2012 Porsche 911 Coupe & Convertible Spotted Testing Again

Looks like the Porsche factory test drivers are starting to enjoy the summer. Here are the latest spy-shots of virtually undisguised next-generation Porsche 911’s having another workout. These are also the first shots of the convertible version of the new 911 with virtually no disguise. You can also see the next generation Turbo cab stretching his legs behind the midnight blue Carrera.

As we have mentioned in previous threads, the next 911 will be 4.49 meters long – 56 mm more than the current model with 10 mm extra wheelbase. The car will also stand 11 mm shorter. The bodywork and chassis are made primarily from aluminum with steel used at the rear, a first for the 911, resulting in a nice weight reduction from the current model on sale now.

The 3.4-litre entry-level Boxer engine (down from a 3.6-litre unit) has an output of 350 hp, good for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 289 km/h. The smaller, more-efficient unit will reduce fuel-economy by 13 percent to 8.5 liters per 100 km. Moving up the Carrera S will reward drivers with 395 hp, while the 911 Turbo is rumored to have an output of approximately 542 hp.

Regardless of which engine is selected, it can be mated to an all new seven-speed manual transmission or Porsche’s fabulous seven-speed PDK gearbox. As with the current model 997’s the new Carrera models feature twin exhaust pipes at the rear yet the Carrera S models get quad pipes.