“The new 911 Dakar speaks volubly of the self-belief that bestrides Porsche right now”
ANDREW FRANKEL
When I was in Los Angeles attending the launch of the Porsche 911 Carrera T (which is reviewed on page 42), I also took time to attend the unveiling of the new 911 Dakar because, well, why wouldn’t you?
I’ll explain the car in detail if and when I get the chance to have a proper go in one, but suffice to say this is a jacked-up 911 with long suspension travel, up to 80mm of ground clearance, armoured undersides and approach and departure angles that compare very well to conventional off-roaders. Most tantalisingly, while most nose lift systems cut out above 30mph thanks to fear of the resulting nose up, tail down stance inducing aerodynamic instability, the Dakar’s lift system operates at both ends, which means it’s safe fully extended at well over 100mph. Can you imagine what that must feel like on sand in a desert? Me neither, but I am going to try exceptionally hard to find out.