C ar S cene I nvestigation: Goodbye 997, Hello 991

· In the past, the 911 was Porsche’s heart, soul, and mind—the same can be said nowadays, despite the increasing fleet of models Porsche now sports. With the 997 reaching its expiry date, we take a sneak at the ‘2012’ model—the 991.

· Design & Engineering:

Indeed, I myself was eagerly awaiting a major facelift on the new 991, but was disappointed when I saw an almost identical Porsche (997 and 991). The new 991 is larger and slightly wider, increasing cabin space and rear legroom, in addition to making the vehicle more comfortable and stable. The front seems to look more and more like a Panamera—especially when the same headlamps are used. I like the way the entire coupé seems to curve, as it transforms the previous 997 (which managed to look softer, and slightly more feminine), into a sleeker, more powerful cunning beast. From the side, nothing much seems to change—exactly what the 996 did when it rebirth-ed into a 997. From the rear, the use of LED lights is more prominent, giving the 991 an overall sinister touch.

· Interior

Nothing much to say except: 100% Panamera. New options include third-generation radar based cruise control, keyless ignition, a Brumster sound system—originally BOSE, and even more elaborate power seats. Indeed Porsche, I see the trend.

· Ride & Handling

Powering the 991 is now a slightly more powerful direct-injection, flat six engine. The base Carerra now optimizes a 350HP 3.4-liter engine, while the S model utilizes a more power packed 3.8-liter engine, claimed at 400HP. The most interesting thing about the new 991, is probably the improved seven-speed manual gearbox, derived from the renown PDK transmission. We’ll have to wait for the launch of the 991 to provide the full review. Sounds good, though.