The latest addition to the revised Porsche 911 model series is the GT3 that has been revealed ahead of its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 3, 2009. Aside from the cosmetic changes that include the redesigned front and rear-end, Porsche has enhanced the 911 GT3's performance and driving dynamics. The GT3 now sports a naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer producing 435HP, up 20HP over its predecessor. This was achieved from an increase in engine capacity by 200 cc to 3.8-liters and from improved cylinder head gas flow as now not only the intake, but for the first time also the exhaust camshafts, are adjusted by VarioCam.
The rear-wheel drive 2010 GT3 accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.1 seconds and reaches 99 mph (160 km/h) in 8.2 seconds while its top speed is 312 km/h or 194 mph.
To further improve the car's driving dynamics, the German firm's engineers fitted the 911 GT3 with a sportier variant of Porsche Stability Management (PSM) that offers the facility to deactivate both Stability Control (SC) and Traction Control (TC) in separate steps. To the delight of purists, these functions are not reactivated automatically even under the most extreme driving conditions.
Other modifications include the stiffer springs and anti-roll bars, the new lighter wheels, the brakes that now feature larger friction discs and an aluminum cover to further reduce un-sprung weight, the availability of the optional Porsche Active Drivetrain Mount (PADM) engine mountings and the optional lift system for the front axle which increases the ground clearance of the car by 30 millimetres (approx 1.2 inches) at the touch of a button.
The base price of the new GT3 is Europe is €98,100. In Germany the retail price including value-added tax and specific national features is €116,947. As for the U.S., the GT3 will hit dealership in October at a price of $112,200 (MSRP without taxes).
