is always a possibility. Porsche Exclusive {link} (Porsche’s specialist tuning department) are launching the 911 Sport Classic at the IAA (Frankfurt Motor Show). A production run of 250 cars is planned; expect the 911 SC to sell out almost instantly.
The most interesting and striking feature on the SC harks back over 35 years to the 1973 Carrera RS 2.7; the “ducktail” rear spoiler has returned! Sitting between wider rear arches the unmistakable ducktail merges modern with classic beautifully. Whilst the ducktail spoiler is the most obvious feature of the new 911SC there are distinct differences over the Carrera S upon which the SC is based. For example a new spoiler adorns the front, whilst subtle roof bubbles on both passenger and driver side add an extra dimension to the external and internal styling.
Internally the Porsche 911 Sport Classic is modern through and through, drawing no design ideas from past times. New leather technologies have allowed the seat centre to be made from woven (yes woven) leather. The interior contrasts with the model specific exterior paint, Sport Classic Grey, which offers exclusivity and yet remains subtle and unobtrusive.
The wheels fitted to the 911 Sport Classic are a modern twist on a timeless classic, they may be 19” in diameter but they hark back to the Fuchs design of over 35 years ago, to the extent that they are black in colour just as the ever popular Fuchs wheels were.
Behind the Fuchs inspired wheels sit Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes whilst the rear wheels are driven through a 6 speed manual gearbox (no other option is available). The Porsche 911 Sport Classic sits some 20mm lower on its PASM suspension.
Power for the SC limited edition special is provided by a modified 3.8 litre engine which (after Porsche Exclusive have worked the magic) produces 408PS. By using direct fuel injection fuel consumption and emissions follow other models closely.
Sales of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic created by Porsche {link} Exclusive start in 2010, though with such a small production run the 1:43 model (launched at the same time) will be all bar a lucky few will own!