992-Gen Porsche 911 GT3 Will Stick to a Naturally Aspirated Engine

Last year, spy shots of a next-gen (992) GT3 mule testing around with a naturally aspirated engine took us by surprise. A number of previous reports had claimed that Porsche might ditch the flat-6 for a turbocharged one for its GT3 and GT3 RS models. Today, we can finally put all our worries to rest as August Achleitner, the 911 Product Line Chief has confirmed that the next iteration of the GT3 models will use an evolution of the 4.0-liter engine and the engineers will not go down the forced induction way.

The soon-to-retire official who was speaking to Australian Magazine Wheels said that the upgraded unit is expected to yield around 523 hp, a minor increase of 3 hp on the current GT3 RS’s 520. The new RS, on the other hand will utilize a slightly larger version of that same naturally aspirated six-cylinder. One likely candidate is the GT3 R race car’s 4.0-liter, 549 hp motor. Achleitner confirmed that the engine in the upcoming GT3 RS would be “closely linked” to the racing mill. If the GT3 R’s unit is utilized, it would be the biggest production 911 engine to date.

Also, to help keep the weight down, the GT3 and the GT3 RS won’t get the 8-speed transmission like the Carreras and instead, both cars will stick to the latest iteration of the 7-speed PDK. Moreover, a manual will again be offered for the GT3. With regards to weight reduction, the GT3s will go on a minor diet with Porsche extending the utilization of carbon-fiber components and other lightweight materials.

With the powertrain and weight remaining largely the same, the GT department at Porsche will focus on overhauling the aerodynamics. As evident by the spy shots captured late last year, Porsche is already testing new aero bits to increase high speed stability and cornering speeds.

Source: Wheels