Porsche 911 GT3: Celebrating 25 Years of Motorsport DNA for the Road
In 1999, Porsche introduced the 911 GT3 (Type 996) at the Geneva International Motor Show. Equipped with a 3.6-litre flat-six engine producing 350 HP at 7,200 RPM, and boasting a top speed of 302 km/h. “This is the most exciting thing Porsche has ever put on the road,” said Walter Röhrl, after breaking the magic eight-minute barrier on the Nürburgring. In 2003, the 996 GT3 received an update, delivering more power and torque, while maintaining the same displacement and fuel efficiency.
By 2006, the Porsche 911 GT3 (Type 997) had pushed the boundaries even further. With 415 HP, a 1,395 kg curb weight, and a screaming 8,400 RPM redline, the 997 GT3 quickly became one of the most cherished models among enthusiasts. In 2009, an updated version arrived with a 3.8-litre engine, refined aerodynamics, and improved chassis components.
In 2013, Porsche celebrated the 50th anniversary of the 911 by completely reinventing the GT3 with the 991 generation. This marked the debut of the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) dual-clutch transmission in the GT3 lineup. The 3.8-litre engine produced 475 HP, propelling the car to a top speed of 315 km/h. In 2014, the 991.2 GT3 brought a new 4.0-litre engine delivering 500 HP. Enthusiasts were thrilled to see the manual gearbox as an option, along with the popular Touring package, which later developed a strong following of its own
Fast forward to 2021, and the Porsche 911 GT3 (Type 992) continued to raise the bar. Developed in Flacht and designed with motorsport in mind, the 992 GT3 features a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six engine producing 510 HP. Highlights include advanced aerodynamics like the swan-neck rear wing and double wishbone front suspension—both borrowed from Porsche’s racing technology.
Tonight at 18:30 CEST, Porsche will unveil the highly anticipated 992.2 GT3. Tune in to watch the reveal live!
We’d love to hear your Porsche 911 GT3 stories. Which generation is your favorite? Ours has to be the 996, where it all began!