2005-2011(997)

The active PASM suspension of the 911 GT3 enables Porsche's engineers to make the springs and anti-rollbars somewhat stiffer yet again, thus ensuring even more precise handling in the PASM sports mode, while retaining appropriate roll comfort suitable for everyday use in the normal PASM mode. New, even lighter wheels in racing design with central locking and UHP (ultra-high performance) tyres now even featuring tyre pressure control round off the functional and visual enhancement of the GT3.

The new GT3 offers even better grip and stability also at high speeds, specific modifications of the car's aerodynamics increasing down-forces both front and rear to such an extent that the overall pressure pushing down the car is more than twice as great as on the former model. At the same time the new Aerodynamics Package gives the GT3 a brand-new look further accentuated by the new bi-xenon headlights, LED rear light clusters, as well as modified air intakes and outlets.

The new GT3 will be available with yet another option making the car even more suitable for the race track: new and highly innovative PADM (Porsche Active Drivetrain Mount) engine bearings. These special engine mounts recognise a particularly sporting, race-like style of driving, making the normally elastic engine suspension hard and particularly resistant. This retains all the motoring comfort of the GT3 in everyday traffic, while on the race track the car is not affected by any mass forces coming from the engine, as would otherwise be the case in fast bends and on winding tracks.  Yet a further advantage is the car's improved traction when accelerating from a standstill. 

All this for $112,000.

And you thought the 911 GT3 was extreme.  The legendary RS nameplate represents the ultimate in racing ability and brings back memories of special porsche models such as the 1972 Carrera RS 2.7 and 1991 911 RS.  The engine is the same as the regular GT3 featuring 415 HP and screaming to a 8400 rpm redline but thanks to a close-ratio six-speed transmission with a single-mass flywheel and 44 lbs lower vehicle weight, the engine revs up even more freely, thus enabling the 911 GT3 to sprint from zero to 62mph in 4.2 seconds. That's one tenth of a second faster than the GT3.   And it takes just 13.3 seconds to hit to 124 mph. Top speed is 187 mph.

One characteristic of the new RS is the body, which is 1.7 inch wider at the rear (a legacy from the Carrera 4 models with which it shares its shell) by comparison with the 911 GT3. The muscular-looking rear end conceals a wider track that not only improves directional stability but also increases the potential cornering grip of the two-seater coupe.

Despite its specialized body, the RS is 44 lbs lighter than the GT3, weighing in at just 3031 lbs. This weight-saving was achieved by the use, amongst other solutions, of an adjustable carbon fiber wing, the use of a plastic rear lid and a lightweight plastic rear window. As a consequence, the corresponding engine power to curb weight ratio is over 300 bhp per tone.  The GT3 RS will go on sale in both Europe and North America.

Featuring a 415 HP naturally aspirated Boxer 6, the race-bred 911 GT3 sprints from 0-60 in 4.1 seconds and reaches 193 MPH.  Its 115.3 horsepower-per-liter is among the highest production cars.  This is achieved from a high rev-limit of 8400 rpm and 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.

For the first time, the 911 GT3 boasts an active suspension. The standard Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system offers two chassis in one: the basic configuration is similar to that of the previous model and is suitable for driving on alternating road surfaces. In Sport mode, the system provides even firmer damping, enabling more focused dynamics for the racetrack.  Base price is $106,000 when it goes on sale this summer.