2023 Porsche 911 Dakar 992 breaks cover
Porsche reveals an off-road 992 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, weighing just 10kg more than a 992 Carrera GTS
Porsche has unveiled its much-anticipated 911 Dakar, an off-road 911 that takes its inspiration from the 953. This was the 911 that won the Paris-Dakar Rally in 1984.
Based on the 992 Carrera GTS, the Dakar is fitted with the 480hp, 3.0-litre, turbocharged six-cylinder engine from the GTS, mated to an eightspeed PDK transmission. All-wheel drive, PDCC, rear-axle steering and dynamic engine mounts from the 911 GT3 are all standard equipment. One of the most striking aspects of the Dakar is its increased ground clearance. The car sits 50mm higher than a 911 Carrera S fitted with sports suspension. The 911 Dakar’s bespoke suspension setup includes a lift system that can raise the car a further 30mm. In its highest setting, off-road speeds of 106mph are possible, but beyond that threshold the car automatically lowers itself back down.
Rallye (sic) mode is geared for loose, uneven surfaces. It prioritises rear-wheel drive, while Offroad mode is for high-clearance driving. Both make use of Rallye Launch Control, aiding the Dakar’s getaway on tricky terrain. Also fostering rapid progress on deep mud, sand and snow come specially developed Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tyres. These are 245/45 R19 at the front and 295/40 R20 at the rear, and are ideal for challenging surfaces. The cut-resistant tyres feature reinforced sidewalls and a chunky tread pattern that’s 9mm deep. There’s also the option to fit Pirelli P Zero summer and winter tyres. The Dakar’s dynamic abilities are supported by a functional yet striking aesthetic. A newly developed carbon fibre, fixed rear spoiler is joined by a similarly lightweight bonnet, taken from the GT3. Unique off-road details include widened wheel wells and sills, and stainless steel skid plates on the front, rear and sills. The side air intakes are protected against rocks via stainless steel grilles, while aluminium towing lugs at the front and back complete the go-anywhere vibe.
The optional roof rack with headlights can carry 42kg of equipment, such as fuel and water canisters, folding shovels and traction boards. A roof tent is also available. Inside, the Dakar features full bucket seats (the rear bench is omitted). Race- Tex surfaces are used throughout, while a Rallye Sport Package with roll-over bar, six-point seat belts and fire extinguisher is optional. Lightweight glass and a lightweight battery contribute to a total weight of 1,605kg – just 10kg heavier than a Carrera 4 GTS PDK. Porsche claims 62mph can be reached in 3.5 seconds, but top speed is limited to 149mph due to those all-terrain tyres.
The optional (£18,434) Rallye Design Package from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur features a two-tone paint finish in White and Gentian blue metallic, evoking the spirit of the 953. Customers can choose door numbers between 1 and 999. Porsche will build just 2,500 examples of the 911 Dakar, priced at £173,000. The first UK deliveries are expected in spring 2023.