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Four-cylinder 911 “Possible”, says Porsche Engineer

September 11, 2008

The Porsche 911 has always been associated with its iconic flat-six engine.

However, times are changing, and Porsche may be forced to follow along. At the Australian launch of the new 911, a Porsche engineer stated that Porsche is not against using a four-cylinder engine, should the need arise. And Thomas Krickelberg, Porsche’s head of powertrain development, said the new 911 engine was designed so they could reduce the number of cylinders relatively easily if there was a need.

Global warming and the need to reduce fuel consumption were given as the reasons that Porsche might be motivated to lop off a couple cylinders.

I wonder if they would still keep a 6-cylinder version around, and bring out the “912″ designation for a 4-cylinder version? Only time will tell.

[source: Motor Authority]

Posted in 911