2004 Ferrari Challenge Stradale vs. 2004 Porsche GT3 Porsche Powertrain, Suspension & Brakes

We've covered the specs and techs of the Challenge Stradale and GT3 in detail (the Ferrari in August 2003, the Porsche in July 2003), but a quick refresher is in order.

Even though Porsche has named its naturally aspirated, supermodel 911 the GT3, it follows the philosophy set over the years by the designation "RS": Strip away nonessentials, uprate the suspension, and, when possible, add power. The GT3 is based on the structurally stiffer Carrera 4 platform, although it's offered only in rear-drive form. You'll spot it by its Porsche Supercup racer front fascia, high fixed rear wing, revised rocker panels, lowered ride height, and 18-inch rolling stock.

Porsche engineers worked hard to make the GT3's 3.6-liter flat-six something special, and special it is. Reciprocating mass was reduced in the name of quicker and higher revs. A revised VarioCam system offers a wider range of valve-timing adjustments, and the engine-management programming, two-stage resonance intake, exhaust system, clutch, and gear ratios all get worked over. Dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars are firmed up considerably, with the last two being adjustable.

Brake upgrades include the swap to six-piston calipers up front, and Porsche's Ceramic Composite Brake system is optional, although it wasn't fitted to our tester. The resulting 380-horsepower GT3 weighs in at 3043 pounds. That gives it a weight-to-power ratio of 8.0:1, compared with the standard Carrera coupe's 9.4, although the GT3 is actually around 80 pounds heavier, due to the more robust platform and large tires.