Porsche goes back to basics with 911 Carrera T

Porsche is expanding its 911 lineup with the return of what can only be described as a purist’s delight, the lightweight 911 Carrera T.

Just what makes it so pure? As standard, the 911 Carrera T comes with a seven-speed manual gearbox while the rear seats have been removed to reduce weight.

It’s also 10mm lower now too thanks to a new sports suspension setup while the sound of its flat-six has been amplified inside the cabin.

In the 911 model lineup, the Carrera T bridges the gap between the already established Carrera and Carrera S.

Drivetrain and performance

Sticking true to its roots, the 911 Carrera T makes use of the familiar twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre flat-six cylinder engine making 283kW and 450Nm of torque.

Power is then sent through a seven-speed manual gearbox as standard, helping the car achieve a 0 to 100km/h sprint in approximately 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 291km/h. An eight-speed PDK gearbox is also available.

Porsche Torque Vectoring by means of its locking mechanical rear differential also comes as standard.

Weight has been reduced by 35kg from the standard 911 Carrera to provide a total figure of 1470kg thanks to a lack of rear seats, lightweight glass and a lightweight battery.

The new model has also dropped by 10mm thanks to PASM sports suspension adopted straight from the 911 Carrera S. Rear-axle steering can be optioned.

Other goodies from the higher spec S have made their way onto the 911 Carrera T including the Sport Chrono package, giving it selectable driving modes, launch control, and other enhancements.

Inside the wheel wells sit 20- and 21-inch grey wheels front and back, respectively, wrapped in 245/35 (front) and 305/30 (rear) tyres.

Exclusive details inside and out

The 911 Carrera T stands out from its siblings with unique dark grey exterior details found on the mirrors, door graphics and rear badges while the tailpipes are finished in gloss black.

A series of solid and metallic colours are available while special colour options include Chalk, Ruby Star Neo, Carmine Red, Shark Blue and Python Green. Buyers can also choose from over 110 Paint to Sample colour tones as well.

Inside, four-way adjustable sports seats are standard while black leather and inlays clad much of the interior. An optional Carrera T package can be chosen which adds safety belts in contrasting colours including grey and green.

Decorative stitching has also been added including an embossed 911 logo on the seat headrests, white stripes down the seat centres and a 911 logo and constrasting stitching on the floor mats.

Pricing and availability

Pricing for the 911 Carrera T starts from $258,500 in New Zealand.

The first deliveries are expected in the second quarter of 2023 with the model available to order now.