The coupe Porsche 911 1994 - 1997 year modification 3.6 AT (272 hp)

Porsche 911: A Timeless Icon of Performance and Engineering

The Porsche 911, specifically the 3.6 AT (272 hp) model produced between 1994 and 1997, remains a benchmark for sports cars. With its rear-engine layout, iconic coupe design, and German engineering, this car continues to captivate enthusiasts. Its blend of performance, style, and practicality makes it a standout in the S-class category. Below, we explore the key features, strengths, and considerations of this legendary vehicle.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Porsche 911 3.6 AT boasts a 3.6-liter, 6-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 272 horsepower and 330 Nm of torque. This rear-mounted engine, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, ensures a thrilling driving experience. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 265 km/h. While these figures may seem modest by today's standards, they were impressive for the mid-1990s and still provide a dynamic ride. The rear-wheel-drive setup and independent suspension system contribute to precise handling and a balanced feel on the road.

Fuel efficiency is another highlight, with combined consumption of 9.5 liters per 100 km. While city driving consumes 16.8 liters, highway efficiency improves significantly to 7.7 liters. This makes the Porsche 911 a surprisingly practical choice for long-distance journeys, despite its sporty nature.

Design and Practicality

The Porsche 911's timeless design is instantly recognizable. Its compact dimensions—4,245 mm in length, 1,735 mm in width, and 1,300 mm in height—give it a sleek and aerodynamic profile. The 2-door coupe body style exudes elegance, while the 119 mm ground clearance ensures it can handle everyday driving without issue. The car's curb weight of 1,395 kg contributes to its agility, and the 73-liter fuel tank provides ample range for extended trips.

Practicality is further enhanced by a trunk capacity of 123 liters, which, while not spacious, is sufficient for weekend getaways or daily errands. The interior, though focused on the driver, offers a comfortable and ergonomic layout, reflecting Porsche's commitment to quality and functionality.

Technical Specifications

Under the hood, the Porsche 911 3.6 AT features a naturally aspirated engine with a compression ratio of 11.3:1. The 6-cylinder, horizontally opposed engine is paired with a distributed injection system, ensuring smooth and reliable performance. The ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear provide excellent stopping power, while the independent spring suspension system ensures a comfortable yet sporty ride.

The car rides on 16-inch wheels, with tire sizes of 205/55 R16 at the front and 245/45 R16 at the rear. This setup enhances grip and stability, particularly during spirited driving. The rear-engine layout, a hallmark of the 911, contributes to its unique handling characteristics, offering a blend of predictability and excitement.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Iconic design, excellent handling, reliable performance, decent fuel efficiency for a sports car, and a well-built interior.
• Cons: Limited trunk space, modest acceleration by modern standards, and higher city fuel consumption.

Conclusion

The Porsche 911 3.6 AT (1994-1997) is a testament to Porsche's commitment to engineering excellence and driving pleasure. While it may not match the raw power of contemporary sports cars, its balanced performance, timeless design, and practicality make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Porsche 911 delivers an unforgettable experience that few cars can match.