Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 Touring return in 992.2 guise and introduce Weissach and Leichtbau packs
An anniversary year is as good a year as any to launch a refreshed iteration of a model, and that's just what Porsche has done with its iconic 911 GT3.
2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the GT3 and Porsche has taken the opportunity to showcase both the GT3 and the classically-elegant 'wingless' GT3 Touring (pictured above) as 992.2 generation models.
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Those who like to bring their kids along for weekend drives will like to learn that the GT3 Touring now features an option for rear-seats!
With its hardcore big brother, the 992 GT3 RS, racing even faster into track-use territory (without a frunk, the current 992 RS's touring ability has been further eroded), the host of upgrades and lightening measures that come with the 992.2 GT3 help it step-up to create the perfect Goldilock's choice that blends track-readiness with a modicum of decorum for daily-drive use.
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As far as lightweighting measures are concerned, in addition to a new 40Ah lithium-ion battery (that drops 4kg from its predecessor), a new, silver-coloured lightweight aluminium wheel reduces the unsprung weight by more than 1.5kg compared to before.
Alternatively, the optional magnesium rim (that can be specified with the Weissach or Leichtbau packages) will save you up to 9kg. In its lightest form, the 992.2 GT3 tips the scales at just 1420kg.
Apart from the chassis updates (including an anti-dive system), the front and rear designs of both the GT3 and GT3 Touring models have been sharpened, while a host of subtle revisions to the diffuser, spoiler lip and underbody fins improves downforce and optimises air-flow.
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A 'Touring' specification has existed as an option in the air-cooled Carrera RS line-up since the legendary 2.7 RS from 1973 all through to the 964 and 993.
It was resurrected again following the success of the limited edition (and manual-only) type 991.1 911 R (which was in many ways a GT3 RS 'Touring') and re-introduced as a standalone model for the 991.2 generation GT3.
Like the 911R, the 991.2 GT3 Touring was distinguished by the absence of an oversized rear wing (that characterised its non-Touring model), especially since it was intended to fly under-the-radar while delivering all the dynamic and heady goodness of the GT3 model.
Most notably, the 991.2 also brought back a 6spd manual option to join the PDK dual-clutch gearbox, because during the time of the 991.1, the GT3 had become PDK-only, much to the outrage of manual-gearbox enthusiasts.
Today, the 992.2 retains the high-revving, naturally-aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine and a 9000rpm redline, which has been tuned to deliver 510hp and 450Nm, but has been re-engineered for even more thrilling high-rpm performance.
Needless to say, it conforms with the latest exhaust regulatory standards, and is equipped with two particulate filters and four catalytic converters, but Porsche says it retains the addictive and very vocal soundtrack.
With 8% shorter final drive ratios for both the PDK and manual transmissions, the new 911 GT3 will scamper from 0-100km/h in 3.4secs and touch a top speed of 311km/h with the 7spd PDK gearbox – its manual sibling takes 3.9secs, but features a 313km/h top speed.
A new lightweight sports bucket seat with folding backrest and CFRP seat-shell makes its debut as an option on the 992.2 GT3 and GT3 Touring.
It is equipped with an integrated thorax airbag, electric height adjustment and manual longitudinal adjustment. What's interesting is, a part of the head-rest padding can be removed to accommodate the use of a helmet during track-driving.
As before, the Clubsport package remains a no-cost option for the winged GT3, although the new lightweight seats must be pre-specified (don't forget, the comfort seats are also available on the GT3).
This includes a bolted steel roll-cage in the rear, a 6-point harness for the driver and a hand-held fire extinguisher.
However, for the first time, the Weissach package is made available for the GT3, and for the GT3 Touring, a Leichtbau (or lightweight) package.
Previously, the cost-optional Weissach "lightening" package made its debut with the 918 Spyder, but as far as the 911s were concerned, was only available for the RS derivatives from the 991.2 onwards (and now the 992.2 GT3) – it gave GT3 RS and GT2 RS owners the privilege of paying more for less weight!
There's a lot more CFRP used: the anti-roll bar, coupling rods and shear panel on the rear axle, as well as the roof, sideplates of the rear wing, exterior mirror top shell, mirror triangle and the airblades in the front area are clad in the motorsports material.
The cabin is further enhanced by leather and Race-Tex upholstery, which extends to the upper portion of the dashboard (due to its anti-glare properties). It also features CFRP door handles and storage nets to optimise the interior door panels for a lightweight design.
However, the CFRP roll-cage (pictured above) and magnesium lightweight forged wheels are additional cost options.
Applied to the GT3 Touring model, the Leichtbau package features the roof painted in the exterior colour, while the stabiliser, coupling rods and shear panel on the rear axle are made of CFRP.
The lightweight magnesium forged wheels and lightweight door panels form part of this package, with the shortened gear-lever from the limited edition and very visceral 911 S/T applied to the 6spd manual.
A plaque with the "Leichtbau" inscription will sit In front of the gear lever to identify it as such.
The new 992.2 GT3 and GT3 Touring will be available for configuration towards the end of the year. If we had to hazard a guess, we'd reckon prices will start from S$900k and up before COE and options.
