We’re likely looking at a new RS-badged Flachbau
The silhouette of the Porsche 911 has remained remarkably consistent and recognizable through the decades, with only a few models significantly deviating from the classic shape along the way.
One was the 996 with its controversial “fried egg” headlamps, and another was the Flachbau, a “slantnose” or “flatnose” version of the 930-generation sports car. These Flachbau Porsches have become sought-after today, and now it looks as if Porsche is out testing a full-on modern revival of one of the most distinctive 911s ever sold. Let’s take a closer look.
Related: How much has the Porsche 911 really changed in 60 years?
Possible New Flachbau 911 Spotted At The Nürburgring
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Our trusty spies captured these images of an interesting-looking 911 at the Nürburgring, and while much of the car is the 911 we know and love, there are a few obvious differences in front. The headlights are still partially covered in misleading camouflage taping, but they appear to deviate significantly from the normal 911’s rounded clusters. Flatter headlight clusters can be seen to merge more seamlessly with a flatter, distinctively slanted nose. While a reintroduction of pop-up headlights is unlikely, these new units do look like what we’d expect from a modern Flachbau. The prominent fenders of the normal 992 are also gone.
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original article
Looking at the rest of this test mule reveals what seems to be a high-performance RS model, and since we know Porsche trademarked the names Flachbau and Flachbau RS earlier this year, we could very well be looking at the latter.
The NACA ducts on the hood, massive rear wing, and big tailpipes all hint at some kind of RS-badged 911.
Porsche Is An Immensely Nostalgic Brand
Bringing back the Flachbau would hardly be a surprise, as Porsche has often reimagined its past for modern enthusiasts. Take the 911 Sport Classic, for instance, which recalls 911s from the 1960s and 1970s. Not only does the Sport Classic have rear-wheel drive and a manual like the originals, but its ‘ducktail’ spoiler recalls the iconic 911 Carrera 2.7, and even its Pepita upholstery recalls that period.
The 911 Turbo 50 years proudly celebrated the half-century anniversary of the original Turbo last year and the 911 Spirit 70 rekindled the freedom and passion of the 1970s. There are countless other examples of Porsche honoring its heritage, so reviving the Slantnose would resonate with fans.
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We expect that a possible Flachbau RS will be a limited-run model with a sky-high price tag, accessible to just a few Porsche aficionados. As for what will power it, we can only speculate, but perhaps the rumored turbocharged GT3 RS’ engine will find its way into this special 911.
Related: Porsche 911 GT3’s Sporty Throwback Livery Costs Nearly $8,000
