The Porsche 911 GT3, first released in 1999, is a high-performance sports car known for its blend of racing heritage and everyday practicality. Now, it is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and to commemorate this milestone, Porsche is relaunching the 911 GT3 and introducing two new versions: a track-focused sports car with a rear wing, and a more understated version with a Touring package. Both versions offer a wide range of customisable options with the Weissach package, allowing owners to tailor their vehicles to their specific preferences and driving needs. The new models will be even more lightweight, with a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre boxer engine with 375kW (510 PS) and 450 Nm.
Style and Design
The new 911 GT3 models boast a revamped design with a more aggressive front and rear, featuring aerodynamic enhancements like a redesigned diffuser and spoiler lip. The reconfigured Matrix LED headlights, now with an optional white accent ring, not only provide optimal lighting but also contribute to the car’s sleek appearance. To improve performance and handling, Porsche has implemented a number of engineering upgrades. The suspension engineers have reduced pitching (anti-dive) to maintain optimal downforce balance. The double-wishbone front axle features teardrop-shaped trailing arms for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency and brake cooling. The 911 GT3 also comes standard with high-performance sports tyres, with the option of track-focused tyres.
The new 911 GT3 is designed to be significantly more lightweight than its predecessor. The use of lightweight aluminium wheels and a new 40 Ah lithium-ion lightweight battery contributes to the agile performance of the automobile. Additionally, there is the option of magnesium wheels with the Weissach package or the Leichtbau (lightweight) package.
911 GT3 Touring
For the first time, Porsche releases the Touring package right at the market launch for the 911 GT3 model. The “911 GT3 Touring” logo is placed on the rear lid grille, causing it to stand out. Without the fixed wing, the vehicle maintains a more refined look, highlighting its sleek lines. The car boasts impressive aerodynamic performance thanks to its extendable rear spoiler with a tear-off edge as well as other aerodynamic elements. Inside, the Touring package offers a luxurious leather interior and a sporty ambiance. Additionally, for the first time, a rear seat system is available as an option, making the 911 GT3 even more versatile for everyday driving and enjoyment on winding roads.
”Particularly on winding country roads, you can clearly feel that the steering is even better tuned than its predecessor. It instills even greater confidence in the car because it responds more calmly from the centre position without losing any of its directness. The shorter gear ratio also significantly enhances driving pleasure on country roads.
Walter Röhrl, Porsche brand ambassador.
Shorter Gear Ratio
The 911 GT3’s 4.0-litre naturally aspirated engine has been upgraded to meet stricter emissions standards while maintaining its exhilarating sound – with two particulate filters and four catalytic converters. The engine power of the six-cylinder boxer engine has also been enhanced through numerous modifications such as revised cylinder heads and camshaft, which results in improved performance at higher speed.
With a power output of 375 kW (510 PS), the engine boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio, making the car incredibly responsive. Both the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and the 6-speed GT manual transmission have an eight-percent shorter final drive ratio than their previous models. The PDK allows for a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds and can reach a top speed of 311 km/h. With the manual transmission, the acceleration time is 3.9 seconds with a 313 km/h top speed. Both of these gearbox options are available for either the 911 GT3 or 911 GT3 Touring.
”On the track, the new 911 GT3 enables even better control because it holds even steadier and handles better on bumps and when driving over kerbs thanks to the optimised damper tuning. The anti-dive system noticeably reduces the pitching movement when braking. As a result, the balance of the car remains significantly more consistent under all conditions.
Jörg Bergmeister, Brand Ambassador.
Optional Lightweight Sports Bucket Seat
The new 911 GT3 offers an optional lightweight sports bucket seat with a folding backrest, and the seat shell is made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). This seat includes an integrated thorax airbag, adjustable height and length, and an optional three-stage seat heater. During circuit use, a part of the headrest padding is removable for drivers wearing helmets. The folding backrest provides access to the optional rear seat system available for the first time in the Touring package. Alternatively, the Adaptive Sports Seats Plus with electric 18-way adjustment can be ordered as well.
The new 911 GT3’s interior features a black two-seater cockpit – based on the design of current 911 models – with a rotary ignition switch instead of a push-button start. The digital instrument panel is clear, and the contrasting colour scheme of the rev counter and stopwatch allows for a quick and easy read for the driver. Then there is the “Track Screen” mode that simplifies the display to focus on important data such as tyres, oil, water, and fuel, and it even indicates the optimal shifting time. If the drivers wish, the tachometer can also be rotated to position the 9,000 rpm cut-off speed at the 12 o’clock marking.
Equipment Packages
The new 911 GT3 offers several equipment packages. The Weissach package is highly customisable, and suitable for efficient use on circuits. It includes lightweight CRFP components, as well as leather and Race-Tex upholstery for an improved appearance of the interior. As for the 911 GT3 Touring, Porsche provides the Lightweight Package. This package is also equipped with numerous components made of CRFP. And the package’s indication is placed in front of the gear lever, on a plaque inscribed with the word “Leichtbau”. Then, for the 911 GT3 with a rear wing, there is the Clubsport package – which is for track use and is offered at no extra charge. This package includes a roll cage, a 6-point harness, and a fire extinguisher. Though, to be eligible for this package, one would need to get the optional lightweight sports bucket seats.
”The new 911 GT3 has become even more exhilarating and individual. We dug into a wealth of details and gave it many features that our customers wanted. This allows the GT3 to be adapted even more specifically to the purpose or preferences of the driver.
Andreas Preuninger, Head of GT Cars.
Sports Car For The Wrist
Crafted by Porsche Design is a remarkable timepiece that is designed to be a “sports car for the wrist”. Exclusive for the 911 GT3 and the 911 GT3 Touring owners only, are the 911 GT3 chronograph and the 911 GT3 Touring chronograph. These chronographs are highly precise, donning the COSC-certified Porsche Design WERK 01.200 movement, and they are equipped with a flyback function – making it a fitting watch to complement the 911 GT3 sports car. The dial is coloured with yellow accents, reflecting the car’s instrument panel, and the winding rotor takes inspiration from the vehicle’s rims. To top it off, the band is made with the same leather and thread used in a Porsche car’s interior.
For more information, visit Porsche’s website.
