912, and why does one even exist, in a world where the 911 makes sense?
a 914
the 917
I can't think of a single reason to give all of them the same 900 base.
Nor, does it make any numerical sense in terms of larger number, better car, as so many car makers have done.
Porsche does not even admit the 914 exists https://www.porsche.com/stories/innovation/the-most-iconic-porsche-numbers/ nor explain the numbers.
A Google search answers it thus: Porsche's numbering system began as a consecutive, internal project code for its engineering and design work. Over time, this evolved into the well-known three-digit codes, particularly for sports cars, although the system has become more flexible in the modern era.
ReplyDeleteThe evolution of the numbering system
The early days: Consecutive project numbers (1930s–1940s)
• When Ferdinand Porsche founded his design office in 1931, every new project, whether a car, engine, or axle, received the next consecutive number.
• For example, the legendary Auto Union Grand Prix race car was project number 22, and the original Volkswagen Beetle was project number 60.
• When Porsche started building its own sports cars, the company simply used the current project number for the model name. The first production car, released in 1948, was the project designated as "356".
The "900-series" begins (1960s)
• The successor to the 356 was internally designated the "901".
• However, French automaker Peugeot held a trademark on three-digit car names with a zero in the middle. To avoid legal issues, Porsche famously changed the name for its public-facing model to "911," replacing the "0" with a "1".
• The number "911" has since become one of the most famous car model names in history, while the "900-series" numbering became synonymous with Porsche sports cars.
• This practice also led to models like the 914 (a mid-engine sports car) and 928 (a front-engine grand tourer), which also adopted their internal project codes as model names.
Updating the 911 (1980s–present)
• Instead of changing the public name of the 911, Porsche began using new internal project numbers to designate major redesigns of the model.
• Examples include:
o 964: The 911 model produced from 1989 to 1993.
o 993: The last air-cooled 911, produced from 1993 to 1998.
o 996, 997, 991, 992: Subsequent generations of the 911, with the 992 being the current model.
Modern inconsistencies and named models
• In the modern era, Porsche's naming has become more varied. While the sports cars still primarily use numbers, SUVs and sedans are now given specific names.
• Boxster/Cayman: The first-generation Boxster was code-named the 986, with subsequent generations being the 987 and 981. However, the current generation is now officially known as the 718, a homage to a classic racing car.
• SUVs and sedans: Other models break from the three-digit number rule entirely, such as the Cayenne, Macan, and Panamera.
• Numbered race cars: The 900-series codes are still used for pure racing cars, like the historic 917.
Common suffixes
In addition to the main model numbers, a variety of letters are used to indicate specific variants within a model line:
• S (Super/Sport): Denotes a more powerful or higher-performance version of a model.
• 4
: Indicates that the car has all-wheel drive.
• GTS (Gran Turismo Sport): Signifies an especially sporty and exclusive model.
• RS (Rennsport): Stands for "racing sport," denoting a high-performance, track-focused street-legal version.
• Turbo: A model with an exhaust gas turbocharger, signifying a major increase in power.
• Targa: An open-top version of the 911, characterized by a distinctive roll-over protection bar.
thank you! That's quite nice, however, it doesn't explain the 904, and excludes the 914. It's like Porsche doesn't want to own up to having made that one
DeleteMy quick reading, and sleep deprivation, caused me to skip the line that mentioned the 914, my bad! It's there in your text! Thanks again!
DeleteThe 912 was how Porsche used up their remaining 4-cylinder 356 engines while introducing the new 911.
ReplyDeletehuh! That makes sense! Thank you!
DeleteI would really like to own a 914, unlike my sons I like the style. Back in the day some called it the Volkswagen Porsche. And in Justdandy's excellent reply I saw this..." This practice also led to models like the 914 (a mid-engine sports car". Thank you, Jesse, for bringing up the 900 thing, I learned a lot.
ReplyDeleteI would too! I just posted photos of a VX Porsche 914, that was the script on the tail by the brake lights.
DeleteDamn, I read that too fast last night, and sleep deprived, and did NOT see that line about the 914... but, Porsche does not even admit the 914 exists https://www.porsche.com/stories/innovation/the-most-iconic-porsche-numbers/