Motor Shows, News

2018 Porsche 911 GT3 Makes World Première in Geneva With Manual Gearbox!

Porsche fans can finally rejoice! At the on-going 2017 Geneva Motor Show, Porsche has taken the wraps off its most hardcore machine, the new Porsche 911 GT3 that now comes with a charming 6-speed manual gearbox as an option!

Powered by the same 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six engine found in the latest 911 GT3 R and 911 RSR, the new Porsche 911 GT3 puts out a maximum output of 500hp and 460Nm of torque, mated with a 7-speed double-clutch transmission (PDK) as standard. As a result, the two-seater weighs in at 1,430 kg with a full fuel tank and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. Its boasts a top speed of 318 km/h.

On the other hand, for those who prefer to shift your own gears, the 6-speed sports manual gearbox is also available for buyers as option, and if selected, it drops the vehicle’s weight to 1,413 kg and increase the vehicle’s top speed to 320 km/h, although it is a slower 0-100km/h time than the PDK at 3.9 seconds. But we ain’t complaining!

The chassis of the new 911 GT3 has also been reworked for even better driving dynamics. The new two-seater sits around 25 mm lower than the 911 Carrera S. In addition to the further refined basic design, the chassis also boasts superior handling characteristics, thanks in large part to the active rear-axle steering. Depending on the speed, it steers either in the opposite or the same direction as the front wheels, thereby improving the vehicle’s agility and stability. The dynamic engine mounts and the rear differential lock also boost the car’s driving dynamics.

To improve the vehicle’s overall aerodynamics, the new 911 GT3 has been fitted with carbon rear wing, while the lightweight front end and front spoiler have been optimised for an even better airflow. The aerodynamic enhancement is also evident on the lightweight rear end with exhaust air openings and on the new diffuser.

Inside the cabin, the new 911 GT3 is equipped with the same GT sports steering wheel found in the 918 Spyder, while the Porsche Sports Seats Plus now comes with extra side bolsters and mechanical fore/aft adjustment. The seat height and backrests can be adjusted electronically and as the 911 GT3 is traditionally a two-seater the seat pans in the rear are covered.

Buyers can specify their seat choice with the Adaptive Sports Seats Plus that boast electrical adjustment of all seat functions (18-way). The second option is sports bucket seats with folding backrest, integrated thorax airbag and manual fore/aft adjustment. And the third variant is full bucket seats made from light carbon fibre-reinforced plastic in carbon-weave finish.

In addition to Porsche Communication Management (PCM) including an online navigation module* with real-time traffic information*, the standard equipment also includes the Connect Plus* module and the Track Precision app*. The Track Precision app enables 911 GT3 drivers to display, record and analyse detailed driving data on their smartphone.

*subject to country’s availability