Porsche unveiled its latest GT3 racing series contender, the 911 GT3 R, at the 24 hours of Spa-Francorchamps. Based on the current 992-generation of the 911 GT3, the new GT3 R features a larger engine, a more advanced aerodynamics package as well as optimised weight balance.
- 911 GT3 R gets a 4.2-litre, flat six engine producing 585hp
- Gets KW adjustable shock absorbers, AP Racing brakes
- Will compete in 24 hours of Le Mans in 2024
The new Porsche 911 GT3 R will compete in the North American IMSA series as well as FIA WEC World Endurance Championship, once the latter introduces a professional category for the GT3 class in 2024.
Porsche 911 GT3 R: the mechanicals
Based on the 992-gen 911 GT3, the GT3 R gets a water-cooled, flat-six engine which has now been bored out to 4.2-litres from the road car’s 4.0-litre. Power output is rated at 585hp and the engine is coupled to a six-speed sequential constant-mesh gearbox, controlled via steering-mounted paddles, to power the rear wheels. Porsche states that the engine is better suited for gentleman racers.
Porsche has also altered the suspension of the 911 GT3 R where it has taken heavy inspiration from the suspension set-up of the outgoing 911 RSR. It features a double-wishbone set-up in the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear. Additionally, it has KW shock absorbers with five adjustment settings. Compared to its predecessor, its wheelbase has been lengthened by 48mm. The 911 GT3 R also sports brake callipers by AP Racing, with 390mm and 370mm discs front and back, respectively.
Due to the Balance of Performance regulations (which allows competing vehicles to maintain parity by adjusting various parameters), Porsche said it has given priority to improving the driveability for professionals as well as gentleman drivers. Furthermore, the carmaker has also focussed on streamlining the handling of the GT3-class racecar and reducing the running costs for the teams.
Porsche 911 GT3 R: exterior and interior changes
The new 911 GT3 R has a big body kit that not only aids aerodynamics but also gives the racecar its distinctive looks. At the back, it has a massive rear wing that is as tall as the roof with a huge diffuser that houses the exhaust in the centre. Additionally, it has enormous air intakes next to the front and rear wheel arches. It rides on 18-inch single-piece alloy wheels.
Up front, the GT3 R features a big splitter with two canards on each side of the bumper. It also gets LED headlights that were developed for the 963 LMDh prototype. These lights work on a collimator technology that “works like a magnifying glass, only in reverse”.
On the inside, the 911 GT3 R's racing seat inow set more inwards, allowing Porsche to use an improved roll cage design and FIA’s newly developed side impact protection. There is also a 10.3-inch display behind the steering wheel that has a multi-switch concept adopted from the Le Mans class winner.
Porsche 911 GT3 R: racing plans
As mentioned, the 911 GT3 R debuted at this year’s 24 hours of Spa-Francorchamps. The 911 GT3 R will also take part in the 24 hours of Le Mans, as FIA WEC World Endurance Championship has made the GT3 class a professional category from 2024. Moreover, it will also be eligible for the North American IMSA’s GT3 racing series.
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