Porsche 911 Turbo, rocket ship on wheels

Now the flagship speed machine of the German manufacturer's stable, the 6th generation is the most powerful production 911 of all time and the fastest accelerating Porsche ever. Porsche says you will feel like you're taking off in a Eurofighter when you stamp on the gas. While that might sound like typical testosterone-inducing hyperbole to seduce potential buyers, the car does indeed walk the walk.

The six-speed manual version hits 100km/h from a standing start in 3.9 seconds, the same as the V10-powered Carrera GT; but wait for it - fitted with the five-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission, the new 911 Turbo hits the same mark in a blistering 3.7 seconds. Both versions have a top speed of 310km/h. It is nothing short of a rocket ship on wheels.

With figures like this, Sir Richard Branson's $200,000 a time ask to experience G-forces with Virgin Galactic space trips is probably a bit steep when you can do it on your own, on the ground, in your own car - again and again.

New Turbos

The engine is still mounted in the rear, an intimidating 3.6-litre horizontally-opposed, twin-turbocharged six-cylinder. This generation has gained a new pair of turbo chargers carrying variable turbine geometry, a concept previously confined to diesel powered engines.

The result is an increase of 14% in energy output to 480 bhp, despite engine capacity staying the same. Maximum torque is up 11% to 620Nm, but more importantly it starts at a very low 1950 rpm and is spread over a wider range. The Sports Chrono package delivers an extra 60Nm, not that it is needed.

After slipping into the all-leather seats in the cockpit, it was pleasing to again find Porsche does not just design their vehicles for vertically-challenged, slim-hipped Continental gentlemen. Though with the driver's chair pushed to the back of the runners, the token leg room for two theoretical rear-seat passengers (really more useful for stowing bags) is gobbled up. But you're probably only thinking of that person that looks back at you in the mirror every morning if you've got one of these in mind - if it's passengers you want - get a Cayenne.

We tested both the automatic and manual versions over an obstacle course and in a 'controlled' lapping of the race circuit. Once in the cabin, you can't help but notice the speedo goes to 350km/h and true to the manufacturer's word, the acceleration is nothing short of insane. Whilst the engine is turbocharged, it hums with a seductive pitch, and it has no lag. But the cabin is well insulated from the commotion outside and the ride is pretty quiet even under extreme driving conditions.

Brute power

While the acceleration and speed down the home straight might make the hairs on the back of your neck stand to attention, the car is not a drag racer; it's not about straight-line brute power. What really inspires is that Turbo's power credentials translate into driving performance and control on the road.

Traction is astonishing. At times it feels like we're running on tracks. The Turbo blasts the tightest curves into a straight line on its all-wheel-drive system and Porsche Traction Management which features an electronically-controlled multiple clutch for optimum distribution of power front-to-rear.

All tied to the Porsche Active Suspension Management which gives an option of a more dynamic set up in Sports mode. The car is also 5 kg lighter than its predecessor courtesy of an aluminium front luggage cover and aluminium doors.

If you want it all - the power, performance and the ability to turn heads - and you've got the cash, this is the one for you.