Porsche vs Nissan: Round Three

German sportscar firm Porsche has taken its new 911 GT3 to the Nurburgring to continue its long-running stoush with its Japanese rival, Nissan. Last week we brought you news that Nissan claimed to have taken its latest specification GT-R around Germany's famous 20km track, recording a lap time of 7min29sec (more here).

But after last year's war-of-words (more here), there was no chance Porsche would leave the debate there. Instead comes word that Porsche test driver Walter Rohl managed to lap the 'Ring in 7min40sec in the latest 911 GT3. What's more, the company still believes the GT-R is not quick enough to beat the 7min54sec time Rohl set in the car last year during back-to-back testing.

Porsche was quick to point out Rohl's time was unofficial and set during an open track day, which meant the former World Rally Champion had to deal with other cars on the circuit. The company claims that on an empty track Rohl could lower the time by at least two seconds.

The often overlooked factor in the debate between Porsche and Nissan is that neither is close to what is considered the production car lap record holder. That honour goes to little-known British manufacturer Radical with its SR8. The motorcycle-engined kit car lapped in 6min55sec back in September 2005.

There is one way to solve the GT-R vs GT3 fight once-and-for-all; both cars on same day driven by an independent driver. We don't think getting volunteers to drive would pose a problem but getting the companies to agree might be.

Over to you Porsche and Nissan...

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