Developmental Goals for Racing Cars, Sport Cars and Sedans (Similarities and Differences)

Porsche's many years of experience in the research and development of racing cars, sports cars and sedans comprise the basis of a comparison of the design objetives in these three vehicle categories. The evolution of the Porsche racing cars used in the 24 hours race of Le Mans, of the Porsche 911, and of series mid-size sedans is analysed for the last ten years.

References to some outstanding technical features and interrelations between the vehicle categories are discussed. Test facilities used for racing and sports cars as well as for sedans, mathematical methods and development processes are presented and compared with each other.

Commonalities that exist in the development of these vehicle categories will be beneficial to all, and new developments will continue to furnish an important basis for mutual technical enrichment in the future