Making their North American debuts for Porsche this year are the 911 R and the 718 Boxster.
The 911 R is a pure, uncompromised driving machine with a mission statement aimed at offering the most engaging and emotional driving experience possible. Built using parts from the 911 GT3 and GT3 RS, this race-capable street machine is 4-wheeled driving nirvana.
A naturally-aspirated, 500 horsepower engine shared with the GT3 RS, sits in the rear. The only transmission available is a 6-speed manual. Leaving out the roll cage and rear wing accounts for the 110-pound weight savings over the GT3 RS. The jump from zero to 62 mph only takes a scant 3.7 seconds. Keep the accelerator pegged to the floor and the 911 R will hit a top track speed of 201 mph.
Passengers snuggle safely in a pair of carbon fiber bucket seats upholstered with unique “Pepita” tartan center panels as homage to the first 911 from the 1960s. Another reference to its 1967 forefather are red or green twin stripes that run from nose to tail and Porsche decals along the sides.
The 911 R will be limited to 991 cars and comes with an elite price tag of $184,900.
The 718 Boxster features extensive chassis enhancements and an all-new turbocharged, mid-mounted flat-four cylinder engine. The 718 Boxster is powered by a 2.0-liter engine developing 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque while the 718 Boxster S utilizes a 2.5-liter powerplant making 350 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque.
When equipped with PDK and the Sport Chrono package, the 718 Boxster zips from 0 – 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, which is 0.7 seconds faster than the previous model. The Boxster S fitted with the same performance options can scoot from zero to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds. Top track speed of Boxster is 170 mph and the 177 mph for the Boxster S.
The new 718 Boxster features a retuned chassis, more powerful brakes and a compelling overtone for driving fun. Everything — except the windshield, convertible hood, and trunk lid — has undergone extensive redevelopment. Both Boxster models come standard with a 6-speed manual; the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) is available as an option.
The 718 Boxster and Boxster S go on sale now and will reach U.S. dealers in late June 2016. The 718 Boxster has a starting MSRP of $56,000, and the 718 Boxster S from $68,400, excluding the $1,050 destination charge.
Watch a 996 Porsche 911 drag race a Boxster S from the same era.
