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2019 Next-Generation Porsche 911 Spied, Could Alter Rear-Engined Configuration

While Porsche aficionados are waiting for the carmaker to release the GT division incarnations of the facelifted 991.2 generation (read: GT3 and GT2/RS), the German automaker is also handling an even greater mission, namely the development of the next-generation Neunelfer.
2019 Next-Generation Porsche 911 Spied 19 photos
Photo: Carpix
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You can see the freshest spyshots of the sportscar/supercar in the gallery, a series of photos showing a test mule wearing the body of the current 911.

However, judging by the wide fenders and hefty wheel arches, we expect the next-gen Neunelfer's tracks to become slightly wider.

Speaking of which, Porsche's four-wheeled symbol will ride on an all-new modular platform, which will also underpin the next generations of the Boxster and Cayman. In fact, if we are to pay attention to the rumor mill, the architecture will also find its way to the successors of the Audi R8 and Lamborghini Huracan.

And while the non-Neunelfer models will obviously pack a mid-engined configuration, the 911 will retain its iconic rear-engined layout. Not only does this guarantee a unique approach in the modern automotive landscape, but it also delivers an uber-engaging driving experience and gives the Porsche an advantage that most so-called 911 killers fail to achieve, namely its 2+2 seating configuration.

However, the upcoming 911 incarnation may once again see the position of the motor getting a bit closer to the center of the car. While this has already happened with the current 991 model, we could look at Porsche's fiercest development laboratory for hints of yet another move of this kind - we're talking about the racetrack and the almost unimaginable move the 2017 911 RSR has made.

Porsche has yet to offer us the full details on its new racecar, the 991-based RSR that was filmed was testing on Florida's Sebring road course last month. But yes, the rumors turned out to be true.

Judging by the heftier rear diffuser and larger individual muddlers, as well as by the rear window, which now serves as the home of air intakes and extractors, the RSR has moved on to a mid-engined configuration. And while the boxer heart of the racecar might still have a connection to the rear-engined layout, the massive switch is obvious. And while we may have to wait for the next season for Porsche to fully reveal the racecar, the video at the bottom of the page allows you to see the 2017 911 RSR testing.

As for the engine line-up itself, the most important question has to do with the GT3 maintaining its naturally-aspirated nature. When it comes to the transmission department, Porsche's return to a manual GT3, which will happen once the 991.2 model is introduced, should be a sign for the stick shift's survival.

With the German automaker expected to introduce the new 911 in 2018, we should see the first prototypes wearing the body of the new car in the coming months.

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About the author: Andrei Tutu
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In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
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