What's the news?
With over 3,000 units built since 1998, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup is by far and away GT racing's most popular car. Based on the current 991 variant and following on from the old 996 and 997 models, the new 911 GT3 Cup marks a step away from the revered ''Mezger'' engine which shared DNA with the old Group C racers of the 1980's, and instead uses the awesome 4.0-litre unit from the current roadgoing GT3 RS. Modifications to the crankshaft and oil feed system ensure that it doesn't capitulate under the stresses experienced on track, and the 485hp should move the 1,200kg car along rather nicely...
A wing measuring a faintly ridiculous 1.84m across helps to keep the rear end planted to the tarmac, and swollen arches cover the slick-shod 18-inch rims. These are actually of smaller diameter than the road car's wheels, but who cares when it looks this good? The usual safety features are present and only one seat is fitted, so any potential passengers will have an interesting time bracing themselves against the rollcage as you attack the Nurburgring with gusto...
The car will race in the Mobil 1 Supercup, German Carrera Cup and the USA from next season, with the GB Carrera Cup scheduled to use it from 2018 onwards.
No prices have been published just yet, but it should be relatively cheap to buy and run considering its production car roots. Relatively cheap compared to buying and running a helicopter that is, but that's racing for you...