Corporate sources have confirmed that a seven-speed manual will be offered in the next-generation Porsche 911. according to Caranddriver. There have been several automatics that have seven and eight forward ratios. In addition, ZF has said that it has a nine-speed auto. But for some time, the maximum for traditional clutch-and-lever manual transmissions has been six. It’s believed that there will be a tall, seventh gear that offers high efficiency and less engine noise during lengthy trips. Its shifting procedure is believed to be the same as that of the current six-speed manual. But depending on the ratio spread, veteran Porsche drivers may have to make compromises when it comes to gear choice for upcoming corners.

It’s unlikely that there will anyone who will get confused during hard driving unless the shift pattern gets very erratic. Seventh is not likely to be used by anyone for making a corner exit. Meanwhile, the next 911 officially has the internal 991 designation. It is scheduled to debut this September at the Frankfurt Auto Show. It is based on the 996/997’s stretched architecture. It has more rear space and it has an interior that’s more luxurious and comfortable. Its wheelbase will be longer, making the vehicle more stable. But future generations of the 911 are expected to have many parts that are shared with the next-gen Audi R8 and Lamborghini Gallardo as part of the VW Group’s Modularer Sportbaukasten, or “modular sports architecture.” The 911 is expected to retain its rear-engine layout if this platform convergence occurs. However, the powerplant may still be moved forward considerably.