Thursday 13th June 2013

Chris Harris video: Porsche 911 GT3

Chris Harris is among the first in the world to drive the new 911 GT3 - see the vid here

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The arguments and counter-arguments over the specification of this car will rage for years to come. It is a fact that in making the new GT3 PDK-only, and giving it rear-wheel steering, Porsche has made the car heavier than perhaps it might have been.

But the 991 is a big car, and yet it weighs nearly 250kg less than a Jaguar F-Type. Isn't that actually quite impressive? Make that very impressive.

Get over it says Harris; here's why we need to

The PDK gearbox is 20kg heavier than the 991's seven-speed manual, which itself is 20kg heavier than the old two-shaft manual from the previous GT3. But the new engine is 25kg lighter than before and, without the PDK as a power source, the rear-wheel steering would need an auxiliary unit, which would add at least 6kg. In other words, the weight penalty isn't so bad. And that's before you consider the profound improvements this new system has wrought on the road.

Anyhow, the debate will continue - too heavy, wrong gearbox, cop-out of an engine specification. Strange how none of this even enters your head when the car is fully-lit with its hips beginning to rotate. You just think you're driving one of the best sports cars ever made: nothing suppresses the philosophical discussion surrounding paddles and sticks like a flat-six at 8,900rpm.

Enjoy the vid - it's a home movie, but it's the first chance to see the GT3 in action outside of Porsche's hands.

[midtec]

Awesome !!!!

I want one

[midtec]

Just checked the price here in the US and it is $131k for the base car. £86k sterling at todays exchange rate. Looks like a positive bargain !!! Now I am just going to look down the back of the sofa for the odd $130k I am short on the asking price.

[midtec]

Fair point.

You just spoiled my day.... I had just found $130k down the back of the sofa, now I have to go and find another 8% or whatever it is

Stu R said:

Never wanted another Porsche more than I want this. 7.2 GT3RS has been firmly at the top of my must have list since it's release. This I think replaces it.

I really, really need a GT3, any of them will do.

Can't say I give a hoot about the lack of a manual box. Much as I love them, this seems to be in another league.

midtec said:

Just checked the price here in the US and it is $131k for the base car. £86k sterling at todays exchange rate. Looks like a positive bargain !!! Now I am just going to look down the back of the sofa for the odd $130k I am short on the asking price.

Plus tax!