Porsche 911T; 911 GT3

[dropcap size=small]T[/dropcap]oday, there seems to be a Porsche 911 to suit every whim – from the base 370hp 911 Carrera to the delectably wicked 700hp 911 GT2 RS. There are many in between and Porsche has added two more.

PORSCHE 911T

The T badge was originally given to a budget-priced 911 way back in 1968. Its engine was tuned for just 110bhp, which even in those days was a bit of a measly output for a sports car.

Today’s 911T is a rather different animal. To begin with, it is not the cheapest 911, sitting between the 3-litre 370hp Carrera and 3.4-litre 450hp Carrera S.

Like any 911, the driving experience is immensely satisfying. The seven-speed manual version – which will not be available in Singapore – has a slick and smooth gear operation, and a relatively effortless clutch pedal.

Because of the transmission’s relatively short gearing, acceleration is more urgent through the gears. Hence shifting down a gear or two just to feel the surge becomes quite addictive.

The 911T is a fine machine. Still, you may be tempted to pay just a little bit more for the more accomplished Carrera S.

PORSCHE 911 GT3

The non-turbocharged GT3 range comprises the 911 Touring Package, the standard 911 GT3 (nothing “standard” about it really) and the rarefied 911 GT3 RS.

Compared with its track-biased RS twin, the GT3 still manages to look cool, low-slung and aggressive with cleaner lines (without additional cooling grilles and apertures).

The latest GT3 is now more compelling because it has a new 4-litre engine that is derived from the GT3 RSR and GT3R racing 911s.

The engine puts out an incredible 125hp per litre, and spins to 9,000rpm. Maximum torque of 460Nm is developed at 6,000rpm.

Thrilling numbers by any standard, but they do not reveal how effortlessly the car piles on speed. Before you know it, the speedometer is reading 200kmh. Unlike high-powered V8s with growling exhaust notes, the GT3’s mechanical sounds from its engine situated behind the driver’s seat are on a higher plane.

The car’s artistry continues on winding roads, where it satisfies with its delicately precise steering, immediate throttle response and an incredible amount of grip. On top of it all, its ride quality is unbelievably good for a sports car.

 

SPECS / PORSCHE 911T; 911 GT3

Prices: $500,888; $671,688 without COE

Engine: 2,981cc 24-valve flat-six twin-turbocharged; 3,996cc 24-valve flat-six

Transmission: Seven-speed manual; seven-speed dual-clutch with paddle shift

Power: 370hp at 6,500rpm; 500hp at 8,250rpm

Torque: 450Nm at 1,700-5,000rpm; 460Nm at 6,000rpm

0-100kmh: 4.5 seconds; 3.4 seconds

Top speed: 293kmh; 318kmh

Fuel consumption: 9.5 litres/100km; 12.7 litres/100km

Agent: Stuttgart Auto

This article was originally published in The Straits Times.

Photo: Porsche