2018 Porsche 911 Carrera T Is Lean and Mean

Porsche is adding yet another model to the 911 range: a lightweight Carrera T that promises to satisfy the purists.

Weighing just 3,142 pounds, the Carrera T is the lightest model in the 911 Carrera lineup. To shed pounds, Porsche used lightweight glass for the rear windshield and rear side windows, and like it did on GTS models, removed sound insulation. The 2018 Porsche 911 Carrera T has a 10 mm lower ride height than the standard 911 because of its PASM Sport Suspension.

It’s lightweight, but not the highest performing 911 of the bunch (note “T” stands for “Touring”). Powering the new model is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six with 370 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. This engine comes paired to either a short-shift manual transmission or an optional PDK dual-clutch. The manual-equipped version can hit 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, 0.1 second quicker than the standard 911, thanks to the transmission’s shorter constant transaxle ratio and rear differential lock. You’re not going to want to hear this, but the T is actually quite a bit quicker with the PDK. Reaching 60 mph takes 4.0 seconds using the standard launch control feature, Porsche says, although the top track speed is 180 mph instead of 182 mph like it is for the manual.

In terms of design, the special 911 features 20-inch wheels, black exhaust tips for the standard sport exhaust, and a front spoiler lip designed to improve aerodynamics. Color options run the gamut from yellow to orange, black, red, white, silver, and blue. Inside the cabin, look for a sport steering wheel, gear selector with the shift pattern embossed in red (for manuals), and available contrast stitching with “911” embroidered headrests. Porsche offers standard sport seats, but when buyers pick the optional bucket seats, the rear seats are eliminated.

Porsche has opened the order books for the new 911 Carrera T, and a configurator is already online. But the new model doesn’t arrive in U.S. dealerships until closer to March 2018. Prices start at $103,150.

Source: Porsche

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