Porsches are getting passed by Vettes and vipers, and soon to be Mustangs (yech) in performance in many races. Sure they are in a different class, but that is my point. Maybe a GT class car with a V8 is what is needed to get the company back into racing in more than just the slowest classes?
If this takes off it would also make the jump back into prototype racing easier. it souds like Porsche is very happy with the development of the V8, they are already talking about putting it into almost everything they sell and
AFAIK there isn't even one on the streets yet. If they can get 450 hp out of it for the street, then 600 hp or much more should be possible with a full-out race engine, maybe even without forced induction.
As far as it being heavy, I don't think it would be any heavier that the current 996. A compact alloy block V8 should be as light or lighter than the current engine if they do it right.
As far as top heavy, urban myth. EOD.
I am not quite old enough to remember when the 911 was first introduced in the early 60's, but this is how I envision the reaction:
"No way, that thing is way too heavy and big and complicated, and it has two extra cylinders when compared to my 356. I don't care what they call it, it isn't a Porsche. "
Sound familiar? :-)
Go ahead, flame on, I am ready
