Geneva Motor Show - When Porsche says the 911 GT3 gives you an unfiltered driving experience, it’s not kidding.
The latest version of the 911 has virtually the same high-revving 368kW four-litre flat four as the 911 GT3 Cup racer, was developed on the same test track and is built on the same production line.
Almost everything that isn’t dedicated to making the car go faster has been ditched; and it weighs in just 1430kg with a full tank, giving it a power-to-weight ratio of 257kW per ton. With the standard issue, specially-tuned seven-speed double-clutch transmission, Porsche claims a 0-100 sprint time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 318km/h.
With the optional six-speed manual ‘box, terminal velocity is up to 320km/h but 0-100 takes an extra half a second.
The GT3 sits about 25 mm lower than the 911 Carrera S, and comes standard with active rear-wheel steering, dynamic engine mountings and a rear differential lock.
Looking the part
You can’t ignore the big carbon-fibre rear wing, but less obvious are the simplified, more aerodynamic, lightweight front treatment and the rear valance with exhaust air openings and special diffuser.
The 360mm GT sports steering wheel comes straight out of the 918 Spyder, while driver and passenger (there are no rear seats) are firmly held by sports seats with deep side bolsters and mechanical fore/aft adjustment; seat height and backrests are power-adjusted.
There are three optional seat choices: adaptive sports seats with 18-way electric adjustment, sports bucket seats with folding backrest, built-in thorax airbag and manual adjustment, and full bucket seats with carbon-fibre shells.
Track Precision app as standard
In addition to an online navigation module with real-time traffic information, standard equipment also includes the Track Precision app, enabling you to display, record and analyse detailed driving data on your smartphone.
The 911 GT3 is available to order now; it'll be launched in South Africa from mid-September, with a three-year Drive Plan price of R2 750 000.