Yeah, it really sounds like they didn't flip engine and transmission just for the weight distribution. But also because of space.

The transmission being smaller, but still placed in the tall engine space, allows them to move it a bit higher to really open up the rear of the cat with the diffuser.

The big question for the future is whether they will extend the wheelbase.

 

They should just make it front wheel drive -- imagine the diffuser they could put on then!

 

Well, you wouldn't expect them to miss out on a marketing opertunity would you? Also, if the 911 goes mid engine it's so it can share a platform and be even more profitable.

 

Don't believe this is correct. New engine based on 9a1 is being used for the 991 GT3 and RS. Not sure of any marketing advantage of using the Mezger these days.

 

What we see in the PORSCHE RSR mid-engine racer is a photo-type of the near future PORSCHE 960 mid-engine layout. Lots of exciting things to come.

Drive safe,
GT3RS-Fan1

 

http://www.autoblog.com/2016/11/16/2...sr-mid-engine/

"The engine is new, now based on the 991 911's block instead of the previous Mezger motor that's been used for years. "

 

Remember the GT-R LM NISMO? All that time, money, and aero and they retired it after one race. Be careful what you wish for.

 

The cars dont really resemble the street cars like they used to. Porsche didnt even have to get a waiver for this modification. The class has turned into GT1. Connection to the street cars is all but irrelevant. As long as Porsche continues to make a killing with the 911, they have no incentive to go mid engine. The street GT3 hasnt been top tier performance in about a decade. But they still sell them like hot cakes. A mid engine car will not sell as well. If there is a mid engine car, it will not replace the 911. It will slot in above it.