Porsche 911 GT2: first official pics and details

Prompted by a premature leak of images of its all-new GT2 (more here), Porsche has released the first official pics of its latest-gen turbo rocketship.

It's believed Zuffenhausen planned to keep its 911 Turbo-based flagship under wraps until the Frankfurt motor show (in September), but the widespread airing of the images (sourced from a sales brochure that obviously fell into the wrong hands) has obviously forced its hand.

As per its predecessors, the new GT2 will be the fastest, most potent model in Porsche's line-up (barring the V10-powered Carrera GT). Propelled by an upgraded version of the 3.6-litre twin-turbo flat-six used to devastating effect in the 911 Turbo, the GT2 punches out 390kW and 684Nm.

In addition to the standard 911 Turbo's Variable Turbine Geometry, the GT2 features an 'expansion intake manifold' that's designed to feed colder (and therefore denser) air into the engine.

This has apparently enabled Porsche's boffins to raise boost pressure by 2.9psi, and the upshot is more power and torque. There's also a new free-flowing titanium exhaust system that's lighter than that of the Turbo.

But wait, there's more...the GT2 tips the scales at just 1440kg, which means it undercuts the 911 Turbo's girth by around 140kg.

Porsche claims the GT2 sprints to 100km/h in 3.6sec and to 160km/h in an eye-watering 7.4sec, while top whack is quoted at 326km/h. The fact that it's only marginally quicker to 100km/h than the 911 Turbo is no doubt largely due to the fact that it's a rear-driver, as opposed to the all-wheel-drive format of the latter (this means the GT2 can't offer the same traction off the line).

To counteract this, the GT2 features a new launch-control system (the first 911 so equipped). Activating it is achieved by pressing a button, dipping the clutch, engaging first gear, dialling up 13psi of boost and then dumping the clutch.

Standard kit will include 19-inch alloy wheels and an adaptable PASM chassis that can be adjusted for ride height, camber, toe angle and anti-roll bar setting. There will also be two-stage switchable PSM stability and traction control, Porsche PCCB ceramic brakes, sports bucket seats, and an upshift light on the tacho.

Hmmm...we thought the standard 911 Turbo was already absurdly rapid. The mind boggles at the GT2's performance capabilities.

To comment on this article click here