Next GT3 In From Cold

Come rain or shine - and even snow - nothing will stop Porsche's test team from forging ahead with the development of what promises to be one of the finest driver's cars ever produced.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Chris Thorp

02nd February 2005

An exclusive image in this week's mag shows an engineer behind the wheel of the next 911 GT3, which will soon form part of the 997-generation model line-up. Although there has been no official confirmation, the newcomer could be unveiled for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

Now that the entry-level Carrera and Carrera S models are well established, the next step is to introduce the standard Turbo variant, as well as four-wheel-drive editions. Only then will the hardcore, naturally aspirated GT3 arrive - probably before the end of the year - with a turbocharged GT2 due in 2006. The GT3 will be powered by a tuned version of the Carrera S's 3.8-litre flat six-cylinder engine, with the output increased from 355bhp to 400bhp. Power will be fed to the rear wheels via a modified six-speed manual gearbox. To help the hot track-day model cope with the extra performance, Porsche will include stiffer suspension and uprated brakes.

The prototype seen in this week's mag is fitted with large yellow calipers, hinting at the immense stopping power. For those who want the ultimate 911, it's thought that a new GT3 RS variant will also be produced. As enthusiasts would expect, the RS will be offered only in white, with a limited choice of colours for the traditional decals on the doors.