New GT3 unveiled tomorrow
Porsche lifts lid on highest-revving 911
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In addition to the 911 Turbo, Porsche will unveil the new track-oriented GT3 at the Geneva Motor Show tomorrow. The coupé will go on sale in Europe in May 2006 and in the UK on 26 August 2006.
Engine and transmission
Output from the high-revving, normally aspirated 3.6-litre flat-six is higher than the 355bhp of the 3.8-litre Carrera S -- it's 415bhp, compared to the Turbo's 480bhp at 6,000rpm. Specific output is a meaty 115.3bhp/litre, with max power arriving at 7,600 rpm; the 8,400 rpm red line is 200 rpm higher than the previous model’s.
The GT3’s improved output results from higher airflow, made possible by the variable intake system with a throttle valve enlarged from 76 to 82 millimetres, optimised cylinder heads and an exhaust system with reduced back-pressure.
The revised six-speed, short-throw ‘box uses lower ratios for second through to sixth for better performance off the line. New for the GT3 is a change-up display, which lights up on the rev counter shortly before the relevant engine speed is reached. It also signals the best time to change gear.
The upshot of Porsche’s tweaks to its flagship rocket is a figure of 0 to 62mph in 4.3 seconds, and 100mph in just 8.7 seconds. Top speed is 194mph.
Chassis
The new 911 GT3 boasts an active chassis for the first time. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) offers a basic configuration, similar to today’s model, that Stuttgart describes as “suitable for driving on alternating road surfaces”. Sport mode switches to harder damping for track work.
The GT3 includes 19-inch wheels as standard and a mechanical limited slip differential. In addition, the new electronic Traction Control – adapted from the Carrera GT high-performance sports car – ensures safe traction under any driving conditions. It features traction-slip and drag-torque control functions, and can be switched off completely if required.
In the UK, you can park a GT3 on your driveway for a mere £79,540. Given what you get, that has to be a bargain.
We'll be reviewing it just as soon as Stuttgart lets us get our hands on one...
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