New 911 Set for Geneva Intro: Porsche 911 GT3 quicker, more powerful

Porsche will unveil its latest production 911 GT3 March 3 at the Geneva Motor Show. A parallel development program with the company's 911 GT3 RSR GT-2 category race car has led to across-the-board improvements to the 2010 production model.

The 2010 sports a larger 3.8-liter, 435-horsepower unit in the familiar flat-six configuration - a slightly milder version of the 2008 GT3 RSR powerplant, featuring VarioCam technology on both intake and exhaust. Mid-range torque is noticeably improved. Track performance is better - 4sec zero-60 and a top speed of 194mph.

For the first time, the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system from the RSR comes standard on the 2010 911 GT3. PASM allows stiffer spring and anti-roll bar settings in the sport mode. The driver can manually disengage both stability and traction control systems. In addition, engine mounts stiffen automatically during hard driving, tightening the compliance of the entire chassis.

The additional weight of the larger ventilated brake discs is offset by the use of aluminum hubs on the 911 GT3. PCCB ceramic brakes are optional.

The 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 will be available in the fall of 2009, MSRP $112,200 US.

In the meantime, the 2009 racing version is being track tested for LeMans series racing on both sides of the pond. Several Porsche works drivers for American-based teams Flying Lizard and Farnbacher Loles put the new 911 GT3 RSR through its paces at Sebring International Raceway during the late-January American LeMans Series winter tests. Reviews were optimistic.

By the way, you can pick up one of the RSR racing versions from Porsche for around $525k.