Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Porsche teasing next 911 GT3 Cup racecar with track footage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/07/porsche-teasing-next-911-gt3-cup-racecar-with-track-footage/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/07/porsche-teasing-next-911-gt3-cup-racecar-with-track-footage/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/07/porsche-teasing-next-911-gt3-cup-racecar-with-track-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Porsche teases 911 GT3 Cup racecar with new video (screencap of front end)

While we are always brimming with anticipation when Porsche rolls out a new 911, we've sort of become accustomed to the progression of debuts that follows the new model's initial unveiling. The Carrera and Carrera S are usually followed by Cabriolet and Cabriolet S, then the Carrera 4 S and so on. It's a fun little pulling-back of the curtain, but we usually know what to expect.

With that in mind, we bring you this video from the German sportscar marker, displaying its 991-generation GT3 Cup in all its stripped-down, track-ready hotness. All Porsche leaves us with is the YouTube description, "One very special Porsche 911. Not for the road. Only for the racetrack." That's all well and good, but if the last 911 and the one before that have taught us anything, it's that Porsche will be taking "strong enough for a track, made for the road" GT3 variant in the not-too-distant future.

In the mean time, feast your eyes on the video below of this race-ready, rear-engined beast.

Continue reading Porsche teasing next 911 GT3 Cup racecar with track footage

Porsche teasing next 911 GT3 Cup racecar with track footage originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Dec 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche 911 gt3911911 gt3991gt3gt3 cupporscheFri, 07 Dec 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20396896/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/07/porsche-teasing-next-911-gt3-cup-racecar-with-track-footage/20396896/article-detail.xml 20396896 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/porsche-991-gt3-cup_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/porsche-991-gt3-cup.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 gets shaken down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/15/2013-nissan-gt-r-nismo-gt3-gets-shaken-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/15/2013-nissan-gt-r-nismo-gt3-gets-shaken-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/15/2013-nissan-gt-r-nismo-gt3-gets-shaken-down/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 racecar prototype undergoing testing

Nissan introduced its privateer Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 racecar last year. Unlike GT-Rs competing in other series like GT1 and Japan's Super GT, the GT3 version utilizes the same 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 from the street car, the engine retuned to produce 523 horsepower. Nissan and Nismo engineers are already hard at work on next year's entrant, throwing the development car over the curbs at what looks like Fuji Speedway.

If you want to buy one, it'll cost you just about 300,000 euros ($380K US). If you just want to watch and hear one, you can watch the video below for free.

Continue reading 2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 gets shaken down

2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 gets shaken down originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan gt-rgt-rgt3gtrmotorsportsnismonissannissan gt-r nismo gt3videoThu, 15 Nov 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20380092/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/15/2013-nissan-gt-r-nismo-gt3-gets-shaken-down/20380092/article-detail.xml 20380092 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nissangt-rgt3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nissangt-rgt3.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley unveils Continental GT3 racer [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bentley Continental GT3

Ten years after unveiling the concept car that ultimately became the Bentley Continental GT, the iconic British company is back at the Paris Motor Show, with another high-performance "concept" car. The newest member of the Bentley family, this Continental GT3 is a concept in name only, as the company is explicit about the fact that its debut marks a return to motorsports for the brand.

The last time we saw the flying B on a racecar, it was when Bentley was claiming honors at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003. The GT3 seeks to take up that mantle, as well as the storied history of road-going Bentleys being transformed into competent racing machines.

Though technical details are nonexistent in the Bentley press release, the company has given us something to work with, in terms of the racecar that will ultimately result from this program. The GT3 will, naturally, build on the very strong performance of the Continental GT Speed, adding a rear-drive chassis, a massive aero package (the wing seen here in no joke) and "state-of-the-art motorsport hardware."

Bentley's return to the track isn't so far off, either. The company claims that the FIA supported racer will be in the pits by the end of 2013; capable of competing in multiple series and events, including endurance racing. If the final product doesn't end up at Le Mans, we'll eat our hat.

Pictures of this Bentley beast not enough for you? Well, follow this link for a Continental GT3 video, you speed freak.

Continue reading Bentley unveils Continental GT3 racer [w/video]

Bentley unveils Continental GT3 racer [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleycontinentalcontinental gtcontinental gt3gt3parisparis 2012paris motor showWed, 26 Sep 2012 17:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20331877/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/20331877/article-detail.xml 20331877 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/001-bentley-continental-gt3-racer628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/001-bentley-continental-gt3-racer628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next 911 GT3 caught on video with PDK transmission]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/next-911-gt3-caught-on-video-with-pdk-transmission/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/next-911-gt3-caught-on-video-with-pdk-transmission/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/next-911-gt3-caught-on-video-with-pdk-transmission/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Porsche 911 GT3 testing on 'Ring - video screencap

There's been debate about whether the 2013 Porsche 911 GT3 will come with a manual transmission or PDK only. Inside Line has said that only one transmission will come to market, and the 911's product chief, August Achleitner, told IL that both transmissions were being tested but that it looked like the PDK would get the nod. Few outside Porsche testing facilities know what the answer final is, but thanks to some spy video, we now know what a PDK-equipped GT3 would sound like.

Other speculation surrounding the everyday racer says that it will be 150 to 200 pounds lighter than the preceding generation, and that its engine has been moved forward a bit to improve handling. Power output is expected to be around 480 horsepower, leaving room for the GT3 RS to hit the 500-hp mark. Check out the video below for the sights and sounds - and note what looks like a Gurney flap on the prototype's unique rear wing.

Continue reading Next 911 GT3 caught on video with PDK transmission

Next 911 GT3 caught on video with PDK transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche 911 gt3911991991 porsche 911gt3porschespy videovideoWed, 29 Aug 2012 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20311529/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/29/next-911-gt3-caught-on-video-with-pdk-transmission/20311529/article-detail.xml 20311529 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/porsche991g3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/porsche991g3.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche 911 GT3 spotted testing before earning its wings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/porsche-911-gt3-spotted-testing-before-earning-its-wings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/porsche-911-gt3-spotted-testing-before-earning-its-wings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/porsche-911-gt3-spotted-testing-before-earning-its-wings/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Now that the 991-series Porsche 911 has been unleashed on the world, it's time for the other twenty-ish variants of the company's halo car to be unveiled. We've seen the 911 Cabriolet, and our spies have caught the Turbo out testing. Now, the even hotter 911 GT3 has been caught in its early stages of development (read: before it gets it's big ol' wing out back).

Mum's the word on exactly what sort of insane power the GT3's flat-six will produce, though reports have suggested numbers as high as 450 horsepower. That said, there have been conflicting reports about just how that power will be sent to the wheels - recent news suggests that both a manual and dual-clutch setup are being tested, but that only one will make it to production. (There can only be one!) Porsche officials believe that the PDK will win, though we'll wait until we get final confirmation before cutting off our left feet. In any case, we'll wait for more details to roll out throughout the year.

Porsche 911 GT3 spotted testing before earning its wings originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911gt3porscheporsche 911 gt3spy photosspy picsspy shotsFri, 17 Feb 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20174454/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/17/porsche-911-gt3-spotted-testing-before-earning-its-wings/20174454/article-detail.xml 20174454 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-porsche-gt3-spy-shots628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-porsche-gt3-spy-shots628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan taking orders for new GT3-spec Nismo GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3

What would a Nissan GT-R be without the racing pedigree that's helped make it what it is today? The truth is that we don't even want to know. But we don't have to, because the car known as Godzilla is as devastating on the race track as it is on the street.

Very different racing versions have been made to challenge the FIA GT1 World Championship and for Japan's own Super GT series, the latter powered by a naturally aspirated V8 to satisfy regulations instead of the twin-turbo V6 in the production model. Getting your hands on either of these, however, could prove a bigger challenge than passing one in a race. Fortunately, Nissan has just released a competition-spec GT-R you can buy.

Co-developed by Nismo (Nissan's in-house tuning department) and JR Motorsports (which campaigns a pair of GT-Rs in the aforementioned GT1 series), the GT3-spec model first debuted at the Magny-Cours circuit in France back in August, but is now available for order by privateer teams and gentlemen racers alike. It packs the same 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 as the production model, tuned to deliver 523 horsepower.

That may be slightly less than the current production model (due to the constrictions of GT3 regs) but the Nismo GT3 model also offers a fully adjustable suspension, stripped-out interior with roll cage and all the trimmings, extra cooling ducts and an aggressive aero package. The extra grip is where the extra speed comes from, and it can all be yours for a hair under 300,000 euros, or about $390k at today's rates.

Nissan taking orders for new GT3-spec Nismo GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rgt3gtrjr motorsportsjrmnismonissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r nismo gt3nissan gt-r race carnissan gtrTue, 24 Jan 2012 14:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155136/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/20155136/article-detail.xml 20155136 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/nismo-gt3web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/nismo-gt3web.jpg <![CDATA[Sareni United's Chevrolet Camaro GT turns pony car into thoroughbred]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/sareni-uniteds-chevrolet-camaro-gt-turns-pony-car-into-thorough/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/sareni-uniteds-chevrolet-camaro-gt-turns-pony-car-into-thorough/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/sareni-uniteds-chevrolet-camaro-gt-turns-pony-car-into-thorough/#commentsFiled under: ,

Reiter Engineering's Camaro GT3 racecar

Hans Reiter, the chap you might know from Reiter Engineering and its winning Lamborghini racecars, started a company called Sareni United for one purpose: to build a Chevrolet Camaro GT3 race car. The resulting silver shockwave is powered by a 7.9-liter Katech V8 rated at up to 650 horsepower and 627 pound-feet, and the racer's lead engineer says it has lap times "similar to the Lamborghini Gallardo" but that there is still a lot of work to do.

More importantly, the plan wasn't to simply make a race-worthy Camaro, the brief was to make one one that was cost efficient enough to lure new entrants into the racing game. Planned overhauls for the engine and gearbox are at 5,000 kilometers and other parts at 10,000 km.

The Camaro GT3 has been homologated by the FIA, Reiter says two cars are already planned for use in Germany's ADAC GT Masters series and that other inquiries have been made about GT4 and touring cars. It is priced at €195,000 + VAT ($253,056 U.S.).

Sareni United's Chevrolet Camaro GT turns pony car into thoroughbred originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camarocamaro gt3chevroletchevrolet camarochevrolet camaro gt3chevygt3gt3 racingreiterreiter engineeringsarenizl1Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20138911/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/03/sareni-uniteds-chevrolet-camaro-gt-turns-pony-car-into-thorough/20138911/article-detail.xml 20138911 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/sarenicamarogt3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/sarenicamarogt3.jpg <![CDATA[Tired of Turkey? Here's 22 minutes of Porsche 911 GT3 RS rally footage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/tired-of-turkey-heres-22-minutes-of-porsche-911-gt3-rs-rally-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/tired-of-turkey-heres-22-minutes-of-porsche-911-gt3-rs-rally-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/tired-of-turkey-heres-22-minutes-of-porsche-911-gt3-rs-rally-f/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you need a little assistance getting through your annual 80-course meal and various NFL games, may we offer you some GT3 RS à la Rally? Some kind chef has cobbled together 22 minutes of footage of the Porsche that loves to get dirty doing slides and Scandinavian Flicks and making rooster tails.

This choice bit of German dessert awaits you after the jump.

Continue reading Tired of Turkey? Here's 22 minutes of Porsche 911 GT3 RS rally footage

Tired of Turkey? Here's 22 minutes of Porsche 911 GT3 RS rally footage originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911gt3gt3 rsporsche 911porsche gt3 rsrallyrallyingvideoThu, 24 Nov 2011 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20113478/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/24/tired-of-turkey-heres-22-minutes-of-porsche-911-gt3-rs-rally-f/20113478/article-detail.xml 20113478 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/gt3rsrallycross_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/gt3rsrallycross.jpg <![CDATA[Audi releases upgraded R8 LMS Ultra for customer racers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

audi r8 lms ultra

While most of the industry is busy with new debuts in Los Angeles, things aren't slowing down one bit on the racing side of the business. In the past couple of days alone, Chevrolet has debuted a new Corvette Daytona Prototype, Dacia has launched a new ice-racing minivan, Mini has announced a new B-spec Cooper, and now Audi has released their latest customer sports racing car.

The R8 LMS Ultra picks up where its predecessor left off - and that's quite a starting point: In just three years, the R8 LMS has won 115 races and 12 championships on racing circuits around the world. The improvements encompassed in the Ultra, however, promise to increase that number significantly.

Compared to the existing R8 LMS, the R8 LMS Ultra has lost some weight (thanks to carbon reinforced plastic doors), been made safer (thanks to new safety foam and racing bucket), gained a new transmission, had its cooling and breathing improved, its weight better balanced, its suspension and rolling stock beefed up and its aerodynamics optimized.

The same production-based 5.2-liter V10 carries over essentially unchanged, offering up to 570 horsepower depending on the regulators mandated by various racing series. The R8 LMS Ultra conforms to standard GT3 regulations, and can be yours for the low, low price of 329,900 euros ($445k USD) with deliveries beginning in March. Details in the press release after the jump, high-res photos in the gallery.

Continue reading Audi releases upgraded R8 LMS Ultra for customer racers

Audi releases upgraded R8 LMS Ultra for customer racers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 lmsaudi r8 lms ultragt3quattro gmbhr8r8 lmsr8 lms ultrar8 v10Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108779/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/20108779/article-detail.xml 20108779 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/audi-r8-lms-ultra_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/audi-r8-lms-ultra.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche launches updated 911 GT3 RSR]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/porsche-launches-updated-911-gt3-rsr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/porsche-launches-updated-911-gt3-rsr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/porsche-launches-updated-911-gt3-rsr/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR

When Porsche launches a new 911, it doesn't just launch one model, it starts a process that will see literally dozens of variants to follow. Some with turbos, some without. Some with all-wheel drive, some driving just the rear. Coupes, convertibles, targas, lightweight models, and yes, even racing versions.

The 911, after all, is one of the most prolific racing cars on circuits around the world. This example, however, is not based on the new 911. What you see here is still based on the old 997. But it is the pinnacle of Porsche Motorsport's range of customer racing cars.

The new GT3 RSR is built to race in the ACO's GTE category, making it instantly eligible for competition in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Le Mans Series, the American Le Mans Series and the new FIA World Endurance Championship, as well as the International GT Open and a variety of other series and events.

Its 4.0-liter boxer six drives 460 horsepower (kept in check by a mandatory air restrictor) to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox. Porsche has also fitted larger wheels front and rear, and given it a completely new aero package to keep it glued to the tarmac, slicing through the air and at front of the pack.

The best part is that you can buy one yourself. That is, assuming you've got half a million euros (about $675k) to spend on a track toy. Either way, you can check it out in the high-res image gallery and the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Porsche launches updated 911 GT3 RSR

Porsche launches updated 911 GT3 RSR originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911911 gt3 rsrgt3gt3 rsrporscheporsche 911 gt3 rsrporsche motorsportrsrThu, 10 Nov 2011 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20102455/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/10/porsche-launches-updated-911-gt3-rsr/20102455/article-detail.xml 20102455 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webgt3-rsr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webgt3-rsr.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche committed to offering manual transmissions as long as there's demand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/porsche-committed-to-offering-manual-transmissions-as-long-as-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/porsche-committed-to-offering-manual-transmissions-as-long-as-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/porsche-committed-to-offering-manual-transmissions-as-long-as-th/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera

Purists take note: As long as customers ask for it, Porsche will offer the 911 with a manual transmission. This sigh of relief comes from the mouth of the company's CEO Matthias Muller, speaking with Motor Trend editor-in-chief Angus MacKenzie.

The news will undoubtedly come as welcome to those who feared that the smooth-shifting PDK dual-clutch transmission would obviate the availability of a traditional three-pedal stick-shift gearbox. Porsche did, after all, just develop a new seven-speed manual for the new 911, even though the PDK is both smoother and quicker than even the most seasoned heel-and-toer could ever be.

While they were at it, Muller and MacKenzie also confirmed that the new 911 GT3 will remain a manual-only affair, superseding earlier reports and allaying fears that the beloved enthusiasts' favorite would lose a pedal for the clutch in favor of a second automated one.

Porsche committed to offering manual transmissions as long as there's demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 porsche 9112013 porsche 911 gt32014 porsche 911 gt3911gt3pdkporscheporsche 911porsche 911 gt3Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20049483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/23/porsche-committed-to-offering-manual-transmissions-as-long-as-th/20049483/article-detail.xml 20049483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/p110600_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/p110600.jpg <![CDATA[15-year-old wins IMSA series in Porsche 911 GT3 Cup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/15-year-old-wins-imsa-series-in-porsche-911-gt3-cup/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/15-year-old-wins-imsa-series-in-porsche-911-gt3-cup/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/15-year-old-wins-imsa-series-in-porsche-911-gt3-cup/#commentsFiled under: ,

Madison and Melanie Snow

Professional racing drivers keep getting younger and younger. Every year, Formula One, for example, seems to crown a new record holder for the youngest race winner in grand prix history, and almost as often, a younger-than-ever world champion. But this story takes the cake.

Madison Snow, you see, is only 15 years old. Too young, in other words, to get a driver's license. But when he does, he'll already be an old hand behind the wheel. That's because he just clinched the Gold Cup in the IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge. Behind the wheel of a Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, no less - and that's no easy car to control.

In fact he didn't just win the title, he dominated it: The series isn't even over yet, but after finishing second this week at Laguna Seca, he's so far in the lead that he's already got the championship in the bag and can "just have fun" at the Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta next week. That would be enough to make any mother proud, but we have a feeling Madison's mom Melanie Snow - a past series champ herself, class winner at Sebring and part of the first all-woman team in the American Le Mans Series - must be beaming.

15-year-old wins IMSA series in Porsche 911 GT3 Cup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt3imsaimsa gt3 cup challengemadison snowporsche 911 gt3 cupsnowsnow racingThu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20048926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/22/15-year-old-wins-imsa-series-in-porsche-911-gt3-cup/20048926/article-detail.xml 20048926 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/madison-melanie-snow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/madison-melanie-snow.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes exec confirms even harder-core SLS AMG Black Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/mercedes-exec-confirms-even-harder-core-sls-amg-black-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/mercedes-exec-confirms-even-harder-core-sls-amg-black-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/mercedes-exec-confirms-even-harder-core-sls-amg-black-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3

If the standard Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is too subdued for you, AMG reportedly has a fix in the works. Mercedes execs recently confirmed to Motor Trend that a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series will soon be a reality. We like this. We like this a lot.

In significantly lamer news, the same execs also said the street-legal version of the SLS AMG GT3 will not make it to this side of the pond. Apparently, the enormous cost of certifying the car for the U.S. isn't worth it, given its extremely low volume.

As for the SLS AMG E-Cell, ze Germans still haven't decided whether that's coming here yet. The reason, again, is the cost of certifying versus sales volume. The car is slated to go on sale in late 2012 in Europe, and be a good bit heavier and more expensive than the gas burner.

Mercedes exec confirms even harder-core SLS AMG Black Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgblack seriese-cellgt3mercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amg black seriessls amgMon, 19 Sep 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20045813/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/19/mercedes-exec-confirms-even-harder-core-sls-amg-black-series/20045813/article-detail.xml 20045813 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/mb-sls-amg-gt3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/mb-sls-amg-gt3.jpg <![CDATA[Audi homologating R8 LMS for Grand Am racing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/#commentsFiled under: ,

audi r8 lms

Audi has been racking up motorsports wins all over the world thanks to its R8 LMS track star. The GT3 racer has compiled over 100 victories in Europe, Asia, South America and Australia. Now it's time for the four-ringed race car to earn a few checkered flags in North America, as Audi has announced that it is bringing the R8 LMS Stateside to run in the Grand-Am series.

If you're the owner of a racing team here in the U.S., now is the time to get excited. Audi will sell you a Grand-Am-ready R8 LMS, and offer support through its Audi Sport customer racing group. The R8 LMS will make its U.S. debut at the 50th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Daytona.

Principles of racing teams, click past the jump to read the full press release. OK fine, even if you don't own a race team, you can still read it.

Continue reading Audi homologating R8 LMS for Grand Am racing

Audi homologating R8 LMS for Grand Am racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi motorsportsaudi r8 gt3audi r8 lmsgrand-amgt3r8r8 gt3r8 lmsFri, 09 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20037057/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/20037057/article-detail.xml 20037057 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/002-audi-r8-lms-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/002-audi-r8-lms-lead.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Porsche 911 GT3 R racer gets more power, improved driveability]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/2012-porsche-911-gt3-r-racer-gets-more-power-improved-driveabil/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/2012-porsche-911-gt3-r-racer-gets-more-power-improved-driveabil/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/2012-porsche-911-gt3-r-racer-gets-more-power-improved-driveabil/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 porsche gt3 r

One of perennial first names in racing is Porsche, and that's because the German automaker is always looking to improve its motorsports products. Progression, thy name is 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 R. Drivers and teams upgrading to the latest 911 for the track will find a host of changes designed to make lap times lower and speeds higher.

Engine output has been raised 20 horses to bring the power rating to an even 500 horsepower. Paddles have been placed on the steering wheel and new transmission brain is programmed to deliver throttle blip on downshifts. Up front, a softer anti-roll bar helps reduce understeer, which Porsche says adds a further dose of driveability.

Are you the principle in charge of a racing team that runs Porsches? If you are getting the new car, you can expect it to arrive starting in November of 2011. Hopefully you've already paid the 304,500 Euros ($433,000 USD) plus your respective value added tax. If you would prefer to upgrade your 2010 or 2011 GT3 R, Porsche also plans on offering a kit to do just that. It'll run you 43,000 Euros (around $61,000 USD). No word on yet on specific U.S. pricing and availability.

Still on the fence? Check out our high-res gallery and the official press release after the jump.

Continue reading 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 R racer gets more power, improved driveability

2012 Porsche 911 GT3 R racer gets more power, improved driveability originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 porsche gt3 r911gt3gt3 rporscheporsche 911porsche gt3 rFri, 02 Sep 2011 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20033996/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/02/2012-porsche-911-gt3-r-racer-gets-more-power-improved-driveabil/20033996/article-detail.xml 20033996 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/000-porsche-911-gt3-r-1314993951_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/000-porsche-911-gt3-r-1314993951.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan debuts new GT3-spec Nismo GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/nissan-debuts-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/nissan-debuts-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/nissan-debuts-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The Nissan GT-R is no stranger to motorsports. Topping off its long history of racing around the world, Godzilla currently competes in Japan's own Super GT series and in the FIA GT1 World Championship, among others. But while those models are loosely based on and bear a visual resemblance to the road car, they're both largely purpose-built racers. In fact they're both powered by V8 engines instead of the turbo six in the supercar you can buy at your local Datsun store.

Enter the GT3 version. Jointly developed by Nismo (Nissan's racing division) and the JR Motorsports team that fields it in the Blancpain Endurance Series, the GT-R GT3 is much closer to the road car, powered as it is by the same turbocharged V6 engine (albeit tuned to GT3 specifications). The racer made its debut at the Magny-Cours circuit in France this weekend where it finished eighth out of 35 entries after 98 laps. That's an impressive debut for a new endurance racer, and you can read more about it in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Nissan debuts new GT3-spec Nismo GT-R

Nissan debuts new GT3-spec Nismo GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rgt3jr motorsportsjrmnismonissannissan gt-rWed, 31 Aug 2011 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20030830/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/31/nissan-debuts-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/20030830/article-detail.xml 20030830 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/nismo-gt-r-gt3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/nismo-gt-r-gt3.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin shows off new Vantage GT3 racer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/24/aston-martin-shows-off-new-vantage-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/24/aston-martin-shows-off-new-vantage-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/24/aston-martin-shows-off-new-vantage-gt3-racer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3

Recent endurance races have seen Aston Martin fielding cars at every level of competition, and the British sportscar manufacturer isn't about to give up its strategy of proliferation.

The proof? A few months back, we brought you word that Aston was planning on replacing its DBRS9 with a new Vantage-based racer for the GT3 category to slot in between the GT2 and GT4-spec Vantages. And here it is.

Based on the V12 Vantage road car, the Vantage GT3 packs a dry-sump 6.0-liter V12 with 600 horsepower mated via carbon-fiber propshaft to an Xtrac six-speed sequential transmission, equipped with competition-spec ABS and traction control for those wet laps around the Nordschleife.

Of course, the VLN Nürburgring series isn't the only championship for which the new Vantage GT3 is eligible, designed as it has been from the outset to race in the FIA GT3 Championship, ADAC Masters, Blancpain Endurance Series and others.

Deliveries are scheduled to commence early next year with a price tag of £298,000 - $489,000 USD by today's rates. Even if you haven't got that kind of cash on hand, you can check out Aston's latest in the press release after the jump and the high-res image gallery.

Continue reading Aston Martin shows off new Vantage GT3 racer

Aston Martin shows off new Vantage GT3 racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin racingaston martin v12 vantageaston martin v12 vantage gt3aston martin vantage gt3gt3v12 vantagevantagevantage gt3Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20025504/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/24/aston-martin-shows-off-new-vantage-gt3-racer/20025504/article-detail.xml 20025504 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/vantage-gt3-web2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/vantage-gt3-web2.jpg <![CDATA[Gemballa goes racing with McLaren MP4-12C GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/gemballa-goes-racing-with-mclaren-mp4-12c-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/gemballa-goes-racing-with-mclaren-mp4-12c-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/gemballa-goes-racing-with-mclaren-mp4-12c-gt3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Gemballa Racing McLaren MP4-12C GT3

Think of the name Gemballa and you're bound to conjure up images of hyper-tuned Porsches. That is, after all, what they're known for. But Gemballa today is different than the company we knew just a couple of years ago. After the company's namesake founder was murdered under rather suspicious circumstances, Gemballa was restructured and by necessity put under new management. And that new management appears to be ready to do things a little differently.

For starters, Gemballa has launched a new racing team. And guess what? They're not racing Porsches. They're racing McLarens. The newly formed Gemballa Racing is, in fact, one of the first teams to take delivery of the new McLaren MP4-12C GT3. Two of them, in fact.

The team is registered as an independent company from the aftermarket Porsche tuner, but shares some common ownership, as team owner Steffen Korbach is part owner as well of Gemballa itself. He's hired Sascha Bert, a former F3 and GT driver, to manage the team, which aims to go racing next year.

Will this prove an entirely separate venture that just happens to share its name with the tuning house, or will this emerge as the first step of many to take Gemballa out of Porsche's shadow and into its own right? We'll have to wait and see, but for now you can read the full press release after the jump and check out the trio of images (which look like little more than Photoshopped versions of stock McLaren photography) in the high-res image gallery.

Continue reading Gemballa goes racing with McLaren MP4-12C GT3

Gemballa goes racing with McLaren MP4-12C GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gemballagemballa racinggt3mclarenmclaren mp4-12cmclaren mp4-12c gt3mclaren racingmp4-12c gt3Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20024804/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/23/gemballa-goes-racing-with-mclaren-mp4-12c-gt3/20024804/article-detail.xml 20024804 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/gemballa-mclaren_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/gemballa-mclaren.jpg <![CDATA[Audi celebrates 100th win of the R8 LMS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi R8 LMS

Having dominated rallying in the 1980s and Le Mans prototype racing since the turn of the millennium, Audi has grown accustomed to the checkered flag. But that's always been with manufacturer-backed works teams. So when Ingolstadt launched the R8 LMS in 2008, it charted new territory.

The GT3 racing version of the cutting-edge supercar was the first racecar built by Audi specifically for customer racing teams, and it has been a virtually unprecedented success. This past weekend, in fact, the R8 LMS scored its 100th win when Hitotsuyama Racing took the checkered flag in the GT3 Asia Series race at Suzuka.

That's a remarkable achievement for one car. All told, the 100 race wins were chalked up by 41 cars being fielded in 18 racing series around the world, in which the R8 LMS has won a remarkable one in every three races it's entered. That in itself is quite a feat, and you can read more about it in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Audi celebrates 100th win of the R8 LMS

Audi celebrates 100th win of the R8 LMS originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 lmsgt3r8r8 lmsTue, 23 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20024031/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/20024031/article-detail.xml 20024031 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/270808-a-audm_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/270808-a-audm.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche updates competition-spec 911 GT3 Cup before new model arrives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/porsche-updates-competition-spec-911-gt3-cup-before-new-model-ar/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/porsche-updates-competition-spec-911-gt3-cup-before-new-model-ar/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/porsche-updates-competition-spec-911-gt3-cup-before-new-model-ar/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup

If you thought your local country club parking lot or swanky bistro driveway was filled with Porsche 911s, that's nothing compared to the proliferation of the rear-engined sports car on race tracks around the world. Porsche claims that, with over 2,200 examples sold, the 911 GT3 Cup - never mind any other racing variant - is far and away the most popular customer racing car on earth. And now it's set to get just a bit more popular.

Though the next-generation 911 is just around the corner, Porsche's racing department has updated the GT3 Cup one last time. The principal difference is a new 100-liter fuel tank that now complies with an even broader rage of racing regulations. Otherwise it's largely the same as the model we recently drove, packing the same 450-horsepower flat-six as the GT3 RS road car on which it's based, but with 18-inch alloys wearing Michelin slicks and mounted to an adjustable competition-spec suspension. Carbon-ceramic brakes are also available depending on the series.

The new GT3 Cup will be available for delivery to privateer racing teams as of next month, with a price tag starting at 161,750 Euro ($232k by today's rates). Follow the jump for the full press release and scope out the quintet of high-resolution images in the gallery for a closer look. Or better yet, just head down to the local race track, because there's bound to be a few of 'em lapping down there at any given time.

Continue reading Porsche updates competition-spec 911 GT3 Cup before new model arrives

Porsche updates competition-spec 911 GT3 Cup before new model arrives originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 porsche 911 gt3 cup911911 gt3911 gt3 cupgt3gt3 cupporscheporsche 911Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20013631/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/10/porsche-updates-competition-spec-911-gt3-cup-before-new-model-ar/20013631/article-detail.xml 20013631 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/web22012-porsche-911-gt3-cup_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/web22012-porsche-911-gt3-cup.jpg -1 2