It is crazy to think how fast cars have become... the new E63S did 7:45 at the Ring. The wagon version of the E63!

 

I just test drove a 991.2 GTS with PDK today, and having never actually driven a Porsche, I was very impressed. My current car is an Aston Vantage S, Manual. With an ECU tune its got slightly higher HP and on par torque numbers to the GTS, but being heavier the Porsche felt (and certainly is) faster. I never thought I'd be considering a Porsche, but after the new Vantage debuted, I decided to consider other options for the next car since I'm not totally sold on the new look coupled with the new starting price. GTS is right at the top of the list now (although I would spec mine with a Manual).

I realize the 2019's for Porsche are August builds, but is there any info out there on any changes for the 2019's?

 

I believe the current 991.2 version of the 911 will be available, at least, through this time next year. The new 992 version of the 911 will become available some time next year (2019) probably as a 2020 model year. Although, the timing of this event is still speculation.

OBTW, I have a 991.2 GTS coupe with manual transmission. A truly sublime car!!

 

Yes, the above timing is also what I heard, i'm just curious what, if any, little changes may occur from 2018-2019 model year.

DBH, what did you go from into your 2018 GTS manual? The manual shifting bit is the only thing I don't think i'll get a chance to test out really (in a 2017/208 guise). Every dealer in my area only orders PDK into inventory, and manual cars seem to be either held by owners, or gone in a flash if they ever get traded in.

Curious on your take on the shifter compared to other manuals you've owned or driven.

 

I don't think you'll find any but minor changes (paint colors, that type of thing) as they 'll be making major changes going to the 992 model.

I've always had a manual car in the stable. The other cars in the garage now are a '10 Volvo S40 awd and a '15 Audi A4 Quattro both automatics. I traded a Cayman GTS with manual for the 911. Both transmissions are very similar (slightly shorter shifts on the 911). Both shifters felt like well oiled rifle bolts. The major difference is the 911's seventh gear. Its only use is high speed cruising on the highway. And caution is required when downshifting from sixth to fifth or seventh to fifth. It's okay once you're use to it. I've always enjoyed the involvement of shifting and would only consider an automatic if it was an only car used in heavy commuter traffic or physical impairment of some kind.

 

I too always opt for a manual when possible, but those options are becoming far and few between. The PDK is a truly great transmission, it deserves the praise it gets. However I'd like to row my own gears in at least one of my cars while its still an option. Really very few options for manuals left in higher end sports cars.

 

I ordered a stripped 2018 911 GTS for $122,500 with $1,500 down. No sun roof, no carbon fiber, no embossed logos on the seats. I ordered the hydraulic-lift front end (which i love) and the rear wing and the Bose radio package. That's it. It's a 7-speed manual. Man, I love this car. It is faster than the 2012 Turbo I just sold. It took 4-months to get it.

 

Mine was even more(?) stripped. The only (paid) options were GT Silver paint and Guards Red seatbelts. I some times wish I'd ordered the sport wing that you have. BTW, really like the wheels.