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Porsche takes the roof off the 911 GT3

Unacceptable then, understandable now

Cruising down the road has never been this stylish. PHOTO FROM PORSCHE

Did you ever imagine “GT3” and “cabriolet” in the same sentence?

After 25 years, there’s finally a topless GT model: the Porsche 911 GT3 S/C.

The goal is simple: Make it as light as possible. Structural rigidity has come a long way over the past two decades, and lightweight materials have evolved just as rapidly.

Its Street Style Package provides increased uniqueness and individuality. PHOTO FROM PORSCHE

The GT3 S/C features S/T-style front fenders, doors, and frunk, all constructed from carbon fiber.

The standard Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes system saves over 20kg compared to cast-iron brakes, while the 20-inch front and 21-inch rear center-lock magnesium wheels reduce a further 9kg.

A compact, lightweight 40Ah lithium-ion battery is also fitted, trimming about 4kg versus a conventional unit.

Magnesium ribs and frames are also incorporated into the cabriolet’s automatic roof system, giving it a coupe-like roofline when the fabric roof is up.

Driving a stick shift is much rarer these days. PHOTOS FROM PORSCHE

Inside, lightweight sports bucket seats are optional, while rear seats have been removed entirely. Lightweight carpets and lightweight door panels with carbon-fiber pull handles are also carried over from the 911 S/T.

The GT3 S/C is offered in manual only, as PDK adds weight.

All of this brings the total to just 1,497kg, staying within the 1,500kg benchmark for a true driver’s car.

Interestingly, the GT3 S/C was kept within the GT3 Touring’s existing parameters to avoid homologating a new model, thereby reducing development time.

What would’ve taken at least three years to develop an updated or “0.2” version was completed in just 15 months for the GT3 S/C, as noted by Andreas Preuninger, head of Porsche’s GT Cars.

This is surely a head-turner among car enthusiasts. PHOTO FROM PORSCHE

The open air draws you closer to the engine’s sound—an essential part of the GT3 experience. You still get the same powertrain: a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six producing 503hp and 450Nm, revving to 9,000rpm.

Preuninger has also shared that the GT3 S/C was unveiled just in time for spring, when the weather finally invites top-down driving. Too bad the Philippines doesn’t quite get convertible weather.



Jason Dela Cruz

Jason is a veteran member of the motoring community, having worked as an automotive journalist and a car industry executive. He is now based in Cebu, where the car culture is vibrant.



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