Porsche’s new GT4 challenger will be its first based on the global smash-hit 911 platform, which will replace the current generation 718 Cayman from next year.
The Stuttgart brand took the covers off its new challenger for the first time in the paddock ahead of the start of the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa, with the new machine remaining on public display throughout the event.
The new car builds on Porsche’s world-beating 911 992.2 Cup platform, with the GT4 R featuring a 4-litre 6-cylinder boxer engine capable of producing a maximum 520PS (513bhp). Compared with the current Clubsport models, the GT4 R offers a more powerful engine, wider track and further-developed motorsport electronics.
The high-revving engine is based on the unit used in the 911 GT3. Maximum torque is improved to 470 Nm and power is transmitted through a sequential six-speed dog-box with steering wheel paddle shifters and four-disc racing clutch.
For the chassis, the wheels are one inch narrower than their 911 Cup counterpart and are mounted using a five-hole pattern. The dual adjustable dampers and three adjustable spring rates offer additional set-up options.
The GT4 R also makes use of natural-fibre-reinforced plastic in combination with epoxy resin with the doors, engine cover and aerodynamic parts as well as cockpit installations made from this material. There’s also a new rear wing that is adjustable by 11 settings.
Inside the driver can receive data via a 10.3-inch colour screen, with an integrated data-logger and GPS system to support analysis and performance optimisation.
Since entering the global GT4 arena back in 2016, Porsche has produced more than 1,500 racing cars based on the Cayman. The new 911 GT4 R aims to continue this success story and expands the range of racing 911s further than ever before. The new car will cost €265,000 plus local taxes.
Porsche Motorsport Vice President, Thomas Laudenbach, said: “With the new racing car based on the Porsche 911 GT3, we are taking our successful GT4 programme to a new level. The combination of iconic 911 DNA and the tried-and-tested GT4 concept creates a unique offering in the market. Our decision to bring the 911 platform into the GT4 category underlines the growing importance of this class in international motorsport. GT4 has evolved from an entry-level segment into a highly competitive, globally relevant racing platform.”
Porsche Motorsport Director of Sales, Michael Dreiser, said: “Our customers benefit from a significantly wider range of options in the GT4 segment. The new 911 GT4 R complements the existing Cayman range and offers ambitious teams another high-performance option. We are seeing strong global demand for high-performance yet accessible customer racing cars.”
Director of GT Racing Cars at Porsche Motorsport, Matthias Scholz, added: “The 911 embodies Porsche’s motorsport DNA like no other car. Transferring this to a GT4 car opens up new possibilities in terms of performance and driving experience. The new 911 GT4 R benefits from the detailed work already carried out during the development of the 911 Cup.”
Teams and drivers looking for further information on the new 911 GT4 R can register their interest with Porsche Motorsport.
