New ZF 7-speed manual

Gear shifting is also part of the new 911's "emotion" equation. Upshifts of the twin-clutch (Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or PDK) transmission are aided by cylinder deactivation, the interruption of combustion providing the quickest drop in revs apposite for the speed of the next gear.

This is complemented by shorter signal propagation delays in manual shifts. The result is a more than 30% reduction in overall gear change time between operating the control to the completion of the engine speed adjustment phase, while still achieving a comfortable shift effect. The use of cylinder deactivation also provides the “typical race car" exhaust note, the engineers said.

Downshifting of the PDK is also now quicker, with greater double-declutch effect than with the outgoing 997 version of the 911. The Porsche engineers were totally up front about the point of all this, saying that notably in Sport mode with the exhaust flap open, the transmitted sound to the interior is like that of a race car.

The added weight generated by a 100-mm (3.9-in) longer wheelbase, extra systems, and improved safety requirements added 58 kg (128 lb) compared to the outgoing 997. But Porsche managed not only to counter that increase but also to reduce overall curb weight by 45 kg (100 lb). The Type 991 Carrera with manual gearbox weighs 1380 kg (3042 lb). The new Carrera S weighs 1395 kg (3075 lb)—approximately 36 kg (80 lb) less overall than the previous generation vehicle.

This overall mass reduction has been achieved by a careful materials balance. Aluminum is used for the front end, middle, and rear of the vehicle, as well as in the front and rear lids, doors, center console crossmember, and in the rear-seat backrest. High-strength boron is among the variety of lightweight steel alloys employed in key safety sections including the inner roof frame and B-pillars. The cross-car beam is magnesium. The wall thickness of plastic components throughout the car is optimized for weight savings.