New World Altitude Record for a Car 6,734 Meters

In an extraordinary feat of engineering and endurance, Porsche has set a new world record for the highest altitude ever reached by a car. Two heavily modified Porsche 911s managed to climb up to 6,734 meters above sea level on the slopes of Ojos del Salado, the world’s highest active volcano located in Chile. This surpasses the previous record of 6,694 meters, which was also set on the same volcano by a pair of Mercedes-Benz Unimogs.

To accomplish the record-breaking climb, Porsche built two off-road-ready 911s based on the Carrera 4S. One served as the primary vehicle for the ascent, while the other acted as a support car. Both were extensively reengineered for extreme terrain and altitude. Most notably, they were fitted with portal axles—a feature commonly used in extreme off-roaders—which significantly increased ground clearance to 350 mm. Additionally, the cars wore massive off-road tires, further improving their ability to handle boulders, volcanic gravel, and ash.

Key Technical Modifications:

Base model: Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six

Power output: 443 horsepower

Drivetrain: All-wheel drive

Transmission: Standard, but with revised gear ratios optimized for slow, high-torque climbing

Fuel: Synthetic fuel, engineered to perform in extreme altitudes

Suspension: Heavily modified with portal axles

Ground clearance: Increased to 350 mm

Underside protection: Lightweight aramid fiber skid plates

Weight optimization: Extensive use of carbon and reinforced polymers

Tyres: Ultra-high-profile off-road tires

Despite the extreme conditions, both engines remained stock, with no mechanical changes. Remarkably, the factory ECU and engine management systems adapted well to the reduced oxygen levels at high altitude—air density at 6,700 meters is nearly half that at sea level. Porsche engineers confirmed that the electronics seamlessly managed power delivery, throttle response, and emissions even in these punishing conditions.

The climb took two weeks, largely due to the team's need to gradually acclimatize to the high altitudes. The crew included medical professionals to monitor for altitude sickness. The final stages of the route proved especially challenging, requiring the team to navigate through unstable volcanic ash, jagged rocks, and pathless terrain.

This record isn’t Porsche’s first high-altitude endeavor. Previously, a Porsche Taycan electric sedan climbed to over 5,500 meters on a single journey in the Tibetan highlands. However, the modified 911’s achievement now takes the crown, not just for altitude, but for proving how adaptable and durable even a luxury sports car can be when pushed to the limits.

For comparison, Mount Elbrus, the highest point in Russia, stands at 5,642 meters—over a kilometer lower than the height achieved by these two 911s.

Why It Matters:

This feat is not just a publicity stunt — it’s a technical showcase of Porsche’s engineering, synthetic fuel viability, and electronic adaptability in extreme environments. The success also emphasizes how legacy internal combustion engines can continue to evolve and remain relevant, even in the age of electrification.