The new Porsche 911 GT3 will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 3, 2009. It's the latest evolution of the iconic sportscar, embodying the essence of more than 23000 Porsche racing victories.
In developing the second-generation of the Type-997 911 GT3 into the most sporting and dynamic road-going 911 ever, with a naturally-aspirated power unit, Porsche has applied a wide range of know-how gained in motorsport. Indeed, this is precisely why the new GT3 is truly impressive not only on the road, but also on the track.
The 911 GT3 offers an even higher standard in two key areas: performance and driving dynamics. The proven six cylinder naturally aspirated power unit now develops a maximum output of 435hp - up 20hp over its predecessor. This results first and foremost from an increase in engine capacity by 200cc to 3.8 liters, and from improved cylinder head gasflow: now, not only the intake cams are adjusted by VarioCam, but for the first time also the exhaust camshafts.
A further important point is that, through its upgraded power and performance, the flat six 'boxer' engine also offers a significant increase in torque at medium engine speeds, a benefit of particular significance in everyday motoring. Clearly, this also means a further improvement in performance; the new GT3 accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.1sec and reaches 99mph in 8.2sec. Top speed is 194mph.
The second emphasis in developing the 911 GT3 to an even higher standard was to further improve the car's driving dynamics. For the first time, the 911 GT3 comes with a particularly sporting variant of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), offering the facility to de-activate both Stability Control and Traction Control in separate steps. And to give the driver unrestricted, individual control over the dynamics of his car, these functions are not re-activated automatically, even under the most extreme driving conditions, but only at the touch of a button.
The new GT3 offers increased grip and stability at high speeds, courtesy of specific modifications to the car's aerodynamics which have increased downforce front and rear to such an extent that the overall air pressure pushing down on the car is more than twice as great as the former model.
At the same time, the new 'Aerodynamics Package' gives the GT3 a distinctive appearance, which is further accentuated by new Bi-Xenon headlights, LED rear light clusters, as well as modified air intakes and outlets.
The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) fitted to the 911 GT3 has enabled Porsche engineers to make the springs and anti-roll bars stiffer, thus ensuring more precise handling in the PASM 'sports' mode. However, the PASM ensures appropriate ride comfort suitable for everyday use when in the 'normal' mode.
The GT3 rides on new, lighter wheels in a racing-inspired design - with a center locking nut - fitted with ultra-high performance (UHP) tires. Tire pressure monitoring is fitted as standard.