Geneva 2017: Porsche Tickles Purists in the Right Spots with the new 911 GT3

Just as we thought that the glory days of naturally aspirated Porsches are over, the German carmaker managed to put a big smile on the faces of many purists out there with the world debut of the new 911 GT3 yesterday.

At the heart of the latest enhancement beats a four-litre flat six-cylinder engine, which is paired to a seven-speed double clutch transmission (PDK) as standard. And guess what? There is a six-speed manual gearbox available as an option too. Together, the powertrain package delivers a massive 500hp and 460Nm of maximum.  

In case you’re wondering if there are any differences between the two gearboxes in terms of performance, the 7-speed PDK enables the car to do the century sprint in 3.2 seconds while the stick shifter does the same in 3.8 seconds.

Similar to the outgoing GT3, the new one also comes with rear-axle steering, where the rear wheels turn in opposite directions as the front when slow, and in the same direction at higher speed.

The car also gets new aerodynamic treatments including a new front spoiler, a new rear diffuser and a carbon fiber rear wing. A locking rear-differential, and dynamic engine mounts also come as standard.

There are also dynamic engine mounts, a carbon-fiber rear wing, and lightweight front fascia and spoiler elements. Inside, the steering wheel comes from the 918 Spyder and there's a choice of three sets of performance seats.

Porsche's Communication Management System and Track Precision Apps are standard too.