Porsche has once again underlined the motorsport pedigree of the 911 GT3 by setting a new benchmark lap time at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. The latest 911 GT3 (992.2) has recorded the fastest lap ever achieved by a production car with a manual transmission, completing the 20.832-kilometer circuit in 6 minutes and 56.294 seconds.
The record-setting lap was driven by Porsche development driver Jörg Bergmeister in a 911 GT3 equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox and the Weissach package. Powered by a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine producing 510 horsepower, the GT3 bettered the previous record holder by more than 9.5 seconds, despite competing against cars with higher peak output. The result highlights Porsche’s emphasis on balance, aerodynamics, and chassis precision rather than outright power alone.
This Nürburgring achievement validates the engineering behind the new 911 GT3, now available in the Philippines through Porsche Philippines. Developed in close cooperation with Porsche Motorsport, the 992.2 generation brings track-derived performance to everyday driving while retaining usability on public roads.
The new GT3 features sharpened aerodynamics and reduced weight. Revised front aerodynamic elements—including the diffuser, spoiler lip, and underbody fins—improve airflow and increase downforce. Redesigned Matrix LED headlamps integrate all lighting functions into a single unit, allowing for larger front air intakes. At the rear, a redesigned diffuser, cooling inlets, and newly angled wing sideplates enhance aerodynamic efficiency and thermal management.
Chassis revisions further elevate performance. The double-wishbone front suspension now features aerodynamically shaped trailing arms adopted from the 911 GT3 RS, improving high-speed stability and brake cooling. Relocated ball-joint mountings reduce pitching under heavy braking, contributing to more consistent control on road and track.
For customers with a stronger focus on circuit driving, Porsche also offers a new Manthey Kit for the 911 GT3. Designed for frequent track use, the kit includes extensively revised aerodynamic components that significantly increase downforce, along with modified suspension and brake elements. Equipped with the Manthey Kit, the 911 GT3 lapped the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in 6:52.981 minutes—2.756 seconds quicker than its predecessor fitted with the same package—demonstrating the GT3’s continued development as a customer track car.
Weight reduction remains central to the GT3 philosophy, with aluminium wheels, optional magnesium wheels, and a lightweight lithium-ion battery contributing to a minimum weight of just 1,420 kilograms.
