Porsche 911 GT3
The 2007 911 GT3 is the most powerful normally aspirated 911 in history. The $106,000 GT3's 3.6-liter flat-six makes 415 hp at 7,600 rpm and revs to 8,400. This track-focused 911 has shorter gearing than its predecessor and quicker acceleration — 0-60 mph flies by in 4.1 seconds, 0-100 in 8.7. Top speed is 193 mph.
Sitting beneath that spoiler is an incredible iteration of the flat-six engine using nothing more than natural aspiration and high revs to achieve a phenomenal power output of 415bhp.
The new GT3 uses Porsche's PASM adaptive damper system to provide two suspension settings, one of which is similar to the previous GT3's (which was already borderline intolerable) and the other even firmer, for track activities or those who live far from Michigan's pockmarked roads. Our kidneys are braced in eager anticipation of the GT3's U.S. launch in August.
To take advantage of the extended-rev characteristics of the engine, the 2007 911 GT3 features a revised six-speed manual transmission, with lower gear ratios for 2nd through 6th, as well as shortened shift-lever throws. A new change-up display, which illuminates the tachometer shortly before the relevant engine speed is reached, provides GT3 pilots with an additional signal to optimize shift timing.
For the best possible transmission of engine power to the road, the GT3 is equipped with a comprehensive traction package, including new electronic Traction Control adapted from the Carrera GT, standard-equipment 19-inch sports tires, and a mechanical limited-slip differential.
The combination of a more powerful, higher-revving engine and shortened gear ratios produces impressive acceleration figures, allowing the 2007 911 GT3 to reach 60 mph from a standstill in 4.1 seconds, and 100 mph from a standing start in 8.7 seconds. The top test-track speed of the new 911 GT3 is 193 mph.
| Porsche 911 GT3 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | 106,000 $ | |
| Power | 415 BHP | |
| Zero to 60 mph | 4.1 s | |
| Zero to 100 mph | N/A | |
| Top speed | 193 mph (310 km/h) | |
Serving as the homologation basis for Porsche's 911 GT3 RSR racecar, the 911 GT3 provides enthusiasts with an uncompromising road car that can easily transition to weekend track-day outings. In addition to its high-revving characteristics, the Porsche GT3 engine's performance has been fortified by careful attention to airflow rates. Changes to the variable intake system include a throttle valve enlarged from 76 to 82 millimeters, optimized cylinder heads, and a low-backpressure exhaust system. The 415-horsepower, 3.6-liter flat-Six engine produces a specific output of 115.3 horsepower-per-liter, among the highest of any naturally aspirated production car. The Boxer engine's power peak is reached at 7,600 rpm, on the way to an 8,400 rpm redline -- 200 rpm beyond the previous GT3 model.
| Porsche official website |
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