911R Shows Porsche That Stats Might Not Matter
Porsche’s 911R brings back what we love so much about our favorite rear-engine sports car: feel.
Porsche, in its endeavors for speed and exclusivity, has come up with a car that is more in tune with their lineage and history than any other currently in the lineup. We’re of course talking about the 911R. Granted, it’s a far better experience to drive than a Cayenne or Macan, but also — and more interestingly — as compared to other 911s. Even the GT3 and GT4 models are a bit too serious. They are usable on the road, but it’s easy to determine they were built as “numbers” cars. Perform well on track, and they will sell. And they do, on all accounts.
But those cars are a bit removed from the things that always stick in your mind like flypaper when driving a true enthusiast’s Porsche. PDK transmissions are a world-standard, but not quite engaging. Or even things like the transfer of information to your hands. Larger wheels and tires sometimes don’t always help in that area. But as you can see in the video above, the 911R seems almost effortless and sublime. Add to that the unique sensation of a direct and almost weightless nose, and that’s how 911s should be.
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The 911R takes simplicity seriously. And the best part is how it approaches speed. You are responsible for that. No nanny systems, no wings or big downforce, no lever that you have to move back and forth in order to keep the speedometer climbing.
While the GT3 RS, and GT4 are faster, much faster, in terms of the sensation of driving, the 911R is the clear winner in terms of feel. Simplicity is underrated, which is probably why the next GT3 will come with a proper manual transmission.
