The special series of 2,500 vehicles is reminiscent of the Dakar Rally special and proves that there are almost no limits to Porsche 911 concepts.
After several camouflaged demonstrations, the car manufacturer Porsche finally presented today the new 911 Dakar model, which is not afraid of even the most demanding terrain. The chassis of the car is raised by 50 millimeters as standard compared to the 911 Carrera model with sports chassis, but at the same time the car is also equipped with a chassis lift system that can raise the front and rear by an additional 30 millimetres.
With its ground clearance and approach angles, the 911 Dakar can even compete with ordinary SUVs. At the same time, the chassis lift system was not only designed to slowly overcome difficult terrain: the car with the chassis raised to the maximum can accelerate up to 170 km/h before the chassis returns to its default setting.
So that the car does not get lost even on more demanding terrain, it received specially developed Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain tires with dimensions 245/45 ZR19 at the front and 295/40 VR20 at the rear. The tires have a robust design with a height of 9 millimeters and reinforced sidewalls. As an option, Pirelli P Zero summer and winter tires are also available.
Under the bonnet is a supercharged 3.0-litre bi-turbo six-cylinder with an output of 353 kW (480 hp) and a maximum torque of 570 Nm. The engine is mated to an eight-speed PDK transmission, driving all wheels , takes the off-road sports car from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of up to 240 km/h.
Part of the standard equipment is the rear axle rotation system, the engine mounts are taken from the 911 GT3 model and there is also a PDCC stabilization system. The engineers’ aim was to ensure that the car was equally dynamic on the Nürburgring as it was on sandy and other softer, more inconsistent surfaces. For this reason, the car also received two new off-road driving modes, which are set with a rotary selector on the steering wheel.
Rallye mode is intended for uneven and soft surfaces, where the car prefers rear-wheel drive. In Offroad mode, the car lifts up automatically and places maximum emphasis on traction. In both modes, the Rallye Launch Control system is also activated, offering better acceleration on paved roads.
In addition to the technical changes, the Porsche 911 Dakar also received a new fixed spoiler, made of carbon composite, and new details such as red painted towing eyes, extended fenders and side skirts or stainless steel protection elements at the front, rear and sides. The side air intake openings were therefore protected against flying stones.
On the roof of the new Porsche 911 Dakar we see a 12V socket, ready to power the lights in the optional roof rack. With a load capacity of approx. 42 kilograms, the roof rack is suitable, for example, for water or fuel canisters, rescue equipment, etc. However, the automaker also offers a roof tent for the Dakar model.
The passenger compartment of the car will offer sports seats, while the rear bench has disappeared. Furthermore, in combination with lightweight glasses and a lightweight battery, the automaker has managed to reduce the weight to 1,605 kilograms. The Dakar is therefore only 10 kilograms heavier than the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS with PDK gearbox. The automaker also mentions the Race-Tex interior with decorative stitching. Optional accessories will be the Rallye Sport Package with protective frame, six-point belts and fire extinguisher.
The specialty will be the Rallye Design Package from the Porsche Exclusive Manuaktur workshop. The two-tone combination of white and gentian blue metallic is a reference to the racing car that won the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally. It is the first time that Porsche will offer two-tone paintwork and decorative films in series production. At the same time, there will be space on the side of the car for individual race numbers, which the owner can fill in in the range from 0 to 999.
Furthermore, those interested in the Porsche 911 Dakar can also order a special Porsche Design Chronograph watch exclusively to match the vehicle. For the first time ever, the watch is made of lightweight and strong titanium carbide, so it resists scratches.
Recall that the automaker plans to build only 2,500 units of the Porsche 911 Dakar model. In addition to impressive capabilities, the car will also offer a certain exclusivity. The automaker hasn’t disclosed the price, but it won’t be low.
