I would soon find out as we began with the press conference where the people from Porsche outlined the changes made to the two models that we would be driving before we were introduced to the new circuit.
The cars
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the circuit let’s take a look at what’s new on the 911 range. In terms of the Turbo and Turbo S models, power is up by around 15kW in each, which means there’s now 397kW/710Nm in the Turbo and 427kW/750Nm in the Turbo S. That means that the top-of-the range 911 now gets to 100km/h in just 2.9 seconds and will reach the famed 330km/h.
In addition, the vehicles have had revisions made to their PDK gearboxes, received new front and rear lights as well as a new lower apron. There’s also an updated version of the Porsche PCM infotainment system, which now supports Apple CarPlay and features gesture control. Then there’s a new drive model selector mounted to the steering wheel, meaning one can switch from Normal, to Sport, to Sport Plus and Individual, while on the go.
Here's a quick vid of the new Porsche 911 Turbo S. This is a seriously fast car.
Posted by Autodealer.co.za on Monday, 25 January 2016
The Carrera models are now - for the first time ever - turbocharged. We only had a go in the four-wheel-drive models and this was enough to leave an impression of what the 911 is like post-naturally aspirated engines. The benefit of forced induction is immediately apparent on paper; the standard Carrera 4 gets 272kW/450Nm and the 4S gets 309kW/500Nm.
Driving around the track
My first impressions were that the 911 Turbo S is ridiculously fast! After I adjusted to the violent performance I could focus on the track. Having done as many track days as I could at the previous circuit I have to say that the new circuit is improved. It is wider, which will make for better racing; it is more flowing and features two very tricky sections, one being the Crocodiles and the other the Esses, which are slightly different to what I remember. Other old corner names have been revived too, such as the Barbeque at Turn Five.
But, apart from now being a world class racing circuit the facility itself should be open to a more diversified field of operation. There will be an international conference centre on the property, which will be used for a variety of events.
The old go-kart circuit has been demolished and in its place, a new handling circuit that advanced driving academies will make use of, has been built. For those more into dirt and mud there’s also a 4X4 circuit at the bottom end of the circuit near the Leeukop and Mineshaft section.
The parking facilities have also been improved in anticipation that this re-worked motorsport area attracts as many racing fans as it did during the glory days. Here’s hoping that it does.
