The Porsche 911 GT3 delivers motorsport-like performance, a systematic lightweight construction and an unfiltered driving experience. The new generation of the radical 911 revealed at the Geneva Motor Show connects everyday driving and race track virtues like never before.
At the heart of the latest enhancement beats a four-litre, flat six-cylinder engine. The extremely high-revving naturally aspirated engine with 368 kW (500 hp) remains virtually unchanged from the thoroughbred 911 GT3 Cup racing car competing in the 2017 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia championship.
The redesigned chassis with rear-axle steering and the systematic lightweight construction are specifically tuned to convert the engine power into superior driving dynamics. Developed on the same test track and manufactured on the same production line as the GT3 Cup cars, Porsche’s motorsport technology has once again been incorporated into a street legal sports car.
The new 911 GT3 really comes into its own thanks to its weight-to-power ratio of 3.88 kg/kW (2.86 kg/hp). With seven-speed double-clutch transmission (PDK) as standard, which has been specifically tuned for use in the GT, the two-seater weighs in at 1,430 kg and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds on its way to a 318 km/h top speed.
For proponents of pure unadulterated driving, Porsche will also offer the 911 GT3 with a six-speed sports manual gearbox as a no cost option. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint with the three pedal version takes 3.9 seconds and top speed is 320 km/h.
Fast on the corners, stable on the straights: Rigid chassis with rear-axle steering
The chassis of the new 911 GT3 benefits from Porsche’s motor racing experience and its tuning has been reworked for even better driving dynamics. The new two-seater sits around 25 mm lower than the current 911 Carrera S. In addition to the further refined basic design, the chassis also boasts superior handling characteristics, thanks in large part to the active rear-axle steering. Depending on the speed, it steers either in the opposite or the same direction as the front wheels, thereby improving the vehicle’s agility and stability. The dynamic engine mounts and the rear differential lock also boost the car’s driving dynamics.
When it comes to appearance, the 911 GT3 leaves little doubt as to its purpose. The dominant carbon rear wing emphasises the fact that the sports car’s form is determined by aerodynamics. The lightweight front end and front spoiler have been optimised for even better airflow. The aerodynamic enhancement is also evident on the lightweight rear end with exhaust air openings and on the new diffusor.
Interior: Experience centre for exceptional driving dynamics
The interior of the new high-performance sports car is tailored to the 911 GT3 driving experience. The GT sports steering wheel with a diameter of 360 mm originates from the 918 Spyder.
Both the driver and passenger experience the dynamics in Porsche Sports seats Plus with enhanced seat side bolsters and mechanical fore/aft adjustment. The seat height and backrests are adjusted electronically. As the 911 GT3 is traditionally a two-seater, the seat pans in the rear are covered.
Porsche offers three additional seat variants for the 911 GT3: The adaptive Sports seats Plus boast electrical adjustment of all seat functions (18-way). The second option is sports bucket seats with folding backrest, integrated thorax airbag and manual fore/aft adjustment. And the third variant is full bucket seats made from light carbon fibre-reinforced plastic in carbon-weave finish.
Porsche Track Precision app as standard
In addition to Porsche Communication Management (PCM), standard equipment also includes the Connect Plus module, featuring the LTE telephone module with SIM card reader, Wi-Fi Hotspot as well as the Porsche Connect App. Furthermore, it includes the Track Precision app, which enables 911 GT3 drivers to display, record and analyse detailed driving data on their smartphone.
Market launch and prices
The 911 GT3 is available to order now with first Australian deliveries expected in the fourth quarter of 2017. It will be priced from $327,100.
911 GT3: combined fuel consumption 12.9 L/100 kms; CO2 emissions 290 g/km
* Prices are recommended retail prices before statutory and dealer delivery charges, which vary from State to State.
* Fuel Consumption
Consumption figures are not reflective of real world driving conditions. Consumption figures are per the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test cycle ) in accordance with the Euro 5 and Euro 6 (715/2007/EC and 692/2008/EC) measurement method and should be used for comparative purposes only. The figures do not refer to an individual vehicle nor do they constitute part of the offer. Higher equipment levels may affect consumption and performance.