A strange Porsche prototype was seen at the Nürburgring, and we already have people awestruck. It undeniably looks like a current Porsche version of a Slantnose (Flachbau) from the 1980s. The prototype also borrows styling from the Manthey Racing GT2 RS kit, resulting in a beautiful combination of vintage style and maximum track experience. US Porsche enthusiasts may have their dream come true by reviving the nostalgia of the Slantnose with the 2023 version tested out on as many ways as possible on the Nürburgring.
Porsche 911 Slantnose Prototype Key Features
The spy images show several details that distinguish this prototype from a very ordinary car:
- Flatter slantnose-like proprietary fronts-end with squared off headlights, not round.
- Vented hood that uses NACA ducts in order to ensure airflow.
- Aerodynamic canards and splitter for race-oriented performance.
- Center-lock wheels with yellow brake calipers.
- Aero rear wheel discs that are a salute to its racing heritage.
- Massive rear wing, wide diffuser for maximum downforce.
These characteristics indicate that Porsche is not building a retro-inspired show car, but instead developing a true performance car developed specifically to race on the track.
Porsche or Manthey? The Big Question
One of the questions stirring up debate is, who is behind this build?
- Porsche Sonderwunsch Program could possible bring back the Slantnose futuristically as a limited heritage model.
- Manthey Racing, known for going to levels unknown in the GT2 RS might be testing its own product you could say using the 911 GT2 RS MR as the base model.
With the brutal aero elements being features everyone is saying this has Manthey written all over it. Regardless, until they come out and say it officially enthusiasts can only speculate if this is a Porsche sponsored project or a Manthey special edition.
Expected Performance & Engine of Porsche 911 Slantnose
Porsche has not verified specifications so far, but speculation says the prototype is pooled on the GT2 RS MR platform. So, we know:
- Engine: 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six
- Output: Approximately 700 hp (estimated)
- Objective: Nürburgring lap records and track supremacy
If all this turns out to be accurate, this would not simply be an homage to an older design. It may be one of the fastest 911s that Porsche—or Manthey—has ever put on the street.
Why It Matters for US Enthusiasts
The Slantnose (Flachbau) has long been an enthusiast's dream in the United States. During the 1980s, it was an expensive and infrequent option on models, which was instantly recognizable for its flat front and exotic look. Nowadays, classic Slantnoses command high dollar values at US auctions.
Should this limited production model based on the Slantnose nameplate end up in production, American consumers will likely be clambering to buy one. In addition to collectors, I think a lot of track-day drivers would also consider it, as it will provide a nice mix of heritage design and modern speed!
Why the Porsche 911 Slantnose is Special
Why does the Slantnose matter? The Slantnose matters for the Slantnose alone, who's to argue against that? Slantnose is much more than looks. It's an intimidating slice of a daring time in Porsche's history. The original Slantnose departed from tradition and drew attention everywhere to the point of being a polarizing event. This new Slantnose prototype appears to embody this same ethos: daring, conclusive, unique, and unapologetically different. For the older generation of fans, it might be a nostalgic throwback. For the younger generation of fans, it is an opportunity to see Porsche's design history and a glimpse into how Porsche could reinterpret that history for the future.
Porsche 911 Slantnose Prototype Expected Specifications
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Conclusion
The new Porsche 911 Slantnose tribute is much more than just another sports car, whether full supported by Porsche or more of a Manthey Racing initiative. The Slantnose is a linkage from the past to the present, bringing back a legendary design and seamlessly combining that with modern day GT2 RS performance. For U.S. enthusiasts, it's more than just having the fastest car; it's a restoration of a legacy that captured the audacious spirit of Porsche. If this goes into production, the Slantnose could easily become one of the most discussed models in Porsche's modern history.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
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