The latest generation Porsche 911 GT3. It’s fair to say that we’ve been itching for the GT3 version of the ‘991’-generation 911 ever since we first drove the Carrera in 2011. In large part, this is down to the anticipation of a new version of the iconic performance Porsche. But it’s fair to say that we were also keen to know whether the 911 GT3 could offer a more intimate driving experience than the sometimes aloof-feeling…
The latest generation Porsche 911 GT3. It’s fair to say that we’ve been itching for the GT3 version of the ‘991’-generation 911 ever since we first drove the Carrera in 2011. In large part, this is down to the anticipation of a new version of the iconic performance Porsche. But it’s fair to say that we were also keen to know whether the 911 GT3 could offer a more intimate driving experience than the sometimes aloof-feeling standard car.
No shortage of these. Let’s start with the engine, a new direct injection 3.8-litre flat six that produces 468bhp at 8250rpm, and revs out at a dizzying 9000rpm. In an era when every rival manufacturer seems to be rushing to forced induction, it’s a remarkable confirmation of Porsche’s continued commitment to both natural aspiration, and producing power through revs. Performance is suitably punchy, 0-60 taking 3.5sec and its top speed just a whisker below the magic 200, at 196mph. Proper supercar stuff.
More controversial is the decision to only offer the GT3 with a clutchless gearchange, with Porsche’s seven-speed PDK gearbox coming as standard as the only transmission choice. That makes it the first two-pedal GT or RS Porsche road car. The overall gearbox ratios have been reduced compared to those in the standard 911, meaning that the GT3 reaches its top speed in seventh gear rather than sixth. The gearbox also features a strange ‘paddle neutral’ function – which we’ll probably end up just calling Hooligan Mode. When both gear shift paddles are pulled together the gearbox will disengage both of its clutches, letting go effectively ‘dumping’ whichever clutch controls the appropriate gear. It serves as a basic form of launch control, but can also be used on the move, enabling the GT3 to be ‘popped’ into power oversteer at low speeds.