Celebrating 25 years of the 911 GT3, we take a look at the history of the iconic model
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25 years ago, the first 911 GT3 marked a new era for Porsche – and became a sportscar that has evolved into a true icon
In the quarter of a century since it was launched in 1999, the Porsche 911 GT3 has become synonymous with thrilling performance and uncompromising precision – qualities that are the result of Porsche engineering innovation developed over many decades. When the first GT3 made its debut in 1999, it introduced a new chapter in the 911 story – a road-ready racecar that followed in the footsteps of the vaunted Carrera RS models. Over its first 25 years, the GT3 has evolved across multiple generations, becoming faster, lighter and more refined with each new model, while always staying true to its roots as the ultimate sportscar for the purist. 911 (996) GT3 • 1999-2005 Unveiled at the 1999 Geneva International Motor Show, the 996 generation of the 911 GT3 was engineered to deliver a motorsport-like experience on the road. Powered by a 3.6-litre, naturally aspirated boxer engine derived from the 911 GT1 racecar, it became the first road-legal car to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in under eight minutes, where it was driven by motorsport legend and Porsche ambassador, Walter Röhrl. With lightweight materials, adjustable suspension and an advanced racing brake system, it was a purist’s dream when it came to both track and road use. Details1999 modelTop speed 302km/h0-100km (0-62mph) 4.8s Engine size 3.6 litres Power 360PSWeight 1350kg 2003 modelTop speed 306km/h 0-100km (0-62mph) 4.5s Engine size 3.6 litres Power 381PSWeight 1380kgThe 996 911 GT3 generation leading the way, with the current generation 992 911 GT3 (as of October 2024) on its tail. Each new generation of the 911 GT3 utilises race-proven engineering to deliver breathtaking performance on road and on track Photo: Porsche911 (997) GT3 • 2006-2011 Debuting in 2006, the 997 generation of the 911 GT3 was powered by a 3.6-litre, six-cylinder boxer engine that upped the power to 415PS and could rev up to 8,400rpm. The 997 911 GT3 generation was also the first to feature Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which offered an adaptable driving experience by combining everyday comfort with race-ready responsiveness. Visually, it introduced a distinctive black-painted radiator vent in front of the luggage compartment lid, which became a signature detail of the model. A key feature of this generation was its improved aerodynamics, with a newly designed rear wing, front spoiler lip and underbody that significantly enhanced downforce, ensuring better grip and stability at high speeds. Additionally, Porsche Traction Control, adopted from the Carrera GT, further elevated its handling performance. Details2006 modelTop speed 310km/h 0-100km (0-62mph) 4.3s Engine size 3.6 litres Power 415PSWeight 1395kg 2009 modelTop speed 312km/h 0-100km (0-62mph) 4.1s Engine size 3.8 litres Power 435PSWeight 1395kgWhether taking on the Nürburgring Nordschleife or navigating twisty mountain roads, every GT3 model is focused on delivering performance with passion Photo: Porsche911 (991) GT3 • 2013-2016 The third generation of the 911 GT3 arrived in 2013, powered by 475PS, 3.8-litre boxer engine – part of a new engine family that introduced direct petrol injection and was capable of reaching an exhilarating 9,000rpm. Use of lightweight materials in its construction were key to further boosting performance, allowing the car to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 3.5 seconds. But while it was ferociously quick in a straight line, its ability to negotiate twisty roads and snaking race circuits is what sets the GT3 apart. On the Nürburgring’s legendary Nordschleife – the testing ground for many a Porsche automotive innovation – the 991 911 GT3 generation recorded a stunning lap time of just under 7 minutes 30 seconds minutes, with a top speed of 315km/h. DetailsTop speed 315km/h0-100km (0-62mph) 3.5s Engine size 3.8 litres Power 475PSWeight 1430kg In 1999, Porsche presented a new car that would reset expectations for high-performance sportscars. A quarter of a century later, and over five iterations, the GT3 has achieved icon status Photo: Porsche911 (991) GT3 • 2017-2019 The 991 generation of the 911 GT3 upped the ante for the model even further. Its 4.0-litre, naturally aspirated boxer-six engine produced 500PS, almost identical to that of the 911 GT3 Cup racecar. To handle that kind of power, the chassis was redesigned with rear-wheel steering and a focus on lightweight construction. In terms of configurations, customers could either stick with the quick-shifting PDK dual-clutch transmission or a seven-speed manual gearbox. Improved aerodynamics played a big role too, with the addition of a striking carbon fibre rear wing that left little doubt as to its sporty credentials. Inside, the GT3 kept things stripped back, with a steering wheel inspired by the astounding 918 Spyder and, in a nod to its motorsport roots, concealed rear seats to make the car look and feel like a two-seater. DetailsTop speed 318km/h0-100km (0-62mph) 3.4s Engine size 4.0 litres Power 500PSThroughout its 25-year history, each 911 GT3 has remained true to its core principles: thrilling performance, precise handling and a design that emphasises its motorsport roots Photo: Porsche911 (992) GT3 • 2021-present The 992 generation of the 911 GT3 featured a double wishbone front suspension pulled from the 911 RSR racecar that dominated the world’s racetracks for many years. The distinctive swan-neck rear wing, adjustable for different track settings, and further advanced aerodynamics translated into a staggering performance on track. Indeed, during development, Porsche test driver Lars Kern clocked an incredible 6 minute 59.927 second lap at the Nürburgring Nordschleife – over a minute faster than the very first GT3. Fast forward to 2024, and Porsche has fine-tuned the formula even further with the forthcoming new 911 (992) GT3, one that will bring even more track-focused benefits to the table. DetailsTop speed 318km/h (PDK), 320km/h (manual)0-100km (0-62mph) 3.4s (PDK) Engine size 4.0 litres Power 510PSWeight 1435kg (PDK), 1418kg (manual)
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