Wonderbar:
I don't consider the 918's design to be retro at all. It is fabulous. But I can sure see the evolution of its design from many earlier Porsches--the 904GTS and the 917 as examples. In the first Edmonds video, the front half of the new 918 looks (to me) very much like the front of the 917. And in the second Edmonds video, a 917 is clearly presented as part of the 918 concept evolution. I understand that a lot of marketing is going on, and that the number 22 of the LeMans winning 917 and the new 918 is a bit gimmicky, but sure seems (to me, at least) there is some definite similarity of design evolution.
On the 917 engine, I think I recall that it was a boxer 12, not a V8. Basically two racing boxer sixes joined together. Later the engine was turbocharged, developing over 1000 HP.
That's what I think. I would have preferred a flat-8 or a flat-12 instead of the V8 though.
And to the possible Le Mans run. Of course the car is ready. This is not a street car which requires a long development car. Weissach has long tested individual components and grouped components long ago.
--
_________________________________________________________________
"Dream as impractical, irrational and unnecessary as that may be... Here's to the Dreamers!" -- Porsche AG.