In a shocking and controversial twist, the writers of Y&R have transformed a beloved heroine into a “Drunken Killer.” The “blood-soaked disaster” that occurred on the streets of Genoa City has been traced directly to Nikki Newman, who reportedly struck a resident while driving intoxicated and fled the scene. This “fatal hit-and-run” has left one well-known character dead and Nikki with “blood on her hands.” The transition from the ICU patient we pitied to the criminal we should fear is a psychological whiplash that has left the fandom in a state of civil war.
The search for the “Drunken Killer” is now a hunt for Nikki herself. The forensics are undeniable, and as the evidence mounting against her is revealed, the Newman family is forced to decide if they will cover up a murder or turn in their own matriarch. The “resident dead” is rumored to be someone whose loss will spark a “blood vendetta” from the rest of the town. This storyline destroys Nikki’s legacy, replacing her image as a queen with that of a coward who killed an innocent and ran into the night. There is no coming back from this; even if she avoids jail, she can never avoid the brand of “killer.”
The Pinnacle of Performance: A Decade-Long Journey Through the Ten Most Iconic Porsche 911 Models
For over sixty years, the Porsche 911 has transcended automotive engineering to become an indelible cultural icon. Its distinctive silhouette, the inimitable rear-engine symphony, and a lineage steeped in motorsport dominance have captivated enthusiasts worldwide. To select the “best” Porsche 911 is a task akin to choosing a favorite star in a dazzling constellation – each possesses a unique brilliance. Yet, after a decade immersed in the nuanced world of high-performance automobiles, I’ve refined my perspective to identify the ten 911 models that, through their innovation, performance, and enduring legacy, represent the absolute zenith of this legendary marque.
The very premise of the 911’s rear-engine configuration, a design that historically spelled instability, should have been its undoing. Early iterations, indeed, carried the infamous “widowmaker” moniker, a testament to their demanding temperament. However, Porsche’s unwavering commitment to refinement, their engineering prowess in taming inherent vices and amplifying its innate traction, proved prescient. Even as mid-engined supercars emerged as formidable contenders, the 911 refused to cede its throne. The ambitious 928, a front-engined V8 grand tourer boasting a revolutionary transaxle, was conceived as its successor, but the enduring allure of the 911 proved insurmountable. This resilience, this relentless pursuit of perfection, is why we celebrate these ten remarkable Porsche 911 performance cars.
Porsche 996 GT3 RS: The Dawn of a Racing Revolution on the Road
When discussing the pantheon of exceptional 911s, the GT3 RS is an unavoidable entry. Our list commences with its groundbreaking progenitor: the 996 GT3 RS. This model was a watershed moment, unequivocally transplanting pure, unadulterated race-bred technology into a road-legal package – essentially a GT3 RSR homologated for public roads. It marked the debut of carbon-ceramic brakes on a 911 and, through meticulous weight reduction, shed 50 kilograms compared to the already spartan standard GT3. Every gram was scrutinized; a carbon-fibre bonnet and rear wing were standard, and even the enamel Porsche badge was replaced with a sticker to shave off precious ounces in the name of ultimate purity. Crucially, its aerodynamic refinements and suspension tuning were not cosmetic enhancements but direct derivatives of Porsche’s formidable RSR racing program.
The preservation of the standard GT3’s venerable Mezger engine speaks volumes about its inherent excellence. Born from Porsche’s legendary Le Mans machinery, this flat-six unit sang to an electrifying 8,200 rpm, its single-mass flywheel allowing for instantaneous throttle response, akin to a superbike. It was a mechanical masterpiece, and the RS adorned it with a safety cage, aggressive aero, and striking graphics that underscored its competitive spirit. For those seeking track-day Porsches, the 996 GT3 RS represented a transformative leap.
Porsche 997 GT3 RS 4.0: The Mezger Engine’s Glorious Valediction
The Mezger engine has ascended to near-mythical status within Porsche aficionados’ circles, revered as the pinnacle of the company’s flat-six engineering. Hans Mezger, a luminary whose genius shaped Porsche legends like the 917 and 935, applied his unparalleled insight to road-going 911s. While Porsche controversially transitioned the mainstream 911 line to the M96 engine during the 996 generation, the motorsport division remained steadfastly loyal to the Mezger. The ensuing reliability concerns surrounding the M96, readily apparent to anyone searching for terms like “IMS bearing failure” or “RMS leak” in relation to the 996, ultimately vindicated their decision.
This brings us to the GT3 RS 4.0, the ultimate 911 to bear the hallowed Mezger engine and a fittingly spectacular conclusion to its illustrious lineage. Employing titanium connecting rods and components directly from the RSR race car, Porsche increased its displacement by 200 cc, unlocking a richer torque curve and elevated peak power. A carbon-fibre intake and titanium exhaust system endowed it with a visceral, race-car-like auditory experience, amplified by the distinctive whirring of its gear-driven intermediate shaft. Complementing its formidable powertrain were extensive carbon-fibre body panels, race-spec rose-jointed suspension, and a depth of motorsport knowledge that rendered it exceptionally capable. Its Nordschleife lap times rivaled those of the Carrera GT, a truly remarkable send-off for the Mezger era. Enthusiasts of modern Porsche classics will forever laud this model.
Porsche 991 R: A Purist’s Delight in a Digital Age
The arrival of the 991 generation was met with the customary anticipation befitting any new 911, yet a subtle dissonance emerged. It was larger, more technologically advanced, and undeniably more refined than its 997 predecessor. The new electric power steering, while efficient, lacked the communicative feedback of the old hydraulic systems. Although Porsche continued to offer a manual transmission, the PDK dual-clutch automatic became the overwhelming choice, lauded for its brilliance. The manual seven-speed, however, proved less compelling, a fact Porsche readily acknowledged. In response, they embarked on a mission to create the ultimate driver’s machine: the 911 R.
With the precision of a Michelin-starred chef, Porsche meticulously refined its 911, enhancing its sensory appeal through the judicious selection of premium components, primarily sourced from the GT3 and GT3 RS. The R boasted a carbon-fibre bonnet and wings, lightweight plexiglass rear quarter windows, and significantly reduced sound deadening to amplify the driver’s connection to the mechanical soul of the car. Its heart was the potent engine from the GT3 RS, paired with a titanium exhaust to deliver a fiery crescendo. The perfect accompaniment was a closely stacked six-speed manual gearbox, featuring a razor-sharp single-mass flywheel. Porsche further distinguished the R with a unique body kit, a classic Pepita tartan interior, and striking green instrument dials, a homage to the iconic 1967 911 R. The result was a vehicle 50 kg lighter, capable of a 200 mph top speed, and 7 mph faster than a GT3 RS. For those prioritizing manual transmission Porsches, the 991 R stands as an unparalleled benchmark.
Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Sport: The Uncompromising Iconoclast
Few Porsche 911s resonate with as much historical significance as the Carrera RS 2.7 Sport. This was a machine forged by engineers unburdened by the constraints of marketing departments or financial projections. Marketing’s consternation was palpable upon the unveiling of the RS’s distinctive ducktail spoiler, deemed a visual aberration that “ruined” the 911’s iconic profile. The engineering rationale, however, was irrefutable: the wing reduced rear lift by a substantial 100 kg, dramatically enhancing high-speed stability and transforming the 911 into the supremely capable cornering machine it was always destined to be. For the engineering team, the debate was settled.
Discussions surrounding weight reduction followed a similarly ruthless trajectory. Like a pack of ravenous piranhas, the engineers stripped the car to its bare essentials, discarding everything from the steel bumpers (replaced by more aesthetically delicate, yet less durable, fibreglass units) and engine cover strut externally, to the carpets, stereo system, door armrests, clock, glove compartment, and sound deadening internally. Pushing the envelope further, Porsche utilized steel in the roof, doors, and bonnet that was a remarkable 0.08 mm thinner than standard, and fitted glass that was up to 1 mm thinner. Even the revered Porsche badge was replaced by a gram-saving sticker. While marketing may have been in despair, their concerns were ultimately unfounded. The engineers’ vision proved prescient; a significant market existed for such a focused, performance-oriented machine, and sales far exceeded all expectations, cementing its status as one of the most desirable vintage Porsches for sale.
Porsche 964 RS: The Birth of the Modern RS Ethos
The 964 generation marked the reintroduction of the celebrated ‘RS’ designation, a full two decades after the legendary 2.7-litre model. Arguably, it redefined the paradigm for the modern RS variants. The delicate, almost ethereal feel of the 2.7 was supplanted by a more uncompromising ride and a cabin experience that, while exhilarating, could be challenging for everyday use. Constructed based on the Carrera Cup one-make racing car, the 964 RS featured lightweight magnesium alloy wheels, front brakes borrowed from the Turbo model, and rear brakes directly from the race car. Further weight savings were achieved through the use of aluminum doors and bonnet, alongside the strategic removal of the rear seats and creature comforts such as an alarm system, air conditioning, and central locking.
The official kerb weight of the RS stood at a mere 1,217 kg, over 120 kg lighter than a standard Carrera. Power output was increased to a potent 260 PS (191 kW) thanks to a twin-spark ignition system. This power was delivered through a lightened flywheel to a standard limited-slip differential on the rear axle. The 964 RS represented a pivotal shift where RS models transitioned from potent road cars to road-going race cars. The ultimate endorsement of its prowess comes from Walter Röhrl, the legendary Porsche development driver and one of the greatest rally drivers of all time, who himself owned one. This model is a must-have for any serious collector of Porsche 911 models.
Porsche 911 R (Original): The Genesis of Lightweight Purity
The original Porsche 911 R stands as the foundational blueprint for the exceptional GT machines that we have come to admire and cherish today. Its propulsion was derived from the familiar 2.0-litre flat-six engine, producing a spirited 213 PS (157 kW). Porsche then embarked on an aggressive program of weight reduction. Glass-fibre composites were utilized for the bumpers, bonnet, wings, and doors. All windows, with the exception of the windscreen, which featured exceptionally thin glass, were constructed from lightweight plexiglass.
Inside, the 911 R featured Porsche’s now-iconic door pulls. However, the ashtray, cigarette lighter, sun visors, and two of the five instruments typically found in the 911’s characteristic binnacle were conspicuously absent. The cumulative effect of these measures resulted in a featherlight 800 kg kerb weight, an astonishing 230 kg less than a standard 911S. This allowed for a brisk 0-62 mph acceleration in just 5.9 seconds. Its track prowess was equally impressive, lapping the Hockenheim circuit a mere 12 seconds slower than a purpose-built 906 Group 4 racer. With only 19 examples of the 911 R ever produced, its rarity is matched only by its success, achieving victories in circuit racing, rallying, and endurance events, solidifying its place as a rare gem among collectible Porsches.
Porsche 911 G Turbo: The Reign of the Turbocharged King
The second generation of the Porsche 911, known as the 911 G, entered the market in 1974 and remained in production until 1989. This era witnessed the introduction of several iconic badges, including the 2.7 RS, SC, and Carrera. However, it was the Turbo variant that proved to be the most seismic and impactful. The rationale behind its revolutionary status is readily apparent. An exhaust-fed turbine system dramatically boosted power output to 260 PS (191 kW), endowing the 911 with effortless overtaking capability that seamlessly complemented its inherent everyday usability.
Unfortunately, the potent, yet often abrupt, power delivery of the Turbo contributed significantly to the 911’s notorious “widowmaker” reputation. Yet, for those drivers with the skill and courage to master its handling characteristics, few cars on the road could match its performance. Its aesthetic appeal was equally captivating, characterized by its flared rear wheel arches, distinctive shark fin wing protectors, and the iconic whale tail spoiler. It is perhaps unsurprising that the current, now four-wheel-drive, 911 Turbo continues to be recognized as one of the most potent point-to-point vehicles available, showcasing the enduring legacy of turbocharged Porsches.
Porsche 964 Carrera 4: Pioneering All-Wheel Drive in the 911 Lineage
The 964 generation, launched in 1989, exemplifies Porsche’s traditional approach to evolution, appearing remarkably similar to its predecessor despite a staggering 85% of its components being entirely new. The 964 introduced several innovations that have since become hallmarks of the 911, notably the automatically deploying rear spoiler and the revolutionary four-wheel-drive Carrera 4, which served as the model’s original launch variant. This system featured electronically controlled all-wheel drive, distributing power with a bias of 31% to the front wheels and 69% to the rear. This setup provided the tactile feel of a conventional rear-drive 911 while significantly enhancing predictable handling at the limit and offering vastly improved performance in adverse weather conditions.
The 964 also marked a departure from the traditional torsion bar suspension, adopting more modern coil springs and dampers. The result was a beautifully balanced sports car powered by a 250 PS (184 kW) 3.6-litre flat-six engine, capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in 5.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 163 mph. This model represents a crucial step in the evolution of all-wheel drive Porsches, blending traditional charm with enhanced capability.
Porsche 993 GT2: The Apex of Air-Cooled Engineering
The Porsche 993 is often regarded by purists as the zenith of the 911 lineage. It artfully blended the classic aesthetics, compact dimensions, and cherished air-cooled engine of the original models with advanced modern technologies, including twin-turbocharging and a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension that finally tamed the 911’s historically capricious handling. The GT2, later officially designated as the GT2, represents the pinnacle of the 993 generation, a distinction underscored by the fact that only 57 examples were ever produced.
It shared the formidable 430 PS (316 kW) 3.6-litre bi-turbo flat-six engine with the standard 993 Turbo but crucially omitted the heavy four-wheel-drive system. Porsche further reduced weight by a significant 205 kg compared to a standard 911, achieved by removing elements such as the rear seats, central locking, electric windows, airbags, and sunroof. These measures were complemented by the addition of hardshell front seats and lightweight magnesium wheel centres. The resultant performance was breathtaking: 0-62 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph, setting a benchmark for all subsequent high-performance turbocharged top-tier models. For those seeking the ultimate air-cooled Porsche 911, the 993 GT2 is the undisputed champion.
Porsche 992 S/T: A Modern Masterpiece Reverberating with Heritage
While a comprehensive road test is still pending, the Porsche 911 S/T from the current 992 model range presents a compelling argument for its inclusion among the finest 911s ever produced. Mirroring the philosophy of the Touring models, it draws heavily from the current GT3, incorporating its naturally aspirated 525 PS (386 kW) 4.0-litre flat-six engine. This powerplant thrives on high revs, especially when paired with the S/T’s lightweight clutch and single-mass flywheel, which reduce rotating mass by an impressive 10.5 kg.
Carbon-fibre construction is evident in the wings, doors, bonnet, and roof. By omitting the GT3’s rear-axle steering system, Porsche managed to shed an additional 40 kg from the GT3 Touring’s weight. Porsche claims a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph. Its aesthetic appeal is as potent as its performance. The optional Heritage Design Package features striking Shoreblue Metallic paint, ceramic-coated wheels, and classic racing numbers, while the interior is adorned with supple Cognac leather upholstery and supportive carbon-fibre hardshell seats. The S/T is a testament to Porsche’s ability to blend cutting-edge engineering with a profound appreciation for its illustrious past, offering a truly unique driving experience for those seeking the latest in performance Porsche 911 technology.
Navigating the labyrinth of Porsche 911 excellence is a journey of continuous discovery. Each model on this list represents a significant chapter in the ongoing saga of automotive perfection. If you’re captivated by the allure of these iconic machines and aspire to experience the thrill of driving a Porsche 911, our team of specialists is ready to guide you toward your perfect match. Explore our curated selection and embark on your own legendary automotive adventure today.
