For the first time ever, the Porsche 911 GT3 can be had with an automatic convertible soft-top. The new series production model is called the 911 GT3 S/C.
Tasty, so it's the same as a 911 GT3 underneath?
Well it certainly has the same high-revving engine. It's Porsche GT's mighty, naturally aspirated 4.0-litre boxer unit rated at up to 510hp and 450Nm of torque. A short-ratio six-speed manual gearbox is bolted to it (there is no PDK automatic option for this car) and all drive goes to the rear wheels. Porsche quotes a 3.9-second 0-100km/h time and a top speed of 312km/h.
And while the chassis setup is said to be the same as that of the 911 GT3 Touring model - including double-wishbone front suspension - there's plenty else going on of interest, most of the differences in a bid to keep weight down. The S/C model weighs 1,497kg, which is only 77kg more than the 911 GT3 Touring.
Some special bodywork contributes to that, but the 911 GT3 S/C also uses carbon fibre for its anti-roll bars and shear plate, as found in the 911 S/T coupe. That car's carbon-ceramic brakes (PCCB is Porsche's acronym for it) are also used, saving 20kg of unsprung weight, as are the magnificent magnesium wheels - measuring 20 inches on the front axle and 21 inches on the rear for a total weight reduction of 9kg. Even the battery is a lightweight lithium-ion item to shave another 4kg off the mass.
But the roof negates some of that, presumably?
Somewhat, but it's not exactly the bulkiest or heaviest design. Porsche is proud of the "particularly lightweight hydraulic roof actuators” for instance, while magnesium is used for strengthening ribs and parts of the frame.
It opens or closes in a quoted 12 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h, while there's also an electrically operated wind deflector. The roof itself is a simple black, matching the black windscreen surround - and the stone-chip protection ahead of the rear wheels.
Any other style details of note?
If you're familiar with the 911 S/T you'll spot that car's carbon-fibre bonnet, wings and doors have been carried over to the S/C, giving it a highly technical appearance. The nose features the GT3's spoiler lip and a noticeably open section thanks to the movement of all lighting functions to the matrix-LED headlamp units.
The GT3's aerodynamic diffuser is used at the back of the S/C, as is the Touring model's retractable spoiler with an integrated Gurney flap.
Those that want to truly stand out can opt for the Street Style Package, from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, which brings with it more prominent graphics in 'Pyro Red', red-and-grey-painted wheels, gold brake callipers with black Porsche writing and a few other bits and pieces.
This upgrade extends to the cabin with the addition of Adaptive Sports Seats Plus featuring four-tone braided leather upholstery, a unique colour scheme and the addition of a special gear lever made from open-pore, laminated wood.
I guess it can't be had with a roll cage inside?
Not from the factory anyway... The S/C does get a few weight-reducing measures from the S/T, however, such as lightweight carpets and door panels, plus carbon-fibre pull handles.
The standard seats are what Porsche calls Sport Seats Plus though buyers can upgrade to lightweight bucket seats with folding backrests and carbon-fibre shells if they wish.
Not that you'll be folding the seats forward to allow passengers into the rear, as the S/C is a strict two-seater. The space behind the seats can optionally be filled with an 80-litre storage box customised to the finish of the rest of the car.
Is it too late to order one in Ireland?
In theory no, as the S/C isn't a limited edition, though as ever with Porsche's GT cars, getting a build slot with your name on it can be challenging. At the time of writing, we don't have a confirmed Irish-market price for the car, but estimate it be the wrong side of €400,000.