2 years ago

Face-lifted Porsche 997 GT3 details

When world economy is falling apart, Porsche is still there warming our car-loving hearts with new model releases. This time it's the GT3 that has received a new revision with a more powerful engine, improved handling characteristics and some cosmetic changes.

Official details, including initial performance figures have just been released and can be seen in 997 GT3-Facelift page.

As you can see, power output is raised from 415 to 435 ps (20 ps increase) and the engine now produces more torque as well - 430 Nm as compared to 405 Nm in 2006 GT3. But there is more to it than just slightly improved straight line speed.

The new GT3 offers even better grip and stability also at high speeds, specific modifications of the car's aerodynamics increasing down-forces both front and rear to such an extent that the overall pressure pushing down the car is more than twice as great as on the former model. (from Porsche press release)

For some reason Porsche didn't mention it's famous PDK double clutch transmission as an option in press release, so don't expect to have that in your new GT3. Also, unlike regular 2009 Porsche 911s, the GT3 won't have direct injection.

The absence of PDK is a real disappointment. I know there is certain group of car enthusiasts who whine about how horrible the paddle shifting is, how it disconnects driver from the car, makes the driving experience less involving etc. Well, if you guys think shifting with a stick is so essential and if you really want to be "connected to the car" in a mechanical level, maybe you should get rid of the engine altogether and push your car around instead. That would be 100% unassisted man-and-machine experience.

Let's face it - it's easier and much quicker to shift with some sort of shift-by-wire switch rather than a large mechanical knob. Quicker equals better when it comes to sports-cars, so, hopefully, Porsche will get it's PDK ready for the GT3 and upcoming face-lifted Turbo sooner or later.