As the only non-turbo 911, the GT3 will likely continue to be the most powerful.
The Porsche 911 is one of the most beloved vehicles in the world. Although the 911’s timeless design is still distinctive, there have been many mechanical improvements over the years that have led to different levels of Porsche 911 fandom. Air-cooled is arguably the biggest debate, but turbocharged-versus-natural aspiration also fuels purists’ hearts. We were therefore intrigued when we heard rumors about a new 911 Carrera with no turbos.
These rumors may be true, however. According to Car Expert in Australia, Frank-Steffen Walliser, Porsche 911 boss denied reports that a flat-six naturally-aspirated would be returning to the Carrera lineage. He didn’t seem to be too concerned about it, just saying no, when asked. It doesn’t get any clearer than this. But what if there’s more to the story?
Because the report specifically mentions the 4.0-liter engine in the 718 Cayman GTS. It generates 394 horsepower (294 Kilowatts) in that application, which is a modest improvement to the 379 HP twin-turbo 3.0-liter motor used in the current Carrera. This would also revive 911 purists who long for a flat-six sound without the whoosh (and who don’t want the race-focused GT3). It would also appeal to general enthusiasts. Never Reduce power. This seems like a win-win situation.
The rumors are based on the exhaust system seen on the 911 prototypes. Although it looks similar to the 718’s center-biased exhaust system, none of our insiders were able to verify this through sound or direct evidence. Rumours suggest that a smaller version, the NA 4.0-liter, could make its way into 911. Admittedly, it’s a very thin interpretation, but if Walliser’s answer specifically refers to a 4.0-liter engine, the door could still be open for a smaller-displacement, non-turbo engine.
However, you should take this serious with a grain of salt. Car Expert says that although the entire 4.0-liter program was originally intended for multiple vehicles, changing emission standards almost ended it. Walliser and other top brass aside, Porsche won’t be talking about the new 911 until it debuts. This could still take a year. Until then, we are left to speculate over leaks, rumors and our imaginations.