New Porsche 911 model to hit North America in '03
Dec 19, 2002
By Staff 2003 Porsche 911 GT3
Porsche lovers, rejoice. A new 911 model is coming.
The German automaker announced Dec. 19, 2002 that it will be producing the 911 GT3 for sale in the spring of 2003, and claims that this 911 is the "most powerful non-turbocharged Porsche ever offered for street use in the United States and Canada."
The 2003 911 GT3 is based on the previous model of the same name that was not available in North America. This newest model features a 3.6 litre, flat six-cylinder engine producing 380 horsepower and 285 pounds-feet of torque. The engine can propel the 911 GT3 from 0 to 60 miles per hour (about 0 to 100 kilometres per hour) in 4.3 seconds, from 0 to 100 mph (about 160 km/h) in 9.4 seconds , and has a peak speed of 190 mph (about 306 km/h).
Porsche says the 911 GT3's transmission has been fitted with transmission oil cooling and injection oil lubrication , and has undergone additional reinforcements to handle the increased performance levels.
Visually, the Porsche 911 GT3 is distinguished by its unique rear wing that the automaker says is "largely responsible for excellent directional stability at high speeds and increased downforce for fast cornering." Combined with a redesigned front apron, the GT3 achieves an drag coefficient of Cd0.30).
The GT3’s handling is further enhanced by a sports suspension, wider and lighter wheels, and wider tires. Front wheels are 8-1/2 inches wide fitted with 235/40 ZR 18 tires, and rear wheels are 11 inches wide with 295/30 ZR 18 tires.
Brakes on the GT3 have been improved as well, according to Porsche. Front brakes now feature six-piston, rather than the previous four-piston monobloc brake calipers and larger discs fitted with Porsche-patented cooling ducts. The ABS brake system was also modified, and the new system (ABS 5.7) has a faster and more sensitive control response. Porsche claims it is also lightweight and provides greater stability for ABS braking. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) discs, standard on the 911 GT2, can be fitted on request.
Priced at $99,900 US in the United States, the 2003 Porsche 911 GT3 will be in North American Porsche dealerships in May 2003. Start saving your pennies.
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