Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Another day, another racing 911: Introducing the Porsche GT3 R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-the-porsche-gt3-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-the-porsche-gt3-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-the-porsche-gt3-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R - click above for high-res image gallery

Over its nearly half-century of its existence, the Porsche 911 seems to have spawned nearly as many racing variants as production models. The newest one announced is the 911 GT3 R, which, as the name implies, is targeted at GT3 class racing worldwide. The GT3 R is the followup to the GT3 Cup S model and just as with its road cars, Porsche has aimed to make the new racer both faster and easier to drive.

The GT3 R is derived from the most recent Cup car that was launched in September. It uses a larger normally aspirated 4.0-liter version of the classic flat-six that cranks out 480 horsepower. Like other road racing 911s, this one is rear-wheel drive only and uses a six-speed gearbox. The GT3 will be shown publicly in January at the Birmingham Motor Show in the UK before deliveries to teams start next spring. Since we can't afford one, we're hoping to see a few of these in the ALMS' new GT Challenge class next season. High-res gallery below, official press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Another day, another racing 911: Introducing the Porsche GT3 R

Another day, another racing 911: Introducing the Porsche GT3 R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911 GT3 RS frankfurt911Gt3RsFrankfurt997ALMSbirmingham motor showBirminghamMotorShowGT ChallengeGT3GT3 RGt3RGtChallengePorscheporsche 911porsche 911 gt3Porsche 911 GT3 RPorsche 997Porsche Motorsportporsche motorsportsPorsche911Porsche911Gt3Porsche911Gt3RPorsche997PorscheMotorsportPorscheMotorsportsThu, 19 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Epic custom Chevy SSR thinks it's a Porsche GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/ebay-find-of-the-day-epic-custom-chevy-ssr-thinks-its-a-porsch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/ebay-find-of-the-day-epic-custom-chevy-ssr-thinks-its-a-porsch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/ebay-find-of-the-day-epic-custom-chevy-ssr-thinks-its-a-porsch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Chevrolet SSR with a Porsche complex - Click above for image gallery

If you like Porsche sportscars, may we suggest that you avert your eyes. Ironically, we'd still recommend the same if you aren't a fan of Stuttgart's Cayenne. Because if you thought that Porsche having an SUV was tough to swallow, that ain't nothin' compared to what's been done to this Chevrolet SSR.

Outfitted with the wheels, brakes and what appears to be a number of interior pieces from the Porsche 911 GT3, this particular SSR seems to be suffering from something of an identity crisis. (We dare not ask what the donor Porsche came away looking like). But that's not all: the owner appears to have made some unique modifications to the body as well, including a whale's mouth (ostensibly in, um... "tribute" to the GT3's whale tail spoiler, which rather surprisingly has not been fitted to the Chevy's bed cover) and rather small (presumably high-intensity discharge) headlamps.

If you're wondering when you might happen upon the unique creature, this mod job is far away from U.S. roads in Rügland, Germany, and comes to us via the magic of the internet. You're welcome. However, it can actually be yours for one easy payment of $105,000. No, we're not kidding. But if you're actually contemplating dropping that much cash on something like this, perhaps you might consider letting us steer you towards greener pastures, like, perhaps a genuine Porsche?


Gallery: Custom Chevrolet SSR GT3


[Source: eBay Motors]

eBay Find of the Day: Epic custom Chevy SSR thinks it's a Porsche GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911911 gt3911Gt3chevroletchevrolet ssrchevrolet ssr gt3ChevroletSsrChevroletSsrGt3chevychevy ssrchevy ssr gt3ChevySsrChevySsrGt3gt3porscheporsche 911porsche 911 gt3porsche gt3Porsche911Porsche911Gt3PorscheGt3SSRWed, 30 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 RS doing what it does]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/video-porsche-911-gt3-rs-doing-what-it-does/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/video-porsche-911-gt3-rs-doing-what-it-does/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/video-porsche-911-gt3-rs-doing-what-it-does/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS - click above image to watch the video

Yesterday brought news of the new and improved 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS. More power from a bigger engine, shorter throws from its six-speed manual gearbox, rejiggered PASM and a wider track for better handling and a don't-eat-the-brown-acid paint scheme all conspire to produce what is no doubt the most track killingest naturally-aspirated 911 ever.

And now we have video! We must say that at speed doing what a GT3 RS is supposed to do, the infantile neon pink graphics don't look nearly so silly. Still, the lipstick on a porker has got to go. Also, mad bonus props for the cantilevered piece of sculpture holding up the carbon fiber wing. Plenty of B-roll after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Continue reading VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 RS doing what it does

VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 RS doing what it does originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 911 GT3 RS2010 GT3 RS2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS2010911Gt3Rs2010Gt3Rs2010Porsche911Gt3Rs911911 GT3 RS911Gt3RsGT3GT3 RSGt3RsPorschePorsche 911 GT3 RSPorsche911Gt3RsThu, 20 Aug 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Reiter debuts new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560 GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/reiter-debuts-new-lamborghini-gallardo-lp560-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/reiter-debuts-new-lamborghini-gallardo-lp560-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/reiter-debuts-new-lamborghini-gallardo-lp560-gt3/#commentsFiled under: , ,



To some casual observers, Ferrari and Lamborghini may seem like peas in a pod: exotic Italian supercars with aggressive styling and superlative performance capabilities. But how they arrive at that point is far from similar. While Ferraris are bred from racing technology, Lamborghini, for the most part, doesn't compete in motor sports. For that, they've got Reiter Engineering. The German motorsport garage has decades of experience turning Lamborghini's road cars into racing cars, and not with an immodest level of success. Especially in the GT3 racing class, where Reiter-prepped Lambos have taken titles and continue to lead championships around the world. The latest Reiter GT3 car is now emerging from the development phase and the order books are open.

Based on the Gallardo LP560-4, the Reiter LP560 GT3 is a lightweight road-course rocket. The 5.2-liter V10 has been revised to GT3 specifications, while lightweight aluminum chassis components draped in carbon fiber bodywork keeps weight down to just 2,624 pounds. Downforce has been optimized, shift times have been halved and weight distribution has been balanced. But one of the most intriguing elements of the LP560's design is that it can be easily upgraded to compete in the higher level GT2 class, giving privateer teams a wider variety of titles to contest. Reiter will sell your team a turn-key GT3-spec model for 265,000 euros (about $375k), and upgrade it to GT2 spec for another 30,000 euros ($43k). Details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Reiter Lamborgini Gallardo LP560 GT3

Continue reading Reiter debuts new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560 GT3

Reiter debuts new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560 GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt3lamborghinilamborghini gallardolamborghini gallardo lp560lamborghini gallardo lp560-4LamborghiniGallardoLamborghiniGallardoLp560LamborghiniGallardoLp560-4reiterreiter engineeringreiter engineering gallardo gt3reiter gallardoreiter lamborghiniReiterEngineeringReiterEngineeringGallardoGt3ReiterGallardoReiterLamborghiniMon, 20 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Dodge Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 battle at the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/video-viper-gt3-and-porsche-gt3-battle-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/video-viper-gt3-and-porsche-gt3-battle-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/video-viper-gt3-and-porsche-gt3-battle-at-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click the image above to view the video after the jump

The Nurburgring demands respect, and the Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 are world-class race cars that demand that you get the Hell out of their way. Put the two together, and you've got a winning formula. Watching cars drive around the track shouldn't be this much fun. But the race-ready Viper and 911 took the 'Ring by the horns, and are sure to keep your eyes glued to the screen. The Viper sounds like pure evil out on the track, yet the agility of the Porsche is even more impressive, especially since it keeps pace with the Viper on the long straight-away.

Hit the jump to take in all the action. The Porsche stays in front for most of the lap, which is good for us because the Viper had a picture-perfect in-car camera that lays out the action sublimely. In fact, watching from the vantage-point of the Viper makes it feel like you're playing Gran Turismo, except cheating by cutting corners and jamming the guy in front of you to take the lead is a really bad idea for both car and driver.

[Source: Speed Hunters]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dodge Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 battle at the 'Ring

VIDEO: Dodge Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 battle at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 May 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt3nurburgringporscheringviperWed, 20 May 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Latest Porsche 911 GT2 caught testing?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/spy-shots-latest-porsche-911-gt2-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/spy-shots-latest-porsche-911-gt2-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/spy-shots-latest-porsche-911-gt2-caught-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Since Porsche introduced the latest version of its 911 range, hardcore enthusiasts have been patiently awaiting the inevitable higher-performance models while Stuttgart distracts everyone else with special-edition Cayennes and the new Panamera sedan. But now that the latest GT3 has been released, only the most powerful versions await an update. Up next are the track-focused GT3 RS, the force-fed Turbo and the grand-daddy of 'em all, the GT2. The latter variant has just been spied, although you'd be hard-pressed to tell the difference from the outgoing model from looking at it.

In addition to the minor tweaks given to the entire 911 range, the next GT2 will reportedly benefit from some additional engine tuning. A new direct injection system, bigger combustion chambers, upgraded crankshaft and new oil and water pumps. Together, the package is expected to help bring output up from the current 530 horsepower to 550, enough to propel this Carrera to 60 mph in about 3.5 seconds. Rumors are still afoot that an even more powerful version - dubbed the GT2 RS - may be under development as well, but in the meantime, we're anticipating the latest 911 GT2 to bow at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the Fall.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Spy Shots: Latest Porsche 911 GT2 caught testing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911 GT2 RS911Gt2RsGT2GT3PorschePorsche 911Porsche911spy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsStuttgartTue, 31 Mar 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: BMW Alpina B6 GT3 puts the 'Ring on notice]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-bmw-alpina-b6-gt3-puts-the-ring-on-notice/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-bmw-alpina-b6-gt3-puts-the-ring-on-notice/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-bmw-alpina-b6-gt3-puts-the-ring-on-notice/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the BMW Alpina GT3

BMW tuner par excellence Alpina is returning to the motor racing scene for the first time in two decades with the new B6 GT3, which the pseudo-works firm unveiled for the first time here at the Geneva Motor Show. Based on the 6 Series, the B6 GT3 features a unique radial supercharger fitted to its 4.4-liter V8 to drive 530 horsepower to the rear wheels - in proper Bavarian style - in what looks to be a compelling competition package.

Alpina itself will be fielding a pair in the European FIA GT3 series and at "selected 24-hour endurance races" (Nurburgring, Le Mans... we're looking at you), but the B6 GT3 will also be offered to private teams. Alpina has fitted adjustable everything to the car and a full array of electronic control systems to ensure that gentlemen racers - not just professional drivers - will be able to handle it and so that the car will qualify for a wide array of racing series. We're looking forward to seeing the green menace tackling the Green Hell soon, but in the meantime had to content ourselves with checking it out at Alpina's show stand here in Geneva where it was displayed alongside the new B7 Bi-Turbo, which we'll have for you shortly. In the meantime, click on the thumbnails below to view our gallery from the show floor and follow the jump for a brief press release.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: BMW Alpina B6 GT3


Gallery: Alpina B6 GT3



Photos Copyright (C)2009 Noah Joseph / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2009: BMW Alpina B6 GT3 puts the 'Ring on notice

Geneva 2009: BMW Alpina B6 GT3 puts the 'Ring on notice originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinaalpina b6alpina b6 gt3AlpinaB6AlpinaB6Gt3b6b6 gt3B6Gt3bmwbmw alpinabmw alpina b6bmw alpina b6 gt3BmwAlpinaBmwAlpinaB6BmwAlpinaB6Gt3genevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowgt3Thu, 05 Mar 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: All-new(ish) 2010 Porsche 911 GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-all-new-ish-2010-porsche-911-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-all-new-ish-2010-porsche-911-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-all-new-ish-2010-porsche-911-gt3/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3

The great thing about being Porsche - you know, aside from making Cayenne-loads of money and buying enormous companies like Volkswagen - is that you've always got another new model to unveil. The 911 range alone spawns an endless succession of derivatives, and just when they're done with one generation, they give it some new headlights and bore out the flat-six and presto! A brand new 911, and all the variants thereof. The latest, which Porsche unveiled here at the Geneva Motor Show, is one of the more hardcore versions. The new GT3 packs a 435-hp naturally-aspirated 3.8-liter boxer six that can rocket the Teutonic terror to 60 mph in a tick over four seconds. Be warned: This is a driving-focused package geared more towards enthusiasts than country-club goers. Decked out in bright red with a giant rear wing and more vents than an air-conditioner factory, the new GT3 looked every bit the business at the back of Porsche's Geneva show stand. See for yourself in the gallery of live, high-resolution photos below, with stock shots in the gallery below that and all the details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3


Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3



Photos Copyright (C)2009 Noah Joseph / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2009: All-new(ish) 2010 Porsche 911 GT3

Geneva 2009: All-new(ish) 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911911 gt3911Gt3genevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowgt3porscheporsche 911porsche 911 gtporsche 911 gt3porsche gt3Porsche911Porsche911GtPorsche911Gt3PorscheGt3Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva Preview: More details on Alpina B6 GT3 come to light]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/05/geneva-preview-more-details-on-bmw-alpina-b6-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/05/geneva-preview-more-details-on-bmw-alpina-b6-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/05/geneva-preview-more-details-on-bmw-alpina-b6-gt3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click on the image above for a high-res gallery of the Alpina B6 GT3

More images and details of Alpina's B6 GT3 racer have hit the web, and it looks like despite spending two decades away from motorsports, there are no flies on the leading Bimmer tuning haus.

Based on BMW's 6-Series coupe, the B6 weighs under 3,000 pounds and gets a supercharged 4.4-liter V8 that gives more than 520 horsepower and 535 pound-feet of torque. Backed by a six-speed X-Trac sequential gearbox, the car is reportedly capable of hitting 62 miles-per-hour in 3.9 seconds en route to a top whack of at least 177 mph (a speed it has already reached in testing on the Nürburgring).

The B6 GT3 will debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show before going on to scrap with Aston Martin, Porsche, and Ferrari on circuits around the world. Alpina will field its own team (it is reportedly considering a number of pro drivers), but privateers will also be able to buy their own B6 if they fancy going it alone.

Gallery: Alpina B6 GT3


[Source: WCF]

Geneva Preview: More details on Alpina B6 GT3 come to light originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 18:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AlpinaBMWFIAGT3MotorsportsracingRennThu, 05 Feb 2009 18:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: All the details on the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/29/officially-official-all-the-details-on-the-2010-porsche-911-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/29/officially-official-all-the-details-on-the-2010-porsche-911-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/29/officially-official-all-the-details-on-the-2010-porsche-911-gt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above high-res image gallery of the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3

We'll be getting our first in-person look at Porsche's newest hard-core 911 version when we arrive at the Geneva Motor Show in just over four weeks time. However, we've now got more photos and details on the 911 GT3 to share with you thanks to the staff in Stuttgart. Back when the original 911 Turbo debuted 35 years ago, its 256 horsepower was considered staggering. The new GT3 again leaves old 911s in the dust with an un-boosted 435 hp from its 3.8-liter flat-six. Although Porsche hasn't yet quoted a specific number, the GT3's mid-range torque response is claimed to be significantly fattened up, too.

The sprint to 60 miles-per-hour now takes a claimed 4.1 seconds with 100 mph coming in double that time. Handling dynamics are also claimed to be improved and the driver now has more control over the stability management system. The electronic stability control and traction control systems can now be individually deactivated, and high-speed behavior is also aided by improved downforce at both ends of the car.

Adaptive damping systems are pretty old hat in 2009. For the GT3, Porsche has added active engine mounts(!) that recognize hard driving. For example, during track work, the engine mounts will tighten up in an effort to eliminate driveline lash that can unsettle a car in transient maneuvers. The GT3 also gets optional ceramic brakes and center lock wheels. Europeans can pick up a GT3 starting in May. No word yet on when or if the U.S. will get a shot. The GT3 will land at US dealers in October starting at $112,000. The full press release is after the jump.

Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Officially Official: All the details on the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3

Officially Official: All the details on the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 porsche 911 gt32010Porsche911Gt3911 gt3911Gt3genevageneva 2009geneva motor salongeneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorSalonGenevaMotorShowgt3stuttgartThu, 29 Jan 2009 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: New Porsche 911 GT3 RS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/spied-new-porsche-911-gt3-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/spied-new-porsche-911-gt3-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/spied-new-porsche-911-gt3-rs/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the coupe, cabrio, targa and turbo variants of the latest Porsche 911 already out on the road, Zuffenhausen is preparing similar updates for its flyweight road rocket, the GT3 RS. Test mules have been spotted roaming the French alps, which in this season would probably be the last place we'd want to drive a rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive track car. But then we're not zany German engineers, now are we?

We can expect that the latest 911 GT3 RS will receive the same updates as its brethren (including the Turbo's LED light strips up front) and be updated with the retro decal stripe and badge graphic down the quarter panel, plus colored wheels, contrasting wing-mirror housings, a big rear wing and an interior roll cage. A carbon fiber rear wing and hood plus a plastic rear window will help keep the weight down versus the conventional 911 Carrera, which should help the new RS hustle to 60 in a scant four seconds flat.

[Source: Wheels24.co.za via German Car Blog]

Spy Shots: New Porsche 911 GT3 RS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911gt3porscheporsche 911 gt3 rsporsche 911gt3porsche gt3porsche gt3 rsPorsche911gt3Porsche911Gt3RsPorscheGt3PorscheGt3Rsspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsWed, 07 Jan 2009 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[GT3-spec Audi R8 LMS formally unveiled at Essen (w/ Video)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/28/gt3-spec-audi-r8-lms-formally-unveiled-at-essen/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/28/gt3-spec-audi-r8-lms-formally-unveiled-at-essen/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/28/gt3-spec-audi-r8-lms-formally-unveiled-at-essen/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Audi R8 LMS

The Essen Motor Show is now underway, and one of the bigger manufacturer unveilings was Audi's official presentation of the R8 LMS, the new GT3-spec racing car aimed at privateer teams. It's seen as one of Audi's so-called "three pillars" of motorsport. The automaker will not field a factory effort in the car, but it's expected that next year, several teams will be running the R8 LMS in various European series, as well as in the Nurburgring 24-hour endurance race. The €260,000 (plus VAT) asking price gets you the track-ready R8, which makes 500 horsepower from its mid-mounted V10. That power goes to the rear wheels (in GT3, AWD is a no-no) via a six-speed sequential gearbox. As you can see, the LMS certainly looks the part , with a subtly meaner nose, a big carbon-fiber front splitter, new mirrors, a giant rear wing, and a pretty wicked rear diffuser join the ten-cylinder engine among the changes made from road car to racer. Customer deliveries begin in Fall '09. Oh, to have a deep-pocketed benefactor... Audi PR follows the jump.

UPDATE: Video added after the jump!

Gallery: Audi R8 LMS


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading GT3-spec Audi R8 LMS formally unveiled at Essen (w/ Video)

GT3-spec Audi R8 LMS formally unveiled at Essen (w/ Video) originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Nov 2008 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500 hp500Hpaudi r8audi r8 lmsAudiR8AudiR8Lmsessen motor showEssenMotorShowgt3gt3-classlmsr8 race carr8 racerR8RaceCarR8Racerv10 audi r8V10AudiR8Fri, 28 Nov 2008 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi R8 GT3 will have coming out party in Essen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/26/audi-r8-gt3-will-have-coming-out-party-in-essen/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/26/audi-r8-gt3-will-have-coming-out-party-in-essen/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/26/audi-r8-gt3-will-have-coming-out-party-in-essen/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Audi R8 GT3

Audi has created an R8 that looks like it would rather kill things than win races, but knowing Audi it will probably just stick to winning. The customer-team specific R8 GT3 will be officially unveiled at the Essen Motor Show, which begins November 28. The car gets more than 500 horsepower going entirely to its rear wheels since GT3 rules give a big no-no to all-wheel-drive systems like Audi's quattro. The German will be testing its mettle against equally hot racers like the Aston Martin DBRS9 and Jaguar XKR GT3. To Aston and Jag, though: you might want to hide your young. And for those of you who make it to the Essen show, you should also look out for the Audi R10, A4 DTM, RS6 Sedan and TTS Coupe. Check out the release after the jump, and the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Audi R8 LMS


Gallery: Audi R8 GT3 - spy shots


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi R8 GT3 will have coming out party in Essen

Audi R8 GT3 will have coming out party in Essen originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Porsche 911 Carrera S with PDK - Click above for high-res image gallery

Introduced in 1963, the Porsche 911 is one of the most successful competition cars ever built. Despite its unconventional rear-engine platform, the 911 Carrera holds recorded wins in nearly every type of automotive competition. Continuously upgraded and refined, Porsche has introduced a mid-cycle refresh for the 2009 model year. While the cosmetic changes are immediately apparent, the most significant improvements - two new engines and a new double-clutch transmission - are hidden under its sleek skin. We spent a long day putting the 2009 911 Carrera through its paces on a race track near Salt Lake City framed by the spectacular snow-capped surrounding mountains of Utah. Read our impressions after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Porsche Carrera 911 PDK


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera S with PDK

First Drive: 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera S with PDK originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911CarreraDoppelkupplungsgetriebedouble-clutch transmissionDouble-clutchTransmissiondual clutchDualClutchfeaturedFirst DriveFirstDriveGT2GT3ImpressionsMiller Motorsports ParkMillerMotorsportsParkPDKPorscheSalt Lake CitySaltLakeCityTest DriveTestDrivetiptronic stiptronic-sTiptronicStwin clutchTwinClutchMon, 20 Oct 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi develops R8 GT3 racer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/audi-developes-r8-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/audi-developes-r8-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/audi-developes-r8-gt3-racer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Audi R8 GT3 car

The courtship between Audi and GT3-class racing teams has officially begun with the automaker's announcement that it has developed a GT3 version of the R8 sports car dubbed "R16" internally by its project overlords at Audi Sport . The rear-drive racer (GT3 regulations prohibit AWD) features a six-speed sequential gearbox, mostly production-spec suspension components, plus an updated front end and a large rear wing designed to keep it planted to the tarmac. No additional tech specs have been revealed at this time. Factory driver Frank Biela was at the wheel for the prototype's roll-out, and customer deliveries are expected to take place next fall. Look for the car to see wheel-to-wheel action against the likes of the Aston Martin DBRS9 and Jaguar XKR GT3 during the 2009 European racing season. We patiently await its inclusion in a future Gran Turismo update so that we can try it out, too.

Gallery: Audi R8 LMS


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi develops R8 GT3 racer

Audi develops R8 GT3 racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi sportAudiSportbreakinggt3r16r8r8 gt3r8 racerR8Gt3R8RacerWed, 27 Aug 2008 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 450-hp Porsche GT3 RS caught running 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/03/spy-shots-450-hp-porsche-gt3-rs-caught-running-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/03/spy-shots-450-hp-porsche-gt3-rs-caught-running-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/03/spy-shots-450-hp-porsche-gt3-rs-caught-running-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We're expecting to see the redesigned 911 unveiled later this week, but Autocar's spies have caught the next iteration of the GT3 RS running at the Nurburgring ahead of its unveiling later next year. As is often the case with Porsche, it's hard to discern any substantive differences between this newest version of the GT3 RS and the current model, but when the new 911 makes its debut, it'll be wearing a redesigned front bumper, along with LED headlights and taillights, all of which will carry over to the GT3 RS.

Granted, these subtle changes aren't that compelling, but Porsche has big plans for what's underneath the new model's sheet metal. The GT3 RS will supposedly be packing another 40 hp over the outgoing model, developing 450 hp at peak output. However, there's been considerable debate about whether or not the GT3 RS' engine will be equipped with direct-injection, considering it's traditionally been based off the GT1 racecar. Harnessing those extra ponies will be a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission (Porsche Doppel Kupplung or PDK in Porsche parlance) that will provide seamless and ultra-quick shifts through steering wheel-mounted paddles. Purists might complain about a lack of a manual gearbox, but that's what purists do. So expect a manual version to be an option when it goes on sale in late 2009 or early 2010.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: 450-hp Porsche GT3 RS caught running 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 porsche 911 gt3 rs2010Porsche911Gt3Rs911gt3gt3 rsGt3RsporschersTue, 03 Jun 2008 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Lotus debuting 350 hp Exige GT3 Down Under]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/lotus-debuting-350-hp-exige-gt3-down-under/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/lotus-debuting-350-hp-exige-gt3-down-under/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/lotus-debuting-350-hp-exige-gt3-down-under/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lotus Exige GT3.

Aussie racing fans are in for a treat during the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix this weekend, where the updated Lotus Exige GT3 will make its official debut. The revised racer is still packing the same supercharged 1.8-liter mill from the road-going Exige S, but it's been tweaked to created almost 350 hp and 224 lb.-ft. of torque (we're guessing through the use of a liquid-to-air intercooler and around 16 pounds of boost heaved into the built motor). Additionally, Lotus has revised the aero bits to increase downforce and reduce drag through the use of a lengthened nose (3 cm), a widened track (10 cm) and a rear section stretched by some 8 cm. Angelo Lazaris will be piloting the GT3 this weekend during the third round of the GT Championship.

Lotus' full press release is posted after the jump and you can check out the gallery of the Lotus Exige GT3 concept below.

Gallery: Lotus Exige GT3


Gallery: Lotus Exige GT3 concept

Continue reading Lotus debuting 350 hp Exige GT3 Down Under

Lotus debuting 350 hp Exige GT3 Down Under originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exigegt3lotuslotus exige gt3LotusExigeGt3Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche unveils GT3 Cup S racer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/06/porsche-unveils-gt3-cup-s-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/06/porsche-unveils-gt3-cup-s-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/06/porsche-unveils-gt3-cup-s-racer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image for hi-res gallery

Endurance racing fans have a new Porsche to look for on the circuit this year. The automaker has unveiled the GT3 Cup S racing car, which can be used in FIA GT3 events. It combines a more powerful version of the 3.6L engine used in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup and the Carrera Cup series cars thanks to changes to the exhaust and engine management systems. The GT3 Cup S makes 440 horses and 317 lb-ft of torque. The intimidating bodywork is based on the GT2-class GT3 RSR instead of the more production-looking Supercup/Carrera Cup cars, and the GT3 Cup S also sports upgraded suspension components and bigger brakes. Cost of entry is steep -- €250,000 plus VAT -- but no one ever said racing was for the faint-of-heart (or wallet). Owners of '07 GT3 Cup cars can have their cars upgraded to Cup S spec for a price as well. While it's not as slinky-sexy as the new Jaguar XKR GT3 car, the Porsche should be seen in heavy numbers and on many podiums during the coming season. Press release and tech specs pasted after the jump.

[Source: Porsche]

Gallery: 2008 Porsche GT3 Cup S

Continue reading Porsche unveils GT3 Cup S racer

Porsche unveils GT3 Cup S racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FIA GT3FiaGt3GT3GT3 Cup SGt3CupSPorschePorsche GT3 Cup sPorscheGt3CupSWed, 06 Feb 2008 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Night Watch: Needell flogs the GT3 RS, Clubsport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/20/autoblog-night-watch-needell-flogs-the-gt3-rs-clubsport/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/20/autoblog-night-watch-needell-flogs-the-gt3-rs-clubsport/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/20/autoblog-night-watch-needell-flogs-the-gt3-rs-clubsport/#commentsFiled under: ,



Tiff Needell has solidified his place in our minds as the be-all, end-all of motoring show presenters. Sure, Jezza's wit and rhythm is second-to-none, but it wouldn't surprise us to learn that his skills behind the wheel are more a product of clever post-production rather than outright talent. With Needell, his deft touch at the helm of everything from a Suzuki Swift to a BMW/Sauber F1 machine shows his racing roots. And when the time came to run the new GT3 RS through its paces, there is only one man that can make it look so easy.

In the video after the jump, Tiff pits a lime-green GT3 RS against the GT3 Clubsport to see what, if anything, Porsche left on the table. Enjoy!

Continue reading Autoblog Night Watch: Needell flogs the GT3 RS, Clubsport

Autoblog Night Watch: Needell flogs the GT3 RS, Clubsport originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 23:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fifth gearFifthGeargt3gt3 clubsportgt3 rsGt3ClubsportGt3Rsporschetiff needellTiffNeedellWed, 20 Jun 2007 23:16:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Watch a 911 GT3 chase a Yamaha R1 on the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/video-watch-a-porsche-gt3-chase-a-yamaha-r1-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/video-watch-a-porsche-gt3-chase-a-yamaha-r1-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/video-watch-a-porsche-gt3-chase-a-yamaha-r1-on-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've seen quite a few videos on Autoblog of exotic sports cars tackling the ring, but motorcycles don't make much news here. MCN road-tester Michael Neeves braved the 'Ring back in April in a Yamaha R1 while his brother Ben followed close behind in a Porsche 911 GT3. In the wide-open, the R1 tears the lightning-fast GT3 a new one, but the Porsche consistently caught up in the twistier sections.

The 8:48 lap time pulled in by the Neeves brothers was pretty impressive considering the major traffic on the track and the two accidents that needed to be traversed. Hit the jump to check out the two-wheeled action.

[Source: Motorcycle News]

Continue reading VIDEO: Watch a 911 GT3 chase a Yamaha R1 on the 'Ring

VIDEO: Watch a 911 GT3 chase a Yamaha R1 on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt3NurburgringporscheR1YamahaFri, 01 Jun 2007 10:31:00 EST