I reckon someone hit Porsche with the ugly stick

The Porsche 911 is one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced, boasting a lineage that spans over six decades. Introduced in 1964, the 911 quickly established itself as a benchmark for lightweight performance cars, blending a rear-engine layout with precise handling, which became its signature feature. Over the years, the 911 has undergone significant evolutions, but it has always maintained its core identity—a driver-focused machine that balances performance and everyday usability.

Historically, early 911s were air-cooled, a characteristic that remained until the late 1990s. These models, now classic and highly collectible, offer a raw, mechanical driving experience that many enthusiasts crave. The air-cooled engines in models like the 993, which ended production in 1998, are revered for their simplicity and the unmistakable sound they produce. As a result, the value of these classic air-cooled 911s has surged in recent years, with pristine examples fetching six figures at auctions.

However, the late ’90s brought a major shift for Porsche, starting with the 996-generation 911, which introduced water cooling to the lineup. This change was met with resistance from purists who felt that the air-cooled character of the 911 was being lost. The 996 also faced criticism for its infamous “runny egg” headlights, which departed from the traditional round shape and were widely considered unattractive. Despite the backlash, the move to water-cooled engines allowed Porsche to enhance performance, reduce emissions, and improve reliability, paving the way for the more advanced 911s we see today.

The new 911 (992 generation) is a technological marvel, offering a blend of traditional Porsche driving dynamics with modern hybrid technology. It delivers blistering speed and a seamless powertrain that combines electric assistance for quicker acceleration and improved efficiency. The handling remains sharp, making it a joy to drive on both the track and the road. In terms of engineering, it’s hard to fault the new 911. It’s faster, more comfortable, and technologically superior to its predecessors.

However, despite the car’s remarkable performance, I can’t help but feel that Porsche’s design language has taken a wrong turn. The 911 has grown significantly over the years, and the current model is bigger, heavier, and—to my eyes—less attractive. The new front end design, with its large air vents, may serve a functional purpose for cooling and aerodynamics, but aesthetically, it leaves much to be desired. It looks bulky, almost like it’s been slapped with industrial vents that detract from the car’s elegant proportions. It’s supposedly designed for active airflow and improved aero, but at what cost? It doesn’t embody the sleek and timeless simplicity that defined older 911 models.

This issue isn’t limited to the 911 alone. The Taycan’s headlights, which look like they’ve smeared mascara, and the increasingly boxy Cayenne SUV are further examples of Porsche’s design going off-course. I might be in the minority here, but I think the new 911 has been hit with the ugly stick, and Porsche’s current design philosophy feels disjointed from the elegance and purity that once made these cars stand out.