Model Strengths:

• Iconic Design With a Fresh Spin
• Exceptional Agility
• Top-level Engine Performance
• Available All-wheel Drive
• Convertible Options
• Surprising Fuel Efficiency

Model Overview:

Porsche continues to introduce new 911 variants for 2013. The current 911 is based on the updated 991 platform that debuted with the Carrera and Carrera S in 2012.

As with those models, in the new all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S the body changes are subtle but numerous, with larger LED main-beam projector headlamps fitted in higher front fenders, a wider rear end, a higher side waistline and all-new LED tail lamps.

Two engines are available in 2013. In the Carrera and Carrera 4, buyers get a 3.4L horizontally-opposed direct-injected 6-cylinder that makes 350 horsepower. Carrera S and Carrera 4S buyers get a slightly larger 3.8L flat-six, which makes 400 horsepower. A variation of the 3.8L is also available on the all-wheel-drive Turbo and Turbo S models. Those models produce 500 and 530 horsepower, respectively, in both coupe and convertible form.

Except in the Turbo S, all engines are mated to a standard 7-speed manual transmission. The 7-speed PDK double-clutch automatic is optional, and standard on the Turbo S. In the manual, the ratios are close together in every gear except 7th, which helps to achieve a better fuel consumption rate during highway use. Other features include electric power steering and a hydraulic decoupler of the front and rear sway bars, known as Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control. In addition, 911s feature a rear-wheel torque vectoring system that helps build traction using the rear brakes along with the rear differential.

Inside, the 911 interior features styling touches consistent with Porsche's Panamera and Cayenne. There's no mistaking the design as something other than 911, however, with a host of gauges flanking a large tachometer, mounted front and center. The center console sports a large color touchscreen monitor for navigation and stereo functions.

Several packages add features such as special sports seating, Bose audio, ambient lighting, auto dimming mirrors, and more. The Sport Chrono Package includes dynamic engine mounts, a dash-mounted analog and digital stopwatch, performance display, a Sport Plus button to control engine mapping and throttle response, and launch control for cars equipped with PDK.

Model Changes:

Porsche redesigned its venerable 911 in 2012, evolving the car from the "997" generation to the "991" generation, beginning with the rear-wheel-drive Carrera and Carrera S models in both coupe and convertible form. This year sees the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S updated to the "991" platform, which means a restyled, mostly aluminum body and 3.9-inch increase in wheelbase over the outgoing model. The new all-wheel drive models are virtually identical in appearance to the 2-wheel drive models.

They also share power trains, which this year also means a slight bump in power. Carrera and Carrera 4 models utilize a 3.4L flat-six making 350 hp, up from last year's 345. And Carrera S and Carrera 4S models feature a 3.8L flat-six with an even 400 hp, up from 394 hp. Seven-speed transmissions are now featured, including the standard manual and optional PDK dual-clutch automatic.

Adaptive cruise control, new for 2013, is available on the entire 911 range. It regulates speed to control the car's distance to the traffic ahead of it. When paired with the PDK transmission, it adds the Porsche Active Safe system, which senses front end collisions by warning the driver and priming the brakes.

Top-of-the-line Turbo and Turbo S models (coupe and convertible) carry on with the previous-generation 997 platform, but are slated for the refresh next year.

Model Value:

In the world of high-end sports cars, the 911 is the most iconic choice, with 50 years of evolution under its belt. Though the design continues to change, the fundamentals are still in place: rear-mounted flat-six engine and a precision chassis developed with handling in mind. Together, the components make for a sports car that's hard to beat both in terms of aesthetics and performance, as well as history. It's arguably a capable competitor for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Audi R8, BMW M3 and Nissan GT-R.