Posts on “911 Day”

On September 11th, known as “911 Day,” many tweets with the hashtag #911Day were posted on Twitter. It’s clear that the “911” is truly loved by so many people. …And then, a sudden question popped into my mind.

What exactly makes the 911 so captivating…?

I think I understand the appeal and strengths of the Panamera better than most people, but when it comes to the 911, I honestly don’t know much… or rather, I hardly know anything at all.

So, I asked my husband, “Do you have any recorded shows or something that explain the charm of the 911?” and he replied,

“Of course, I do (￣ー￣)”

so (as expected, haha), he introduced me to a Discovery Channel special on the 911 called “SUPERCAR SUPREBUILD.”

Discovery Channel’s program featured the 911, and today I’d like to share some of the highlights about what makes the 911 so special.

What Makes the 911 So Special?

The Discovery Channel’s “SUPERCAR SUPREBUILD” aired around the time the later version of the current 911 (991 model) was released. It explored the 911’s history, manufacturing process, evaluations by motor journalists, and interviews with employees to uncover the car’s appeal.

The program highlighted four main reasons why the 911 captures and never lets go of the hearts of so many car enthusiasts.

① Because Porsche Puts Its Greatest Effort Into This Car

Of course, Porsche puts effort into developing and manufacturing all its models, but the 911 holds a special place. The 911 is the iconic car that defines the Porsche brand.

Every time a new model is released, it faces harsh scrutiny from fans and detailed benchmarking from competitors. If Porsche were to fail with the 911, it would seriously damage the brand’s image. That’s why Porsche always releases the 911 after the best possible improvements and refinements.

Even when using the latest technology to improve the car, fans don’t always like the changes, but Porsche has courageously made bold decisions in the past.

For example, when they switched the engine from air-cooled to water-cooled. Pure Porsche fans criticized this, and rumors spread that “the 911 was finished.” However, the 911 (5th generation, 996 model) that was released became the best-selling 911 model ever.

Also, in 2016, when Porsche shifted the 911 from naturally aspirated (NA) engines to turbocharged ones, this decision was said to be a bigger step than the switch from air-cooled to water-cooled.

Turbochargers increase power and improve fuel efficiency but also risk turbo lag. To build a 911 that doesn’t feel like a turbo car, Porsche kept refining the technology. As a result, Porsche brilliantly embodied the idea that “the latest 911 is the best 911.”

② Rear Engine

The rear engine is the biggest characteristic of the 911. When you drive it, you experience unique rear-engine dynamics that no other car offers. It’s said that no sports car demonstrates the principles of understeer and oversteer as well as the 911.

However, placing the engine behind the rear axle is generally considered unconventional. That’s because from a physics standpoint, having the center of gravity so far back makes handling corners more difficult and controlling the car harder.

But the real thrill of driving the 911 lies precisely in this: when the front wheels lose grip and the car doesn’t turn as you steer—called “understeer”—or when the rear swings out and eventually spins—called “oversteer”—the driver’s skill in controlling these dynamics is what makes driving the 911 so exciting.

Also, since there’s no engine in front, the view from the driver’s seat is excellent, and the pedal placement is just right for shifting, which is another advantage of the rear-engine layout.

③ Built with the Pursuit of Perfection

At the manufacturing site, everyone aims for perfection beyond perfection when building the 911. From the precise torque on screws to strict production time limits to keep the line running smoothly, the 911 is crafted with handmade-level precision, producing about 30,000 units annually. It takes a staggering 30 hours to build one car.

④ Employees Work with Pride

The 911 is built at the factory in Zuffenhausen, on the outskirts of Stuttgart, Germany. Most historic and new 911 models were born here. In interviews, employees said with pride, “As residents of Stuttgart, it’s an honor to build Porsches,” “We don’t work here just for the paycheck; it’s because the 911 is a special car.”

Many employees grew up watching their fathers work at the Porsche factory and dreamed, “I want to work at Porsche when I grow up,” and actually joined the company. This pursuit of perfection is passed down through generations thanks to these dedicated employees.

How Is the Later 911 (991) Model Rated?

Finally, about the evaluation of the later 911 (991) model.

Before its release, people said, “A turbo model for every 911? Impossible.” But in reality, the handling quirks that define the 911 were improved, making it an even more enjoyable sports car to drive. It’s the most comfortable, luxurious, and refined 911 ever made.

Amazing… such high praise. Well, it’s a 911 special, so the program probably wouldn’t give a bad review, but still, the 911 is truly incredible.

Having learned a bit about the 911, I’m even more excited to see how the new 911, to be announced this fall, will surpass this outstanding model!