So Porsche was holding back something on
the 918 Spyder
; namely a sub-seven 'ring lap with a 6min 57sec time around the Nordschleife. All this just a couple of days after we were
discussing the same
918 mobbed after 'ring lap time announced
Which leaves McLaren where, having said "without a sub-seven lap time we probably won't even mention we were at the Nurburgring"? In a pickle if they haven't already nailed it, given that the P1 has been a frequent sight on the track in recent weeks.
Anyway, lap time willy waggling aside that's a damned impressive time and achieved on the standard tyres and in a production car with the optional Weissach pack. This comprises magnesium wheels, harnesses, carbon aero and other bits and saves 41kg from the standard 1,675kg kerb weight and further pounds from your wallet. Or rather euros, the UK price for the 918 Spyder confirmed as 781,155 euros as standard, 853,155 euros for the Weissach package if you want to try for that sub-seven time yourself.
Elsewhere on the Porsche stand there's the compulsory VW group electric chit-chat based around the Panamera S E-Hybrid, the plug-in Panamera that'll do 168mph, 91mpg and 71g/km.
50 Years Edition 911 not as naff as feared
Walter Rohrl, who drove the 918 on stage, toed the company line by saying of the 918 he was initially sceptical about the idea of hybrid Porsches. "It's supposed to be fun? I couldn't imagine it," he said, before, in an incredible coincidence, admitting the 918 had proved him wrong... He also said the 918 is "substantially faster than the Carrera GT, and more agile too" in case you were wondering how it took 30 seconds out of that car's lap.
Get used to the idea too, Porsche last night telling the VW group evening that hybrids are at the heart of its future plans. That hybrid 911 can't be too far away...
Oh, and the 911 50 Years Edition? It's no Singer and the beige paint doesn't do it a whole lot of favours. But it actually looks alright, complete with houndstooth upholstery. If retro modern 911s were our thing we'd probably still go for a Sport Classic though...