**Introduction**
Porsche is a brand that values its heritage while continuously striving to break new ground. This was evident in its recent world record set by a highly modified 911 Carrera 4S reaching 22,093 feet on the world’s highest volcano in Chile. This feat not only showcases Porsche’s innovative spirit but also pays homage to the 30th anniversary of the 964 Carrera 4. The unique engineering and design of these record-setting 911s demonstrate Porsche’s commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new challenges.
**The Development of the “Rock Crawler”**
Porsche engineers built two rock-crawling 911s for this record attempt. The first, named Doris, served as a proof of concept while the second, nicknamed Edith, was the car that ultimately set the record. Both cars feature a patented suspension system derived from the 919 Hybrid Le Mans racer, with Edith also incorporating Porsche’s first steer-by-wire system. Despite extensive weight-saving measures, the cars retain the factory fresh twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.
**Key Features and Performance**
The rock-crawling 911s are equipped with massive 34-inch mud-terrain tires, 16-inch wheels, and portal axles, providing a ground clearance of 13.7 inches. The cars utilize a manual power distribution system allowing the driver to switch between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive as needed. The unique gearing setup allows for a top speed of around 60 mph, emphasizing functionality over speed in challenging off-road conditions.
**Driving Experience and Handling**
The rock-crawling 911s offer a distinct driving experience, with a focus on crawling over rough terrain. The Warp Connector suspension system provides exceptional stability and quick responses to imperfections in the terrain. Despite the extreme modifications, the cars retain some characteristics of a traditional Porsche 911, such as precise steering feedback in Doris and the rear-engine layout ensuring excellent traction.
**Conclusion: Blending Tradition with Innovation**
Porsche’s record-breaking 911 project exemplifies the brand’s commitment to honoring its heritage while pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. The unique design and performance capabilities of these rock-crawling 911s showcase Porsche’s dedication to innovation and exploration in pursuit of new challenges. By successfully scaling the world’s highest volcano, Porsche has once again proven its ability to combine tradition with cutting-edge technology, creating a vehicle that epitomizes the brand’s ethos of excellence and advancement.