Entry-level 911 Carrera could be the pick of Porsche
But after spending a week on track and road in what could be referred to as the entry-level to the 911 world I’m convinced that it could be one of the picks of the bunch.
When I visited the Porsche Experience Centre I was struck by how strong the lure of ever-more expensive models and additions to the standard spec could be to potential owners.
Big spenders needn't spend (that) big
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdAfterall, if you’re lucky enough to have nearly £65,000 to spend on a car, what’s a few extra grand...
The £64,256 manual gearbox-equipped, 3.6-litre Carrera 2 proves that audacious ticking of the options is not necessary, however.
The handling traits that made Porsche famous are there in spades, an occasionally over-light front end surprising with its incisive turn-in, while a pair of supercar-sized rear tyres offer phenomenal traction at the other end.
Less isn't more...but it's more than enough
Where the range-topping Porsche 911 GT2 RS (£161,107) transmits 620bhp to the tarmac through its rear wheels, the C2 makes good use of its 345bhp.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdIt's enough for a 4.7 second sprint to 62mph and a 178mph top speed.
A light-footed poise and fingertip steering responses make the C2 a compelling drive and, following the insight of Porsche Experience Centre instructor Simon Simpson into the stability and traction control systems, any fears of the potentially pendulous effects of that rear-engined configuration have all but disappeared.
Efficiency and space makes for surprising practicality
Away from the performance-oriented driving Simon revelled in, the C2 made a surprisingly practical day-to-day vehicle during my week-long test.
I even managed to better the claimed fuel consumption of 29.4mpg (combined) with a barely believable 37mpg on the motorway slog back from Silverstone.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdExcellent all-round visibility from the Carrera’s cockpit inspired confidence, while a 135-litre boot is only just short of a MINI and the rear seats actually offer greater leg-room than the cult hatchback.
Conservative interior fails to truly shine
Only the Carrera’s interior—attractive largely for its fairly stark, functional purity—is something of a disappointment in such a special car.
It's a minor moan, though, and at the end of a week with the C2, I'm convinced of the Stuttgart marque’s appeal...even in its entry level form.