Porsche have introduced a new GT3 racing car for the 2019 season. This third stage in the overall development of the GT3 R is based on the production 911 GT3 RS launched in March that evolved from the second generation 991 model series. Like its predecessor first introduced in 2016, the latest generation of the 911 GT3 R has a four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine that now produces around 550 bhp. The new racing car is the fourth version of the Porsche GT3 after the 911 (997) GT3 Cup S in 2008, the 911 (997) GT3 R in 2010, and the 911 (991) GT3 R in 2016. The current GT3 R from the 991 series is one of the most successful vehicles in the ADAC GT Masters. The 911 has won eight races since its introduction for the 2016 season, more than any other supercar in the series.
The new 911 GT3 R is powered by a production-derived four-litre, six-cylinder boxer engine with petrol direct injection. The naturally aspirated engine provides better performance and a wider, more usable rev range than its predecessor. The engine's response can be more precisely gauged thanks to its six individual throttle bodies. Power from the rear-mounted engine is transmitted to its 310-millimetre back wheels through a Porsche six-speed gearbox with sequential dog engagement and electric gear-changing for particularly fast and precise gear selection using paddles. The clutch is electro-hydraulically controlled, which eliminates the need for a clutch pedal and makes setting off from a standing start easier.
The lightweight body of the 911 GT3 RS production sports car is of aluminium-steel hybrid construction and forms the basis for the production-derived racing car. The roof, bonnet and scuttle, wings, doors, side and rear end as well as engine cover and interior trim are made of a particularly lightweight carbon-fibre composite (CFRP). The doors and side windows can be removed. The new racing seat shell affords drivers even better protection in the event of an impact and is now firmly anchored down in six places. Used in combination with an adjustable pedal box, it ensures an optimal centre of gravity for the driver and also increases safety in a collision. The driver is also protected by a side impact element in the area of the driver's door made of carbon-fibre Kevlar combined with aluminium and energy-absorbing plastic foam.
All discs are made of polycarbonate. Distinctive cooling slots on the front wings increase downforce on the front axle. A 1900-mm by 400-mm rear wing maintains aerodynamic stability. Tyres on the front axle have been increased in size from 650 to 680 millimetres.
The 911 GT3 R's braking system has been further improved to provide even better feel and more precise control of the ABS brakes. Six-pot aluminium monobloc racing calipers are used on the front along with internally ventilated, slotted 390-millimetre steel brake discs, while four-pot calipers and 370-millimetre discs provide stopping power at the rear.
The cockpit has been redesigned with all controls ergonomically arranged to suit the driver. The 911 GT3 R now has climate control for the first time to ensure that the cabin interior can be maintained at a pleasant temperature and that the driver in particular can be kept cool thanks to a direct air-con connection to seat and helmet, so that he can maintain concentration and perform consistently during races.
The new Porsche 911 GT3 R can be ordered as of today, costs 459,000 euros plus the rate of VAT applicable in the country of purchase and will be delivered from December 2018 onwards. All technical details and data are provisional until final approval by the FIA.