The 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 is back in the lineup this fall, and its comeback is refreshingly free from the controversy that accompanied that unveiling of it predecessor way back in 2014. The good news is the manual transmission is back on the GT3's sheet.
Specifically, the similar same six-speed unit developed by Porsche's GT department for the 911 R, rather than the seven-speed gearbox found in a few 911. This gearbox uses shorter ratios for a much better in-gear acceleration, and shorter throws.
For the first time on a GT3, the automaker will give customers a choice in transmissions. A seven-speed PDK will be available as standard, while the six-speed unit is a no-cost option.
The 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 comes with a new 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six that also based on the same powertrain used in the newest 911 GT3 R and 911 RSR. These motors are built on the same production line as the race engines. The engine can produce 500 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, with a redline of 9,000 rpm.
When fitted with the six-speed manual, the GT3 can accelerate from 0 to 60 in just 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 198-mph. The six-speed GT3 weighs around 3116 lbs while the PDK-equipped variant weighs 3153 pounds.
Like the previous GT3, this car gets a rear-axle steering that can make the back wheel in-or-out-of-phase with the fronts depending on speed. This new GT3 also gets a new aerodynamic treatment that includes a new front spoiler, a carbon fiber rear wing, and a new rear diffuser. A locking rear differential and dynamic engine mounts will also come standard.
On the inside, the car offers two carbon-back bucket seats up front. Customers can also order a more conventional sports seats.
The new model also gets Porsche's latest infotainment system with standard navigation and Apple Car Play. The infotainment system interfaces with Porsche's Track Precision App, which lets drivers analyze their track data using a mobile app.
The 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 will arrive at US dealerships this fall and has a starting price of $143,600 plus a $1050 delivery fee. It's a bit cheaper compared to the 911 R's original $184,900 price.
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