2012 Porsche 911 (991): New and Traditional

Auto enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the new redesigned 2012 Porsche 911 (code name 991). It will officially be seen at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show next month (September).

The new car has the traditional Porsche 911 look. However, it is about 2 inches longer. The mirrors are now mounted to the doors (this was last seen on the Porsche 993 of 1998). The timeless circular headlights remain, however, they are better integrated into the front fenders. LED slit running lights are located just above the lower air ducts (three openings). Furthermore, the front trunk opening is larger to provide better ease for loading.

At the rear, the LED taillights are narrower, and the rectangular spoiler takes up a large area above the bumper. Additionally, the engine hood is larger. To keep the car's weight down, this 911 will employ high-strength steel and aluminum.

On the interior, the look is from the upscale Panamera as this 911 has a sloping center console, a navigation screen positioned low in the dash, and excellent fit and finish with much attention to detail. As is customary, the dash has a large center tachometer that is flanked by four additional gauges (speedometer/odometer; oil pressure/temperature; outside temperature, time, all-wheel drive split; fuel/coolant temperature).

Power will come from either a flat-six 3.4-liter engine providing 350 hp with 295 ft lb. of torque or a 3.8-liter making 400 hp and 325 ft. lb. of torque. The transmission choices are a seven-speed manual or a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch unit with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. Depending on the engine, this 911's 0-60 mph acceleration will be in the high 3 second to mid 4 second range.

The brakes are 13 inch vented rotors at all four corners. The tires are 235 40 18 inch at the front and 265 40 18 at the rear. ABS, traction control, electronic stability control, and electronic brake force distribution are standard.

The suspension is MacPherson struts and an anti roll bar at the front and multilink with coil springs and an anti roll bar at the rear.

Safety features on this new Porsche include front air bags, speed controlled side air bags, front side curtain air bags, and passenger deactivation air bag.

The stereo system is an AM/FM in-dash single CD/DVD, CD controller with CD MP3 Playback.

Standard features include remote power door locks, power heated mirrors, power windows, cruise control, front console with storage, front cup holders, front door pockets, remote trunk release, retained accessories power, speed-proportional power steering, universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.), 12 volt power outlets, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, interior active charcoal filter, trunk light, leather trim on center console/dash/doors, front reading lights, leather steering wheel, and more.

As the new 911 will have a longer wheelbase by 4 inches, it will be comfortable as a long distance cruiser. Additionally, it will be fast, handle with ease and even get reasonable gas mileage at up to 28 mpg on the highway!

The price of the 2012 Porsche 911 will range from $77,800 to 172,100.

View the slideshow to see the 2012 Porsche 911 (991) inside and out!

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save money." He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.