To manual shifting enthusiasts, Porsche’s latest 911 R is likely the most exciting news since the Cayman GT4. Leaked ahead of its imminent Geneva debut, the new 911 R is said to be powered by 500hp 4.0L boxer six from the GT3 RS and only 500 units will be produced.
Not only that, the 911 R is also claimed to feature a manual box, thankfully. So if you’re cheesed off by the fact that all good Porsches including the new GT3RS are dominated by the dual clutch PDK, you can now rejoice.
The 911 R’s body, is also said to be sourced from the GT3 RS. However, this being a watered down GT3 RS will not feature RS attachments. So no fancy rear wing, air ducts nor half cage here. There seems to be new, blacked out headlights and smoked tailights although nothing is confirmed until the impending Geneva show.
From the leaked photos that were circulated, it appears that the 911 R will retain a clean and unadulterated physique. It is also said that the 911 R will commemorate Porsche’s 50th anniversary of the 911 R, therefore explaining the vinyl livery of the scooped photos. We’re not too sure about the red vinyls donning the top facing panels of the 911 but the classic Porsche branding on the side is highly welcomed.
Cockpit wise, what’s most obvious of it all is the manual shift knob. Bliss. But what’s next is the seemingly unsophisticated interior. Is this to keep with the diluted scheme of the 911 R? Likely. Got to say we have no qualms with regard to this though. Simplicity never hurt.
