by Current Situation with the Manual Transmission in the Porsche 911
While many sports car manufacturers abandoned the manual transmission over a decade ago, Porsche continues to offer this option for the 911 model, preserving the tactile driving experience. However, due to the transition to hybrid technologies, the opportunities to buy a car with three pedals are becoming increasingly rare. Despite this, the manual version of the 911 is not disappearing yet.
We are closely monitoring demand, which is why we released the Carrera T with a manual transmission – that was one of my early decisions.
Regional Differences in Demand
During a recent interview, Porsche 911 model line chief Michael Rösler noted that preserving manual transmissions is a complex task due to low demand for them in key markets such as Europe. However, demand from customers in California for convertibles with a manual transmission could contribute to expanding the offering.
Rösler reported that in Europe, only 2-3% of Carrera model buyers choose a manual transmission, creating problems with suppliers who expect larger volumes. In contrast, the situation in the USA and Great Britain is significantly different – the previous GTS model had about 50% of orders with a manual.
Future Possibilities for the Manual Transmission
Currently, the base 911 Carrera and Carrera S models are no longer offered with a manual transmission, so buyers who want to shift gears themselves have to choose between the Carrera T or the 911 GT3. Since the current GT3 and the new 911 Turbo have transformed into hybrids with an electric motor in the PDK transmission case, supplying them with a manual is impossible.
A potential new model that could receive a manual transmission is the GT3 convertible version. Rösler noted that customers, especially in California, value the ability to hear the engine sound with the top down, and they are actively demanding more manual convertibles.
In recent months, several 911 Cabriolet prototypes have been spotted during testing in California with a body from the GT3 coupe, indicating that Porsche is at least exploring this path. This could be a response to the requests from brand enthusiasts who prefer classic driving.
The growing popularity of manual transmissions in certain regions may stimulate Porsche to expand its offering, even despite the global trend towards automation. This also highlights the importance of adapting to local markets and preserving traditions to meet the needs of the most loyal customers.
