Porsche 989
In 1989 the Duo Bez-Lagaay came to Porsche AG: Dr. Ulrich Bez as Head of Engineering and Harm Lagaay as Head of Design. Dr. Bez was assigned a new project to create a 4 door sportsaloon because Porsche management figured that such a model could be a new market considering the success of the 928 (2+2 setup). Lagaay was responsible for the design with was based on the looks of a 911, only bigger. This turned out to be quite a challenge as the 989 was front engined with a V8 and had to be much bigger to accompany 4 adults. Both gentlemen did a hell of a job creating a nimble looking car that already had design features of the later 993 and the 1989 Panamericana study. At a glance the viewer would see a normal 911, which has 4 doors at a closer look. At bit comparible with the much later 2010 Aston Martin Rapide (established under CEO Dr. Bez).
When Ulrich Bez left the company in 1991, the project lost its momentum. Also the Porsche management doubted that a four door sportsedan would be successful in the changed market of the early ’90. The company waited until 2009 to introduce their first four door sportcar: the Panamera.
Technical specification Porsche 989:
Engine: Porsche 3.6 Liter V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic (with all-wheel drive)
Power: 300 HP
Wheelbase: estimated 280 cm (110 in)
Length: estimated 450 cm (177 in)
Width: estimated 180 cm (71 in)
Height: estimated 140 cm (55 in)
Weight: 1,580 kg (3,483 lb)
Top speed: 269 KM/h (167 MPH)
0-100 KM/h: 6.1 seconds
Production number: 1 prototype
Designer: Harm Lagaay (Porsche Design)
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