2003 Porsche 911 GT2

(from Porsche Press Release)  Lighter and more powerful than the 911 Turbo on which it is based, the Porsche 911 GT2 is the ultimate Porsche model for 2003. With 456 horsepower (SAE), the GT2 can accelerate from a standing start to 62 mph (100 km/h) in about four seconds and can achieve a top speed of 195 mph (315 km/h) on the test track.

The biggest weight saving over the 911 Turbo is achieved by making the GT2 a rear-wheel drive sports car (the 911 Turbo is all-wheel drive). Other weight-saving measures include fitting sport seats in front and deleting the rear seats and replacing the spare tire with a tire repair kit which includes a bottle of sealing foam, an air compressor and a pressure gauge.

The 911 GT2 is the first Porsche to be fitted as standard with the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB®). The ceramic composite discs weigh 50-percent less than comparable metal discs, reducing unsprung weight by a significant 36.6 lb. (16.6 kg) and thus enhancing suspension response.

In addition to weighing more than 200 pounds less than the 911 Turbo, the 911 GT2 has a more powerful version of Porsche’s 3.6-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder “boxer” engine. For the 911 Turbo, the twin turbochargers boost airflow into the engine to 11.76 psi. But for the 911 GT2, those turbochargers spin 14.5 psi into the engine. The GT2 engine produces 456 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and sustained 457 lb.-ft of peak torque from 3,500-4,500 rpm.

The only transmission available is a modified version of the 911 Turbo six-speed manual. A special asymmetric limited-slip differential helps stabilize the car in curves under load changes.

Compared to the 911 Turbo, redesigned air intake scoops provide additional cooling air. Porsche also refined the GT2’s aerodynamic characteristics to produce greater downforce. A one-piece fixed-design rear wing replaces the two-piece automatic-deploying spoiler of the 911 Turbo and allows six degrees adjustment for racetrack driving.

The GT2 also benefits from chassis modifications that come directly from Porsche’s road racing experience. Suspension modifications include racing springs that lower the center of gravity by 0.78-inch (20 mm), adjustable anti-roll bars and a wide range of suspension adjustment to accommodate racing tires. The front alloy wheels measure 18 x 8.5-inch and mount 235/40 ZR18 tires. The rear alloy wheels measure 18 x 12-inch and mount 315/30 ZR18 tires.

The GT2 retains all current Porsche safety technology, including dual front airbags plus the Porsche Side Impact Protection System, which includes boron-steel door reinforcement beams, energy-absorbing door panels and door-mounted side airbags. The 30-liter capacity sidebags provide additional protection for the chest, head, and pelvis.