After revealing images of a camouflaged Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racer a week ago, Porsche has formally revealed the latest generation of the best-selling racing car in the world. It boasts greater power, optimized aerodynamics, racing tech-enhanced chassis and a control element derived from the Porsche 919 Hybrid.
More Powerful Than Previous Cup Racer
Based on the 992 generation, the newest 911 GT3 Cup racer is the carmaker's first makes-cup racer with a wide turbo-spec body. Its naturally aspirated four-liter flat-six engine delivers 520 hp (375 kW) and 346 lb-ft of peak torque. It's mated to a sequential, six-speed dog-type gearbox via a single-mass flywheel and a three-plate sintered metal racing clutch.
The latest 911 GT3 Cup now features front double wishbones and Uniball bearings as in the 911 RSR, Porsche’s current top racing model, resulting in a more precise turn-in behavior. It comes with fully electro-mechanical power steering, thereby deleting the hydraulic pump and associated hydraulic lines.
Optimized Aerodynamics With Enhanced Safety
Apparently, the new 911 GT3 Cup features optimized aerodynamics made possible by its wide turbo-spec lightweight body, a front lip spoiler and strategically positioned separation edges, as well as an 11-stage adjustable rear wing with a ‘swan neck’ mounting.
The lightweight body consists of 70% aluminum and 30% steel. However, the new 911 GT3 Cup is still heavier overall at 2,777 lb. (1,260 kg) due to extra struts on the steel safety cell. In terms of safety, the racer's removable escape hatch is FIA-compliant, with all windows made of polycarbonate, while its doors, engine hood and rear wing are made from carbon fiber.
New Racing Seat And New Multifunction Steering Wheel
Inside, the driver is treated to a new incline- and height-adjustable racing seat in which the padding thicknesses can be customized. Its motorsport multifunction carbon-fiber steering wheel (with a paddle shift) has been redesigned with rearranged illuminated buttons. The new racer borrows the 919 Hybrid's control element and now has a revamped 10.3-inch color monitor.
An Overall Better Cup Racer Than Predecessor
Overall, the new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup offers improved performance, a more aggressive design, easier handling, as well as greater durability. According to the carmaker, the racer will first see action at Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup as well as the national Porsche Carrera Cups in Germany, France, Asia, Benelux and North America in the 2021 season.
Source: Porsche