Porsche 911 (991.2) Turbo S (2016)

Porsche is no stranger to turbocharged 911s. The original 911 Turbo, known internally as the Type 930, traces its roots to FIA homologation efforts in the early 1970s. With its functional rear spoiler and wide stance, the 911 Turbo was as menacing as it was effective. One of the greatest weapons in Porsche’s arsenal.

Fast forward to the 991 generation, the third generation of Porsche’s water-cooled 911, and the Turbo utilized a 3.8-litre flat-six rated at 552 bhp.

To trace its roots, the 991 generation Carrera was launched to great praise at the 2011 Frankfurt Motorshow, it was a technological leap forward from the already high praised 997 generation. The 991 was an entirely new platform, only the third since the original 911 launched in 1963 (the 996 generation being the second).

Compared to the outgoing 997, the 991 is ever so slightly larger. The most notable change was to the wheelbase, which was increased by 100 mm in length, aided by an all-new transaxle that enabled the rear wheels to be relocated 76 mm rearwards relative to the engine. The result was greatly improved handling characteristics, meaning the car performed notably better around corners, further helped by the vastly improved weight distribution.

Owing to the use of high-strength steels, aluminium, and some composites, the weight was also reduced. Porsche's dual-clutch (PDK) gearbox was further improved for the 991 and owing to a longer ratio 7th gear, coupled with the introduction of stop/start technology, the 991 was also able to boast great economy than the previous 997.

After five years of production, in September of 2015, the 991 generation was introduced in a revised and restyled form for the coming 2016 model year, known as the 991.2. The Turbo S received a few notable upgrades, but most notable was the power increase to 572 bhp.