The running joke with the Porsche 911 is that it has basically been the same since the first model was introduced back in 1963. Which, of course, is nonsense. Each subsequent generation of the 911 has seen notable changes and improvements. 

Whether it's additional technology in the form of anti-lock brakes, stability control and power steering, the shift from air-cooled to water-cooled engines, or most recently the shift to turbocharged engines in the 991.2 generation model, the venerable 911 has changed significantly over time. 


Yes, it may still look much the same (though it has grown bigger over time, as with all cars), but each generation brings with it its own important set of developments. 

Now, the eighth generation model is here. The car you see here is the new 992 series Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. 

The test of time

While the overall shape and design is still instantly recognisable as a 911, many of the details have evolved. The widened front end has a forward-extended bonnet with a recess in front of the windscreen, a throwback to the classic pre-996 models. You also have the $11,814 option of LED matrix beam head lights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus. 


The rear is dominated by a seamless light bar stretched between the wheel arches. The variable-position spoiler is also notably wider, and contributes to the car's improved aerodynamics. 

Inside, there's been significant improvement as far as quality of life is concerned. The seats are more comfortable, there's a much improved 10.9-inch infotainment system, and a cleaner overall design of the cabin with better organised buttons and controls. There's also increased digitisation, with twin digital displays on either side of the analogue tachometer. 


Practicality has improved, too (shocking, we know). You can finally fit a water bottle in the door cubby holes! There are hooks behind the front seat to hang stuff! You know, because this is a practical car...

But, some things haven't changed. The cabin, and the car as a whole, still fits snugly like a glove (helped greatly by the infinitely adjustable seats and steering wheel). Don't expect a ton of space for rear passengers or much luggage. And, there's not too many things to distract you from the fundamental joy of driving. 


The other thing that hasn't changed is the extensive options list, which can raise the price of the car by a mind-boggling amount. $9,152 sunroof? Check. $5,761 Bose Surround Sound System? Check. $1,113 GT sport steering wheel? Check. $5,521 Adaptive Sports Seats Plus? Check. $1,792 seat belts in Bordeux Red? Check. 

In total, this car has $107,081 worth of options. You can buy a Volkswagen Golf Comfortline with that money, with change to spare. Jesus.


Prime and loaded

It should come as no surprise to hear that the new 911 drives brilliantly. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine has been reworked to deliver 443bhp and 530Nm of torque. There is ample power, all delivered in a soulful manner that's been purposefully tuned to feel naturally aspirated. The engine invites you to rev it hard, packaging all its power at the top end.

The steering is direct and sharp (the steering ratio has been fiddled with), and stepping on the 'stop' pedal offers great brake feel and modulation. Put simply, this still drives like a quintessential 911 - it's a damn good sports car.  


This 4S model has a rear-biased all-wheel drive system that delivers close to unbreakable traction on normal roads. It's also a tad quicker than the Carrera S in a straight line, if that's your cup of tea.  

However, where the 911 has most notably improved is in refinement and everyday comfort. It's still no plush cushion (it's a low-slung coupe riding on 20/21-inch wheels after all), but it is very reasonable to drive daily. The noise is not overbearing, visibility all-around is good, the ride forgiving enough, and the new eight-speed PDK gearbox seamless and faultless. 


All day every day 

The Porsche 911 has made its name by being the consummate everyday sports car - usable daily, a riot to drive on B-roads, and a capable track weapon. 

The suggestion that 'every new 911 is just like the one that came before' perhaps resonates strongest in this new eighth generation model. Porsche leaning into its 'Timeless' tagline doesn't do much to dispel this notion. 


Yes, dynamically, the 992 doesn't take a gigantic step forward, but that's partly down to the fact that the 991.2 was (and still is) already such a well-rounded and complete sports car.  

Has Porsche made the new 992 a better sports car? Probably, but without having a track or extensive back roads to drive on, we can't really be certain. And the truth is (whether Porsche would readily admit it or not), a significant percentage of 911 buyers don't care. Many 911s will never even sniff a racetrack. 


For these owners, what matters is how the 911 performs in and around town. Does it draw envious looks from onlookers? Does it get from home to office in style? Is it comfortable even when caught in peak hour traffic? Does it make an exciting sound? 

Well, the answer is a resounding yes. For these people, the new 992 absolutely delivers. Porsche has undoubtedly made it a better everyday car. More usable, more practical, and still as impactful and special. 


And underneath all of that, there is one very simple truth about the 911 that has made it the benchmark sports car - it just works. Whatever you want it to do, it just does. No fussing about this or that, no changing this, adjusting that. It just works.  

And if it ain't broke, there's no need to fix it. The 911 ain't broke. It's actually pretty damn complete. But man, it ain't cheap.