The Porsche 911 is an iconic sports car known for creating lasting memories. While it may not be a rare sight on the roads, each experience behind the wheel of a 911 is unique and unforgettable. From my very first drive in a mid-70s model with the “Sportomatic” transmission, to piloting examples from various generations, the Porsche 911 has always left a lasting impression.
I vividly remember test driving a rust-free 911 with the Sportomatic transmission in the 90s. Despite the undesirable transmission and the car’s damp interior, I instantly fell in love with it. I regretfully declined to purchase it at the time for the then hefty price of $4,000. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to drive 911s from different generations, including the 996, 997, 991, and 992. Each drive had its own unique charm and still remains etched in my memory.
One particular drive that stands out is my experience with the 996 Turbo. Despite its wing and the high speeds, the rear end of the car felt incredibly light as I navigated a two-lane road near the Michigan lakeshore. The sound of running through the gears in a 997 GT3 was so captivating that I had to share it with all my car enthusiast friends. These experiences have not only become cherished memories for me but have also left a lasting impact on my fellow editors at Motor1.com.
Recently, I had the opportunity to spend a week with the 2022 Porsche 911 GTS, and it quickly became one of my favorite Porsche drives. The mid-range GTS model boasts impressive performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 193 mph. These figures would have been unrivaled in the past, qualifying it as a supercar. Today, it serves as a memory machine, creating countless unforgettable moments.
During my time with the 911 GTS, I decided to take my son, Jack, on a road trip across Michigan. It was a dreamy experience driving any 911 over long distances, and having Jack join me made it even more special. However, fitting a portable crib, luggage, and all the essentials into the compact Porsche took some planning. The 911’s trunk proved to be surprisingly spacious, swallowing all the necessary items. I even found room to spare in the shallow space behind the rear seats and over the engine. To accommodate Jack, I invested in a slim car seat that fit perfectly in the rear seats, creating a comfortable and enjoyable ride for both of us.
Jack and I thoroughly enjoyed the power and performance of the 911 GTS. The ability to drop a gear or two and feel the car rocket forward brought a smile to both our faces. However, the loud exhaust note and tire roar did take a toll on my aging ears. It reminded me that I’m not as young as I used to be and highlighted the trade-off between exhilarating driving experiences and the comfort of a quieter ride.
Clint Simone, the Director of Video at Motor1.com, also had the chance to experience the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Convertible in Southern California. He was impressed by the powertrain, which offered a perfect balance of power and control. The 473-horsepower engine felt mighty and responsive, providing a thrilling driving experience. The PDK automatic transmission was seamless and allowed for quick and precise gear changes. However, the only downside to the 911 GTS was its price tag. With an MSRP of $175,000, it’s undeniably a significant investment.
Jeff Perez, a Senior Editor at Motor1.com, appreciated the fantastic powertrain of the 911 GTS. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivered a perfect balance of power and responsiveness. It felt lively and eager to perform at high speeds while remaining obedient at lower speeds. Jeff also praised the PDCC suspension setup and the comfortable Adaptive Sport seats, which made the 911 GTS extremely compliant. However, he noted that without these features, the ride could be harsh and potentially uncomfortable.
Brett T. Evans, another Senior Editor at Motor1.com, shared his experience with the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS cabriolet. He highlighted the car’s all-around excellence, from its powerful engine to its luxurious interior. The 473-horsepower engine provided exhilarating acceleration, while the firm suspension ensured exceptional performance around corners. The well-constructed interior and ample trunk space added to the overall comfort and practicality of the 911 GTS. However, Brett personally disliked the limited design palette, particularly the darkened head- and taillight bezels and gloss black accents.
In conclusion, the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS offers a thrilling and memorable driving experience. Its powerful engine, agile performance, and luxurious interior make it a top-tier sports car. While it may come with a hefty price tag and a few downsides, the 911 GTS continues to be the gold standard for accessible everyday performance. Its ability to create lasting memories and deliver a truly exceptional driving experience is what sets it apart from the competition. Whether it’s a road trip with family or a solo drive on winding roads, the Porsche 911 GTS never fails to impress.