All 911 models can also be fitted with the optional Sport Chrono Package Plus. It offers even sportier tuning of the engine and chassis, and delivers even greater driving pleasure as a result.

Included in the package are a digital and analogue timer, the SPORT button, a performance display and a personal memory function in Porsche Communication Management (PCM). Also – when fitted in combination with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) – is the SPORT PLUS button, as well as an additional display on the steering wheel which indicates when the SPORT button or the Launch Control have been enabled.

When the SPORT button on the centre console is selected, the EMS SDI 3.1 engine management system enhances the engine response. A modified throttle map relates the pedal angle in the footwell to a much wider angle of opening on the throttle valve. Throttle response is significantly more immediate, and in the higher gears, a hard rev-limiter helps protect the engine under acceleration.

The optional Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) also switches to ‘Sport’ mode for harder damping and more direct steering, and, therefore, better road holding.

A hard rev-limiter is also applied in the automatic mode of the optional PDK, while gearshift points are delayed until the upper rev range. The shift times are shorter, the gear changes sportier. At low rates of deceleration – even with high engine speeds – the system initiates a swifter brake-induced downshift. In manual mode, gear changes are faster and more dynamic.

In ‘Sport’ mode, the trigger threshold for PSM is raised for increased longitudinal and lateral dynamics. Agility is enhanced under braking for corners with PSM enabling greater manoeuvrability under braking and exit acceleration, especially at low speeds.

For maximum dexterity, PSM can be set to standby while the car is still in ‘Sport’ mode. For safety, it is set to intervene automatically only when ABS assistance is required on both the front wheels.

In combination with PDK, the Sport Chrono Package Plus has two additional functions that are activated by pressing the SPORT PLUS button, to take driving to an even sportier level.

‘Launch Control’ is used, for example, on the track to achieve the best standing start possible – a racing start.

Launch Control is operated via the SPORT PLUS button with the ‘D’ or ‘M’ drive position selected. Whilst the driver depresses the brake pedal with the left foot, the right foot depresses the accelerator pedal to the floor. With the accelerator in the kickdown position, the system detects the driver’s request for Launch Mode and revs the engine to an optimum speed of approximately 6,500 rpm. Engine torque increases and the clutch closes slightly. The message ‘Launch Control’ appears in the PDK display on the steering wheel. The driver now quickly releases the brake – and prepares for maximum acceleration.

The second function is the ‘motorsport-derived gearshift strategy’. Using this, Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is geared up for the extremely short shift times and optimum shift points for maximum acceleration – ideal for the racetrack.

A key component of Sport Chrono Package Plus is the timer mounted on the dashboard. Porsche Communication Management has a special performance display to view, store and evaluate lap times or other driving times. It shows the total driving time, lap distance, lap number and the lap times recorded so far. You can view the current fastest lap and the remaining range until empty. Travelled distances can be recorded and benchmark times defined. The personal memory function of the Sport Chrono Package Plus can also be used to store personalised settings for a range of systems, including the orientation lighting or air conditioning.