New Porsche 911 GT3 Sets New Nurburgring Record

Porsche is a name synonymous with performance, driving dynamics and an engine layout that technically shouldn’t work but does so wonderfully. The German carmaker decided to celebrate the first day of its new 911 GT3 at the Nurburgring by shattering the previous car’s time by 12.3 seconds.

The new GT3 lapped the Nordschleife with a time of 7 minutes and 12.7 seconds. The main reason for this outrageous lead can be attributed to the fact that the new GT3 according to Porsche, now employs more racing technology than the previous model. The 500PS, naturally-aspirated, flat-six engine is identical to the one employed in the 911 GT3 Cup car. It is also equipped with rear axle steering for better performance in the corners and comes with Porsche’s 7-speed PDK transmission. The tyres used were Michelin Pilot Sport Cup N1s. The track conditions too, according to Porsche, were ideal for racing.

“By achieving this time, we have emphatically proven that the new 911 GT3 not only provides the best driving experience but can also deliver an impressive performance on the Nordschleife. The focus was on optimising the driving quality and adapting to the slight increase in engine power,” said Frank-Steffen Walliser, vice-president, Motorsport and GT cars, Porsche. “A few years ago, lap times like this could only ever be achieved by thoroughbred racing cars with slick tyres,” added Andreas Preuninger, director, GT Product Line. “The new GT3 can now achieve this with comparatively modest power, but is still fully suited to everyday use.”