911 homage to famous 1980s’ racer here next year?

SPORTS utility styling might lend impression the most popular Porsche with Kiwis, the Cayenne, has taste for dirt – but, in reality, that role might be better tackled by a just-unveiled 911 homage model, seemingly set to arrive here next year.

The 2023 911 Dakar is an elevated version of Weissach’s most famous car, which stands out by losing its usual ground-hugging stance for a rugged look that should lend it aptitude to give drivers confidence it is up to tackling, if not in full-out off-seal terrain, then at least gravel roads and the beach.

Hitting the sand would be appropriate, as this limited-production special honours the Porsche 953's victory in the Paris-Dakar rally of 1984. Entitled trust fund-tapping gen Z’ers should ask your parents.

When Porsche says limited-production, it actually means 2500 cars – so while it won’t be a common sight, likelihood is that every global market will have some supply.

Porsche NZ has not said anything about that, but as Australia has confirmed it will have examples from the second half of 2023, it’s a safe assumption that the boat out of Europe will head just that little bit further East. Cost? The car is selling for the equivalent of $536,000 across the Tasman.

The singlemost obvious Dakar development is its raised ground clearance. By default it sits 50 millimetres higher than a 992 Carrera with sports suspension. A lift system is able to raise the car by a further 30mm for navigating tricky terrain, with ramp approach angles rivalling many conventional SUVs.

It has Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tyres, measuring 245/45 ZR 19 up front, and 295/40 ZR 20 at the rear; the sidewalls are extra-thick and the tread pattern is meaty.

The type is also distinguished by its big spoiler and special bonnet, both rendered in carbon fibre-reinforced plastic. It has GT3 air intakes, front and rear red aluminium tow points, widened wheel arches and sills, stainless steel protective elements, with redesigned front air intakes protected by debris with stainless steel mesh.

Beefing up has not hurt performance. Porsche cites 353kW/570Nm from its 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six – that’s the same output as from a tarmac-hugging Carrera 4 GTS – and claims a 0-100kmh time of just 3.4-seconds, which makes it one tenth quicker. Porsche has made no fuel consumption claim but the Carrera 4 GTS sups at 9.7L/100km.

The Dakar gets 911 GT3 engine mounts PDCC active anti-roll stabilisation, to maximise grip over varied surfaces and terrain, plus it has rear axle steering.

There are, of course, off-road driving modes. Rallye and Off-road select off the steering-wheel mounted rotary switch. The first is a loose surface mode with a rear-biased all-wheel drive calibration. The other automatically engages maximum ride height with an all-wheel drive profile geared for maximum traction on difficult terrain or sand.

The Dakar has full front bucket seats and no rear seats. Lightweight glass and battery contain to kerb weight to 1605 kilograms.

The car be kitted up to have a similar visual reference to the model that achieved the 1984 win, Porsche’s maiden victory in the sport.

Around $60k buys an optional Dakar Rallye Design package that delivers the car with a livery reflecting the race car’s Rothmans-sponsored two-tone white/gentian blue motif with red and gold accents. Buyers will also be able to choose their own individual race number, from 1 to 999.

The model also has roof-mounted 12-volt power outlet for 'Tequipment' accessories, including a roof rack or even a roof tent.

Buyers who specify the Dakar Rallye Design package gain the opportunity to order a 40mm titanium-carbide-cased Porsche Design Chronograph 1 911 Dakar Rallye Design Edition watch to match their car.