The seventh-generation Porsche 911 has been named the 2012 World Performance Car. The announcement was made at the 2012 New York International Auto Show, at a press conference hosted by Bridgestone Corporation. The Porsche 911 was one of 34 new-for-2012 vehicles selected for the annual awards program.
The World Performance Car honor is awarded each year by an international jury panel comprised of 66 top-level automotive journalists from 25 countries around the world. Jury members are appointed by the World Car Steering Committee on the basis of their expertise, experience, credibility, and influence. Each juror typically drives and evaluates new vehicles on a regular basis as part of his or her professional work. Through their respective outlets they collectively reach an audience of millions of automotive consumers in every corner of the globe.
“We are honored that the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S was chosen by this distinguished group of jurors as the 2012 World Performance Car,” said Detlev von Platen, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “For just the seventh time in almost 50 years the iconic 911 has been revised to the point of being a new-generation, and winning this award from a global team of world-class journalists is excellent validation for the work and dedication of everyone at Porsche.”
Lower, wider, longer, more powerful and more efficient than its predecessor, the all-new 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera has been refined from the ground up. Delivering 350hp and 400hp respectively, the 3.4-liter 911 Carrera and 3.8-liter Carrera S boxer engines are available with a seven-speed manual gearbox or the seven-speed dual-clutch Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) automatic. When fitted with the Sport Chrono PDK, the Carrera can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, while the Carrera S reaches 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and reaches a top-track-speed of 187 mph.
Inside the cabin of the new 911, numerous comfort, convenience and ergonomic features create an environment that allows drivers to fully focus on the road ahead, while also appreciating new available audio and communications systems by companies like Bose® and Burmester®. Both driver and passenger benefit from almost an inch more front leg room for increased comfort. The elevated center console allows for faster shifts.
The 2012 Carrera has a base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $82,100; the 911 Carrera S has a base MSRP price of $96,400, not including a $950 destination charge.