In Newport, Rhode Island, Jay Leno joined the Audrain Auto Museum team for a special look at two of the most enthusiast-focused Porsches ever made—the 2016 Porsche 911 R and the new 2024 911 S/T.
The 911 R, released at a time when the manual transmission seemed to be disappearing from performance cars, was Porsche’s answer to purists. It stripped away everything unnecessary—nav, screens, even air conditioning—to focus on the drive. With its naturally aspirated flat-six, single-mass flywheel, and tight, precise chassis, the 911 R was Porsche’s love letter to drivers. Jay noted its rawness, likening it to a race car for the street—unfiltered and thrilling, yet still usable. It may lack a backup camera or modern conveniences, but it makes up for it in pure, visceral connection.
Fast forward to the 2024 911 S/T, and Porsche has refined that concept even further. Built to commemorate 60 years of the 911, only 1,963 units were produced. The S/T utilizes the 4.0-liter GT3 RS engine with a six-speed manual transmission, and while slightly heavier than the R, it’s softer on the road, more polished—but still just as thrilling. Jay appreciated its refined ride, minimal distractions, and lightened-up spec—even noting the subtle clutch chatter from the single-mass flywheel as part of its charm.
Driving both, Jay compared the R’s raw edge to the S/T’s maturity. The S/T might be more comfortable, more “everyday,” but the R still has that untamed spark that excites purists. It’s the difference between an athlete in training and one in peak competition form—both impressive, but with different temperaments.
Jay praised Porsche for listening to enthusiasts and keeping the manual transmission alive, even as most brands pursue dual-clutch technology and focus on speed and lap times. For him, cars like the 911 R and S/T bring back the joy of driving—not just the performance, but the feel, the feedback, and the analog experience.
