The motorsport department of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, developed a new aerodynamic kit for the 2001-specification of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. Modifications bring the engine closer to the road version thus ensuring less running costs as well as better equality of chances. Thanks to these comprehensive changes the near-standard racing car achieves faster lap times, offers further improved handling and easier service.

The most obvious feature of the new GT3 Cup is its large fixed rear wing which more than doubles downforce at the rear axle. A modified front section ensures perfect aerodynamic balance. Tests prove faster lap times. At the same time tyre wear is reduced due to less skidding. Heat dissipation from the engine, gearbox and brakes was significantly improved. The front section channels the hot air from the enlarged central radiator upwards. This modification ensures that hot air no longer flows to the engine. A gearbox cowling, adopted from the 911 Turbo, improves the cooling.

For the current racing season, the standard hydraulic valve drive (HVD) replaces the special racing component that was used to date. This step in the direction of production vehicles produces two effects: The performance range of the racing car´s 370 hp, 3.6-litre boxer engine – to date maximum three percent – is further reduced. Moreover, with the adjustment of valves no longer necessary, the use of HVD reduces costs.

The performance of the 911 GT3 Cup, which corresponds to the production model by 90 percent, remains impressive. In less than four seconds the 1140 kilo rear-drive sportscar sprints from zero to 100 kph and reaches a top speed of 286 kph.

Porsche motorsport customers from around the world race the GT3 Cup in single-make series and in Gran Turismo sport. At Porsche Motorsport a record number of 113 units of the new sportscar were built over the winter months.

Story by Porsche