Among car enthusiasts, it is common to think that electric cars are ‘boring’. We can partly agree with this thought, but it is only a matter of time before things change. The Porsche Taycan GTS is here to dispel this taboo, and Henry Catchpole from Hagerty has decided to get behind the wheel of this wonder.
We are speaking to those who discredit EVs and do not consider them desirable or driver-centric. So, why not compare the Taycan to arguably the greatest sports car ever, the Porsche 911? In particular, the 992 GTS.
We, with help from Catchpole, tell you why the Taycan GTS is incredibly capable of offering high performance and a pleasant driving experience, very similar to traditional ICE-powered vehicles. Put aside your prejudices, buckle up, and let’s see what this Porsche can really do.
Porsche 911 Has Obvious Advantages Over The Taycan GTS
Obviously, in this comparison, we have to exclude some things because it would be unfair to the Taycan. So let’s not compare the sound of the engine because it is clear that traditional cars have a more aggressive exhaust note.
We also avoid considering how to refuel. True, there are many EV charging stations, and they are more convenient. But filling a fuel tank is definitely faster. We will not mention the manual transmission of the 911.
Finally, both hover around the $140,000 mark, which puts these two Porsche sports cars on the same level. Well, now that we have highlighted the advantages of the 911, it’s time to talk about the advantages of the Taycan GTS.
Porsche Taycan GTS Is A Fun To Drive EV
Like many EVs, the Taycan has excellent acceleration. It takes about 3.6 seconds to reach 60 mph and has a top speed of 155 mph. On the other hand, the Porsche 911 has a 6-cylinder engine with 480 horsepower and reaches 0-60 mph in about 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 193 mph. The 911 will clearly outrun the Taycan, but both vehicles reach 60 mph in less than 4 seconds.
Like many electric cars, the Taycan is very heavy. It weighs 5,258 lbs, much heavier than the 3,600-lbs 992 GTS. Despite this difference, says Catchpole, the electric Porsche is quite nimble to drive, and its agility will astound even the most skeptical driver. The feeling of lightness and comfort even increases with the sporty driving mode. This is due to a very good weight distribution, which makes the car feel very steady on the road. It is also due to the three-chamber air suspension, re-tuned for this car, and the 20% stiffer anti-roll bars.
Furthermore, the accelerator pedal of the electric Porsche is better than the other EVs. According to Henry Catchpole, this is because it is effectively calibrated, and this allows the car to bask on the instant torque. It also offers more gradual acceleration compared to the 911’s pedal. This makes the Taycan GTS a lot more natural as compared to other EVs, hence fading the notion of electric cars being boring.
Taycan GTS Can Stand Up To ICE Sports Cars
The Porsche Taycan is beautiful. Catchpole says that unlike other electric vehicles, which want to look harmless or futuristic, the Taycan stands out for a very Porsche-style look. It is sporty, stylish, and threatening at the same time.
The front fascia design reminds us of a snout of a predator, and the rear arches are delightful and elegant. This car has a desirable visual appeal and deviates from the traditional electric car stereotype.
Let’s talk about its sound, as it is an important factor for all car enthusiasts. Many motorists detest electric cars for the lack of the aggressive roar of the engine. Well, you’ll be pleased to know that Porsche has improved the artificial sound generator for this electric car.
The Sport Plus mode is characterized by a very pronounced sound (for an electric car). This is far from the glorious melody of the six-cylinder engine, but Porsche’s effort is remarkable. And according to Henry Catchpole, the German brand managed to do a good job.
Catchpole has a positive opinion of this car. He finds the Taycan GTS to be fast, responsive, and really engaging, an excellent vehicle. It’s undeniable that driving a 911 is more enjoyable, but the Taycan comes very close to achieving that experience. So, just imagine what future Porsche electric cars will be like. This car can encourage many motorists to change their minds about EVs.
In conclusion, we hope that other carmakers take a lesson or two from Porsche’s book and make EVs desirable and worthy replacements for ICE cars.
Sources: Hagerty YouTube Channel, Porsche
