P
orsche has unveiled its 911 GT3 two-seater sports coupe: its aspirated engine with a specific output of 115hp/litre and its active chassis make it the more racy model in the 911 range.
According to Porsche, in the 911 range the GT3 version stands for "pure, unadulterated driving pleasure". An ambitious definition that is fully deserved thanks to its 415hp (305 kW) 3.6 liters flat-twin engine, with a stunning specific output of 115.3 hp/litre - a record for a series production aspirated engine.
Compared with its predecessor, the engine features variable a new intake system with a throttle valve enlarged from 76 to 82 millimetres, optimised cylinder heads and an exhaust system with low backpressure.
This allows for an engine speed limit of 8,400 rpm, while the nominal output is reached at 7,600 rpm.
The GT3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 4.3 seconds, and reaches 160 km/h (100mph) from a standing start in 8.7 seconds. Its top speed is 310 km/h (194mph).
The new 911 GT3 boasts an active chassis for the first time. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) offers two sporty chassis in one: the basic configuration is largely similar to that of the previous model and is suitable for driving on alternating road surfaces. In sport mode, the system switches to harder damping, thereby enabling better dynamism on the racetrack.
Other notable technical features are the revised six-speed transmission, equipped with a change-up display, which lights up on the rev counter shortly before the relevant engine speed is reached and provides an additional signal at the best time to change gear, the mechanical limited slip differential and the new electronic Traction Control – adapted from the Carrera GT high-performance sports car: it features traction-slip and drag-torque control functions, and can be switched off completely if required.
