Porsche's New Boxster-Based Coupe Could Be More Driver-Focused than 911

Because a tight budget limited Porsche from giving the C7S a completely new exterior, the two cars are expected to share a

To distinguish the C7S from the Boxster, and bridge the gap to the 911, Porsche stylists have made significant changes to the body structure.

variety of body panels, including front fenders, doors, and hood. The C7S should receive different front and rear bumpers, beefier side sills, and other minor modifications. Information on the car's interior is not widely available, although it's a safe bet to assume that it will be carried over directly from the Boxster in another cost saving measure.

The transformation to C7S does not see any changes to the Boxster's MacPherson strut suspension geometry, although stiffer springs and dampers, as well as unique bushings will certainly alter the ride and handling of the car.

Like the Boxster, the C7S is expected to be available with variable-rate steering, which offers a flexible steering ratio between 17.1:1 to 13.7:1, PASM active suspension, and the option of PCCB carbon-ceramic brakes.

The biggest surprise, however, is recent information that says the C7S will feature a new, 3.4-litre horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' six cylinder engine producing 300-horsepower. The motor is positioned exactly between the Boxster S' 280-horsepower 3.2-litre H-6 and the 911 Carrera's 320-horsepower 3.6-litre H-6. Being that there is an "S" in the car's

Expect the baby 911 to make its world debut this September at the IAA in Frankfurt, Germany.

codename, it's also predicted that a cheaper variant will also be available, possibly with the base Boxster's 240-horsepower H-6 and/or the new 280-horsepower S engine.

Reportedly, in the hands of the ex-rally superstar Walter Röhrl, the company's expert test driver, the new car, fitted with its powerhouse engine, better aerodynamics and tuned suspension, can match and beat the current lap record of 8 minutes and 15 seconds set by the 911 Carrera. The C7S's blisteringly quick times can be attributed to the car's lighter weight, smaller dimensions, better weight distribution and lower center of gravity. It also helps that it features the same brakes, wheels and tires as its larger sibling.