- Porsche has introduced the new 911 Challenge race car.
- It’s their new entry-level model as it replaces the 718 racer.
- Car is based on the 911 GT3 and has a 508 hp engine.
Porsche’s Motorsport lineup is evolving as the company has introduced the new 911 Challenge. It’s closely related to the road-going 911 GT3 and is positioned as an affordable race car.
The entry-level model replaces the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport at the bottom of the lineup and is billed as Porsche’s “most accessible competition car.” That being said, it costs $275,000 and that’s $39,200 more than the GT3.
More: For The First Time Since 2016, Porsche’s GT4 Racer Isn’t A Cayman
While the car isn’t cheap, it uses a “significant amount of production-based GT3 technology” to help minimize operating and replacement costs. As a result, the model closely resembles its road-going counterpart. However, the race car is distinguished by a quick-release hood and an FIA-certified rain light.
Bigger changes occur inside as the interior has been stripped of all carpeting, trim, and sound-deadening material. Porsche then added a roll cage and an adjustable racing seat with a six-point harness. Other highlights include air conditioning, a fire extinguishing system, and a GT3 RS steering wheel with “racing-specific functions.”
Power comes from a 4.0-liter six-cylinder boxer engine that is “largely derived” from the 911 GT3. However, it has a slightly higher output of 508 hp (379 kW / 515 PS). Despite this, the engine is connected to a familiar seven-speed PDK transmission.
The model also has a modified muffler that eschews a particulate filter. It’s accompanied by a 29-gallon (110 liter) FIA FT3 fuel cell.
While the car is heavily based on the GT3, it features a number of racing-spec components. These include a revised suspension with motorsport-worthy shock absorbers and an adjustable anti-roll bar. The car also rides on 18-inch wheels that are outfitted with racing slicks. The latter are backed up by racing brakes with steel discs measuring 15 inches (380 mm) front and rear.
Other highlights include an integrated air-jack system as well as adjustable driver assistance systems – such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electric stability control – to “help drivers transition into motorsport.” The model also has an adjustable, multi-stage Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus system.
The 911 Challenge will be eligible to compete in a number of one-make racing series globally. In the United States, options include the Porsche Sprint and Endurance Challenge North America by Yokohama, the Porsche Sprint Trophy Porsche Club of America by Yokohama, and the Porsche Sprint Trophy Porsche Owners Club.
Porsche Motorsport North America CEO Volker Holzmeyer remarked, “The 911 Challenge is an outstanding new entry point into Porsche customer racing because it is based so closely on the legendary 911 GT3 road car.” He added, “For customers who already enjoy tracking their GT3, the step into a dedicated Porsche race car becomes more natural and familiar.”
