PORSCHE, the world's most successful sports car, is to launch two new models in September, the 15th generation in the history of the model.

The models are the 911 Carrera with a 325bhp, 3.6-litre six cylinder boxer engine, and the 911 Carrera S, powered by a newly-developed 3.8-litre engine, which delivers 355bhp. With torque output of 400Nm (295lb/ft), the S model accelerates from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds. The Carrera achieves this in exactly five seconds.

The new 911 models will be launched across continental Europe in July and will go on sale throughout the UK from September 18. The price for the Carrera is £58,380 (including VAT) and £65,000 for the Carrera S. The prices include UK specification features such as full leather interior trim and graduated tinted windscreen.

Both 911 models have a newly developed six-speed manual gearbox and revised chassis dynamics, which includes active suspension, called Porsche Active Suspension Management.

In the "normal" position, it provides a sporty and comfortable balance to the suspension. Engaging the "sport" function, however, makes the suspension firmer providing greater agility for enthusiastic drivers. The management system is fitted as standard on the S model and available as an option on the Carrera. A further option for both models is a sports suspension package, which lowers the body by 20mm, offered in combination with a mechanical limited-slip differential.

The specification of the wheels and tyres fitted to the Porsche 911 has also evolved: the 911 Carrera, in two-wheel drive form only, now has, as standard, 8Jx18 wheels with 235/40 ZR18 tyres at the front and 10Jx18 wheels with 265/40 ZR18 tyres at the rear.

For the first time, 19-inch diameter wheels are available on the Porsche 911 and the Carrera S is equipped with 8Jx19 wheels with 235/35 ZR19 tyres up front and 11Jx19 wheels with 295/30 ZR19 tyres at the back.

The design of the latest Porsche 911 is a continuation of the 911 story, now in its 41st year. The new exterior design - including a wider track and more emphasis on the waist - is a 911 that should be even more dynamic, powerful and, at the same time, elegant.

Other features of the evolutionary design are new circular headlamps, more prominent bumpers and wheel arches, dual-arm exterior mirrors, and a more aerodynamic rear spoiler.

Both models offer Porsche stability management fitted as standard

The present line-up of wide-bodied all-wheel drive models (Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Turbo) plus GT2, GT3 and GT3 RS, will continue in production.

Updated: 09:56 Friday, May 21, 2004