PORSCHE 996 GT3                                     SECOND EDITION

Launched in 1999 the Porsche GT3 combines the style and modernity of the 996 with the RS attributes formally available with the 964 RS and 993 RS models. A highly competent solution giving superb on-track performance and handling whilst enabling everyday use in relative comfort should the owner wish. Available in two forms the Comfort version and the Clubsport version .

Total number of GT3`s officially imported into the UK 106 (28 of these being Clubsports).

Total number of GT3`s worldwide 1,858 of which 308 were right hand drive. About 30% of all of the cars were Clubsport specification. The car was exported worldwide with the exception being North America.

The basic philosophy behind the earlier 911 RS models and the GT 3 were in fact the same but Porsche were confronted with a new situation when implementing this using the new generation of 911, the 996. From the base car various upgrades were installed. The engine, derived from the Le Mans cars mated to a stronger transmission, while better suited to track use also added weight. Left hand drive cars being even heavier due to the larger (90 litre) fuel tank.  Larger brakes, wheels and tyres further adding to the weight problem. With very limited scope for implementing practicable weight reduction on body, trim or electrics Porsche were unable to completely cancel out the increase. However as compensation the power to weight ratio is higher than its predecessors.

Combining the power and torque characteristics of the engine, the agile and precise handling of the chassis and high braking performance provides the driver with a very competitive package. Included in the car are state-of-the-art passive safety body concept which currently account for much of the increased weight of cars throughout the industry.

Clubsport GT3 in Cobalt Blue.

GT3 Colours – RHD cars listed by
Porsche Cars Great Britain

GT3 Engine –

In place of the standard 996 model available in 1999 the GT3 has a
3.6 litre powerplant. A hand assembled GT1 engine re-engineered for mass production. Inside the specially prepared block are 6 unique pistons with lightweight titanium connecting-rods and a finely balanced crankshaft in eight main bearings. The crankshaft, connecting rods and main bearing journals are all Plasma-Nitride hardened. All this adds up to an immensely strong engine which although limited to 7800rpm will apparently rev to 9000rpm quite safely.

To help keep this cool an extra oil/water heat exchanger is installed. Dry-sump lubrication, also from the GT1 ensures adequate oil supply during the rigours of fast cornering.

All aluminium water cooled horizontally opposed flat-six with 4 valves per cylinder. Two overhead cams per. bank of cylinders with variable valve timing. Variable intake manifold.

Bore 100.00 mm.            Stroke 76.40 mm.
Cubic capacity – 3600cc - 3.6 litres - (219.6 cu. Inches)
Compression ratio – 11.7 to 1
Engine output – 360 bhp – 265 Kw –at 7200 rpm
Output per litre – 100bhp
Torque – 370 Nm – 272 ft. lb. At 5000 rpm

Oil consumption up to 1.50 litres/1000 kilometres.

Engine control – Stationary high-voltage distribution, six coils, sequential injection, cylinder-selective knock control, stereo oxygen sensing, diagnostic system, overhead camshafts, Porsche VarioCam, Hydraulic valve clearance compensation.

Double chamber exhaust system with two catalysts and two oxygen sensors.

Dry sump lubrication – note however that whereas on air cooled models the oil was topped up with the engine running the new water cooled engines are topped up with the ignition off. See FAQ`s for "measuring the engine oil level".

Comfort version -

With front and side airbags, electric windows, ABS, dual mass clutch, alarm/immobiliser the Comfort models give the driver many of the now essential goodies as standard. The stereo and air-conditioning being a no cost option.

Clubsport version in Zanzibar Red.

As nature intended – GT3`s are at home on the track!

Clubsport version in Arctic Silver.

Waiting to for a session to start at GOODWOOD.

The Clubsport version comes with a bolt-in roll cage, fire extinguisher, bucket seats and single mass flywheel (notice the noise when depressing the clutch whilst stationary).

Emergency cut-off switches, one under the bonnet and one in front of the gear lever. These are for track use only and the external red pull loop is normally stored under the luggage compartment lid.

Porsche GT3 race car.

Making its competition debut at the Le Mans 24 hours in 1999 a factory developed, long distance race car for around £100,000, signalled the a new era of 996 derived cars. Based on the Supercup car but with greater strength built in to achieve greater reliability for long distance races. Outputs of circa 450 bhp are rumoured but Porsche will only confirm "at least 400bhp", cagey as ever!

NEXT GENERATION.

We have recently been informed by Porsche (GB) of a further run of 83 RHD GT3 models. The new version will be launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 2003, with RHD production starting in April of that year. Initial details are fairly sketchy but the engine will produce 375 BHP ( 380 Nm torque) giving 1-100 kph in 4.7 secs and 190 mph top speed.

Orders are now being accepted by Official Porsche Centres....

To be continued -