Underblu

Based on some of the performance metrics, it would appear the 992S is getting pretty close to the GT cars, at least the ones still naturally aspirated. Makes me wonder how much room Porsche has left to improve on already ridiculously capable NA flat 6 sports cars. I would think at some point in time, physics and the limitations of tires, suspension components and ICE designs will eventually reach a point were meaningful improvement is impossible.

I ask myself, then what? Will the overall "feel" of the car become the primary target for each new model as opposed to all out performance. Or perhaps at that point everything will be hybrid or electric.

AKSteve

^ Make them lighter.

ryandarr1979

It really seems that we’re reaching the limit on conventional car designs with ICE engines, chassis design and materials used for tires, brakes, chassis etc. Unless we see a major evolutionary technology advancement in tire compounds (specialized multi compounds), brake compounds (carbon ceramic), weight saving materials (carbon fiber), or how power is achieved (electric engines) delivered, stored and replaced (batteries), we really do seem to be hitting a ceiling on the ICE vehicle.

992Sam

Traction is the limit for initial acceleration.. but with more HP cars will go 100-200 much faster and have higher top speeds.

tstafford

This.

Best driver's cars (IMHO) are light and rev high.

chuckbdc

A look at the Turbo forum will show that modified 991 Turbo Ss are turning quarter mile times approximately 3 seconds faster than reported times for 992 Ss with trap speeds 30-40 mph faster. Something tells me they must "feel" pretty good.

Unframed

I’m curious what this is based on because from my perspective I see cars like the 720S and GT2RS putting the wood to the million dollar hypercars of just a few years ago.

Underblu

Yeah but that's the point, the performance metrics of many of these "road" cars have gotten so good that continuing this rate of improvement seems difficult if not impossible given current technology. That's not to say improvements will not continue, just that at some point the limitations of physics will begin to set some hard limits on what is possible

AlexCeres

all those existing materials could be used much more extensively. The McLaren 720S is 500# lighter than the turbo S and only 2 inches smaller. Working on economies of scale and manufacturing techniques to bring the prices down would be an obvious next step. The engine itself could get suped up, either with a hybrid assist or ultracap assist like the new lambo. It could also grow to 8 cylinders. If a large portion of the other line ups go EV or hybrid than the 911 line ironically has more freedom to use less efficient ice engines. Not saying that’s likely, but it is possible for an iconic but ultimately niche line.

There’s really nothing stopping Porsche from making a 918 level car at 911 prices.

fastforddriver

Is there an electric motor suitable for a vehicle that can touch high end internal combustion engines when it comes to power? 1250hp and 1000tq are pretty easy to get (and maintain) with a modern streetable engine while pure race versions of Ford's 5.0L Coyote engine easily (with money) attain 2000hp and in many cases more than that.

ace37

We have a way to go before physics is the limit. Engineering higher engine outputs using a NA system will be a challenge. The march of progress is sure impressive!

Unframed

As we shift further toward electrification the importance of adding lightness will only increase.

worf928

The limits for IC engines, whether N.A. or forced induction are regulatory not technological.

michaelp

FIA not physics? I believe the GT cars has similar power numbers to the racing counterparts.

worf928

Huh? So, you agree with me then?

I thought we were talking about street cars like the 992 not GT3s.

In any case yes: regulations. Even in - *gasp* - racing FIA, EU etc. Not physics. It’s all about the carbon (for street cars) and taxes (by displacement outside of the US.)

Need proof? Here:



Want more meat on those bones?