What's the news?
Porsche has released details of its latest Porsche 911 GT3 R, based on the 997-generation model and ready for the 2013 race season. The new version is described as looking brawnier than before with improved aerodynamics.
Exterior
Work in the wind tunnel has resulted in reshaping the front bumper, wings, sill covers, under-body and rear diffuser. A new rear wing has been produced to take advantage of the wider body - designed to cover the wider wheels now fitted. Overall the front and rear track have increased by 50mm while the wheelbase has grown by 10mm.
Interior
As you'd expect, the interior is stripped to the bare essentials. There's a substantial racing seat, steering wheel, pedals and roll cage, but that's about it.
Mechanicals
The engine is unchanged, a 4.0-litre flat-six unit with 500hp. Drive goes through a six-speed sequential racing gearbox. Paddles on the steering wheel control the transmission through a pneumatic system designed to give smooth, fast gear changes. A throttle-blip function helps match revs when changing down. To avoid over-revving and engine damage the transmission software has been designed to make it virtually impossible to skip gears.
Porsche has modified the suspension to work with front wheels that have gone from 10.9- to 12-inches wide.
Anything else?
Customer teams wanting to upgrade older 911 GT3 Rs can purchase a conversion kit from Porsche Motorsport for around £40,000.
John Lambert - 14 Mar 2013