What's the news?
This year, Porsche will be using the Goodwood Festival of Speed to celebrate the iconic 911's 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion, seven generations of 911 will make their way to the show, accompanied by rare editions and historic racers. Porsche has also created this year's famous 'Central Feature'.
The 911
To celebrate the model's 50th year, two convoys of road and racing 911s will take place at Goodwood. The road cars will be led by an original 911, which is currently being sent around the world to mark this special occasion. Behind this will be a G-Series model, a 964, 993, 996, 997 and a 991 to demonstrate the 911's changes over the years. The procession of racers is said to contain five track racing models as well as two rally cars. The line-up also features the 1973 911 RSR 2.8, the model that won the Sebring 12-Hour race, cementing the 911 as a serious contender in the USA.
In addition to the moving display, Porsche has gathered together other racing cars to mark the model's success. The GT3 Cup - the world's best-selling racer apparently - will be piloted up the hill climb by Dan Lloyd. His 450hp machine is just one of more than 2,000 examples that have been sold since its introduction in 1998. Le Mans racers will also be present, including the iconic 917 'Number 23' model, which is to be joined by original drivers Hans Herrmann and Richard Attwood. The 1,000hp 917/30 Can-Am 911 will also be on hand.
New models
The latest 911 GT3 is set to make its UK debut at Goodwood. Its lightweight body is powered by a bespoke 3.8-litre flat-six engine that develops 475hp and revs to 9,000rpm. Equipped with a seven-speed PDK gearbox, 0-62mph comes up in 3.5 seconds and top speed is recorded at 196mph.
Porsche's second generation Panamera is also set to make an appearance in S E-Hybrid guise. The new model features a 333hp supercharged V6 petrol engine coupled to a 95hp electric motor. Both power units come with higher numbers than before and the 0-62mph time has been slashed to just 5.5 seconds. The marvel with the new model comes with fuel economy though, as it manages a frankly unbelievable 91mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 71g/km of CO2.
Both the new Carrera 4 and 4S will also take part in the Moving Motor Show; and the Cayenne will be demonstrating its performance and handling on a specially made circuit around the Porsche Experience Area.
Anything else?
The Cartier 'Style de Luxe' Concours show will also feature Porsches this year, ranging from the earliest '901' model from 1963 up to a 911 GT1 from 1998.
This year's Goodwood Festival of Speed runs from 11th-14th July.
James Giddings - 16 Jul 2013