Crown

Board: Porsche - Carrera GT / 918 Language: English Region: Worldwide Share/Save/Bookmark Close

Forum - Thread


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Screen Shot 2016-08-08 at 10.19.15 PM.png

    Screen Shot 2016-08-08 at 10.18.01 PM.png

     

    Actually, with a dry weight of 3360lbs, the 918 isn't far off the target weight of 3285lbs.

     


    --

     

     


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Thanks you two.


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    That is a lot of fluid!  


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Interesting rumor I heard when I picked up my R8 at my Audi dealer (who also sells Lamborghini): Apparently, there has been a new Nordschleife record, achieved by a Lamborghini Huracan Superleggera mule but with production power and  production chassis setup. Tires were also the Pirelli tires the Superleggera will be delivered with. This hasn't been made public (yet?) because VW Group put a lid on this information. This rumor has circled for a couple of weeks but apparently there was a Lamborghini engineer who confirmed it. Record time was a fractions of a second better...

    I know, I know...just a rumor but if true, the new Superleggera should be an interesting product. The Audi version will very likely be named R8 GT.


    --

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Please, please, please tell me I can post this on other sitesSmiley

     


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    RC:

    Interesting rumor I heard when I picked up my R8 at my Audi dealer (who also sells Lamborghini): Apparently, there has been a new Nordschleife record, achieved by a Lamborghini Huracan Superleggera mule but with production power and  production chassis setup. Tires were also the Pirelli tires the Superleggera will be delivered with. This hasn't been made public (yet?) because VW Group put a lid on this information. This rumor has circled for a couple of weeks but apparently there was a Lamborghini engineer who confirmed it. Record time was a fractions of a second better...

    I know, I know...just a rumor but if true, the new Superleggera should be an interesting product. The Audi version will very likely be named R8 GT.

    Heard exactly the same , the Superleggera mule was driven by Marco Mapelli Smiley


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Any info as to weight or power?


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    kingjr9000:

    Any info as to weight or power?

    Rumored power 640 hp (other sources indicate 630), rumored weight 85-100 kg less than current Huracan.


    --

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Lamborghini has recently been very active in GT racing whether Blancpain or other series and I am sure they are harvesting some of the fruit from these efforts. A race engineer I know has said that from day 1 they worked on the car they were very impressed with everything from the quality to the layout. He is also working on Audi, Ferrari and McLaren GT3 cars. Good to see a brand who has less history in racing step up, and deliver to the clients. 


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    RC:
    kingjr9000:

    Any info as to weight or power?

    Rumored power 640 hp (other sources indicate 630), rumored weight 85-100 kg less than current Huracan.

    Thank youSmiley


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    tso:

    Lamborghini has recently been very active in GT racing whether Blancpain or other series and I am sure they are harvesting some of the fruit from these efforts. A race engineer I know has said that from day 1 they worked on the car they were very impressed with everything from the quality to the layout. He is also working on Audi, Ferrari and McLaren GT3 cars. Good to see a brand who has less history in racing step up, and deliver to the clients. 

    I don't have much of a clue about Lambo and Audi racing tech but I am learning... Only thing I know is that the V10 engine is a real treat and the day it won't be built anymore, will be a very sad one. If only Porsche would have used this engine for their "960", what a shame. 


    --

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    What makes you say its a treat?  The sound or the engineering?


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    This is something that also go with what your guy was saying.  Can anyone on here translate: 

    Lamborghini Huracán Superleggera auf Rekordjagd

    King of the Ring für straßenzugelassene Serienfahrzeuge ist bislang der Porsche 918Spyder. Doch das könnte sich am Dienstagabend (19.7.2016) geändert haben. Unseren Quellen zufolge hat sich der Lamborghini Huracán Superleggera - noch als Erlkönig getarnt – zu einem Rekordversuch aufgemacht. Der Leichtbausportwagen, der rund 100 Kilogramm im Vergleich zum Basis-Huracán (1.564 kg vollgetankt) verlieren dürfte, soll nur eine schnelle Bahn abgespult haben. Und dabei zumindest die Zeit des Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 SV von 6:59,73 Minuten unterboten haben. Augenzeugen berichten von jubelnden Lamborghini-Mechanikern. Die Zeit des Porsche 918 Spyder von 6:57 Minuten liegt nicht weit entfernt. Vielleicht hat der Superleggera sich sogar die Krone aufgesetzt. Von Lamborghini bekamen wir auf Nachfrage die Antwort zugesendet, man könne zu einem möglichen Rekordversuch nichts sagen. Das ist keine Bestätigung. Aber ein Dementi klingt jedenfalls anders.

    Die Woche zuvor stimmte Lamborghini sein neuestes Huracán-Derivat im Industrie-Pool auf die Gegebenheiten auf der Nordschleife ab. Für die mögliche Rekordfahrt mietete sich Lambo exklusiv die Strecke zwischen Industrie-Tests und Touristenfahrten. Einen Tag später rollte der Superleggera für Fotofahrten um die Nordschleife.

    Im September 2013 hatte der Porsche 918 Spyder als erstes Straßenauto überhaupt die Schallmauer von sieben Minuten unterboten. Porsche-Werksfahrer Marc Lieb saß am Steuer. Halt mal, werden Nordschleifen-Fanatiker jetzt sagen: Sowohl Radical SR8 (6:55 Min.) als auch Radical SR8 LM (6:48 Min.) sind da aber schon mal schneller gewesen. Stimmt. Aber: Die Sportler besitzen nur eine britische Einzelzulassung und werden daher ausgeklammert.

    Im Mai 2015 kam der Porsche 918 Spyder ins Zittern: Der Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 SV rückte zu Reifentests (Pirelli P Zero Corsa) auf die Nordschleife aus. Und der Lambo, angetrieben von einem 6,5-Liter-V12, bolzte mit ordentlich Schmackes durch die Grüne Hölle, und kam dem 918 gefährlich nah. Sein kleinerer Leichtbau-Bruder könnte dem Porsche jetzt sogar die zwei fetten Endrohre gezeigt haben. Und daraus kreischen: V10 schlägt Hybrid.

    McLaren hat seinen Hybridsupersportwagen P1 ebenfalls schon auf die Nordschleife losgelassen. Es heißt von McLaren, der 916 PS starke Sportler habe die Piste in unter sieben Minuten gemeistert. Eine offizielle Zeit aber gibt es vom McLaren P1 nicht.

    Seitens Mclaren heißt es, die Bedingungen seien nicht optimal gewesen. Weil der Asphalt zu kalt gewesen sein soll. Die klimatischen Verhältnisse spielen auf einer Rennstrecke eine wichtige Rolle. Höhere Temperaturen bedeuten mehr Haftung. Doch zu hoch düfen sich nicht sein. Sonst beginnen die Reifen zu schmieren. Auch der Fahrer ist von Bedeutung. Ein guter Pilot – wie zum Beispiel Lieb – kann die letzten paar Sekunden rausquetschen.


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    After being screwed by Ferrari and blown away by the Huracan 580-2, I will "try" to get the upcoming Superleggera. Hopefully they will improve the steering as this was my only complain. I say "try" because these days it's not enough just to have the money in order to get the most desirable sports car. I had to cancel my order for the GT3 because of the engine problem, then the GT3 RS was impossible to get at list price and my 488 order ....I heard that the Austrian dealer  Jurgen Keusch got arresed. 

    Back to the Huracan... This is by far the best engine you can get in this class...and such a confident chassis. My expectations for the Superleggera are very, very high. The 488 is already out of my mind....


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    here we go again..... - well I am rather sure that non of the superleggera's that will come to a customer will be close to those times as much as it is the case with the SV.....or Corvettes or.....


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    BjoernB:

    here we go again..... - well I am rather sure that non of the superleggera's that will come to a customer will be close to those times as much as it is the case with the SV.....or Corvettes or.....

    Yes, I know...factory claims are always different but there is a reason why VW Group put a lid on this record... Smiley

    I was very disappointed with the Aventador SV results in Sport Auto but it is also weird that Lamborghini won't give the test team the proper tire pressures/setups. Same weirdness with the R8 who miraculously performed bad in the Supertest and didn't have the full power when put on the dyno. Other car magazines achieved much better performance times, basically identical with the new Turbo S and Huracan.

    I kind of get the feeling that VW Group doesn't want open competition in their brands family, at least not obvious competition and they still consider Porsche the sportscar brand, Piech and all.

    Of course nobody doubts the performance of the 918, this car is a beast and a dream for every sports car lover but no matter what time the Superleggera achieves, the engine is absolutely divine. In 10 years tops, everyone will cry after such an engine.


    --

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Actually, does it really matters?

    918 achieved this time back in the times, when it wasn’t finally optimized, without the latest upgrades to the front e-motors and battery calibration. The max speed at the last straight was also compromised, compared even with Sport Auto's test later in the times…

    So, the real potential of this car at the Ring will never be known, because the model is sold out long ago and also Porsche has to leave room for future models with “impressive” Ring times like GT2 RS,980, 918 successors, etc…

    All these Ring debates are fun for us as car enthusiast, but marketing and car manufacturing have different needs… 


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Boyko23:

    Actually, does it really matters?

    918 achieved this time back in the times, when it wasn’t finally optimized, without the latest upgrades to the front e-motors and battery calibration. The max speed at the last straight was also compromised, compared even with Sport Auto's test later in the times…

    So, the real potential of this car at the Ring will never be known, because the model is sold out long ago and also Porsche has to leave room for future models with “impressive” Ring times like GT2 RS,980, 918 successors, etc…

    All these Ring debates are fun for us as car enthusiast, but marketing and car manufacturing have different needs… 

    Smiley Also, the 918 costs a fortune and the Superleggera should be around 230k EUR base price.


    --

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    The arrogance of this guy, am I right

    https://youtu.be/6wBtOjXGBss


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    kingjr9000:

    The arrogance of this guy, am I right

    https://youtu.be/6wBtOjXGBss

    He is very fully of himself, probably for a reason (he has over 300k subscribers, which isn't bad for someone who talks most of the time about cars...) and while there is some truth in what he says about the Superleggera rumor, how can he claim it is a lie when he doesn't know for sure? This rumor has not even be started by Lamborghini, the testing around the Nordschleife was actually secret and the time has never been published officially or even officially been claimed by Lamborghini but the rumors says that VW Group put a lid on this information because they didn't like the result (time was too good). Btw: Rumor has it that the Superleggera did under 7 minutes but nobody knows for sure if it has beaten the 918 time or just matched it. So there is a lot of confusion going on here but Lamborghini never said anything about this and VW Group tried keep it on a very low profile, so how could this be a marketing ploy?! No way.

    Also, he claimed that the Huracan is faster than the Aventador, which is a little bit of a stretch in my opinion. Yes, it can probably keep up pretty well with the Aventador but once the Aventador hits over 200 kph, the Huracan looses. Track performance? Well, I can see that and yes, the Huracan is certainly the better platform for a fast track car compared to the (heavier) Aventador but this is exactly my point...it is highly possible that it did the Nordschleife under 7 minutes.

    Btw: The 918 record time has been achieved by Porsche with a factory driver, so I think it is highly possible that a Huracan with let's say 100 kg less weight, a very track oriented chassis, the proper tires (apparently Pirelli offers a new track tire for the Huracan Superleggera because the record time was achieved during tire testing...) and maybe 30-40 horses more can achieve this goal. This doesn't mean that the final (production) car can achieve that or that any car journalist would be able to replicate this record time but has actually any car journalist achieved under 7 minutes with the 918?! Well...


    --

     

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)

     


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    They said the SV matched the 918 too, yet it's slower than many other cars on normal tracks, not to mention the 918.

    Huracan did 7:28 on the NR. The SL is definitely not cutting 28 seconds off that time without racing slicks.


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    That 7:28 time iirc was by a mag, and it also had brake problems.  I don't lambo has ever actually done an official time with either of the base versions of their cars.  So...


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    RC:
    kingjr9000:

    The arrogance of this guy, am I right

    https://youtu.be/6wBtOjXGBss

    He is very fully of himself, probably for a reason (he has over 300k subscribers, which isn't bad for someone who talks most of the time about cars...) and while there is some truth in what he says about the Superleggera rumor, how can he claim it is a lie when he doesn't know for sure? This rumor has not even be started by Lamborghini, the testing around the Nordschleife was actually secret and the time has never been published officially or even officially been claimed by Lamborghini but the rumors says that VW Group put a lid on this information because they didn't like the result (time was too good). Btw: Rumor has it that the Superleggera did under 7 minutes but nobody knows for sure if it has beaten the 918 time or just matched it. So there is a lot of confusion going on here but Lamborghini never said anything about this and VW Group tried keep it on a very low profile, so how could this be a marketing ploy?! No way.

    Also, he claimed that the Huracan is faster than the Aventador, which is a little bit of a stretch in my opinion. Yes, it can probably keep up pretty well with the Aventador but once the Aventador hits over 200 kph, the Huracan looses. Track performance? Well, I can see that and yes, the Huracan is certainly the better platform for a fast track car compared to the (heavier) Aventador but this is exactly my point...it is highly possible that it did the Nordschleife under 7 minutes.

    Btw: The 918 record time has been achieved by Porsche with a factory driver, so I think it is highly possible that a Huracan with let's say 100 kg less weight, a very track oriented chassis, the proper tires (apparently Pirelli offers a new track tire for the Huracan Superleggera because the record time was achieved during tire testing...) and maybe 30-40 horses more can achieve this goal. This doesn't mean that the final (production) car can achieve that or that any car journalist would be able to replicate this record time but has actually any car journalist achieved under 7 minutes with the 918?! Well...


    --

     

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)

     

    Another thing that most people seem to forget is that there are officially two versions of the 918, while technically only one.  Theres the pre-pro, which is the one that did the time and had semi-functioning bits, and then theres the final-pro, which is the fully optimized customer car and probably has about 950hp & 1000 lb-ft, versus a car that is basically old fashioned engineering and down about 200-375hp & 250-400 lb-ft.  The fact that lambs are able to get anywhere near the time on various tracks is actually a nice accomplishment in my eyes.  The fact that the SV is able to be generally within a second of the 675lt on the tracks that they've been on, despite the 800lb difference and on corsas vs trofeos, is a solid testament to its raw ability.

     While most people either don't care or don't know that the ring 918 is essentially a different car compared to the one that everyone owns, and when they go to compare it and it doesn't get anywhere near the 918, then they claim lambo lies.Smiley


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    SV time is never near any 918 time either, and often loses to cars slower than the 918...

    I'll believe Lamborghini times when I actually see them.


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    kingjr9000:
    RC:
    kingjr9000:

    The arrogance of this guy, am I right

    https://youtu.be/6wBtOjXGBss

    He is very fully of himself, probably for a reason (he has over 300k subscribers, which isn't bad for someone who talks most of the time about cars...) and while there is some truth in what he says about the Superleggera rumor, how can he claim it is a lie when he doesn't know for sure? This rumor has not even be started by Lamborghini, the testing around the Nordschleife was actually secret and the time has never been published officially or even officially been claimed by Lamborghini but the rumors says that VW Group put a lid on this information because they didn't like the result (time was too good). Btw: Rumor has it that the Superleggera did under 7 minutes but nobody knows for sure if it has beaten the 918 time or just matched it. So there is a lot of confusion going on here but Lamborghini never said anything about this and VW Group tried keep it on a very low profile, so how could this be a marketing ploy?! No way.

    Also, he claimed that the Huracan is faster than the Aventador, which is a little bit of a stretch in my opinion. Yes, it can probably keep up pretty well with the Aventador but once the Aventador hits over 200 kph, the Huracan looses. Track performance? Well, I can see that and yes, the Huracan is certainly the better platform for a fast track car compared to the (heavier) Aventador but this is exactly my point...it is highly possible that it did the Nordschleife under 7 minutes.

    Btw: The 918 record time has been achieved by Porsche with a factory driver, so I think it is highly possible that a Huracan with let's say 100 kg less weight, a very track oriented chassis, the proper tires (apparently Pirelli offers a new track tire for the Huracan Superleggera because the record time was achieved during tire testing...) and maybe 30-40 horses more can achieve this goal. This doesn't mean that the final (production) car can achieve that or that any car journalist would be able to replicate this record time but has actually any car journalist achieved under 7 minutes with the 918?! Well...


    --

     

    RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, Porsche Macan Turbo, Audi R8 V10 Plus (2017), Mini JCW (2015), Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2014)

     

    Another thing that most people seem to forget is that there are officially two versions of the 918, while technically only one.  Theres the pre-pro, which is the one that did the time and had semi-functioning bits, and then theres the final-pro, which is the fully optimized customer car and probably has about 950hp & 1000 lb-ft, versus a car that is basically old fashioned engineering and down about 200-375hp & 250-400 lb-ft.  The fact that lambs are able to get anywhere near the time on various tracks is actually a nice accomplishment in my eyes.  The fact that the SV is able to be generally within a second of the 675lt on the tracks that they've been on, despite the 800lb difference and on corsas vs trofeos, is a solid testament to its raw ability.

     While most people either don't care or don't know that the ring 918 is essentially a different car compared to the one that everyone owns, and when they go to compare it and it doesn't get anywhere near the 918, then they claim lambo lies.Smiley

     

    Well no. The record car is perhaps 90% of the production car, it really isn't that much different in output vs the production car either. Porache listed 887HP combined. Not much HP to be gained from the e-motor, except the production car can rev a bit higher. The gas engine are guaranteed to output at least 608HP, within German rule, they can have a 5%+- margin, since Porsche kept a hard floor of 608HP, the engines could make an extra 30HP or so. The major difference is that the record car does not have active aero. And the hybrid system is not fully optimized in its integration. 

    The actual record car could have perhaps another 10 seconds in it if they really really push it. That was from analyzing the data. A production car with all the updates might shave another 5 or so. There could perhaps be another 30 seconds  if not more to be had if it runs on racing slicks instead of the ECO tires. Hell if it has Trofeo R then it would have been a easy 6:40 out of the gate. There were rumors that McLaren had used hand cut slicks to look like Trofeo Rs for their Ring run just to get under 7 mins, like, that old trick Pagani uses.

    Does it matter? Absolutely not. Time has moved on. 918 was the fastest of the hypercar of its era. P1 didn't beat it, nor did the LaFerrari. The book is closed. Koenigsegg tried and crashed 

    Didn't a Speciale beat the Enzo's time at Fiorano? Don't think any Enzo owners will be slightly upset. 

     


    --

     

     


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Oh, ok then.



    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    Performance of the 960 GT3 is said to match the 918 or better.... 2.4 sec to 100 km/h.. pure speculation lol

     


    --

    1991 BMW 535i Granitsilber/White Leather

    Ex: '91 BMW 318i, '89 BMW 525i, '74 Mercedes-Benz 280E, '87 BMW 325is, '86 BMW 325e, '05 Ford Focus ZX4 S, '85.5 Porsche 944

    
    

    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    There will be no 960 as long as the R8 lives.

    and that guy is high on crack if he thinks a mid engine quad turbo car can weight 1400kg. 

    The next generation Porsche V8 are hot Vs, there is simply no room for quad turbos inside, only alternative would be using the twin scroll turbos like those in BMWs.


    --

     

     


    Re: 918 latest news Thread Closed

    "Porsche readies 960 name for new mid-engined supercar"

    (Article by CAR Magazine)

    • Latest info on mid-engined Porsche 960
    • Could use variable compression ratio tech
    • Expected to arrive after the next-gen 911

    Stay sharp, Ferrari, McLaren and Lamborghini: group tests are potentially going to get a whole lot more interesting in 2019, following the launch of new Porsche 960.

    Yes, it looks like Porsche is still working on a new mid-engined supercar that will rival the likes of the 488 GTB, 650S and Huracan.

    The long-overdue ‘960’, which is expected to cost around £200,000, will fill the blank in Porsche’s line-up between the 911 Turbo S and the flagship 918 Spyder.

    What’s the latest on the 960, then?

    It had all been quiet on the 960 front until partway through last year, when Porsche quietly applied for – and was granted, in September 2015 – the ‘960’ trademark. One product the name was earmarked for was a car, suggesting that the long-mooted project was slowly becoming a reality.

    When recently queried about the registration, Porsche initially rolled out the response you might expect: ‘We won’t comment on future product. We’re just looking to preserve the nameplate identity and combinations that we don’t have, and to avoid going through the labour of proving a later claim based on our traditions.’

    However, the spokesperson added the following: ‘There’s not been much on the topic of new models but, if you look, there are blank spots in our range – and you have to look at what the competition is doing and keep these things in mind.

    ‘Pragmatically, with our production cycle running as it is, we know where we are in the current model cycles – and there’s a lot to do at the moment. We’re very busy.’

    So when will we find out more?

    The suggested delay in the 960 project correlates with our previous information, which indicated that the mid-engined Porsche had been shunted back to 2019.

    Reputedly, the next-gen 911 – so far dubbed the 992 – will arrive before the new supercar, at some point in early 2018. It’s likely, then, that we won’t hear anything more official until at least next year.

    Previously, production of the 960 was mooted to being in February 2017 at the company's Zuffenhausen-based plant. Production estimates range from 3000-4000 a year, over the course of six years – like the life cycle of the 911.
    ‎‎
    What can we expect from the 960?

    This isn’t going to be a pumped-up Cayman or a reworking of the 911 platform – the 960 will use new underpinnings that will be featured elsewhere in the Volkswagen Group. The structure will be formed primarily of aluminium, while other materials – including high-strength steel, titanium and composites – will be used where appropriate throughout the car.

    Reputedly, a weight of 1400kg has been targeted. That should put the 960 on an even keel with the likes of the Ferrari 488 GTB, which clocks the scales at 1370kg dry. An all-wheel-drive version of the 960 would be closer to 1500kg, but would permit it to far better deploy its power and lower its 0-62mph times.

    Interestingly, all-wheel steering – as featured in some iterations of the current 911 – has reputedly been discounted by those working on the 960 project, due to its additional weight. You can expect a whole host of other tech, though, including the latest Porsche multimedia system, active aerodynamics and the rotary drive mode selector.

    Either way, it’s unlikely an extra few kilos here or there will dent the 960’s performance – because it’s claimed to pack a quad-turbocharged 3.9-litre flat-eight. Sounds unlikely, but there’s reputedly a Cayman running around with a prototype of this engine already fitted – and its power output is rumoured to be in the region of 650bhp.

    So, if a subtle-looking Cayman punches past your 650S or R8 V10 on the Autobahn, and proves tricky to catch, it might be worth following until it stops somewhere. While the ‘B8’-engined Cayman is rear-wheel drive, the production version of the 960 is expected to be all-wheel drive initially, with more hardcore rear-drive versions following later down the line.

    Porsche has history with flat-eight engines, too; its 907 and 908 racing cars of the ’60s and ’70s were fitted with flat-eights, so there’s motorsports heritage at hand to lend extra appeal – and advertising ammunition – to the new powerplant...‎

    A flat-eight engine? Outside of the above, why?

    Using a short, low-slung flat-eight engine will aid the 960’s dynamics, as well as preserve more of the classic Porsche hallmarks. The more exotic powertrain will also help the Porsche justify its premium, as well as make it more appealing alongside the likes of Ferraris – which are generally perceived to have more evocative, interesting engines. 

    Our sources say that force-fed flat-sixes and V8s were initially considered, but later dispensed with due a variety of issues – including performance, packaging and perception.

    Former Porsche chairman Ferdinand Piech is reputed to have signed off the flat-eight engine prior to his departure in April 2015 – and he’s not unfamiliar with the idea, being the custodian of a one-off 914 fitted with an eight-cylinder boxer engine from the 908.

    The company has also ploughed a lot of resources into engines with flat configurations, including the recent sixes and fours featured in the latest 991.2, 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman. This will have eased the development of a larger, more powerful version.

    Porsche has also previously mentioned prototyping eight-cylinder boxers, for potential use in the 911, lending further credibility to the potential configuration of the 960’s powerplant.

    We also think that the Porsche 960 might be the first of the company’s cars to use its new ‘VarioCom’ system, lending its motor some additional potency and giving it a technical edge over its rivals. After all, it would make sense for the latest of Porsche’s technical developments to be rolled out on a new flagship, before trickling down to the rest of the range.

    VarioCom? Surely you mean VarioCam?

    It’s not a spelling mistake, no – we’re not talking about Porsche’s long-standing variable valve timing system; Porsche has been experimenting with variable compression ratio systems for a while now, going so far as to patent variable-length connecting rods that allow for changes in compression ratio on the fly.

    Late last year, it also registered the trademark ‘VarioCom’. Given that ‘VarioCam’ is a portmanteau of  ‘Variable Cam’, we’d hazard a guess that ‘VarioCom’ stands for ‘Variable Compression’.

    Using variable compression tech would grant the Porsche’s engine a range of benefits, including reduced emissions, smoother running, better responses and improved economy.

    When quizzed about the new tech, Porsche responded: ‘The patents support our long-standing reputation for innovation and engineering rigour. How and where such things might manifest into a reality remains to be seen.

    ‘We’ve taken things from the racetrack to the road and brought about innovations – including brakes and aerodynamics. We’re always looking for a Porsche-specific solution to problems and to come up with robust innovations.’
    ‎‎
    Why does the compression ratio need to be varied?

    Typically, the higher the compression ratio the more efficient the engine. Simply dialling up the compression ratio, however, increases mechanical stress and can lead to detonation when the engine’s working hard. This is when the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder explodes prematurely, due to heating from compression, and tries to drive the upcoming piston down – creating a characteristic rattling noise.

    Detonation – also known as knocking or pinking – causes a big drop in performance and can even lead to mechanical damage if sustained. Go for a compression ratio that’s too low, however, and you’ll get sluggish low-speed performance, poor economy and higher emissions. Find a compromise between those two points and you’ll be in business, with a smooth fuel-air mix burn that’s correctly started by the spark plug, but it’ll always be a compromise. 

    So, employing a variable compression ratio would allow Porsche’s engine to safely produce its best output in a wider range of conditions, bolstering its performance and efficiency across the board. At low speeds and light loads it could have a high compression ratio, for example, granting it clean running and prompt responses.

    When accelerating hard, however, the engine needs lots of fuel and air to produce power. A turbocharger does a great job of cramming extra air into the combustion chambers, providing more oxygen to be burnt with fuel, but also causes big increases in combustion chamber temperature – particularly at high boost and compression levels.

    To avoid detonation at this point, the compression ratio could be dialled back, keeping the engine at its highest potential output without causing damage. This would be even more important when the engine was operating in a hot climate or in places where the fuel quality isn’t great – as lower quality fuels are more prone to detonation.

    Porsche’s patented system uses a connecting rod with an eccentric adjuster at the top, which is controlled by oil flowing through it. This adjuster allows the position of the small end bearing, which attaches the piston’s wrist pin, to be changed – varying the length of the stroke and dynamically altering the compression ratio.

    This isn’t a new idea though, is it?

    It’s almost identical to a concept demonstrated by FEV Motorentechnik in 2013, among others, yet far simpler than previous concepts – like Saab’s Variable Compression engine. This engine featured a complicated two-piece cylinder block, which effectively allowed the cylinder head to be brought closer to the crankshaft – raising the compression ratio.

    Porsche’s patent, published on 5 March 2015, indicates that the company is working with Hilite International to develop this variable compression technology. The two companies have a partnership that spans several years and Hilite is a major supplier in the automotive marketplace. It’s possible, as a result, that the system may be offered to other manufacturers at a later date.

    Sounds like the 960 will be quick, in any case

    Well, it’ll have to be to keep abreast of the rapidly developing – and increasingly capable – competition. So far, our sources have suggested that the Porsche 960 will be capable of 0-62mph in around 2.5sec, when equipped with an AWD system.‎

    Article Link: http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/industry-news/porsche/porsche-readies-960-name-for-new-mid-engined-supercar/

     
    Edit

    Forum

    Board Subject Last post Rating Views Replies
    Porsche Sticky SUN'S LAST RUN TO WILSON, WY - 991 C2S CAB LIFE, END OF AN ERA (Part II) 4/17/24 7:16 AM
    GnilM
    759545 1798
    Porsche Sticky Welcome to Rennteam: Cars and Coffee... (photos) 4/7/24 11:48 AM
    Boxster Coupe GTS
    433705 565
    Porsche Sticky OFFICIAL: Cayman GT4 RS (2021) 5/12/23 12:11 PM
    W8MM
    259725 288
    Porsche Sticky OFFICIAL: Porsche 911 (992) GT3 RS - 2022 3/12/24 8:28 AM
    DJM48
    256861 323
    Porsche Sticky The new Macan: the first all-electric SUV from Porsche 1/30/24 9:18 AM
    RCA
    80580 45
    Porsche Sticky OFFICIAL: Taycan 2024 Facelift 3/15/24 1:23 PM
    CGX car nut
    5304 50
    Porsche The moment I've been waiting for... 2/1/24 7:01 PM
    Pilot
     
     
     
     
     
    870653 1364
    Porsche 992 GT3 7/23/23 7:01 PM
    Grant
    805643 3868
    Porsche Welcome to the new Taycan Forum! 2/10/24 4:43 PM
    nberry
    385932 1526
    Porsche GT4RS 4/17/24 8:53 PM
    GaussM
    384249 1452
    Others Tesla 2 the new thread 12/13/23 2:48 PM
    CGX car nut
    367018 2401
    Porsche Donor vehicle for Singer Vehicle Design 7/3/23 12:30 PM
    Porker
    365393 797
    Ferrari Ferrari 812 Superfast 4/21/23 8:09 AM
    the-missile
    287886 550
    Porsche Red Nipples 991.2 GT3 Touring on tour 4/11/24 12:32 PM
    Ferdie
    285479 668
    Porsche Collected my 997 GTS today 10/19/23 7:06 PM
    CGX car nut
     
     
     
     
     
    258845 812
    Lambo Huracán EVO STO 7/30/23 6:59 PM
    mcdelaug
    236713 346
    Lotus Lotus Emira 6/25/23 2:53 PM
    Enmanuel
    224715 101
    Others Corvette C8 10/16/23 3:24 PM
    Enmanuel
    219459 488
    Others Gordon Murray - T.50 11/22/23 10:27 AM
    mcdelaug
    166683 387
    Porsche Back to basics - 996 GT3 RS 6/11/23 5:13 PM
    CGX car nut
    138656 144
    BMW M 2024 BMW M3 CS Official Now 12/29/23 9:04 AM
    RCA
    115458 303
    Motor Sp. 2023 Formula One 12/19/23 5:38 AM
    WhoopsyM
    107357 685
    Others Valkyrie final design? 4/28/23 2:45 AM
    Rossi
    99249 219
    Porsche 2022 992 Safari Model 3/7/24 4:22 PM
    WhoopsyM
    83556 239
    AMG Mercedes-Benz W124 500E aka Porsche typ 2758 2/23/24 10:03 PM
    blueflame
    74884 297
    Porsche 992 GT3 RS 3/3/24 7:22 PM
    WhoopsyM
    53059 314
    Motor Sp. Porsche 963 3/16/24 9:27 PM
    WhoopsyM
    24664 237
    Ferrari Ferrari 296 GTB (830PS, Hybrid V6) 1/21/24 4:29 PM
    GT-Boy
    20932 103
    BMW M 2022 BMW M5 CS 4/8/24 1:43 PM
    Ferdie
    19200 140
    AMG G63 sold out 9/15/23 7:38 PM
    Nico997
    16456 120
    129 items found, displaying 1 to 30.