Porsche 911

The legendary Porsche 911 celebrates its 60th anniversary. Since its first appearance in 1963, the 911 has constantly reinvented itself while retaining the very essence of what makes it an icon. Let's take a look back at the history and evolution of this legendary car, which continues to define driving pleasure.

A modest start for a legend

At the Frankfurt International Motor Show in 1963, the Porsche 911 made its debut under the name 901. Designed by Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, son of founder Ferry Porsche, this first version was equipped with an air-cooled flat-six engine developing 130 bhp. It could reach 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h - impressive performance for its time. However, due to a naming rights claim by Peugeot, the 901 was renamed 911 before it went on sale in 1964.

Timeless design

The design of the 911 has remained true to its origins, with a rear engine layout, a 2+2 configuration and distinctive side lines. The famous Fuchs wheels, which first appeared on the 911 Targa in 1965, are another example of these iconic design elements. Legendary designers such as Anatole Lapine and Harm Lagaay each added their own touch, perpetuating the evolution of this car while retaining its unique character.

Today, under the direction of Michael Mauer, the 911 continues to innovate. From the 911 Dakar, the first off-road version, to the 911 Turbo S, the fastest of today's 911s, each model offers a unique driving experience. D

Versions galore

In 60 years, the Porsche 911 has gone through eight distinct generations: Original 911 (1963-1973) - G Series (1974-1989) - 964 (1988-1994) - 993 (1993-1998) - 996 (1997-2005) - 997 (2004-2012) - 991 (2011-2019) - 992 (2018-present)

Each of these generations has brought innovations while respecting the heritage of the original model. The switch from air-cooling to water-cooling with the 996 model in 1997 marked a technical revolution, making the car more efficient and compliant with ever-changing emissions standards.

Performance and ecology

The Porsche 911 has always been synonymous with exceptional performance. The 911 Turbo S of 2023 (type 992) is the fastest ever produced, with 650 bhp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h. But performance is not the only criterion. Environmental standards are becoming ever stricter. For example, the 911 Turbo S (WLTP) has a combined fuel consumption of 12.3 to 12.0 l/100 km and CO₂ emissions of 278 to 271 g/km, classified in category G. The 911 Carrera S (WLTP), meanwhile, consumes between 11.1 and 10.1 l/100 km with emissions of 251 to 229 g/km, also classified G.

Since its inception, the 911 has been produced exclusively at the Zuffenhausen plant in Germany. This continuity of production reinforces the heritage and craftsmanship of every 911 that rolls off the assembly line.

The Porsche 911 is not only an exceptional road car, it has also shone in competition. The Carrera RSR 2.8, for example, has claimed iconic victories, including the Daytona 24 Hours in 1973. Other models such as the 911 Carrera RSR Turbo 2.1 and the 997 GT3 RSR have left their mark on the history of endurance and rally racing.

A Design Icon

The 911 is renowned for its timeless design. Its distinctive look, with its flowing curves and perfect proportions, has remained virtually unchanged over the decades. A comparison between the dimensions of the original 911 and those of the current model (Type 992) shows a significant evolution in size, but without altering the essence of the original design.

Buy the same car as your favourite stars. The Porsche 911 has seduced many celebrities over the years. The likes of Eminem, Kendall Jenner, David Beckham, Ralph Lauren, Harry Styles and Patrick Dempsey are just some of the lucky owners. Jerry Seinfeld, one of the most notorious collectors, owns an impressive collection of Porsches, including several 911s.