The 911 GT3 with Touring Package was unveiled yesterday at the 67th International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany. Available exclusively with a manual six-speed gearbox, the new no-cost option extends the choice of models available to the 911 enthusiast, perhaps further highlighting the popularity of the manual gearbox in the pure-bred 911.
The fixed rear wing is replaced by an automatic extending rear spoiler with an airflow ‘tear-off edge’ to aerodynamically balance the car. The 4.0-litre naturally aspirated engine develops 500bhp (368kW) and 460Nm of pulling power, and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 196mph.
The Touring Package option harks back to an equipment variant of the 911 Carrera RS from the 1973 model year. Back then, the pure 911 design and classic interior features were a key element of the model, but the new 911 GT3 with Touring Package simply modernises this concept. Aside from the Clubsport Package and Alcantara interior equipment ranges, virtually all 911 GT3 options are also available in combination with the Touring Package. These include features such as all exterior and wheel colours, PCCB ceramic brakes, front axle lift system, LED headlights, all seat variants, the Chrono Package and audio systems.
High-performance sports car
With the exception of the rear, the body of the GT3 remains unchanged in this new variant which includes large air intake feature in the specially designed nose, together with the air outlet located at the front of the luggage compartment lid. Twenty-inch diameter forged alloy wheels with centre locking nuts emphasise the sportiness of the model. On the front axle, 245/35 ZR 20 tyres are fitted on 9-inch wide wheels, while at the rear 305/30 ZR 20 tyres ride on 12-inch wheel rims. The body of the 911 GT3 model is 44mm wider across the wheel arches than the 911 Carrera, and the suspension has been lowered by an additional 25mm compared to the 911 Carrera, further emphasising the width of the car.
Aerodynamics
The blade of the extending rear spoiler from the series-production 911 is equipped with a bespoke aerodynamic lip or ‘tear-off edge’ (so-called ‘Gurney flap’) in body colour. The specially designed rear engine lid grille bears the ‘GT3 touring’ logo.
Mechanicals
The powertrain and chassis are identical on all 911 GT3 vehicles with manual transmission, including those with the Touring Package. The rear-mounted, naturally aspirated flat-six, 4.0-litre engine is shared directly with the 911 RSR and 911 GT3 Cup racing cars. The engine is characterised by its high-revving capabilities, revving up to 9000rpm.
The ‘Sport’ button on the centre console delivers dynamic shift processes from faster synchronisation of the gears. The GT sports manual transmission transfers the power to a mechanical rear limited slip differential with automatic braking (Porsche Torque Vectoring, or PTV). The Touring Package is not available with PDK transmission.
Chassis
The chassis of the 911 GT3 is built on many years of motorsport experience, and boasts superior handling characteristics, thanks predominantly to the active rear-axle steering. Depending on the speed, it steers either in the opposite or the same direction as the front wheels, thereby improving vehicle agility and stability. The size of the tyres on both axles is such that the front wheels optimally transmit steering and brake forces, while the rear wheels provide drive and traction.
Interior
The feel of a classic sports car with manual transmission is the epitome of sporting driving. In line with the character of a pure GT car, fine leather is prevalent rather than Alcantara. The steering wheel rim with twelve o’clock marker, shift lever, door panel armrests, centre console storage compartment lid and interior door handles are each trimmed in smooth-finish leather. The seat centres are black fabric.
Porsche Track Precision app as standard
In addition to Porsche Communication Management (PCM) including an online navigation module with real-time traffic information, the standard equipment of every 911 GT3 also includes the Connect Plus module and the Porsche Track Precision app. This app enables the driver to display, record and analyse detailed driving data on their smartphone.
The Touring Package option is available to order now at no extra cost. The 911 GT3 with the Touring package costs – like the 911 GT3 – £111,802 RRP including VAT in the UK.
Edited by: Glen Smale
Images by: Porsche
