The sound of a super car’s motor revving accelerates your heartbeat and the sight of seeing one fly past you heightens all of your senses. If you’ve experienced this before or have been dreaming of it, this blog has all the information you need on Porsche Cup SuperCars and racing.
What is Porsche?
The origin of the name Porsche is tied to Germany and it means “offerings.” The brand is a German car company founded in 1931 that manufactures luxury and sports vehicles. With only six models produced, Porsche continues to be the desired name, especially among race car drivers and fans.
The Six Models
Technically speaking, Porsche only offers six different models, each one with varied versions. The models are the 718, 911, Taycan, Panamera, Macan, and Cayenne. The seven body designs are the coupe, Cabriolet, SUV, Sedan, Executive, Sport Turismo, and Cross Turismo.
Manual, Tiptronic, PDK Automatic, and two-speed transmission are the transmission types. Options include 2-5 seats, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, with fule types including gasoline, hybrid, and electro. A budget for a Porsche starts at a minimum of $52,000 and goes into the $220,000 range.
The Best Porsches for the Track
Though not known for its speed, according to the racing world, the Porsche 917 KH Coupé is the most popular of all Porsche racing cars. This sports car was built in 1970 and has a V12 engine, 580 horsepower, and a top speed of 211 miles per hour.
The Porsche 936 Spyder, built in 1976, has a flat-six bi-turbo engine, 540 horsepower, with track speeds of 223 miles per hour. It is an open car with an aluminum tubular frame enclosed by a sleek plastic body offering an aerodynamic drive.
The 1977-built Porsche 935/77 was a 911-inspired version. Like the 936 Spyder, this one also has a flat-six bi-turbo engine, but its horsepower is much higher, at 630. The 935 tops its speed at 227 miles per hour.
The Moby Dick of Porsches is the 935/78. Its wide long-tail shape is what gave it its nickname. Built in 1978 with a flat-six bi-turbo engine, a whopping 845 horsepower with a top track speed of 227 miles per hour, it has been considered the most powerful 911 ever.
In 1982, Porsche introduced the revolutionary 956 C. Another one of Porsches supercars with a flat-six bi-turbo engine. With ground-breaking aerodynamics, the horsepower of 620, and speeds reaching 217 miles per hour, the 956 C was built for the World Endurance Championship.
Porsche 911 GT1 98 was the first of its kind to be built with a carbon-fiber chassis and a flat-six bi-turbo water-cooled six-cylinder boxer mid-engine. Though its horsepower was lower than the rest at 550 and its top speed at 217 miles per hour, this GT1 is still powerful enough for the track.
Producing more downforce than its predecessors is the world’s best-selling race car, the 485 horsepower Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. This new version of the 911 series was revealed in 2009, has a 4-liter, water-cooled flat-six engine. The car has been clocked in at speeds approaching 198 miles per hour.
Race Car Safety
Racing a car can be exciting and a lot of fun, but it comes with its fair share of dangers. Having the proper racing equipment and gear is one simple way to stay safe on the track. This includes a high-quality driving suit, non-flammable and comfortable underwear, a certified auto racing helmet, head and neck restraints, gloves, and shoes.
Your safety is also determined by the performance of your vehicle. Always make sure that your race car is in top condition. Should you not be feeling well, avoid racing as it requires optimal awareness. Even something as simple as being too tired can affect your race.
Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Remember that you are not the only one on the track. Other racers, bystanders, and crew members will always be present. When driving, avoid distractions like music, cell phones, or waving to your fans.
Avoid reckless maneuvers by paying attention and driving at the right speeds. It only takes one second for your experience to change. Knowing the rules of the game and the track is vital to your safety.
Getting Started
Many cities offer a Porsche race car driving experience. Your first step to car racing could be to contact your nearest race track and inquire about opportunities, including lessons. Reaching out to local race car drivers can prove to be a great connection and worth the knowledge you gain.
Whether you want to race or support someone else racing, it’s an experience of a lifetime that should not be taken lightly. Be responsible in your choices. Enjoy yourself as best you can, but remember that safety always comes first.