2016 Porsche 911 R
New for 2016
The 911 R is an all-new variant of the Porsche 911.
A Hardcore 911
The original Porsche 911 R debuted in 1967 as a racing-homologated road car, built to enter races like the Targa Florio. In the roughly five decades since, the 911 has been accused of getting too big, too techy, and too soft. So Porsche is bringing back the 911 R to prove those critics wrong. The 911 R is a back-to-basics model with serious performance, and no distractions.
Performance
The 911 R combines the best components from Porsche’s vast 911 parts bin to create the most driver-focused 911 in years. It’s exactly the kind of car enthusiasts beg companies to build, but rarely get the chance to put in their driveways.
Between the taillights sits the 4.0-liter flat-six engine from the 911 GT3 RS. Unlike the GT3 RS, though, it’s teamed here with a six-speed manual transmission. Porsche has taken a lot of criticism for offering the GT3 RS (and the less-extreme GT3) only with a PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, but the 911 R answers those critics.
The 911 R engine produces an astounding 500 horsepower and 338 pound-feet of torque, which goes to the rear wheels. Porsche says it will do 0 to 60 mph and reach a supercar-rivaling top speed of 200 mph. This may be a stripped down, simpler Porsche, but it’s no slouch. EPA fuel-economy ratings will be published closer to launch.
The amazing performance is partly down to the 500-hp engine, but the 911 R is also very light. It weighs 3,020 pounds, which is 110 pounds less than a GT3 RS. The front trunk lid and front fenders are made from carbon fiber, while the roof is made from magnesium. The latter also helps lower the center of gravity by taking weight from the very top of the car.
Helping to make the most of the powerful engine and lightened body is a capable chassis. The 911 R features the rear-steering system available in other high-end 911 models. This turns the rear wheels either in line with, or in the opposite direction of, the front wheels, to alternately increase stability or agility. Porsche’s carbon-ceramic brake system and a mechanical locking differential are standard, along with 20-inch center-lock alloy wheels.
The 911 R may seem like a racecar for the road, but it isn’t completely impractical. It still has Porsche Stability Management stability control to keep the driver from getting in trouble, a rev-match function to smooth out shifts, and even a front-axle lift system that avoids scraping the front end on speed bumps or driveways.
Features
The 2016 Porsche 911 R is available only as a two-door coupe. It’s a limited edition with a set equipment level, but there are plenty of other 911 trim levels and variants available if it doesn’t have what you’re looking for. Pricing starts at $184,900,* and production will be limited to 991 units worldwide. The car arrives at U.S. dealers this summer.
Because of its focus on performance, the 911 R comes standard with only the essentials. The short equipment list includes model-specific bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a center-stack display. An audio system and air conditioning are actually available only as options.
Design
The 2016 Porsche 911 R blends the classic 911 shape with functional elements that help increase performance and give it a more aggressive look. The front and rear fasciae are borrowed from the 911 GT3, with a 911 R-specific spoiler at the front and diffuser at the back. Instead of the GT3’s massive rear spoiler, though, there’s a subtler retractable wing similar to the one on 911 Carrera models. All of these bits perform some function, like producing downforce to stick the car to the road.
On the cosmetic side, the 911 R has special 20-inch wheels with single, center-locking hubs like on a racecar, and Porsche graphics that give it a retro feel. So do the racing stripes, which you’d be crazy not to order.
The 911 R interior is all about the driver. It features carbon fiber-backed bucket seats with houndstooth upholstery that references 1960s 911s. The steering wheel and shifter are both specific to the 911 R, and there’s plenty of carbon fiber trim throughout. There isn’t much else though; to save weight, even the door handles are replaced with cloth straps. Talk about hardcore.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Porsche 911 R includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full complement of airbags.
Verdict
The 2016 Porsche 911 R stands out from myriad other 911 models as the driving enthusiast’s choice.
Be sure to contact us online or visit Porsche Silver Spring at 3131 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904 to schedule a test drive.
*Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image Credit: Porsche