Porsche 911 (992) GT3

Two years after the premiere of the 992 generation of the Porsche 911, the first GT offshoot follows. As usual, the GT3 is the first model. Porsche retains the trend familiar from the predecessor models and retains a high-revving naturally aspirated engine. All other 992 variants have a turbocharged six-cylinder boxer engine. Added to this are aerodynamics that have been refined in the windtunnel and are aimed specifically at customers who would also like to drive the vehicle on the racetrack. Of course, lightweight construction and the best possible driving dynamics were also high on the developers’ list of requirements.

Two transmission variants to choose from

Porsche took over the four-liter six-cylinder engine in the rear of the new GT3 from the last model generation and the 991 Speedster. This comes directly from the in-house motorsport department. Dry sump lubrication, titanium components and the high-rev concept with up to 9,000 rpm are clear indications for this. Thanks to targeted further development, output has risen to 375 kW/510 hp. At the same time, of course, all emissions and noise regulations are met. For power transmission to the rear wheels, customers can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK). Topspeed is 198 mph (197 with PDK). An important development goal of Andreas Preuninger, Head of GT Vehicles, was achieved: at 1,418 kilograms (1,435 kg with PDK), the new GT3 weighs no more than its predecessor. This is remarkable because, compared with the 991, the 992 is larger, wider and, thanks to stiffening measures, more torsionally rigid. Compared to the Carrera, the GT3 is lowered by 25 millimeters.

Gooseneck rear wing

A rear wing suspended from above on goosenecks is used for the first time on a production vehicle from the Porsche brand. This principle was developed a few years ago for motorsport. In this way, there are no disturbing vortices at the suspension points on the underside of the wing blade, where most downforce is generated by negative pressure. This allows the entire wing to be set flatter, enabling higher speeds with the same downforce. The rear wing works in conjunction with a diffuser in the rear bumper and the front spoiler, which is beautifully integrated into the bumper. The front hood and roof are made of carbon fiber. Further weight was saved by new fenders and thinner glass panels. Two air outlets are integrated into the front bumper for the water cooler. The new paint color ‘Shark Blue’ makes its debut on the presentation vehicle.

Available from Porsche dealers in May

Inside, the GT3 adopts the modern infotainment system of the current 992, with the driver and front passenger taking their seats in well and comfortably shaped carbon sports bucket seats. The three selectable driving modes ‘Wet’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ not only change the responsiveness, but also the displays between the instruments. In Track View, Porsche reduces these to the most important information in order to distract the driver as little as possible. As with the previous models, there is an optional Clubsport package including a rollcage and six-point seat belts. On the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the car achieved a lap time of 6:59,927 minutes in near-production prototype stage. Around 17 seconds faster than its predecessor and almost a minute faster than the very first 911 GT3 from 1999. The price list for the new Porsche 911 (992) GT3 in Germany starts at 167,518 €. First examples are expected to hit dealer showrooms in May. As with its precedecessor, a wingless Touring version is to follow in the coming months.

Images: Porsche