Porsche has made the GT3 more purist-friendly
Porsche is giving a major update to the 911 GT3, as the 3.8-liter engine gets replaced by a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat six unit.
Virtually unchanged from the latest 911 GT3 Cup racing car, the engine delivers 493 hp (500 PS) and 458 Nm (338 lb-ft) of torque for "motorsport-like performance," as Porsche puts it. It's offered as standard with a seven-speed PDK double-clutch automatic especially-tuned for the GT3, but the good news for hardcore Porsche fans is that a six-speed manual transmission is available as an option.
With the PDK, the 911 GT3 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 318 km/h (198 mph). The model with the manual transmission (similar to that of the 911 R) posts a 0-100 km/h time of 3.9 seconds and tops out at 320 km/h (199 mph).
The PDK-equipped 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 tips the scales at 1,430 kg (3,153 lb) with a full fuel tank, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 2.86 kg/PS.
To cope with the increase in performance, the new 911 GT3 features a redesigned chassis with a 25 mm lower ride height than the 911 Carrera S and rear-axle steering.
Styling-wise, the 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 will be easy to recognize thanks to the massive carbon rear wing, optimized front end and spoiler, as well as a new rear diffuser and exhaust air openings.
Compared to a regular 911, the interior ditches the rear seats and gains a 918 Spyder-sourced GT sports steering wheel, Porsche Sports seats Plus with enhanced seat side bolsters, and the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment system which includes navigation, Connect Plus module, and the Track Precision app.
Available to order now, the refreshed Porsche 911 GT3 will arrive in Germany in mid-June, with a starting price of €152,416 (including VAT).