Porsche’s pinnacle of performance sports cars, the 992-generation 911 Turbo, faces competition from the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Coupe, a significantly different offering powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 producing 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Weighing 1,895 kilograms, the Merc utilizes a front-mounted engine and a wet start-off clutch automatic transmission.
In contrast, the 911 Turbo features a rear-mounted six-cylinder boxer engine with 650 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. Despite the power disadvantage, it benefits from a lighter curb weight, resulting in superior acceleration.
In a straight-line dig race conducted over a kilometer, the 911 Turbo showcased its advantage, completing the distance in 18.9 seconds compared to the GT 63 Coupe’s 20.2 seconds.
While both cars offer exhilarating performance, the 911 Turbo’s heritage, engine configuration, and superior acceleration make it the more exotic choice. Additionally, the forthcoming Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe’s availability with a four-cylinder engine further highlights the contrast in approach between the two manufacturers.
Porsche’s decision to offer a six-cylinder 911 alongside a potential four-cylinder GT Coupe echoes historical parallels, such as the four-cylinder 912 introduced in the 1960s as a companion to the six-cylinder 911.