by New Porsche 911 GT4 R: A Racing Monster Based on the Legendary Sports Car
Porsche has unveiled the new 911 GT4 R racing car, created specifically for participation in global GT4 series competitions. This model is designed to deliver faster lap times compared to the brand’s previous racing cars based on the 718 Cayman.
Like the current 911 Cup, which is built on the road version of the 911 GT3, the new GT4 R also uses this platform. Under the hood is the familiar 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine. Its power has been increased to 513 hp and 469 Nm of torque, roughly matching the specs of the GT3 RS model.
Technical Features and Restrictions
It is important to note that power figures may vary depending on the Balance of Performance classification. When leaving the factory, the GT4 R is equipped with air restrictors with a diameter of 53.7 mm, reducing power to 424 hp. Although the engine is largely identical to that used in the GT3, the racing version features a unique six-speed sequential gearbox with straight-cut gears and a four-disc racing clutch. Drive, as before, is to the rear wheels.
A True Track Specialist
Although the GT4 R could be mistaken for the 911 Cup model, its wheels are 1 inch narrower and use conventional five-bolt fastening instead of a center lock. Porsche also equipped the 911 GT4 R with two adjustable shock absorbers and three spring rate options, allowing the car to be adapted to different tracks and driving styles.
As a true racing car, it features significant aerodynamic upgrades. A key update is the new rear wing, which can be adjusted to 11 different positions. To reduce weight, carbon fiber is used in the doors, engine cover, and aerodynamic elements. The updates also include an integrated data logger in the cockpit and a new 10.3-inch display.
“The 911 embodies Porsche’s racing DNA like no other car,” said Matthias Scholz, Director of GT Racing Cars at Porsche Motorsport. “Transferring this to a GT4 car opens up new possibilities in terms of performance and driving experience. The new 911 GT4 R benefits from the detailed work already done during the development of the 911 Cup.”
Racing Career and Price
Porsche Motorsport plans to field its own 911 GT4 R models in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and SRO Pirelli GT4 America championships. The car is also approved for participation in series such as the Porsche Sprint Trophy PCA, Porsche Sprint Challenge North America, Porsche Carrera Cup North America, and SRO GT America. Pricing in the US will start from $375,000.
Thus, Porsche has taken a bold step by abandoning the 718 Cayman platform in favor of the legendary 911 for its new GT4 racing model. This decision not only highlights the versatility and power of the 911 but also allows leveraging the developments from the cup car program. Given its high performance, adjustable aerodynamics, and adaptive suspension, the newcomer is set to be a serious competitor in its class, albeit at a rather high price, which is typical for professional racing equipment of this level.
