Porsche Reveails New 911 GT3
December 20, 2002
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Although long rumored, Porsche has officially revealed plans to introduce an ultra-high-performance version of its 911 Carrera Coupe sports car to the world market in the spring of 2003. The new model, named the 911 GT3, represents the most powerful non-turbocharged Porsche ever offered for street use in the United States and Canada.
Based on the previous 911 GT3 that was not available in North America, the 2003 Porsche 911 GT3 features a 3.6-liter, flat-six cylinder engine producing 380 horsepower (SAE) and 285 pound-feet of torque. With a power output of an impressive 105 horsepower per liter, the engine propels the 911 GT3 from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.3 seconds, from 0 to 100 mph in 9.4 seconds, and to a top track speed of 190 mph. To handle this increased performance, the 911 GT3's transmission is fitted with transmission oil cooling and injection oil lubrication and has undergone some additional reinforcements. The most striking visual feature of the new 911 GT3 is its unique rear wing that is largely responsible for excellent directional stability at high speeds and increased downforce for fast corning. Combining a redesigned front apron, the GT3 achieves an slippery 0.30 Cd drag coefficient.
The GT3's handling is further enhanced by a sports suspension, wider and lighter wheels, and wider tires. Front wheels are 8-1/2 inches wide fitted with 235/40 ZR 18 tires, and rear wheels are 11 inches wide with 295/30 ZR 18 tires.
Brakes on the GT3 have been improved as well. Front brakes now feature six-piston, rather than the previous four-piston monobloc brake calipers and larger discs fitted with Porsche-patented cooling ducts. The ABS brake system was also modified. The new system (ABS 5.7) has a faster and more sensitive control response. It is also lightweight and provides greater stability for ABS braking. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) discs, standard on the 911 GT2, can be fitted on request.
Priced at $99,900 in the United States, the 2003 Porsche 911 GT3 will be in North American Porsche dealerships in May 2003.