Saturday, November 17, 2007

Porsche GT2.


Two letters and one number always mean something special with Porsche! The current GT3 is undoubtedly a stunningly fast car that captivates drivers with its power and handling and is rated as the best current Porsche {link} for sheer enjoyment and performance.
The GT2 is the ultimate performance incarnation of the current 911 (997). In theory the GT2 is a homologation special built for racing, that’s certainly how it started out when the first GT2 was introduced all those years ago. This incarnation of the GT2 is far more than a race car that happens to be road legal. Certainly it is powerful enough; with 530PS and 680Nm of torque from its turbocharged 3.6 litre flat six engine this is the most powerful 997 currently available (This engine is also used by the 997 Turbo but has 50PS extra in the GT2.). The power delivery from the engine is astonishing, the surge between 2200 and 4500rpm is both dramatic and exceptionally satisfying; the urgency with which the GT2 reaches its top speed of just over 200mph is most impressive.
For the less confident driver Porsche’s ESP and launch control allow even a GT2 novice to drive quickly and thoroughly enjoy the experience. The driver aids do hold the car in check but they’re not harsh, for more fun they can of course be switched off. Then the GT2 comes to life and its race car heritage is obvious! With the limited slip differential keeping power fed to the rear wheels even through the most dramatic slides the Porsche GT2 is real joy. Slides are easily controlled and the direct steering never leaves the driver in doubt as to where the wheels are on the road.
The ceramic brakes are excellent, offering powerful braking from any speed. Combined with an excellent suspension set-up the GT2 really does reward its driver and remains easy to drive even on the limit. The PASM suspension not only keeps the GT2 under control when being driven on the limit it also, impressively, helps keep the GT2 a civilised and compliant in and around town.
Porsche’s GT2 is a fantastic car; it is stunningly fast and handles wonderfully. Whilst not cheap the GT2 is a wonderful example of what a sports car should be; stunningly fast on all roads and thoroughly enjoyable to drive. If you have the budget for a GT2 then head down to your nearest dealer and order one, you won’t be disappointed!
TECH SPEC PORSCHE GT2:~ 2 seat, 2 door Sports Coupe with aluminium doors and bonnet. 3600cc 6 cylinder water-cooled flat 6 engine producing 530PS @ 6500rpm. 6 speed manual gearbox. Limited Slip Differential. Rear wheel drive. Top speed 203mph. 0-62mph 3.7 seconds, 0-124mph 11.2 seconds.