The GT3 is the closest thing Porsche makes to a racecar while remaining road-legal. It’s a no-frills version of the tamer 911 models such as the Carrera or Turbo. The GT3 emphasizes weight reduction, aerodynamics, tight handling; anything to make it faster around a track. The latest generation of 911, the 992, clocks an official lap time of 6:49.3 around Nürburgring Nordschleife, an impressive 24-second improvement over the previous generation of 911 GT3.

The 992 GT3 was introduced in 2021 and remains in production as of 2023. If trends continue, there will be a mid-model update, dubbed ‘992.2’, as seen in previous generations. There are a number of GT3 models besides the “base”, for example, the Touring and RS. Configurations and possibilities begin to compound when looking at the range of options and special editions for each model. Understandably, GT3 buyers may find themselves a little overwhelmed when researching prospective vehicles.

Here, we’ll take a look at the most important options to consider when buying a GT3 and hopefully make the topic a little less nebulous. First, a look at one thing that remains fairly consistent, the engine…

The GT3’s powertrain is about as ‘Porsche’ as it gets: a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated 6-cylinder, boxer of course. The flat engine produces 503 hp at 8,400 rpm and redlines at 9000 rpm – impressive revs for such a high displacement motor. Independent dyno testing has revealed it makes 200 hp (+/- 15) at only 4000 rpm. These are the kind of stats that get motorsports engineers like Gordon Murray excited, ‘40% of peak hp at only 4000 rpm’. And there is a good reason to get excited: the implication is that the 4.0L has a wide powerband that is able to pull the vehicle out of tight corners – fewer shifts required.

A normally aspirated engine fits the ethos of the vehicle. The onset of power is constant. Modulation of the accelerator results in predictable output. ITBs add to the experience with snappy throttle response and an unmatched induction sound. Let’s face it, none of these are staples of a turbocharged engine, which is why the NA 4.0L seems to be a perfect fit. Working in tandem with the redesigned suspension, the engine should produce an experience that caters to both novice and advanced drivers alike.

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