Skip advert
Advertisement

2013 Porsche 911 GT3 news and pictures

Official pictures, video and details of the new 991-generation Porsche 911 GT3 as it's revealed at Geneva 2013

Full 2013 Geneva motor show round-up here

A new engine sits behind the rear axle, the famed Mezger Six of previous GT3s replaced with a 25kg-lighter direct injection 3.8-litre flat-six. It’s loosely related to the 394bhp unit in the 911 Carrera S, but is gets a dry sump and forged titanium components. It’s rated at 468bhp and 325lb ft; figures up from the 997.2 GT3’s 429bhp and 317lb ft, with peak power served 650rpm higher, at a heady 8250rpm. Top speed rises by 2mph to 196mph, while 0-62mph drops by a huge 0.7sec to 3.5sec.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Some of that drop can be attributed to perhaps the GT3’s biggest talking point, its standard seven-speed PDK twin-clutch transmission. Porsche claims similar reactions to the 911 GT3 Cup car’s, with gearchanges executed in less than 100 milliseconds. It comes with shorter gear ratios than other Porsche PDK applications, while there’s a manual declutching feature when the driver simultaneously pulls both paddles. The gearstick, when used sequentially, offers a motorsport style back-for-upshift, forward-for-downshift layout.

Another new 911 GT3 feature is rear-wheel steering. Below 30mph the rear wheels turn in the opposing direction to the front wheels, improving manoeuvrability, while above 50mph they turn in the same direction, improving stability. Porsche reckons this new technology played a big role in reducing the GT3’s Nurburgring Nordschleife laptime to below 7min30sec.

The new 911 GT3 gets an all-aluminium chassis based on the 911 Carrera’s, but rides 30mm lower. Porsche’s PASM variable dampers are standard fit, while the GT3 gets its own multi-link rear axle design. Among the other standard equipment is Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (including a locking rear differential) and 20in centre-locking alloy wheels, an inch-bigger version of the GT3 staple.

Despite a host of weight-saving measures – including a hollow subframe and aluminium exterior parts – the new GT3’s claimed DIN weight of 1430kg is 35kg heavier than its predecessor’s, the new gearbox and four-wheel steering likely contributing factors.

Order books are open now, with the new Porsche 911 GT3’s UK price pegged at £100,540. Ceramic brakes, LED headlights and the traditional Clubsport package (half roll-cage, harness seatbelts, fire extinguisher, battery cut off switch) lie on the options list. The first right-hand-drive cars will be delivered in November 2013.

Full 2013 Geneva motor show round-up here

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Porsche 911 review 2025 – Gen2 992 is the 911 for the digital age
Porsche 911 Carrera (992.2) – front
In-depth reviews

Porsche 911 review 2025 – Gen2 992 is the 911 for the digital age

The 992-generation 911 has taken time to reveal its character, but it’s evolved into a sports car with enormous breadth and ability
20 Feb 2025
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Why the Vauxhall Astra should have been given a different name
Vauxhall Astra GSE
Opinion

Why the Vauxhall Astra should have been given a different name

It’s time to reassess a perennially underrated hatchback, says Porter
17 Apr 2025
Volkswagen Passat 2025 review – a breath of fresh air next to leaden EVs
Volkswagen Passat front
Reviews

Volkswagen Passat 2025 review – a breath of fresh air next to leaden EVs

Being ‘only’ 1500kg has its advantages. The latest Passat in petrol-only form reminds us ‘normal’ cars can and should be above average
16 Apr 2025
Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 2025 review – 'N0' tyre makes Porsche GT3 RS a wet weather weapon
Michelin GT3 RS tyre
Reviews

Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 2025 review – 'N0' tyre makes Porsche GT3 RS a wet weather weapon

Michelin has developed a wet and cold weather tyre for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and it’s brilliant
23 Apr 2025