Tested: 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S

2013 Porsche 911 Carera S (991)
2013 Porsche 911 Carera S (991) – Photo by Shaun Keenan – PRNMAG.COM

With 400 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, the 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S (991) also benefits from a slightly wider front track and more favourable power-to-weight ratio (compared to the 997). The optional seven-speed twin-clutch PDK automatic delivers impressive performance, including 4.3-second zero-to-100 and nine-second zero-to-160 times, whilst shifting more precisely and faster than any human I know. And, despite the improved performance, it too has exceptional fuel economy figures of 9.1 L/100 km combined.

After a mix of driving 437 kilometres on mixed suburban roads and highways, the Porsche computer displays an average consumption of 10.8 L/100 km on one of its many vehicle info screens – pretty darn good for a car that’s supposed to try and rip your face off every time the gas pedal is stamped on. Or, toss your cookies whenever the massive Brembos bite down hard on the Carrera S’s 340 mm cross-drilled and vented rotors with six-piston front calipers (Carrera has four-piston calipers and 330 mm rotors in the front).

As scary as that may sound, this car is actually quite easy to get along with on a day-to-day basis. The interior is kitted out like an upscale airport lounge with no shortage of technology, high-quality materials or convenience features. In fact, it’s fully-loaded with add-ons like leather seating, premium pack with 18-way electric seats, lighting upgrades, folding mirrors, ninespeaker Bose surround system, SiriusXM and HD radio tuners, front and rear park assist, power steering plus, sport design steering wheel and a sunroof.

Read my full review of the 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S (991) on the PRN IGNITION web site.