The seventh generation of 911 has received the GT treatment, with a wide variety of technical improvements that promise increased performance and drivability.
The new GT3 uses the naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six Boxer engine from the previous generation 911 GT3 RS and Speedster, with peak power now 503bhp at 8,400rpm with 470Nm of torque available from 6,100rpm.
The engine features a host of enhancements, many of which have come directly from motorsport. Six individual throttle valves are used in addition to the central throttle, meaning each cylinder has its own valve for optimal air supply, located much closer to the combustion chamber for improved responsiveness. This means the 0-62mph sprint is seen off in just 3.4 seconds with PDK transmission, en route to a top speed of 198mph.
Weight saving and improved aerodynamics are also in evidence, with aluminium, carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) bodywork and lightweight glass pegging back the new car’s kerb weight. Far greater downforce than the previous GT3 has also been achieved thanks to a heavily revised aerodynamic package that includes a larger rear wing. Used in conjunction with the adjustable front diffuser, downforce can be increased by around 150%.
The 992 GT3’s chassis benefits from double-wishbone front axle, which in combination with Porsche Active Suspension Management and rear axle steering with a GT-specific set-up, offers greater steering sensitivity. Further chassis developments include rose-jointing, integrated helper springs on the rear axle and full adjustment for track use, including toe, camber, and stabilisers.
Cars will come as standard with the previous generation seven-speed PDK unit, chosen over the eight-speed option currently fitted to the 992 Carrera because it saves around 20kg. But a six-speed manual gearbox will also be offered from launch, equipped with a mechanical rather than electronic rear differential and fitted with the ‘AUTO BLIP’ rev-matching function.
The cockpit of the GT3 features hard-wearing, motorsport-inspired ‘Race-Tex trim, appearing prominently on the centres of the electric Sports seats Plus, gearshift gaiters of both PDK and manual cars and standard multifunction sports steering wheel. Customers will also benefit from new a button to reduce the digital displays on either side of the central rev counter to performance-specific information such as tyre and oil pressure, oil and water temperature and fuel level. The display also includes a visual shift assistant, with coloured bars to the left and right of the rev counter and a shift light.
Extensive individualisation will be offered for the new GT3 via Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, with GT3-specific options such as a lightweight roof made of exposed carbon fibre, exterior mirror tops made of carbon, darkened LED matrix main headlights.