Porsche: Fast and Efficient

The 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S has a 3.8-liter boxer engine. It produces 400 hp. But apparently, for some people that’s not quite enough. So the people at Porsche Exclusive have gone to work and developed what’s called the “Powerkit” for the seven-generation 911.

It takes that 400 hp and turns it into 430 hp. Which means that it is now possible to go for 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. And whereas the car could go merely 187 mph on a track, the Powerkit makes it possible to hit 191 mph.

What’s of particular interest is that the Powerkit, which will be available in the U.S. later this year, doesn’t have a deleterious effect on fuel consumption. While the EPA numbers for the upgraded vehicle are TBD, according to Porsche, “fuel consumption values in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) are unchanged despite the seven percent power increase.” So chances are things will be a wash (the S gets 20/27 mpg city/highway).

So, how do they do it? Newly designed cylinder heads and camshaft profiles. Modifications to the electronic engine management system. A new variable resonance intake system design with six air flaps and an additional resonance flap. An additional center radiator. Sports exhaust system. Dynamic engine mounts. A new, lower front apron. Things like that.

And, just so the changes are visible, there is a titanium-colored engine cover with carbon inlays. After all, while you might not be using more than a fraction of that 430 hp, you can always admire your engine.