Racing in your blood? Here is your steed

Porsche India has launched the first 911 GT3 in the country. Pumped with more power, more precision and a lightweight construction, this radical two-seater can deliver the perfect sportscar experience on the racetrack and the road.

Equipped with a redesigned chassis featuring rear-axle steering, the new model is said to benefit from Porsche’s motorsport heritage and is built on the same production line as other thoroughbred racing cars.

Visually, the 911 GT3 leaves no doubt about its sports car credentials. The carbon rear wing stands 20 mm higher in the airflow than previous iterations, generating larger downforce. Large air intakes and outlets in the front, bonnet and rear end are a testament to the car’s fine-tuned motorsport aerodynamics. The new two-seater also sits around 25 mm lower than the 911 Carrera S.

The 911 GT3’s 500 hp four-litre flat engine is a carbon version of the one found in the 911 GT3 Cup, and produces 460 Nm of torque. An official Porsche statement mentions that with the standard seven-speed double-clutch transmission (PDK), the model reaches 100 kmph in 3.4 seconds, and a top speed of 318 kmph. Motorsport purists can opt for a lighter six-speed manual transmission at no extra cost. Aerodynamics and weight are the two factors that dominated the changes in the 911 GT3 body. The Porsche statement mentions that the front and rear ends have been optimised and are constructed mainly from polyurethane, in order to reduce weight.

The new rear lid, rear wing, and wing supports are made from carbon. The new 911 GT3 weighs in at only 1,430 kg with a full fuel tank, or 15 kg less when equipped with the manual transmission, combined with the mechanically-controlled differential lock.

In keeping with its racing DNA, the interior features a GT sports steering wheel, which originates from the 918 Spyder. Porsche says that the standard Sports seats Plus with enhanced seat side bolsters can be exchanged with three other optional seat variants; including full bucket seats made from light carbon fibre-reinforced plastic in a carbon-weave finish.

In addition to Porsche Communication Management (PCM), standard equipment also includes the Connect Plus Module and the Track Precision app, enabling all 911 GT3 drivers to display, record and analyse detailed driving data on their smartphone.

For buyers worried about driving the 911 GT3 on regular Indian roads, Porsche says that it can be ordered with an optional pneumatic lift system on the front axle, which lifts the front by around 30 mm. This is possible at speeds of up to 50 kmph.

An optional Clubsport package, including roll cage, a red six-point seat belt for the driver and a fire extinguisher, is also available for more regular racetrack driving and safety. The 911 GT3 model is now available at all Porsche Centres across the country with a basic retail price of ₹2.31 crore.

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