The GT3

The Porsche 911 GT3 came into production in 1999 (Porsche 996) to be Porsche's road-going race-car. Almost 20 years later the Porsche badge is holding strong with its 5th iteration, the 991 GT3. Like all GT3's before it features a flat-six rear-mounted engine. Its 3.8L direct fuel injected (DFI) engine develops 475hp at 8,250rpm and propels the car to 60mph in 3.1 seconds. DFI manages fuel injection much more efficiently than other forms by providing optimum mixture formation and combustion in the combustion chamber, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions while increasing power output. The engine's titanium connecting rods that attach to forged pistons allow it to redline at 9,000rpm (higher than any other previous GT3 and GT3 RS).

The connecting rods were also the cause of many engine failures which caused Porsche to recall all 785 GT3's produced to that date (early 2014). It was later discovered that the supplier of the connecting rod bolts made a production error in the alloy of the bolt that caused the engine failures. Despite these engine failures and Porsche's decision to ditch the manual transmission in exchange for its Porsche Doppelkupplunk (PDK) gearbox the 991 GT3 was an absolute hit.

The GT3 shocks are true, height adjustable coil overs and it sits about 30mm lower than a regular Carrera. Unlike other track-centric sports cars the 911 GT3 is surprisingly supple. Its tires never hesitate to maintain contact with the tarmac when tearing through bumpy canyon roads or street circuits. Whats more interesting is Porsche actually had the foresight to mount a front axel lift system that raises the nose by 30mm in 4 seconds allowing it to maneuver over speed bumps without ripping off the front splitter. They even fitted an active dampening system that tightens or loosens the engine mounts depending on the drivers preferences.

Ever wondered how it would stack up against the 458 Speciale? Chris Harris is here to find out!