The New 911 (Type 992) Finally Here!?

On September 4, an automotive news outlet featured an article titled “Spy Shots of the New 911 (Type 992) Revealed.” The headlights and taillights still have slight camouflage applied (see photo below ↓)

*New Porsche 911 (Type 992) Clear Photos: Yellow / Silver / Blue – 3 Prototype Cars

Compared to the previous model, the new design features slim wrap-around taillights connected by an LED strip, and the license plate has been relocated to the lower bumper.

This upcoming 911 marks the eighth generation since the original. So, I thought it would be fun to take a quick look back at the evolution of the 911 with images. Which era of the 911 do you like best?

Evolution from 1st to 8th Generation 911

① 1st Generation (Type 901)

The prototype debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1963 as the successor to the Porsche 356, with full production starting in 1964. Initially, the development code was “901,” but Peugeot had trademarked all three-digit numbers with a zero in the middle, so it was renamed “911.”
*Image source: The oldest surviving 911, preserved at the Porsche Museum… The 1964 production car originally called “901”

② 2nd Generation (Type 930)

Equipped with 5-mph impact bumpers complying with the US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Std215. The 930 designation originally referred only to the turbo models; naturally aspirated (NA) models remained under the 901 code until 1977. From 1978, NA models were also designated 930. Body styles included coupe and removable roof Targa.
*Image source: http://www.channel-9.jp/channel-9/stockdetail/298-1_723.html

③ 3rd Generation (Type 964)

Released in 1989. The body structure switched to a conventional monocoque (a structure where the body shell bears the load), and the suspension springs changed from torsion bars to coil springs. While it resembles the 930 externally, 80% of its parts were new. Also introduced was the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4.
*Image source: https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%9D%E3%83%AB%E3%82%B7%E3%82%A7%E3%83%BB964

④ 4th Generation (Type 993)

Released in 1993, the 993 was the last air-cooled 911 model. It remains popular as the final air-cooled 911.

*Image source: https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%9D%E3%83%AB%E3%82%B7%E3%82%A7%E3%83%BB993#/media/File:Porsche_993_targa_mainz.jpg

⑤ 5th Generation (Type 996)

Released in 1997, the 996 marked a major change as the iconic air-cooled engine was replaced by a water-cooled engine, the chassis was completely redesigned, and the teardrop-shaped headlights were introduced.

*Image source: https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%9D%E3%83%AB%E3%82%B7%E3%82%A7%E3%83%BB996#/media/File:Porsche_996_GT3_orangeperlrotcolor_RHD_P911_CML.jpg

⑥ 6th Generation (Type 997)

Released in 2004, the 997 saw the unpopular teardrop headlights of the 996 replaced by the classic round headlights. The chassis was based on the 996, with early models using the 996 engine, and later models switching to a new direct-injection engine and introducing the PDK transmission.
*Image source: https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%9D%E3%83%AB%E3%82%B7%E3%82%A7%E3%83%BB997#/media/File:Porsche911997.jpg

⑦ 7th Generation (Type 991)

Released in 2011, the 991 featured a lightweight chassis using aluminum alloys. The engine was an improved version of the late 997 engine.
*Image source: https://serakota.blog.so-net.ne.jp/2015-09-08

⑧ 8th Generation (Type 992)

Not officially announced yet, but the world debut is expected at the Paris Motor Show in October or the Los Angeles Motor Show in November.
*Image source: https://carview.yahoo.co.jp/news/newmodel/20180904-10339333-carview/1/

Like a Little Panamera?

Looking back like this, you really feel how much the 911 has evolved since the first generation. Since the new model hasn’t been officially announced yet, it’s hard to say for sure, but I personally like the current 991 design. The new 911 (992) with its connected rear lights reminds me a bit of a “little Panamera,” probably because I see the Panamera so often… (Sorry!)

*Image source: New Porsche 911 (Type 992) Clear Photos: Yellow / Silver / Blue – 3 Prototype Cars

Well, saying that, I’m sure it will look absolutely stunning in person. I’m really looking forward to the official announcement.