2012 Porsche 911 makes North American debut at Rennsport Reunion IV

Porsche pulled form-fitting covers off two of its all-new 911 models today at Rennsport Reunion IV, marking the first official unveiling of the vehicle in North America. While we were at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September for the Type 991's worldwide debut, it was an excellent opportunity to check out a few static examples up close and watch some of Porsche's famed drivers take hot laps around the Laguna Seca race circuit in two similar models circling the track.

On display were two of the upgraded 911 S models, fitted with 3.8-liter flat-six engines that produce 400 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque (standard Carrera models have a 3.4-liter flat-six rated at 350 horsepower and 287 pound-feet of torque). A seven-speed manual is standard in both rear-wheel-drive models, with Porsche's seven-speed PDK automated gearbox optional.

Bigger, better and lighter than its equivalent Type 997 predecessor, the new two-door promises impressive performance. According to Porsche, the 3,075-pound Carrera S will hit 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with the PDK (with Sport Chrono option), while the 3,042-pound Carrera will need 4.2 seconds to hit the same benchmark. Our first opportunity to drive is just around the corner, and we can't wait to tell you about it.

Check out the photo gallery of the 2012 Porsche 911 above, and look for more coverage from Rennsport Reunion IV over the next few days.