Skip advert
Advertisement

Porsche 911 GT3 R race car unveiled

Lighter, faster and more efficient Porsche 911 GT3 R revealed at the Nurburgring

A lighter, faster and more economical Porsche 911 race car has been revealed at the Nurburgring, ahead of the gruelling 24-hour race this weekend.

Based on the new 911 GT3 RS, the track-ready 911 GT3 R has been created with a focus on lightweight design, aerodynamic efficiency and improved handling. Porsche says it has further optimised safety, as well as lowering the GT3 R’s service and repair costs.

Featuring the distinctive double-bubble roof, the R has a wheelbase extended by 83mm over its predecessor. The result is a more even weight distribution and more predictable handling.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Fastest cars around the Nurburgring 

The GT3 R uses an adapted version of the GT3 RS’s rear-mounted 4.0-litre flat-six to develop more than 500bhp. Porsche says the omission of a turbocharger offers “significantly better drivability and a broader useable rev range.”

Power is sent to the rear wheels via a sequential six-speed constant-mesh gearbox, controlled via a pair of steering wheel mounted paddles. All cars also get a mechanical limited slip differential.

In terms of aerodynamics, the GT3 R gets a huge, two-metre rear wing and distinctive wheel arch air vents. Engineers have repositioned the radiator for a better centre of gravity, while also improving cooling via louvres in the front.

The brakes have been overhauled, too, with six-piston aluminium monobloc callipers and 380mm ventilated discs at the front. At the rear, all cars get four-piston calliprers with slightly smaller 372mm discs.

But the changes don’t stop there. The GT3 R is safer than the car it replaces, thanks to a reinforced safety cell, fuel cut-off valve and more protective seats. The escape hatch in the roof has been made larger too, while both the doors and side windows can be removed in the event of an accident.

The GT3 R is available to order now, priced at €429,000 (around £310,000). First deliveries are expected from December 2015.

Read the latest Porsche car reviews...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Deputy editor

Richard has been part of the team for over a decade. During this time he has covered a huge amount of news and reviews for Auto Express, as well as being the face of Carbuyer and DrivingElectric on Youtube. In his current role as deputy editor, he is now responsible for keeping our content flowing and managing our team of talented writers.

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

New Porsche 911 Carrera 2024 review: engaging and fast even without hybrid help
Porsche 911 Carrera - front

New Porsche 911 Carrera 2024 review: engaging and fast even without hybrid help

The Porsche 911 Carrera is the base model in the line-up, but it's still a sensational sports car
Road tests
20 Nov 2024

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price
BMW X7 - front

Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price

German firm’s flagship SUV could never be called cheap but it is exceptional value at £735 a month – making it our Deal of the Day for Sunday 27 April
News
27 Apr 2025
New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645
Kia PV5 Cargo on display at Commercial Vehicle Show - front 3/4

New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645

All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles
News
30 Apr 2025