Bradley Iger
Initially produced to fulfill homologation guidelines for FIA competitors, the 911 GT3 has had an intrinsic connection to Porsche’s racing efforts because the mannequin debuted in 1999. With the introduction of the 992-generation GT3, the shared DNA is extra evident than ever. But Porsche has in some way managed to strike a steadiness between functionality and pragmatism, leading to a efficiency machine that may mercilessly search out apices on a monitor whereas delivering an pleasurable driving expertise exterior a curated street course.
However do not suppose for a second that the GT3 has gone gentle. Developed alongside its racing counterparts by Porsche’s GT division, the brand new automobile’s sub-3,200 lb (1,451 kg) curb weight stays nearly unchanged from its predecessor regardless of the transition to the bigger 992 platform due to a powerful give attention to lowering mass all through the automobile. A brand new exhaust system saves 22 lbs (10 kg) right here, a lithium iron phosphate battery shaves off a number of kilos there—all of it provides up. And that strategy is a recurring theme within the 992 GT3.
New adjustable aerodynamic components permit downforce to be elevated by as a lot as 150 p.c over the earlier technology GT3 (generally known as the 991.2). And in a primary for any road-going 911, the brand new GT3 adopts the 911 RSR racing automobile’s double-wishbone entrance suspension configuration to reinforce dealing with precision. In accordance with GT division boss Andreas Preuninger, the design improves contact patch stability because the suspension absorbs bumps and different imperfections within the street floor, permitting Porsche engineers to stiffen the chassis whereas retaining trip compliance. New adaptive dampers, which may react to street situations in roughly half the time, additional help that mission.
Bradley Iger
However as the only real naturally aspirated mannequin within the present 911 lineup, the engine is arguably the centerpiece of the GT3 formulation. Ostensibly an up to date model of the 4.0 L flat-six used within the 991.2 Speedster, its hovering 9,000 rpm redline is the stuff goals are made from. Peak output numbers of 502 hp (375 kW) and 346 lb-ft 469 Nm) of torque are marginal will increase over the earlier technology, however the outgoing GT3 wasn’t precisely missing for straight-line thrust. The 992 platform’s new electrical structure allowed engineers to outfit the GT3 engine with six particular person throttle our bodies for much more instant response.
That engine is paired with a seven-speed PDK automated gearbox within the GT3, and the mixture is able to rocketing the rear-drive coupe to 60 mph from a standstill in 3.2 seconds. For many who prefer to row their very own, nevertheless, a six-speed guide gearbox with automated rev-matching can also be out there as a no-cost possibility. Our tester was outfitted with the latter, and we might take into account it value the additional half-second it takes to succeed in that velocity. American Porsche consumers would appear to agree, as over 70 p.c of them opted for 3 pedals with the final technology GT3.
