Porsche has revealed its second generation of the 997 series 911 GT3 which will be more powerful, faster and even more refined when it goes on sale in Australia late this year.

In developing the most sporting and dynamic road-going 911 with a normally aspirated engine, Porsche has focused efforts on two key areas: performance and dynamics.

Porsche’s proven six-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine now develops maximum power of 320kW (up 15 kW over its predecessor) which is achieved by an increase in engine capacity (up 200cc to 3.8-litres) and from improved VarioCam gas cycling now on intake and exhaust for the first time.

Performance times have improved expectantly with 0-100km/h now dealt with in 4.1 seconds (previously 4.3 secs) on to a top speed of 312km/h (previously 4.3 seconds and 310km/h respectively).

In another first, the new GT3 also features a particularly sporting variant of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), offering the option to deactivate both Stability Control (SC) and Traction Control (TC) in separate steps. These functions are not reactivated automatically even under the most extreme driving conditions, but only at the touch of a button, affording the new GT3 greater grip and high speed stability.

Aerodynamic enhancements have created front and rear downforce improvements more than double that of the previous model.

Visual changes include new bi-xenon headlights, LED rear lights and modified air intakes and outlets. Racing designed lighter wheels with a one-piece centre lock and ultra hi-performance tyres (featuring Type Pressure Monitoring) round off the functional and visual enhancements.

In true Porsche fashion the braking system has been enhanced to meet the car’s higher performance levels. Larger diameter rotors are now fitted and improved brake ventilation guarantees a higher level of consistent braking performance over long periods. An exclusive version of Porsche’s acclaimed PCCB ceramic brakes are available as an option.

The new GT3 will also be available at a later stage with an additional feature to optimise its on-track potential: Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts (PADM). These special engine mounts are suited to race track driving, making the normally elastic engine suspension hard and particularly resistant.

Driving the GT3 everyday is made even easier with the optional lift system for the front axle, raising ground clearance by 30 mm at the touch of a button for easier entry up driveways and the like.

The new 911 GT3 goes on sale in Australia in late 2009 priced from $279,300; however it will be seen for the first time in public at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

Article key :  Porsche, New Car, GT3, 2009