2009 Porche 911

By Scott Tavener

ccasionally, a long running car model needs a complete overhaul. Popular versions evolve slowly, seeing lines slightly shift, bodies widen, and accessories (i.e. headlights, grills) grow or shrink. Like glacial drift, the process is sluggish. Imperceptible missteps can build overtime and, as years pass, a car can become a completely different creature that it was originally. When that happens massive changes must be made in order to resurrect it (i.e. the Ford Mustang, circa 1994). Conversely, some car manufacturers guide evolution with deft hands, never defaming nor tarnishing a car's reputation. Such is the case with Porche's most famous model: the 911.

Since its 1963 inception, the curved German hero has been a perennial source of auto-head fascination. Immune from trends, it has retained its trademark curves as competitors palpitated carelessly between harshly straight lines and curves and back again.

While other Porsches, like the Boxster, the Spyder, and the 356 Roadster, occasionally usurp the 911's crown (Dylan McKay drove the 356; how do you compete with that?), Porsche fans never completely forsake it.

On first glance, the 2009 911s, including the Carrera Cabriolet and the Carrera Coupe, don't appear that different from their recent predecessors. However, 911 connoisseurs will notice slightly different touches and lines, including new headlights. This year's major difference is a still-more-powerful engine.

As always, you'll have to shell out a major chunk of change for the new 911s. Even if you go with the most basic model you're looking at an approximately $75 000 fee. If you go with the top of the line, S model, you had better be $120 000 in the black. That said, you're paying for a legend. If you already have one then you know about its addictive properties. Otherwise, there has never been a better time to pick one up.